Soon after the WHO declared a global pandemic in the spring of 2020, an Educational Assistant at Avondale Elementary recognized the significance of recording history. Her heart hurt, and she empathized with the fear and uncertainty, hardships and struggles many would face. She invited her coworkers to participate in a personal and school journaling project. A sensitive, creative heart enabled her to access and express her school family's vulnerabilities and successes, as well as her own. Together they relied on an age-old truth: "Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble." (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, NLT).

Every Story Starts with Small Steps: Avondale COVID-19 Journal is a vulnerable, heartwarming, and sometimes heartbreaking glimpse into the experiences of a school community during the COVID-19 global pandemic. Karen weaves the stories seamlessly together, telling them with grace and compassion. Everyone who reads it will be able to relate to something in this book and will feel more connected and validated in their own experiences.

-Kristina Black, Principal of Avondale School

Thank you, Karen, for reminding me how incredible humanity is.

-Rene Sonnenberg

National Team Coach

Curling Canada