Ode to Mrs. Similes

You know how inspiration comes at weird times, and for weird reasons? I was just reading a really funny blog entry, An E-mail to the Principal, and I immediately thought of my old music teacher, Mrs. Similes.

Mrs. Similes taught at Fairview Elementary, back when schools cherished an education in music, art, and physical education that didn’t ensure that every child received a trophy even if they lost.

I loved going to her class. I have very strong memories about sitting in my little seat, right in front of the piano that someone had to wheel in, and singing at the top of my lungs. I remember thinking, “I am GOOD at this! I am GREAT at this!” It brought me such happiness and I always looked forward to seeing her. She was genuinely happy – or at least she seemed to be.

Chip and I were watching Cold Case on TV last night, and one of the background songs was “Anchors Aweigh” and remembered every single word. When I was in High School, I sang all of “Hello Dolly” at the mall and man gave me $5. One morning, while waiting for the bus in Red Bank (the town where I grew-up), I belted out “Open Arms” by Journey, not caring that people were staring at me.

The kids in our neighborhood ran amuck all during the year, and we rode our bikes everywhere. Kids don’t really get to do that anymore, do they? I digress.

At Christmastime, we used to go caroling in our neighborhood. We hoped that strangers would pay us. We were lucky to get a cookie. Sometimes we were asked inside so we could defrost & have a hot chocolate. Have mercy that could never happen today! Anyway, we always stopped by Mrs. Similes house… arguing on our way, as I tried to convince the others that “FIVE GOLDEN RINGS!!!” had to be my part. Mrs. Similes would open the door and beam with pride as we sang. She’d usher us inside and flip-up the door that protected the piano keys and play along as we sang.

She was special and made such a difference in my little elementary school life. Well, in my adult life, too! It’s because of her that I thought I could kick ass singing karaoke years ago. (I have since lost that confidence.)

So, there ya’ have it. A weird little trek into how my warped mind works.

Thank you, Mrs. Similes. For everything. I hope you came to know your value.