For just a moment in time, Kelly played the violin. She played the piano for an even shorter moment. The swim lessons were a blink; as she swam, she called out every week, “I quit!!” Gymnastics was met with equal enthusiasm, along with ballet and tap (perhaps the longest year of my life). Gymboree drop-outs, for sure. What will be Kelly’s calling? It’s hard to say. She’s 6. I let her try and quit with aplomb. I know there are those who would say I should make her stay with activities, but I didn’t even get to pick my own college major. You won’t get Stage Mom crap from me.

So for my remaining days, I will have just this one picture of Kelly on stage, hair done, dress clean and pressed, violin in position. She and I enjoyed practicing together. We enjoyed listening to violins on iTunes. We enjoyed attending the Symphony. We will have the memory of the 1 minute she played on stage, and I will treasure it always. Until your next gig Maestro Kelly, until then…