Love, Crushes, and Drama...

Hello Faithful and New Friends alike,

I initially tried to post this several days ago, and it wasn't until I decided to check out my blog for comments did I realize that it never posted, and much of what I had written didn't save either... so here's to my love/hate relationship with technology. :)


I have picked a title for this blog which reflects the feelings currently permeating the air of Red Cloud High School. I tell you what... even though I sometimes feel as if life directs me to dramatic moments at times... I have to admit that I hate drama. Especially when it causes fractions between students (all of whom I know are precious in their own state of being)...


Love. Well, this is an interesting concept here... since it is Valentine's day soon, and I have the great pleasure of listening to the relationship episodes in many of the students' lives. So, this is what "Love" means in the lives of my darling students...are you ready for this tragic but true analysis? The perceived "love" of high schoolers (one for another) often translates to... I'll like/love you when it's convenient, but I always keep my options open. (I've heard one student say, "Play them before they play you- that's what it's like here on the Rez, idnit?") Keeping options open at a young age isn't inherently a bad idea, but the reality of how this takes place, and the emotional destruction which occurs, is a horrible consequence. Students feel extremely committed (more so than I sometimes give them credit for) and their vulnerable identities long for a sense of stability...which they will not and cannot find in this environment of dating infidelity. It's similar to the trend of infidelity so commonly seen across the nation.. in real homes and homes on the big screen. My response is- why? why does it have to be this way? where does the cycle begin again in a healthy fashion? I have yet to find the answers. Even so, some students give me hope.


Crushes. Speaking of those students, crush-grams have provided endless amounts of entertainment for me this week. Several students have stopped in to order them- and the stack of order forms is piling high! I am in awe of the sweetness which many students have exhibited toward one another, both in the sending of crush grams to friends, and in the grams sent anonymously to secret crushes. It is these moments and sincere acts of kindness which instill a sense of hope, even amidst the reality of the tragic relationship situations which exist here and everywhere.


Prom. Its like any big event of which I inevitably am forced to ask this question : "Do the ends really outweigh the means?" SO MUCH DRAMA exists in the realm of prom preparation. Even students I deeply admire for their ability to reflect on situations thoughtfully- are coming to me with horrible gripes and nasty comments about "the junior class" in general. As if they all get together at their junior class meetings and say, "Hey, how can we make the senior class think we're absolutely horrible and don't care at all about prom?" I have reflected with the students on both sides of the divide, and I have come to realize that effective communication would dissipate drama nearly entirely! Yet it is easier to gripe and complain rather than address issues with appropriate conversations. Ah, the joys and struggles of working with high schoolers. :)

My Life. I am actually sensing many transitions in my life right now- and while I still thoroughly enjoy my position here, I also know it's time to move on, and so I can feel myself beginning even now to deal with the separation I will encounter when I leave Red Cloud. It does not have to be a negative thing, since I hope to leave my mark in a good way- and say goodbye with sincerity and with intention of continuing a relationship with the place and people of Red Cloud. However, I must (partially for my own sanity) continue to separate myself in a subtle and gradual way from my identity being 'a part of' Red Cloud. Now Red Cloud will be a part of my identity, but only a part. My time here has certainly shaped many of my current perspectives, but I know that it is not enough to let myself be changed for a time; I must always be adapting my perspectives according to my many life experiences- the next of which will involve studying at Princeton Seminary!

Okay- it is now time to see if my publishing skills are still intact (i.e. posting a blog), as I try once again to charm my way into the loving world of technology. As AJ says, though, computers rarely make mistakes. It's generally the person operating who is in error. Good thing my situation is an exception to that rule! :):)

Sending my love on this rainy Monday morning,

Emily

Reno and beyond...

Hello wonderful friends who span the globe...

Here begins what I think is a pretty spectacular blog entry... :)

First, a few pictures from Reno, NV. My first (and last?) time visiting...

A. J. and I playing Skee Ball... we both won prizes, but didn't claim them. Shoot.

We look pretty cute- even though some students think we look like siblings...yikes!

A. J.'s booth at the Safari Club International convention.

Okay, on to other elements of life....

I am writing here once again about my Pine Ridge life. Sometimes it feels so much like home that I forget what info might be novel to my faithful few... but I suppose I shall type what I think about, what I do, since that's what I know best...

