I received the John Philip Sousa award tonight from my band!

THE. JOHN. PHILIP. SOUSA. AWARD.

You know John Philip Sousa, right?

The March King?

Stars and Stripes Forever?

Washington Post?

One of the greatest American composers to grace this planet?

I mean it was for seniors only and there was only five of us and everyone thought I was a shoe in, but I know from the bottom of my heart every single senior was more than qualified for it.

I just...I'm just so happy. In case you couldn't tell.
I couldn't even speak, my teacher asked me if I wanted to say anything, and I couldn't...then I went back to my seat, and popped right up out of my chair when the jazz band was setting up, because I had to make sure to thank my dad in front of everyone.
I've had 7 teachers over 7 years (do the math, a new teacher, every year.), and my dad was one of the most influential people to keep me going when things got patchy.

So yeah. ouo

Now I'm really really really sad that I'm done with band.

_{ohoh OH, and my little freshman got field commander! I'm so proud of him~ He got a scholarship too.}

His mother came up to me and told me how much I've influenced and helped him and, let me tell you, that was an even better feeling than any award.
I worked hard to make a difference for the freshman this year, because there are a LOT of them, and I've been so impressed with their enthusiasm for the program. I know they're going to have a very positive impact on bettering the condition of our band. I love them all so much~ eue

In all seriousness, I was once terrified that I would see the end of our music program; I can graduate feeling much better, knowing there's a better future in store for it.

/end geeky music rambling