Congratulations!

Congratulations on the birth of your beautiful daughter! We are all happy for you and Ginger. I hope you enjoy your time with the baby. It is very exciting to think about a new little addition to the choral program. All of us are thinking of the three of you in your first week home. I can't wait to see more pictures of your precious one. See you soon!

It's been a while. A long while, actually. But in that time I've managed to reconstruct a good portion of my house, have a wonderful winter break, begin a new semester, realize what it might really be like to be a father, and begin planning for next school year.

In that thought, I share all of your thoughts of missing the nearly-graduated Seniors.

However, while my wife was working today, I realized that this could possibly be my last day at home alone, without a beautiful child that is somehow dependent on me for its every need. However, I am most thankful for this change in my life, however it may change who I am.

But within that thought process, I also thought about how I am thankful for what I already have; not just what I am about to embark upon. I am surrounded by a talented and wonderful group of students who work so hard for a common goal, and am so very excited for us to share those gifts once again on Tuesday. And thus a bulk portion of my day was spent in preparation for that event, that it may be fruitful and successful for all of you.

And although we'll create art for an audience in just three short days, we also share the joy of knowing that we have the chance to do this every day. And soon, with a new "family" member, who I find always kicks, pushes, and shoves every time I turn on the radio or play a recording of one of our concerts.

Change is good.

Mr. Flanagan