The Olympic Games 2008 was held in Beijing, China. The Olympics were held at the 'Birds Nest' stadium, Beijing. The Olympic Games were started on August 8, at 8 minutes passed 8 a.m. It finished on August 24.

The Olympic Torch was brought to Olympia, Greece on March 25, 2008 and after that to Patheninaiko Stadium, Athens. On March 30, 2008, it was brought to the stadium in Beijing, China. It was exchanged by 21,680 runners all over the world.

The 2008 Olympic sign is a Chinese dancer. The medals are made from 'Jade' soil. It's the first medal made by soil. 'One world, one dream' is the motto of the 2008 Olympics. There are five pets in the 2008 Olympics. They are named as 'Fuva's. When they put their names together in order, it's 'Bei Jing Huan Ying Ni.' It means 'Welcome to Beijing.' Chinese believe they bring luck, good health, happiness and
prosperity.

Eight of our Sri Lankans participated in the Games and the Captain was Susanthika Jayasinghe. American swimmer Michael Phelps broke a world record by winning eight medals in eight days, from swimming. The opening ceremony was beautiful with
fireworks.

A Perahera

9 –11 years

By Nirmani Karagampitiya (9 years), Maliyadeva Girls' College, Kurunegala

A perahera is a spectacular pageant. The Kandy Esala Perahera is the most colourful pageant in Asia. It's a religious pageant with a long history.

Esala Perahera consists of Maligawa and four Devala peraheras. This world famous pageant is held in August annually. The first ritual is the planting of the kap. A huge crowd, even foreigners, come to see this majestic procession. 'Kumbal' and 'Randoli' are held for ten days. 'Randoli' is the most beautiful perahera.

When the spectators hear the sound of the whip crackers they know the perahera is coming closer. The fireball twisters illuminate the perahera.

'Peramune Rala' leads the perahera on a beautifully dressed elephant. Colourfully dressed drum beaters and traditional dancers make the perahera more attractive.
When the royal Maligawa tusker comes with the sacred Tooth Relic in the golden casket all the people say 'Saadu, saadu.' Next comes the grandly dressed 'Diyawadana Nilame.'

Kandy Esala Perahera ends up with 'Diya Kapeema' at Getambe.

My home

8 years and below

By Dinukshi Mendis, (7 years), St. Bridget's Convent

My home is in Ragama. It is somewhat old and large and painted beautifully. It has a nice garden full of many flowers and fruit bearing trees. Various birds and butterflies are seen everyday around my home.

I live with my parents and grandparents in my home. My pet dog and cat also live with me there. My home also has a small library with many children's books. It has also a reading room.

I like my home very much. My home is 'Home Sweet Home.'