December 17, 2010: The Annual Christmas Sing at Westmore Elementary

Only two more years at Westmore, which means two more Christmas "sings." The fifth grade performed two numbers: Mele Kalikimaka and The Elf's Lament (a rap). I accompanied both, so had to have someone else take pictures of Griffin. He loved getting to wear a hat and sunglasses for the day--and really, it was quite the laid-back school day. They watched two movies, practiced the songs, exchanged gifts, and generally, accomplished nothing. But it was the easiest class party I've ever had to throw. All I had to do was provide a monster bag of popcorn for the movies (provided by the Scera), so I was very grateful!

December 9, 2010: The Next Westmore Production Auditions!

With the huge success of last spring's musical, Annie Jr., it was time to decide what would be the next production. There was an even greater interest so it would need to be something that could handle a big cast. The decision was made to put on the play "Peter Pan." Note the word "play" rather than "musical." And since I had been asked to be the musical director, I felt that maybe my job was about to become a lot easier. I am in charge of the background music (which means recording it for a soundtrack) and the foley artist. I'm kind of excited about that part!

The main reason I agreed to do this was because Griffin wanted to be part of the play this year. So here it was, time for auditions, and Griffin decided he couldn't go through with it. Mrs. Draper said that he could be on the "crew" with her, so he's happy as a lark now.

Rehearsals start in January so I will be spending time over the Christmas break working on music and transitions. We'll see how it goes!

September 14, 2010: It's the Final Cat Walk! (that I'm in charge of)

With the start of school, it was time for the annual Cat Walk fundraiser at the elementary school. I had agreed last year to take it on again, so I was obligated to make good on that promise. Of course, it wasn't without its share of challenges. Our usual location, the park behind the school, was not available, so we were scrambling to measure out a new "track." But then, thanks to the connections of our PTA president, we were given the go-ahead for the park. And then, it was hot. SOOO hot! Worried about the kids, we got permission to hook up a hose and provide a "cooling station" for the kids. Even though they were a bit damp when they went back into class, the water was their favorite part.

I always think I can handle everything. After all, I've lost count of how many Cat Walks I have been in charge of. This year, however, it was just too much on top of everything else I have. There were lots of donations for prizes this year, but the revenue the event has raised has dwindled by 50%. I'm sure this is due to the state of economy, but it just adds another level of stress that I need to put aside. So I let the PTA president know that this was my last one and they would need to find someone new to take it over from now on. Yes, everyone, I said "No."

August 23, 2010: A New Job

After volunteering at the kids' elementary school for, well, 10 years now, I accepted a position as the ZAP teacher. This program was started at a different school and stands for "Zeros Aren't Permitted." Students who don't complete their homework come to the classroom during lunch recess and try to get it done so they can get the credit. I'm not quite sure what direction I'll be taking: if it's supposed to be a positive place or negative. It seems to me that the kids who will be in there are those who probably don't have a lot of support at home, so I think we'll make it a good place--but not particularly "fun."

I was also going to be an aide for the art teacher, but then was switched to work with the fifth grade in their "double dosing" program. This is where kids are re-taught the math and reading concepts they are struggling with.

So now my schedule will be 8 to 9:15 at Westmore, 9:30 to 10:45 at Rocky Mountain (yes, I still have that job), 11 to 12 at Westmore, 12:15 to 2 at Rocky Mountain, then 2:15 to 3:45 at Westmore. It look like I will also be helping with clubs on Wednesdays, so I won't get home until 5:30 and will head to Mutual at 6:45. I'm hoping that I can "endure to the end!"