Graduation Day I

Today marks Raphaela's official graduation from nursery, she transitions next year into the Municipal school system.  Thank goodness, however, her actual program finishes in August, so I don't have to worry about child care for the Summer just yet.

She has been revving herself up for this party for over a week, and insisted upon wearing her finest and most colorful outfit in honor of the occasion: 

On the way to Gan, we walked past a soldier in full uniform and weaponry returning to his base after Tisha B'Av.  Raphaela asked me, "Who is that? What is he carrying?"  I told her that it was a proud Israeli soldier, a brave man who protects us.

Raphaela replied, "I don't need his help.  I have my Mommy to help me and protect me."