Ode to Mr. Burton

 My Elementary Band/Choir Teacher retired this year.  I was so happy to be able to celebrate with him and to also see a few of my old Middle School teachers as well.  My Mom came with us which was wonderful and helpful since I had Addie and Glenn with me (Kevin and Kaila were at the Portland Thorn's soccer game together).  Mr. Burton saw me right away and so pleased to see me.  He was asked to cut the cake as we came in. He made one slice on the cake and was asking me how my mom was.  I told him she came and was right behind him.  He was shocked and turned around to give my mom a big hug.  Needless to say he didn't cut anymore cake. ;-)  It was wonderful to see the joy and love between the two of them.  My mom was a wonderful Mother Helper at school.  I was blessed by her countless hours at making the school the best it could be.  I too am hoping to be that kind of mother for my kids too which is why I put in so many hours at the school this last year helping with the book fair, hearing/seeing testing, field trip, and reading with the kids.

 Mr. Burton (band & choir), Mr. Mac (algebra- best math teacher ever!) , and Me

 Mr. Burton started working with the kids on marimba instruments.  I got to see it first hand as he just started with them while I was at PSU and needed to do a student practicum and asked Mr. Burton if I could come and observe him.  It was wonderful.  That was the same year that he had me help with the concert at the school with filming it and the alumni surprised him with a little song of "Wind Beneath Our Wings".  It was so touching.  He was the best. It was his last year teaching at Orient before moving to Dexter McCarty.  I have been so blessed to have his influence in my life.  His love for music is inspiring!  Thank You Mr. Burton!!

 After the retirement Party Nana treated us to ice cream cones at McD's and then we enjoyed the sun at her house.  Glenn really wanted to ride a bike (they don't have any there with training wheels) so Nana helped him a little. He was so happy but really wants to learn to ride a 2 wheeler.  I told Kevin so hopefully this summer he will be able to do that!