This year, Children’s Day at the Vancouver Shambhala Centre was one of the warmest (and coolest) Children’s Day ever.  Here are some photos, albums, videos and expressions of appreciation from that day.

Ian Wallace posted a photo album of the day and its preparations beforehand here:
http://web.me.com/iawallace/Shambhala/Childrens_Day.html

And here are some iPhone videos of the event, taken by Susan Chapman:

Children’s procession

Arrival of the King and Queen

address of the King and Queen

The Illiana Story

Carrie Abresch:

“To Noele, the tireless warrior of many hats- shrine dakini, lantern leader, story director, magic weaver… non of the beauty and magic would have happened without your hard work and inspiration.

To Linda, who fully stepped into a new situation with gentleness and generosity. You are a complete joy to work with- we are very lucky to have
you!

To Betty, who once again created a magical and absolutely beautiful environment, your effortless effort transforms and uplifts!

To Bruce and Robyn, more magic! whose music ignited windhorse for the tigar, lion, garuda, dragon, and magnitized the dancing dhralas- and whose attention to details kept things moving along.

To John and Coleen, our magnificent King and Queen! Gemma told her grandmother all about how the King and Queen came to Children’s day! Your elegance and gentle/strong presence lifted our hearts and settled our minds.

To Dylan, for stepping in at the last minute and leading our youth with dignity and worriorship.

To Jillyan, Katelyn and Andrew, who jumped in and helped selflessly and cheerfully.

To Tyler and Lisa whose kind leadership got the ball rolling.

To the sangha, who came! and came with food- lots of it- providing an overflowing feast for celebration.

And last but certainly not least, the Children, whose bright faces, open hearts, and brave performances reminded us all of our own tender hearts-of how fortunate we are.”

Noele Bird:

“And a toast to you too Carrie!  You had the initial inspiration and organized all of us, keeping an eye on all the details, delegating, and getting the magical blue curtains to create the perfect atmosphere for the solstice lanterns!”

Edmund Butler:

“This is a joyful cry of appreciation for the love we all shared at Childrens’ Day!! Particularly to Noele and Carrie for allowing it all to flow so well, thankyou!”

Children’s Day Shrine, by Tara Butler

(see here some of daughter Tara’s photos of the Children’s Shrine)