Nobody in Bela’s group got one of the coveted call backs, but the lady said she heard some great voices, keep singing and come back to try out again. Ysabela is very interested in doing just that. I’m glad her experience was so cool. People in line broke into spontaneous songs, others joined in…it was just a fun time. Right as the first few raindrops fell, the line started moving and we went it the building. I was thankful for that because there was some wicked lightning with those clouds!

I figured I would be worn out after the grueling day of playing the waiting game, but Bela and I both felt energized. On the way out of Denver, I thought I got turned around, but it worked out fine. We ate at McDonald’s, checked directions and got on our way. I was watching the clouds. They looked threatening, but I hoped we could get close to home before we got totally hammered by the weather. Close to Ogallala, the sky was lighting up like police lights. Jagged flashes made me jump. Bela spent most of the trip with headphones in singing to her favorite tunes. We got some rain, but it was over soon enough.

Once we took the North Platte exit, I stopped for gas. I may be underestimating the bug count, but I say there had to have been at least a gazillion flying around. We stretched our legs and loaded up for the last leg of the trip home. Halfway there, Bela heard me say, “Alright, you little %$#%^! Get out of my pants!” She said, “Mom?” There was a bug inside my pant leg! Fortunately, I did not wreck the car.

I would like to tell you all that I am thankful for a safe trip. Any time you drive 12 hours round trip, there are so many things that could go wrong. I am also thankful for the many friends and family members who encouraged Bela on this endeavor. Thank you so much.