It’s an incredibly muggy day for the Miami Valley and the cloudy skies tease us as we believe rain to be imminent, soon. However, rain is not in the immediate forecast for over a week. A weather heat advisory has just been issued.

Sunday afternoon, my last senior had her final lesson with me just as a new student was waiting for her first lesson. Isabel Rawlins, a recent year’s Jimmy’s Award Winner and stalwart of Dayton’s Muse Machine stage is on her way to Wright State University’s Musical Theatre program where she will be in most excellent hands. This was a bittersweet departure which encouraged a few tears on my part.

Col. Deeds has always loved on Isabel and now that he is taller can reach her shoulders with his paws to give her hugs and smother her with his insistent kissers. I know he will miss Isabel, too.

But, as in all my previous years in private teaching, the four new students I met yesterday swapped enthusiasm for the sadness of Isabel’s departure. It’s a new school year and I am blessed with a strong bevy of talented, committed students.

I have set aside some time to pack up old, unneeded clothing, and some other items to be shared with a friend whose Girl Scouts troop will use in a garage sale. It was perfect timing as I begin another round of downsizing.

Okay. Lunch is finished and I need to pack up the items so I can grab a nap before it is time to teach.

Make it a great day!

PHOTOS: Isabel’s last lesson.