I returned late Monday night from Reno....well, from a frigid Rapid City... 2 hours later than planned. Yet I was in high spirits, since my time in Reno was well spent with A. J. I suppose I should clarify for those who are not in close personal contact with me... A. J. is my boyfriend. I normally refrain from sharing too much personal information via 'this blog'- but in the chance that I mention his name a time or two, I think it's only fair that I explain who he is.

So- in short, A. J. and my brother played football together at University Sioux Falls, and this fall Clint (my brother) worked at A. J.'s hunting lodge as a guide... so they spent some quality time together, occasionally mentioning my name and single status. After ignoring hints all fall, I agreed to go on a date with 'this boy.' (and it was blind... with the only knowledge about him from Clint being something like, "Well, he's not ugly") :) Neither of us realized how much we would have in common- and now we enjoy each other's company when we can- being 4 hours apart.

Yes, well, I took off two days of school to travel to Reno, which happened to only be one day, since Monday we had a snow day! Tuesday I was blessed with a late start, and considering my tired travel mode, I used the extra sleep well. Back in the bitter cold, it took a few hours before my spirit warmed up at school on Tuesday- just in time to drive the GBB team to Mission for the night. The girls played pretty well but lost in the final seconds, which was disappointing for everyone. Their team is struggling a bit to pull together, but hopefully that can still happen as the season is not over. The boys team continues to do well. I don't think they have quite the same record or ranking as last year, but honestly I'm not even sure what they're ranked. None-the-less, it is still fun to support all the teams, since they are wonderful people!

I have been working a bunch on various little projects this week- promoting our Crush gram sale and talent show, entertaining and carefully responding to a plethora of non-feasible activity ideas from the students, and trying to pull together information for a 21st Century grant meeting tomorrow. The cumulative binder is in progress...well... at least in my mind! :)

Oh, and parent/teacher conferences went swell yesterday (or so I hear). :) See, I don't actually have much business when it comes to conferences. One class. Three students. Weight lifting. Need I say more?

I would like to reflect briefly on my travel to Reno from the perspective of an outsider looking in on my time here on the Reservation. I am inspired to do this based on the conversations I had with several people while en route to Reno. Generally speaking, the response I typically receive after explaining my choice to be here on the Rez is one of ambivalent surprise. For example, a normal response would be, "Oh, wow, now that's interesting!" or "Well, good for you. You really don't get paid?" Honestly though, I don't think most people actually believe it's interesting at all- or care whether or not I get paid, since they fail to provide any follow-up questions. But I take people at their word ;) and begin to briefly explain my position, my struggles and hopes, my life passions (okay, I read the audience before delving in too far, don't worry) :).

My point is, I really feel as if I have become an advocate for this place (which is a second home) and these people (who are my friends, my sisters, my brothers, my second family). I am able to cross bridges between 'the elite' and 'the forgotten,' between 'the privileged' and 'the not-so-privileged.' And this is exactly where I want to be; regardless of other life endeavors, I will always seek to be an advocate for those without a strong voice.

That is all for now. I shall resume daily life here at Red Cloud... driving school bus, laughing at the hilarious comments students (never fail to) make, and enjoying the gifts God has given me. Which also includes all of you. :)

Much love,

Emily

A beautiful time...

Hello beautiful friends!!!

I have posted exactly three pictures for three reasons. 1. I think a blog is immediately more interesting when photos are involved. 2. I want to express how I feel in beautiful colors. 3. It is always my joy to share photos of students I love.

This scene is NOT what it looks like here, but it's how I feel inside. :)

These fabulous girls are a part of the student council...did I mention they are fabulous?

Our Stu. Co. Representatives at the Inauguration of Theresa Two Bulls

(hopefully I haven't posted this one already)

Hello from the West...

I have always felt strange claiming that I live in the West now, since East River SD would NEVER consider themselves 'the West.' Hence, I grew up with an assumption that all of SD is a part of the Midwest... when in reality, the state divide (Missouri River) is actually greater than I ever expected. It not only separates the state, it is evidently the separation line for the Midwest and West. Betcha didn't know that! :)

I have some good news and some bad news. Which would you like to read first? Well, I'll begin with the bad news, but if you're more inclined to hear good news first, read the second paragraph and jump back to the first.

