I survived the first week!

Actually, it was very easy to survive because the schedule was easier this week. The students had their midterm exams this week, so there were only a couple of classes that met each day, and for part of that time, they were either taking a written essay exam or performing a playing test for the assistant director (I am listening to them do it right now :) )

Although I didnt get to teach this week, I feel like I have learned a multitude of things already. The most interesting thing is that this band does not use a tuner in the tuning process! They actually use pitch matching on multiple pitches. They do this through singing, buzzing (for brass), and playing. I talked to Mr. Jenkins about it, and he said that they have never had a tuning issue in the groups. And I have been listening, and he is absolutely right. Genius!

I also very much like the written exams they must do. Their grade isnt just about attendence like how it was in my high school band. It is very much like an academic class, and because of this, I see that this class is treated like an academic class by the whole school. The support is very comfoting, and almost inspiring. I hope that when I take on the podium next week that I will become just as good as these directors.

I also met the band parents last night! I dressed up in my most professional, business-type outfit yet and came in carefully. I have heard so many horror stories about band parent drama and how they may not treat a woman intern as an adult. But can I tell you that these band parents and this meeting were so efficient and productive! And very welcoming. I felt like an adult probably for the first time since I left FSU. They ran their meeting following Roberts Rules and it was very much like a TBS meeting, except the president took charge and there was a reciprocated respect stirring about the room. The band parents really reflect what kind of program this is :)

Next week, Joe Krienes is coming to work with the Wind Orchestra. I am nervous and excited all at the same time. I hope that I will teach something, and he can give me some advice.

Honestly, I am so glad that I went out with Ari this week. The date was very nice. I told him he could pick the restaurant (even though secretly I was complaining to my little sister that I really wanted to eat at Grand Lux). And when he picked me up, without knowing anything on my mind, he asked if I would like to eat at Grand Lux!! It was perfect. Also, when we were waiting for our table, we walked by a friend he knew. During their hellos, I heard a "Julia!"- the girl Ari's friend was with was my sister in my sorority! She was what we call my "adopted big sister," which is fancy language for someone who looks after you when you are new to the sorority. It was soooo funny! We finnally sat down and talked all through dinner about everything! Never an akward moment, always conversation going, it was very nice.

He really made me forget about all the drama from my last relationship, something that was never fully resolved. It isnt fair that Jimmy is not allowing me closure, but at least Ari has given me hope for the future. He is a lot more mature than I remembered. And I dont feel like he is bored when I talk about music and my life, but rather interested- its very refreshing. I dont know if it is going to be something more than a friendship, but I am glad that I have this relationship, regardless of what it is.

I am also getting to see Kris this weekend. Kris is just fun! The funniest and nicest person you will know. And a total genius too- is on a 6 year degree for a medical docterate, assistant coach for the defensive line of the UM football team, and is developing a robotic sergical machine to take to 3rd world countries when they do not have enough doctors. (They could use some of those in Haiti right now). And the coolest part about Kris is that he has no idea how amazing he is. He is so humble and modest. He told me the other week that he doesnt know what he wants to be when he grows up! And that he has just been winging it for now, and when winging it stops, then he will try something else.....needless to say that my parents have asked me to marry him lol.

ANDDD of course, I get to see Jenny this weekend. I am so excited to talk to her about our internships. I feel really bad about her living conditions, which is in a rented room with two other families and they all have to share a bathroom. I really wish she could have lived with me, but my family doesnt know if we are going to have our house the whole time I am interning. I want her to come over and we can have a real dinner and then meet up with Kris. I am so excited for this weekend!!! (and sleeping in...and taking a load off my broken stupid foot...and dressing in normal clothes)

Sigh....life is finnally looking up!


Peace, love, and happiness....PRAY FOR HAITI...Im out