Idahome: Cinderella

 I took the kids to Idaho this month to see the musical my mom directed. It was a quick, fun trip. We flew Allegiant, and it was super cheap. I love that it departs from the south terminal. That terminal is so small and cozy and easy to navigate. And it flew into Provo which was perfect because I was able to drive Aunt Charlotte and Aunt Kathleen up to Idaho and also avoid having to rent a car. The only glitch in our flight plan was that we had an hour delay on our way home. And we were stuck in the minuscule Provo airport terminal for that hour. All-in-all, it was great. And we saw lots of people we knew on the flights.

We also got to meet up with Abbie and Felicia for breakfast before we went up to Idaho. That's because our flight left Austin at 6:30 a.m.!  

The musical was magical! This was the first production I'd seen in the new theater, which is named for one of my favorite teachers! He's retiring after this year. He and his wife are lovely people. Sometimes when I go back to the old hometown I feel like I need to try to talk to people, have long conversations about the good old days and where we are now. This time I gave myself permission to just smile and say hi. I felt kind of guilty about that. But Julie Millett saw me, gave me a huge smile, and said, "Maren! Welcome home!" It was so nice! I felt so loved. That's her gift, making people feel loved. But I can do that too--don't underestimate the power of smiling and saying hello!

The cast and crew and directors had worked so hard! This was a big production. Their efforts paid off. It was fantastic. So glad I went to see it. Especially since my mother says this is the last play she will direct. I think she and my dad have a pact. She'll be done with plays if he'll be done with coaching. 

We saw the play twice and also had time to hang out with cousins. Annie and Tyler organized Grandma's earrings into this handy muffin tin. And they all helped Felicia to make cookies. 

Seth requested a pillow with his face on it for a birthday present. Then he put the pillow into his hoodie, and this was the result.

It was fun to talk to the aunties on the drive. They are amazing women. And I love my wonderful family and was grateful for the chance to go and see so many of them.