The bad news is... I will not be returning for a third year here. I recently turned in my official 'letter of intent' which was a difficult yet necessary step. Most likely everyone following my blog knows this is my final year, but I am beginning to think my audience is a bit greater than anticipated (considering the 8000+ views of my profile, I just noticed today). So I must give ample reasoning and warning- that this blog will only be mindfully tended for the next 5 months... and hopefully revisited time and again, but that's hard to predict. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here, being enriched by the lives of the high schoolers I work with, the faculty members I work alongside, the culture I have fallen in love with, and the housemates and community members I live among. I have realized this year that I haven't spoken so much about the traditional Lakota Culture, I suppose since it has become an integrated part of my experience rather than a 'new phenomenon.' And I rather enjoy this realization. So- here's to five more months of solid, dedicated, Pine Ridge reflecting....

The goods news is... I will be attending Princeton Seminary in the fall! Also, most likely everyone following this also knows that, but I shall add a bit of detail. I have not yet received my financial aid package, which is the next step, considering I have been accepted and confirmed with my housing deposit. Once I file my taxes and FAFSA I anticipate hearing back relatively soon- enough time to possibly schedule a visit or whatever needs to happen next... I look forward to this journey- which will take me to NJ for three years, but it is a bit nerve-wracking as well, knowing the culture will be quite an adjustment. Honestly I'm not sure what could be more drastic than "The Rez" to "Princeton." I suppose my excitement over this upcoming experience only highlights my love for adventure and meeting new people- discovering a new culture!

But for now, I am here. And I am of course thrilled to continue on into this final semester. The new classes begin today, and lucky for me I get to substitute teach two of them today! U.S. History and Ethics. I know, pulling out all the big guns with me as the teacher! :) This week is a short week, as I only have two days of school (teacher inservice yesterday- fun fun!)... and then I will leave for Reno for a few days. Perhaps I'll meet up with a certain boy while I'm in Reno.... who knows! :) Alright, I guess I do know... AJ (and his father) will be there to greet me!

Last week we had some excitement with a fabulous student council meeting, some planning for Valentine's Day (We are having a talent show and Crush-gram fundraiser!), and my friend Emily (great name, I know) from NW College was here for a visit and was able to meet several of my students and see me in my daily routine. I especially appreciated her visit and interest in my life here...I do love visitors!

Today I am planning on going to a Sweat (inipi) after school today. I believe the wrestling team is hosting. It has been a little while since I've been able to sweat (remember women's participation is subject to their moon cycle)... so I am excited to be able to pray with the students in this way. I am also working on planning for next year- with the after-school program grant coming due soon, and a looming project of creating a binder for my predecessor. :)

All in all, it is truly a beautiful time- with temperatures rising enough for me to enjoy running outside- giving me hope that sometime spring will come....spring will come... :)

As always, thanks for reading this post. I appreciate the interest in the Rez... or interest in me... :) Ha, either way, your readership is well received. :)

Much love, Emily

Catching up...

Hello my faithful few!

I know it has been another 1 1/2 weeks since I've written to you... or posted... or whatever terminology best suits you, but here I am once again. :)

This past week has been full of catching up - with the students, with my work, and with my volunteer community. I was reminded upon returning of how much I really do love my life here, and hearing the stories from the students was uplifting as we got into the swing of being at school once again. (It teaches me that time away doesn't mean relationships are any less significant).

One positive bit about the student council... last year around this time the student council sort of took a turn for the 'less than enthusiastic'- but this year, several of the girls have been asking, "what happened to student council?" (which the obvious answer would be- we've been on break, silly!)... but my internal response was of great joy, because their questions suggest that they actually miss student council! We have a meeting tomorrow to discuss our upcoming projects, and I have to remind myself to be as positive about this as they are (since there is the temptation for me to say- we had a great semester, that's good enough). But it's not, and I know they still need my encouragement to continue strong. So, let the Valentine's festivities begin! :)

I will show you a few random pictures from the previous weeks....

Our New Year's Eve group- what fun!

A. J. and I at New Year's Eve (he was introduced to the group as my

brother's friend and my "friend") :)

Past volunteer katie and I at LNI this year.

My college friends and I holding a few of my Dad's newly-hatched chicks (this smile was before the chick 'oopsed' on me!)

The wrestling team at LNI- way to go, boys!

Okay, that's all for now. I can't find the winter formal pictures, otherwise I would have posted those lovely shots as well.

I am currently starting another full week- and let me tell you, having two full 5 day weeks in a row can be a bit daunting. I know that perhaps sounds pretty funny- like... well, aren't you suppose to always have 5 days weeks, Emily? Well, yes- generally speaking, but rarely in fact do we actually have them. So then the irregular becomes common, and we all get spoiled and start complaining about a full week. It is a bit strange, I admit.

