bush is a HIT

Yesterday, former First Lady Barbara Bush came to our school to announce the winners of an essay contest she gave to the 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders. The theme was "The Sky is the Limit," so each child wrote about what they wanted to be when they grow up and being able to accomplish their dreams.

Along with her was a child acting group called HITS. They performed a few scenes from their most recent theater production, Beauty and the Beast. I can't quite remember Barbara Bush's affiliation with HITS, but somehow there is a connection.

All the students loved the production, especially in seeing a life size candelabra and grandfather clock, and I found myself singing along in my head (of course...). At the end, the older students were able to ask a few questions to the cast, which was neat because a handful were around the same age.

Afterward, Barbara Bush announced the winners of the essay contest, one from each grade. (And of course, you know me, I was trying to hold back tears as the students names were called). Some of the parents were able to come and watch. I believe that all three students who won had some sort of family present. They all stood up and cheered when hearing their child's name called. A reporter from the Houston Chronicle interviewed Bush after the program, and the story ended up on the front page of the Chronicle this morning!!

It was so exciting!! All of these kids are so sweet, and so deserving. It was really incredible to watch.