Monday, December 17, 2007

To perform or not to perform; that is the question.

Gracie's big debut in our new church's kids Christmas program was last night. We knew for at least 2 weeks prior to the program that Gracie was expected to say a line, so for 2 weeks she was heavily coached. She was also to play a bell in the bell choir and sing 2 songs with the other kids. Keeping in mind that Gracie is 3 years old, we knew this might not all happen the way we wanted it to, but we were sure hoping. OK, I was hoping. I even promised a special treat (a much desired Barbie doll) if she said her line. Yes, I know that is bribery! Gracie had the full support of family last night as 7 of you drove all the way to Macon to see this event. My mom came early to french braid her hair and she was decked out in her new Christmas dress, all for naught. When the appropriate time came, Gracie refused to ring her bell, turned her head away from the microphone when she was to say, "Ring out a glad melody," and stood stoically while the other children sang the 2 songs. As many people informed us after the program, "She sure looked cute up there. Didn't she stand like a little lady even though she didn't sing?! It was a step in the right direction for her to even get up there since you guys are so new. Maybe next year she will feel more comfortable." All of the well meaning people were absolutely right, of course. When we got home we sat down with Gracie and told her how proud we were that she stood on stage so nicely, but that we hoped next time she would feel comfortable singing or ringing her bell. So for now, Gracie's decision was not to perform. To be continued...
P.S. - She still got the Barbie doll. ;-)

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

She sure performed nicely at Pizza Hut after the church program when she thought no one was watching.

Joel and V said...

Another memory for the books; one of these days you'll get to reminise and get to laugh together. I'm sure Gracie looked beautiful standing there with the others. I remember Alisha pulled her mouth wide open and stuck out her tongue making an awful face when she was singing at her kindergarten Christmas program. So at least Gracie didn't make faces at the congregation. One step in the right direction. Trying to look on the positive side of things. I know there are not two better parents that handle everything nicely for Gracie. I've said it before . . . you are such great role models. Speaking of which, NTCC is having a guest speaker on January 6 to talk about Growing Kids God's Way. Although my years of raising kids is way past, I'm still looking forward to hearing him. I pray Alisha will come that Sunday (day after her bday).

BTW . . . not sending cards out so hope you all have a very blessed and Merry Christmas!!! We sure do miss you guys. Love you!!!!

Anonymous said...

Hey, what's the deal? I had to sign in to post my comment. Have they changed posting on all blogs or did you change yours to force people to sign on for security purposes? Caught me off guard b/c I usually just type my name in the nickname so I don't have to sign in.

Emily said...

I didn't change any of my settings to force you to have to log in. Maybe something did change with all blogs.

We miss you guys too!