This is finals week, and everyone is stressed and ready for the week to be over. Well, everyone is stressed that has anything to do with finals, and that does not include me (said with a sheepish smile). I actually love finals week, because I have relatively little to do. I must clarify- I actually have a busy after-school program during finals week, since everyone stays after for study hall- but that's all, really. Just the after-school program. And my girls in weight lifting are maxing out this week.

Speaking of which, I'd best be on my way toward making those sheets for the girls.

It has been lovely updating you all, (however many or few happen to read). :) It's the mystery of my readership which keeps me writing- so I imagine dozens of eager souls reading these posts, even if it's just a few. :) Imagination is key.

Sending warm wishes on this bitterly cold and windy day,

Emily

It's time again...

Hello Dear Souls,

I have made the assumption that my audience has generally dissipated during the holiday season. If for some reason you are not included in this assumption- and have persistently checked this blog to no avail the past few weeks- I am sending my apologies. Here again, I resume the delightful job of updating one and all on life on the Reservation.

But alas, I have been home on break (a quite wonderful one at that) for the past week, so I shall go back in time to relay a few wonderful bits of news from LNI (refer to previous post for more specific background information)... I was thoroughly busy with the LNI Lakota Language team, who took second place at the tournament (congrats!), driving them around in a bus- no wait, a van- after the bus was stolen by the boys basketball- and proceeded to quit working (but that's not my story to tell)- and more driving drama... okay, I'll explain.

7:00am (or 7:30am, whichever time you feel is more important to remember) we departed with 5 students and three adults on a large 'bus 13' to Rapid City... on the way, we stopped about 4 miles post leaving to see about some b-ball uniforms left at school, then proceeded on, only to encounter a broken-down b-ball bus about 30min. from Red Cloud. (to add context, it was bitterly cold and we believe the diesel gelled up). We picked up one coach and three managers (the other boys found personal rides)... and resumed our travel. By 9am- after some strategic navigation by yours truly- we made it to the Civic Center, where the LNI team proceeded to kick 'tail'. But the bus. Yes, after grabbing light lunch at the mall, our team headed back to the civic center, in order for the b-ball team to accost our bus- leaving us ride-less for a few hours (see, recall the team's bus was currently sitting idle about 1 hour from Rapid City)... so we managed to occupy ourselves until someone from school graciously drove up a school van for our use. Which we used, of course, the duration of our stay. :) Hence, "the bus- no wait, a van..." comment above.

Okay, so that left us some splendid travel opportunities, being more maneuverable and all in a van. The beautiful Lakota Language team (did I mention they rocked?) and I decided to peruse some pretty Christmas lights and decorations in the 'nice' residential area of Rapid. This of course had nothing to do with the fact that Haines Ave is NOT the road on which our hotel was located, (no matter how long you decide to travel it, Emily). Yeah- even super bus drivers occasionally make geographical errors, AND it takes a creative bus driver to turn it into an event to remember. :)

I had the privilege of experiencing LNI with the company of Katie, fellow volunteer last year, and it made for some lovely times. We returned to Red Cloud Thursday night and headed up Friday to LNI with a car packed for Christmas. I was able to enjoy the wrestling tournament- during which Red Cloud finished a strong 3rd- with 1st place, heavy weight champion Jacob (refer to previous Halloween picture with ostrich costume). and 2nd place, seniors Ryan and Charles.

Overall, it was a splendid time, and I enjoyed visiting with friends Amy, Jared, and Trey before heading home, where I have thoroughly enjoyed family and friends (old and new). :)

That is all for now. I have been thinking over my past time at Red Cloud (now, 1 1/2 years!) and have come to the conclusion that I am so blessed, by every student who makes me smile, every co-worker who gives me joy, every volunteer who makes me laugh and cry, every community member who gives me a sense of being at home, and every moment which makes me realize that love, generosity, and peace are treasured possessions which everyone deserves to experience.

May you experience these gifts, particularly during the holiday season. With a heart full of love and voice filled with laughter,

Emily

Nearing Christmas...

Hello Pine Ridge Enthusiasts...

