Autumn is fully here, and our giant liquid amber tree has lost nearly all of it's brilliant seasonal garb. As the many leaves fell I discovered that I LOVE raking. Like washing dishes, it's one of those repetitive chores that is so wonderful to mingle with meditation (and the house or yard looks better when I'm done!). Wayne hung the white icicle lights on the house, we have a lovely spruce tree, and all the homey touches that we've grown attached to over the years. Our pellet stove provides warmth on chilly mornings, and we enjoy retreating to the family room and kitchen, where it's cozy.
It's also the season for fund-raising and musical programs. There are three music programs this week, and the first one was last evening. Last weekend the three of us went on the annual handbell tour to the Bay Area. There are 13 handbell players, and we transported five of them in our car. Between Friday at 3 pm and Sunday afternoon we put over 500 miles on our car. It was a lot of fun, and we especially enjoyed Pier 39.
We toted Hershey around in a bag.
Monday night held the violin recital. Emily played in the group pieces, but didn't have a solo this time (if she had, we probably would have had to peel her off the ceiling and carry her to a soft room in a straight jacket). Tonight is the hospital's annual Christmas dinner, which we always enjoy.
Tomorrow evening is the junior academy's Christmas program, and Emily takes part in the choir, band, and handbells. She is also accompanying the school in a string ensemble as the school children sing songs from "The Messiah." On Friday is a low-key "piano party" where the piano students can share what they've been learning.
Pathfinders has been cut from the schedule--it was a difficult decision, but seems the right thing to do. The composition of the club went from Emily and a 12 year old girl to Emily and about six kids 10 to 11 years old. The next step will be to decide which music classes at the school are not necessary, and talk to Wendy, the music teacher. The handbell choir is going to Disneyland, and I think Emily is committed to that for the year, but band and choir are not necessary.
What we're seriously short on is FUN. Just playing and having fun. We'll seek that out, and let you know how it goes!
The photo at the top of the page was taken by Diane Conn. Her website is: www.ConnPhotography.com
2 comments:
Hi Renee Wayne and Emily...hope you're doing a little preparation for Christmas and Renee's birthday amongst the educational pursuits!
Love, Rick
Emily played so well at the violin recital on Monday. I would love to have heard the handbells as well! Hang in there and enjoy this special time of year!
Lisa
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