Working Parent of the Year Ceremony 2008

We got ourselves over to the Paradise Valley Mall yesterday afternoon and had some photos taken on the stage as a family. Following that, we waited, watching the Phoenix Mercury mascot play with the children-not our two, because they were not quite sure what to make of a big purple animal walking around-and Tom quelled Ian's boredom with some french fries. Another former colleague of mine, an administrator from Power Ranch was there, as his wife was a finalist. My friend Julie also came to watch and she was able to video for us.

The finalists were read from 10-1, so the coordinator would walk around and call various families up to the stage, where they were presented with an inscribed plaque, a signed poster and one of the judges would read the essay. We weren't called up until they announced the final three parents, who were prizewinners.

I was a runner-up and we have won a $2000 vacation!!!

We all got up on stage and Ian got to hold the big cardboard Ed MacMahon-type check. Connor used the poster roll to poke Tom in the eye during the reading. Sheriff Joe read the essay, which he was pretty quiet for him, so it's hard to hear.

The essay: (or the gist of it since I didn't save the essay, so I had to transcribe from his reading, which isn't too clear)


My husband and I are both music teachers, working full-time and part-time jobs to make ends meet. Last year, my youngest son was diagnosed with autism, turning our schedules upside down with therapy appointments. I had the opportunity to work with a special education class and students who have autism. I was able to learn and accept my son's needs.

Someone said to me that special children are given to special people. I remember this every time I go to work and every time I am with my boys. My work has definitely enhanced my family life.


The funny thing to me is that as he was reading, I was thinking "Wow, I would have changed that or said this." Already second-guessing and I won!

There were so many terrific parents-the other prizewinners were single moms and amazing stories were all around us. Ian announced, "I want my mom to win!" and "Mommy, did you win yet?" a few times in the ceremony. On the way home, he said, "Mommy, you are awesome." It's nice to have a special day once and awhile!

Thank you to Julie for taking time from her busy home repair and doggy care to come and see me-you are a great friend. And to my family, friends and blogger fan club-thanks for rooting for me!

Now I need to decide WHERE to go!! Suggestions???