I feel as if I have more news than normal for you... I'm not sure if that's true or not, but that's what I feel like today... :)


This past week has been exceptionally great. Probably because I'm still basking in the glow of the Winter Formal (sorry no photos yet)... and in the fact that I'm coasting in my work responsibilities until Christmas. Not that days are ever slow... Only 3 more days of school before the break. WOW! Hard to believe it, even as I type. Of course we have LNI coming shortly (Lakota Nation Invitational)... which is a massive event held in Rapid City... I know I spoke of it last year, but gosh- that's a whole year ago, so I'll share briefly about it... but first, a recap of my previous week...

On Monday a significant event occurred in my life. I began eating regular food. What I mean is, I stopped eating rice. (Not baby food or something). Alright, back up Emily- Two weeks ago my house and I began a challenge to only eat rice for every meal (plus beans for dinner)... basically as an act to simplify our lives, become more aware of our infinite variety in food choices, and be in solidarity with the billions of people in the world who are grateful for the rice they do consume daily. So, I cooked up a massive batch of rice, anticipating our long journey into the world of spicing rice for every meal. Last Monday we began... and last Monday everyone else stopped, but I continued eating only rice, alone. Every meal. 7 days. SO this Monday I concluded my 'rice fast' by eating yogurt covered cheerios for breakfast. 21 meals of only rice, and yogurt covered cheerios are particularly tasty. I have had the issue of dealing with massive food cravings even when I'm not hungry this week (for example, returning to the development office Xmas party for seconds and thirds on all their goodies), so I'm hoping those dissipate before Christmas goodies get shoved in my face. :)

Also this week I have been listening to several students share their personal drama- be it at home, in school with friends, or relationship issues... and mostly I listen and give support, which most often doesn't take too large of a toll on me. For some reason, though, this week I have really been feeling the burden some of these precious students must carry each day- and it exhausts me when I allow it to. I would share more, but I fear breaching a certain level of confidentiality these students expect from me.

On a lighter note, we had a bird in our ceiling on Wednesday. It was quite hilarious really, since we couldn't figure out if it was a bird or a mouse, but every teacher on the top floor would be blessed with the scampering noises every so often... It was one of those odd occurrences which I absolutely enjoy, since it brings an element of spontaneity to the school day.

This week is a big week for basketball, and if you recall hearing last year- basketball IS life here. Thus, last nights season opener between our lady Saders and the Little Wound team was a PACKED house. I took tickets for the event, and honestly, I don't know if there was an empty seat in our gym. Our girls lost a tough contest, but it wasn't a heart breaker- I think the team realizes now what they need to work on. That's what the first game is good for, right?

Also today (Friday, to clarify- since sometimes when I save drafts and post them later, the date gets messed up) the boys play their first home game against Bennett Co. and it should be interesting- all five starters are new, evidently, so let the games begin! (Random note: I will be selling ponpoms and beads for the fans... fundraiser for Stu. Co.)

I forgot to mention that on Tuesday we had our VB awards banquet, and it went really well. We were able to recognize the girls' accomplishments and validate their good character, as well as eat pizza and laugh a little too. For the banquet I had all the varsity players sign a mat to frame a goofy picture of the team for Robin (head coach).... and she LOVED it. I was glad to have that as a way of saying thank you for her dedication to coaching and teaching me a few things about coaching too! :) I now play on a league VB team with Robin and my housemate Sunshine (or by common standards- Dan). We have a blast and really do well... we're most likely standing around 1st place, you know... :)

Okay- back to LNI... So the streets of Rapid City will be bombarded by LNI participants and spectators Dec. 17-20 (not to mention nervous bus drivers), because it is one of the largest events to take place at the Civic Center... Boys and girls basketball tournaments (16 teams), wrestling tourney, boxing, handgames, art show, Lakota language bowl and story telling, knowledge bowl, T.W.O. Pow wow, Educational conferences, and lots of food. Also they generally bring in a celebrity of some sort for added numbers, but I haven't heard word of who that might be... in any case, I am driving bus for the Lakota Language team, which only lasts Wed & Thurs... but I shall be back Friday & Saturday on my own accord, which will be nice to have flexibility in travel.

Another exciting event to take place- Katie, my housemate and best friend from last year will be coming for a visit- and she'll be here this Monday!!! I am so excited to spend the week with her, and she'll be coming to LNI with me as well... ah, I smile in anticipation.

So that's been my week. When I get winter formal pictures back from Ms. Lainey, I shall post them for all to view. I am anxious for Christmas break, getting to catch up with friends and family from back home. It's been a long time since I've had more than a few days' break.

