Have a Wiggly, Wiggly Christmas

Happy Holidays, everyone! I can't believe how quickly the last 4 months have passed. And now, for a quick catch-up...

In October, I performed Puccini's TOSCA with the Melbourne Opera Company. It has to be one of the greatest operas ever written. The story line is devastatingly tragic and romantic, and the magnificent music befits the story. Not one, not two, but three leading characters die (actually four, but his death is reported - doesn't occur onstage). What's not to love? Masterpieces like TOSCA make me want to keep playing opera for the rest of my life.

In November, it was unusually hot in Melbourne. And we all got colds, which went around the family twice. It wasn't twice as nice. Little Skye had many nights of poor sleep, and lack of appetite during the day. I think she was also teething like crazy, so it all adds up to grizzly. Only within the last few days has she started to feel and act more like the sweet pea I know and love.

In December, we performed Handel's MESSIAH in Seymour and in Melbourne. I was asked to lead (i.e. as Concertmaster) in Tatiana's absence for both performances, and it was quite an honor. Both performances went really well, so I was proud of that. There was a very funny moment in the Melbourne performance involving the organist. If you have a minute and 30 seconds to spare, have a look at the video I posted on youtube entitled "Messiah Bung Note."

Chelsea has been learning the violin from me for the past 5 months or so, and she has come a long way. I had a little recital at the house featuring my two students, and Chelsea played really well. For Christmas, she is getting an upgrade from a 1/8 size violin to a 1/4 size. Chelsea also completed the 1st Grade with high marks and looks forward to the challenge that is 2nd Grade.

Skye is getting "tall" and is losing those cute chubby legs. She still adores The Wiggles and we watch the "Wiggly, Wiggly Christmas" DVD at least 5 times a day. Skye is able to mimmic some of the dancing and singing, which is a joy to watch. She likes to clap, both for her own little accomplishments (like eating her food, or turning on the TV) and as an audience member. I was delighted to see my little girl in the back of the church at the end of the MESSIAH, clapping away for her mummy. She is a very smart little possum, and learns so much just by observing. Her receptive language is excellent, and her expressive language is improving. This is stating the obvious, but I am so very proud of her.

Lachlan has 3 weeks of holiday time, starting tomorrow. We have a little vacation to Phillip Island planned in January. Otherwise, just a well-deserved break from the daily grind of work. And a taste of what it's like to look after the kids all day - swapping one form of work for another!

We hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and lots of fun ringing in 2010. And now for some recent photos...