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Lena's Strength: Living Through the Ukrainian War

Lena woke up to her mother's quiet voice. 'Not enough bread for breakfast today,' she said. Lena's tummy growled, but she smiled, knowing her family would find a way to make do.

Lena and her mom talking in the kitchen

The water in the tap had stopped running. Lena's brother, Ivan, suggested they collect rainwater. With buckets in hand, they danced in the rain, catching droplets that would quench their thirst. Lena loved the rain.

Lena and Ivan playing in the rain with buckets

Lena watched her father struggle with the electric generator. It sputtered and died, leaving them in darkness. But Lena wasn't afraid. She lit candles, and their small home became cozy, like a secret hiding place.

Lena lighting candles in their dark home

Garbage piled up in the streets, as workers went on strike. Lena's family decided to clean up the mess. They turned it into a game, laughing as they collected and sorted the trash. Lena imagined they were superheroes saving the world.

Lena and her family cleaning up the streets together

Lena's baby sister, Katya, had a fever. Lena felt scared and sad. But her mother held her close and said, 'We will take care of Katya together.' They used a cool cloth to soothe the fever, and Lena sang her favorite lullaby.

Lena and her mom taking care of Katya

A loud boom echoed outside. Bombs were getting closer to their village. Fear gripped Lena's heart, but she squeezed her brother's hand, and they ran to the safety of their basement. 'We will protect each other,' she whispered.

Lena and Ivan hiding in the basement

Through the hardships, Lena's family never lost hope. They grew vegetables in their small garden, sharing with neighbors who had even less. Lena felt proud of her family's strength and compassion, knowing they were making a difference.

Lena and her family gardening and sharing

One day, the war finally ended. Happiness filled the air as Lena's village celebrated. People smiled, danced, and hugged. Lena's heart brimmed with joy, for her family had made it through the hardest of times, stronger than ever.

Lena and her family celebrating the end of the war

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