How quickly a year flies!

Fall in Minnesota was a beautiful mix of color and sound: between the Minnesota foliage and my ever-growing music classes, life was full!  430+ students, all learning the basics of vocal technique, recorders and percussion made for a LOUD and fun time!  The highlights of the classroom: preparation for the Hmong New Year and learning enough Hmong to lead a song (in Hmong), welcoming all families to our program.  Nyob Zoo Xyoo Tsiab!

Mrs. Camozzi at the Hmong New Year 12/18/09

Mrs. Camozzi at the Hmong New Year 12/18/09

The highlights of home-life: adopting our puppy, Nola.  A pure mutt, our 3-year old dog has been a pain and a joy to have around the house.  We both agree that the addition of Nola has made our house into a home.  Nola is always excited, ever-curious and always a lover.  Her paws are into everything, and most likely attached to one of us if possible.  Having some Australian Cattle Dog in her, it is true what they say: Nola is very much a velcro-dog!

Nola, relaxing after her adoption 9/09

Nola, relaxing after her adoption 9/09

Jeff and I have also kept in shape by training at a local circus school, Xelia’s aerial arts in Minneapolis.  In each session, we work on stationary trapeze, ropes/silks and body building.  My students worried that I would stop teaching to join the circus- but I assured them that I will never get to that point.  🙂 Along with rehearsing with a local swing dance team, it has been a great way to keep our energy (and uniqueness!).

Jeff and I as "acrobandits" for our first acrobatic routine, 10/09

Jeff and I as "acrobandits" for our first acrobatic routine, 10/09

The winter break was a time for relaxation, playing games, and hosting our first Christmas!  Sadly, we did not make the trip to Asheville for LindyFocus- a week-long dance camp around new year’s, though we plan on having a routine in hand for next year!  Instead, we hosted a small family Christmas and spent time with friends.  Game nights, dancing and sleeping in were all a welcomed part of our vacation.  Oh, and not to mention the below-zero days and snow emergencies on Christmas day!

Liz-made stockings for our first family Christmas

Liz-made stockings for our first family Christmas

With a wonderful and adventurous 2009 behind us, I can only wish that 2010 be full of new adventures, joys and surprises!  Happy New year and I wish you all the best!