Patterned and soft,
color of apricots.
Every night,
When the world feels not
quite cozy,
And everyone seems weary
From hoping and hurrying,
We snuggle and dream
Under this blanket."
This perfect refugee story begins and ends with 'here.' As a little girl and her brother travel forward after leaving their home to find a safe haven, she helps him understand what is happening to them. Each step along their journey she shows him where they are. Then, she helps him realize that no matter where 'here' is, they have what is important with them.
"Here is a cup.
Old and fine, warm as a hug.
Every morning,
As things keep changing,
We sit wherever we are
And sip, sip, sip,
Sippy, sip, sip
Ahhhh
From this cup."
Each one of her stories provides reassurance, even though things are not always the same. Some days are sad, others hold more hope. They have their blanket, their cup, a lamp, a flower and the tales they tell with images and drawings that remind them of where they have been.
Finally, they arrive 'here' ... their new home where they will be safe and find the promise of a new life. The story is told simply, with so much meaning. The accompanying images are created using colored pencil and watercolor, oil and acrylic paint with additional materials, including wood, wool and cut paper. Imagination and assurance make the difference for two young children facing an unknown future. Heartfelt, hopeful and telling.
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