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My story "Easter With Baba Olena" was published in the last issue of Highlights. It's so exciting to see my writing in the magazine I've loved since I was a kid, and to know that hundreds of kids from all over are reading it. I've had a wonderful experience with Highlights. The editor and her assistance sent lovely emails, and the edits they made really polished my little story. The illustrator did a great job, too. I especially like Baba's traditional Ukrainian blouse. Best of all, my nephew and nieces were excited about their aunt's publication. They took their copies to school for their teachers to read aloud to the class. And that, of course, makes me pretty much a Famous Person.  Months ago, I found out about the yearly fiction contest over at Highlights for Children magazine. This year, the theme was "holidays".
Hmmm...
It was a win-win. So I sat down and scribbled a little story, working around a lovely holiday--Easter--and weaving in culture from a favorite country--Ukraine. And it won! "Easter with Baba Lena" won the Highlights for Children Yearly Fiction Contest! I still don't believe it. But here's the link to prove it. It's one of three winning stories. One more thing: I've grown up with the Bible verse about "pride goeth before a fall". Mama always said "don't brag on yourself." My German roots and Mennonite culture don't like making this announcement. But as a friend said, maybe my news can inspire others to work toward their dreams. Sometimes dreams come true. |