Thank You, Mother and Daddy

Today was Mother's Day. I am very grateful that I still have my mother close enough that I can visit with her and talk to her on the phone several times a day. When I was 5 years old, I had no brother or sister yet. We lived in the country and my parents noticed that I enjoyed playing on my grandma's piano.  My mother decided I should have lessons.  It was a big deal and expensive, $2.00 for 4 lessons. I still have my first book and can tell several of the stories shared by my teacher, Mrs. Zoth. Over the course of my school years, I experienced more than one teacher since they did not stay in our town very long. My mother and daddy sacrificed for me to take lessons because I had no piano at first and we had to drive to town for lessons.  No school bus was ridden on lesson day. I never remember my mother complaining about taking me. I never forgot my music. I attended recitals and contests and guild. I was told to practice and even through many struggles, I did. Don't get me wrong. I threw some royal fits from time to time. I would tell my parents that it was hard and I was too tired to practice.  Nevertheless, I DID practice and went away to North Texas State University to learn some more. No one was there to make me practice, but my parents had instilled good habits in me and I never wanted to disappoint them. Now, I have played piano for many many years and seen so many talented students come through my doors.  Most have far more talent than I, but I seriously doubt that one single student has had more dedicated cheer leaders than mine.  I appreciate all the support, recital dresses, taking me to lessons and performances and so much more.  When Daddy paid for my lessons and bought my music, he said, "Linda, I sure hope I get my money's worth some day."   I think he would be glad to know that it was money well spent.

Recital is coming up on May 21st at 1:00.  Please be sure your student is preparing to display their hard work.