Concerts

We have just returned from our fourth, and final, concert for this year.  One was a church concert, one was in a public school, one was in a private Christian school, and today's was performed by 3 and 4 year old nursery school children.  They differed in many ways -age of participants, time of day, theme (traditional or non-traditional), with or without food.  But they had many elements in common, the most important of which is that the concerts gave children opportunities to shine.  At each concert the excitement was almost tangible, the nervous energy front and foremost, and the performances flawless, at least in the eyes of those in the audiences.

I have viewed concerts from many perspectives.  Years ago I was a participant, then I became a teacher in charge of keeping bows on straight and making sure no one fell off the risers, then I was a parent so proud of my performing children I could hardly contain my tears, then back in schools supporting performances as a resource teacher and then as an administrator.  Now I view them from the enviable position of having no responsibilities at all.  My job as a grandparent is simply to show up and enjoy.  This is the best seat of all.

Are concerts worth the effort some ask?  Absolutely they are.  Where else do you see pure joy and enthusiasm than on the faces of children who have practised endlessly, and now have the chance to show off a bit?  Whether the message of the show includes "Christmas" or is more generic, the message to the children is "you are loved and we support you and what you do". Those of us who watch come away having shared in the joy and sense of accomplishment.  Before we had grandchildren I sought out a concert or two, just to have an opportunity to share those feelings.  It didn't matter if I knew the children or not.  And whether they knew it or not, they all made Christmas just a little more meaningful for me.  Thank you all- the parents, the teachers, the support staff, and most of all, the children who performed. You are all so special.

'Tis the season....

Christmas began early with the family get-together being held in November this year.  For two of the attendees, this was their first opportunity to celebrate with cousins, aunts, uncles, grandparents and a great-grandmother.

One of the youngest slept through the first half.

The games and activities were organized by a professional, and appealed to the kids of all ages.  Merci,Jen.

The food was enjoyed by all. Here is a small portion of what arrived.  You can't see the meats, buns, pickled onions, scotch eggs, or all the desserts.

Two grandpas and their little girls.

It was a fun afternoon. Thanks to the hostess, Auntie Cathy.  

And on another day, a young lady visited Grandma and Grandpa, and made cookies, wearing the apron her mom wore about 29 years ago.

And on the same day, her little sister learned that she fits in the family high chair.  She may be the last to use this chair, which was bought at a yard sale for $8 many years ago.  It has turned out to be a true bargain, and could probably be used by a few more kiddos before it is finished.

Hopefully there will be another post about the holidays, but in case there isn't, Merry Christmas to all!

Be good for goodness' sake!