Thanks for the comments on my hair, Amanda and Bethy. The most recent compliment I've received was last night from a dear friend, "You look lovely, that haircut has SO much energy!" :)

And now, for a final story to satisfy your Red Cloud cravings...

The foreign exchange student who is sitting in my office right now...from Germany... just told me that I have a great last name and I shouldn't change it. :) "Isn't that a cool last name?" he just asked another student. I (realizing the other student most likely wouldn't care) responded energetically, "Yeah, it is! Thanks, Fabian. You're the best." He's grading papers for a teacher now- and I asked him, "If you were grading my paper, would you give me a 100%?" He promptly replies, "Of course I would. Because of your last name." :) What a dear and funny soul.

Okay, until the next splendid time we meet (even if it is on cyber space).....

Grateful, mysterious, and content, Emily

Winter & Dancing... both good things.

Hello growing audience... (or are you?) :)


First of all, I am sending my apologies for neglecting this precious post these past few weeks. My pictures which I've included have relatively little to do with what I will type (I think) but I still thought you'd like to see them... so I'll share those first, then proceed to tell you why I think that winter and dancing are both good things (because, of course, they are).

My new haircut! I donated 10+ inches to Locks of Love.

This picture is in case you didn't know what I looked like pre-haircut... a bit drastic, you think?

My look-alike cousin and I at Thanksgiving, comparing my current school pic with her!



My friend Denise and I running our 1/2 marathon back in October

(I told you- unrelated, right?)

Me running- and this wasn't even at the beginning- look at that happy/determined face!

Okay, back to Red Cloud. (when I add pictures, the text gets all scrunched up- sorry!)

Upon getting back from Thanksgiving, I've had one of those wonderful "I love Red Cloud and everyone here" weeks. I mean, every day. Every moment, actually, especially when I make sure to pay attention to the details. The student mentioning his gratitude for the animal crackers or cinnamon bread (thanks, Mom!). The quick wave from a shy senior. The macho junior basketball players coming it to ask what to wear to the winter formal. The senior who collects her after-school incentive points to redeem for items her auntie needs at home- like tide. The freshman who constantly says, "Hi Emily"- about 50 times a day. The Student Council members who are forever being creative and helpful. My heart fills with joy as I simply re-remember these moments. To be sure, each day is filled with them, and often times I wonder how I can possibly capture all this beauty in my memory. Perhaps even sharing it with you and others is the first step toward displaying the goodness of RC high schoolers.

Today is the big day- the day when winter and dancing come together.... it's the WINTER FORMAL. I believe this is a first in Red Cloud history (or at least recent history). The kids are quite excited... some hesitation because of the title 'formal'- but overall pure anticipation of getting dressed up, taking pictures, and being able to spend a Friday evening with friends and 'dates.' :) The kids actually ask me several times if I will be taking a date- and thus far I don't have one- so if you're not busy, any last minute add-ins are welcome! :):) (7-10pm) We have the final details pretty well in place. I still need to find the cord to attach an IPod to the sound system (music would be nice)... but Terrance (a guitar club member and budding musician) has assured me he has what we need. Also I need to make sure we can get the tarp down in time (after middle school basketball practice), string Christmas lights, and possibly have tables with candles, all fancy-like. Ah, can you feel my excitement! I even have a dress for the big event (again, at the urgent prodding of the kids).

Today is a big day for another reason- 7 of our Student Council members will be attending the Inauguration Ceremony for the new Oglala Sioux Tribal President Theresa Two Bulls. She is one of the candidates we invited to our debate, so I am thankful for this follow-up experience for the Stu. Co. members... and myself. Sometimes in my busyness I forgot how privileged I am to be able to leave school for all these cool events around the Rez. :)

I will surely fill you in on all the Winter Formal fun- and also post pictures. Miss Lainey (as her children are taught to address her) is my housemate and also a great photographer, so she is the picture woman tonight- capturing fun for everyone... and enabling this to become a mini-prom of sorts, complete with picture forms! :) I think the school is getting excited since it is open to all ages- whereas Prom is for Jun/Sen classes only. Unfortunately I don't think Santa will be making an appearance, as originally projected, yet perhaps I shall sneak a Santa Hat for a few moments tonight!

Details are awaiting my return, as I prepare to leave for the Inauguration and get back in time to quickly set up for the dance- and then enjoy both good things, Winter & Dancing.

Sending my warmest love in this coldest season,

Emily