Over the last two days I have had two invitations from my former place of work -Dingley Dell Academy.The first was to join the older sprites at their leaving celebration. The second was to join the whole school for their school end of term show this morning. Both were enjoyable and energising,and full of reminders of everything I loved about my work at Dingley Dell. On Monday night I found myself dancing alongside sprites I have known since they had three elven years. They are on the brink of growing up now,and show all the good manners and confidence which we always want our young folk to have. They were a pleasure to be with,asked me all sorts of questions about my new life,and generally took care of me throughout the evening. I signed their autograph parchments and wished them all the best for their future.
Today I watched their show,and marvelled at their enthusiasm for entertaining. Young singers,dancers,violinists and recorder players went through their paces,in perfect time and tune. It was good to be remembered by them all. I was treated to much waving and clapping,and smiling and bits of news being flung at me as I made my way to my seat. After the show,I visited every class to wish them well,and listen to all their little stories.
The truth is, it was also nice to walk away when I wanted to at noon.I spent 27 wonderful years there,but my thirst for dealing with the daily anxieties and vagaries of staff and parents,has waned completely. It is nice to return to celebrate all the achievements, but I don't want to be there any more as a career.
I've served my time,paid my penance,fulfilled my duty,and freedom is mine now for the taking.
But their childish smiles will always touch my heart,and I do get a warm glow knowing that the small ones of Dingley Dell Academy will always hold me dear, and I them. I have said that I would be willing to return to do some fantastic drama work with them in the New Year,some all- singing ,all- dancing affair which will make our cheeks glow and our hearts race. This joy is still mine to give.
Pendragon has organised some art tuition for me in July. I am really looking forward to this as it involves painting in the open,and sometimes in the "mean streets" of the Metropolis. I learned so much last year,and I am hoping to improve once again.
It's raining again outside. I am awaiting the arrival of my good friend ,Piccallilli Peasegood.She is coming straight from work,so I will have something hot for her to eat and drink. Toasted currant cakes and vanilla pod tea are her favourites. We will sit in the sun room(there is no sun today,whatsoever.)and talk of times new and old. She also has wadges of gossip to impart,so the walls of our little toadstool will be ringing with the shock factor of it all.
Time to tidy up and set out the tea things, my dear friends. A bracing cup of something for you all at this twilight time, and may you also enjoy the tales of the day with someone close.
Till the morrow,from Amarantha Willow of Dingley Dell,the Rainbow Faery.
