I’m thankful to have squeezed in this long-planned visit to Kelowna before the world was locked down with COVID-19. The week was planned to a T by the Central Okanagan Teacher-Librarian Association and oh my, what a wonderful week it was. My volunteer driver and problem-solver was retired teacher-librarian Pat Kirkey. What a mensch! We had a wonderful time together. Here are some pics from the week.
It was a busy week and not much time for sight-seeing but Pat drove me around on one of the sunny days so I could take some pics of the mountains. The view from my hotel balcony. 
On most of the days I spoke to elementary and middle grade students in the Sanctuary of the Mission Alliance Church. The acoustics were spectacular and the surroundings lent an aura of calm and respect. Even though there were 400 or more students in each session, the Sanctuary made it feel like an intimate group. After I finished speaking, I’d invite 15 or so students to the stage to ask questions face to face. Those questions were always interesting and insightful. They were often poignant and heartfelt.
Such an intimate and peaceful place to present. 
Students leaving after a session in the Sanctuary.
