I just received a very sad phone call from one of Garrett's friends. Remember the boy who broke our front window last year? His father died this morning of a heart attack. I feel so sad for Jacob
That's terrible! His family will be in my thoughts!
Elin - Glad you enjoyed the movie! I am sure you are NOT losing your edge as a teacher! I think people are just cutting back on gifts because their budgets are getting squeezed.
Speaking of music teachers, the middle school had 3 teachers this year. The main band director, the percussion teacher, and a third guy who was technically the brass instructor. The brass guy used to teach elementary band but the program was cut.

I have said before that the lack of communication from the main guy drives me batty, and I think the brass guy didn't agree with the way things were being run. No practice cards required, that kind of thing. At the band concert he announced he is leaving DISD. I saw him the next morning when I was going to DS's awards ceremony and I asked him where he is going. He said he had 7 offers on the table and the lowest paying one would be an annual increase of $13,000!

That is a shame, because he is a great guy and DS really liked him. The school has lost a fabulous teacher, but I don't blame him one bit!
Tammi - I wouldn't worry too much about gifts for the teachers. A nice thank-you card should do the trick!
Theresa - Enjoy your passes! I hope your wrist continues to feel better!
Jen - So when are you going back to Alaska?
From reading posts from folks who just came back it sounds like the crowds are starting to pick up. And from looking at resort availability it doesn't look like the crowds will be diminishing EVER!

This could be the trip where I actually notice the crowds!