Throughout the weekend I couldn't stop reminiscing about my own band trip days in high school. Hanging out with friends on the bus, trying to stay on top of homework, the laughter and general shenanigans that would always ensue, the pride in our playing and performing.
But I also remember how much so many of us girls enjoyed getting to know and spend time with the band director's wife. She worked at our high school, so, many of us occasionally spent time with her there as well. I remember thinking of her as not quite as formal as a teacher, nor as casual as a friend, but, as someone we looked up to. A strong female mentor to a lot of us.
And then there I was this last weekend. Spending time with the students, helping problem solve some situations, chatting with them, checking in with them. The high schoolers were great. They knew me a little from seeing me around the school or through the fact that I have their younger siblings in my own classroom. These kids were so wonderful to me, and I just beamed (in almost disbelief) each time one of them said something like "Man, you're cool Mrs. Wixson" or just got excited to see me coming to share the latest drama about homework or wardrobe issues or which boys were cute from other schools.
At first, it was a little surreal being for the first time on the other side of things. But all in all, made me appreciate my own high school trip experiences even more, and realize how valuable they still are for kids, no matter where they are in the world. And also what a gift it is to carry on the mentorship role I so greatly benefited from.
Enjoying the post-concert reception with Twyla and the Dehli directors.
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