December 11, 2024 - Week 46

What an absolutely busy week - so busy in fact the Principal had to tell me to stop 'working' and take a rest. Today was the Christmas Cantata where more than 30 students performed the Nativity play, along with singers, drummers and keyboard musicians turning it into a musical.

For November and December, I've been practicing daily with the students: Monday with the keys, Tuesdays and Fridays with the singers, Wednesdays with the actors/actresses and Thursdays with the drummers. I also made costumes from recycled materials for the play: a white sheep from a 15L water jar and tissue box, angel wings from Heinekin cardboard, King Herod's crown, a scepter, and his soldier's shield from my fan's cardboard box. I was mightily impressed when the students pitched in and made baby Jesus and His manger (and yes, those green leaves and straw were taken from the school's farm)

It was heartwarming to see all students, regardless of their disability, try their best. So much so that at the end, the Principal came to thank me with teary eyes, urging me to continue exploring my teaching and creative arts gifts. This is their first Christmas event for the school, and for some, their first role in a school play. I am proud and honored to have been able to bring them this opportunity.

Now I can go to school in peace without a student or teacher calling "Kiki" everywhere I turn!

I took a brief break on the weekend to revisit Bob Marley beach; I suppose with my braids I look more Jamaican so much so a passing Jamaican man called me "Brown skin". (Note to readers: normally I'm called white - as opposed to Brown or Black skin).