recital, Christmas tree

Jeff and I went to Annie's very first piano recital. She was nervous and quiet as she waited for her turn, but she did wonderfully. I empathized way too much with the piano students, partly because of my own disastrous recital experience, but also because I taught piano for years so can understand the agonies some students go through in preparation for recitals.

As a piano teacher, I didn't even want to have recitals because I couldn't stand the idea of putting students through that mental torture. BUT when I asked my students whether they wanted to have a recital, each one of them said yes. Go figure.

Sadly, Sara couldn't participate in the recital because she was at home sick. Kaarel was sick, too. When we asked Sara for any tips re: what kind of Christmas tree she'd like, she replied with a grin, "Just make sure it's a perfect tree." In the afternoon, Jeff, Ruth, Annie and I went out to Hockley Valley to get a Christmas tree.

Annie knew it was likely going to be the only time she'd ever be able to choose a tree all by herself, without having to consult Sara for agreement, which is probably why she so selective. But also, I'm sure, because she knew what a great responsibility she bore on her small shoulders.

JEFF: "How about this one, Annie?"

ANNIE: "It's too short."

RUTH: "Oh, here's a nice one, Annie. How about this one?"

ANNIE: "It's too big."

ME: "Annie! Look at this one..."

ANNIE: "Too brown in the middle."

After carefully examining nearly twenty trees with a critical eye, Annie finally chose The Perfect Tree.





Links/News:

My sister-in-law Larkin is going to be induced today! Jeff and I are heading up to Orangeville, may stay there overnight.

Waiting For Frodo updated.

One year ago, we got a Christmas tree with Sara and Annie.

Three years ago, I went to a hockey game.

Four years ago, I like Grocery Gateway.





Today's Blatherpics:

	Annie playing a duet ("Jingle Bells") with her (highly photogenic) piano teacher.
	Ruth, Annie and Jeff.
	Annie tries to catch snowflakes in her mouth.