Hope of America

In about December I had a little panic attack when a friend mentioned something to me about Hope of America and I didn't remember signing anything.  I sent Ryan's teacher a quick email and was so relieved when she responded that I had indeed filled out a form and paid the money.  PHEW!  I love Hope of America.  This is a program that has been going on for 18 years in Utah County.  Fifth graders all over the country learn more than a dozen patriotic songs all year long.  Then over two nights more than 80 schools converge at BYU (40 one night and 40 the other) and do an amazing performance.  There are other musical numbers done by a variety of other dancers, singers, and popular groups in the area.  I think it is very entertaining (though very long).  I love being on BYU campus (though traffic is absolutely awful).  But most of all, I love how 1000s of kids get together and celebrate being a part of this amazing country.  I am so proud to be an American and especially a Utahan where we celebrate in the most extraordinary ways.  There are many, my Gregory included, that have a hard time with all the hard things about the event, and that's okay.  I love it and look forward to going 2 more times as my girls reach fifth grade.  Way to go RYAN and God bless America!