Jesus is Born! In July?
Friday, July 13, 2012 at 5:00AM 
This has been the scene this week - all things Christmas... and music. It's been such a wonderful experience for the children and I.... Christmas in July music camp!
For the kids, it's great to give them a concentrated week of music and arts instruction. For myself, it's good to bone up on my group teaching skills and also catch a little bit of time to myself when I'm not in class!
Each day the children have bells, Orff instruments, choir, art, dance, and a special performance. Extra activities include a talent show, Friday afternoon showcase performance, and plenty of time with friends.
This weekend my husband and I are leaving for some much needed time to ourselves. I'm very very grateful to friends from our church that will be keeping the kids while we are away. Once I return next week I'll have a few days to plan and then we will be off and running on July 24 for the first day of school.
Did you see the 10 Reasons Why I'm Excited About This School Year?
Now, for this week's collages:
1. These are the campers I took with me each day. The drive from where we live to the church was about an hour each way. I'm glad a couple of friends from our own church were able to join us. They all had fun together.
2. These are ORFF Instruments. It was fun to teach this class all week long. My days of teaching public school music quickly came back to me!
3. One day we heard a string quartet made up of players from the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.
4. Another day we heard a Jazz trio - playing Christmas music. Very nice!
5. One of the pieces the kids will play on their final concert is a Chinese carol. Playing the chimes and gong has been a favorite.
6. Miss B wanted to do something for the homeless that we see each day as we travel into Atlanta. She packed "Manna Bags" and we gave them to the woman who organizes the soup kitchen at the church. She was so appreciative and gave Miss B a huge hug. My girl has such a big heart and I love that she notices people around her that are in need.
My favorite part of the week was the organ presentation. My friend Sarah (who is pictured here) played the organ for my wedding and is still at this church. She is a phenomonal organist and it never ceases to amaze me how the organ mesmerizes the children, too. I just closed my eyes and thought, "God is so amazing!"
We took a field trip to park with fountains. What fun!! As the group stood for their picture, the senior pastor (with his arms in the air!) said "Remember your baptism!". Love that!
After a very full week I've come to some big conclusions:
1. I am SO THANKFUL I can teach my kids at home. Running the "rat race" for just a week has worn me out. Having everyone up and out of the house by 7:15 each morning and not getting home until at least 5 is exhausting. I see how it leaves you VERY LITTLE time with your children. If I was working full time and sending my kids to school I have glimpse of what my life would be like.
2. I am a musician at heart. I have other titles... homeschool mom, blogger, etc... I love music so much and am aware it is a gift from GOD which we need to appreciate and cultivate.
3. I can't WAIT for this weekend with my husband! I wrote about how 15 is a GOOD NUMBER earlier this week...
4. I am in prayer for my church right now - we are very new and in the midst of a pastor search. I am praying for discernment and guidance for our church family.
How has your week been? I hope you can join me for Collage Friday! Create a post with photo collages (I use Picmonkey to make mine.) Grab the Collage Friday button and use it in your post or sidebar. Sign the linky, and be sure to visit someone else on the list, too.
Reader Comments (8)
Mary - what an amazing week! First of all - congratulations on your anniversary of 15 years! Music camp looks like so much fun - and learning. I LOVE the organ (and all the old hymns). Grew up in a church with one. Those photos at the fountains look refreshing - "remember your baptism!" What a happy post. Enjoy your celebrating this weekend ~Tricia
I like to see how much fun you have during the week. I am proud of your Miss B. I would love my kids to think up things like helping others.
I'm envious of your musical talent. One regret I have is not learning to play an instrument. My two older daughters take piano (I'm tempted to take lessons too!). What a blessing to hear all genres from strings to an organ! Terrific! Sounds like a busy week - now it's time for you to enjoy and rest!
I know what you mean about weeks like this making you thankful you homeschool. Keilee and I would have such little time together if she was in PS and I was working outside the home. It makes me appreciate it so much.
That being said, what a wonderful week of music you had! I love the Christmas in July. I also love the Chinese carol and the gong!! How cool. Yes indeed, Miss B has a huge heart. I love that about our kids, don't you?
Wow, that sounds like such a wonderful camp! I hope you thoroughly enjoy your weekend away with your husband, Mary :)
I'd love for my girls to go to a camp like that, especially with as enthusaiastic a teacher as you! Have a fantastic weekend, Mary!
What a fun a MUSICAL week!
(I must say, I totally agree about your comment on "running the rat race"- that HAS to be the biggest reason we began our homeschool journey four years ago!)
Looks like a fun-filled week, but I know you are ready for some rest!
Miss B truly has a heart for serving others!
Hope you have a wonderful anniversary:)