2016 Week 48: The Joy of Music

The Saturday after Thanksgiving, I traditionally pick up poinsettias from the Lion's Club, one for each family household. That was our fist touch of Christmas.

 I then delivered Kayla's to her house nearby and saw that she was way ahead of me in the decorating process.

A day or so later we got down the "anorexic" tree, forgotten for a couple years. I had a new location for it.

Monday night dinners really hit the spot after a day of teaching! And always more enjoyable when others come.

Neighbor Jazmine in deep conversation with Karen

A couple trips to the dentist this week allowed for nice visits with Leah. She has finally come to the end of very lengthy dental repairs! Hurray!

Wendesday the PhyXTGears had a fundraiser event at Culver's. It's fun to watch these youngsters explain the robot to the restaurant patrons.

It was a special treat to have Kristie and the boys come out to support the team. Zion was fascinated by the robot and could have stayed longer asking questions.

Thursday, Stephan was busy putting together and carving an ice sleigh for Muncie's Lightup DWNTWN 2016. This article in The Ball State Daily has many photos of the process.

 Stephan wrote: "I can just imagine the white witch pulling up in this sleigh and offering me some Turkish Delight...or Santa--that would work too. (Downtown Muncie tree-lighting 2400 pounds of ice)."

Finished Sleigh                              The next night--a slightly melted sleigh and the "Dark Queen"

Friday, we were downtown Muncie, so we stopped by to test the sleigh after The King's Brass concert where we got to see and hear our young friend Daniel Morrison.

We attended two more Christmas musical events over the weekend, a beautiful start to the holiday season.

I went to Kayla's recital at Cornerstone for the Arts where she teaches dance. I think she was the star of the show. She led more than half of the acts, groups of different ages, in a variety of styles--ballet, hip hop, jazz, contemporary, tap, musical theatre, lyrical.

MadJax, the new home of Team 1720, is across the street. After the recital I decided to surprise Michael. He was on his knees (not in prayer, or . . . maybe?) joining and gluing down the carpet seam.

All the details and issues related to the huge move of the robotics team dominate his world right now, so it truly was a privilege to get away for several musical events.

Selfie in the grand High Street UMC

Christmas carols are my focus this Advent and I am blessed as I focus on a different one each day.

How are you preparing your heart?