We have a funny kid in our family.  He’s the clown.  Always.  He brings the funnies potty humor or just plain funny, he’s always honing his act.  This year he entered the dreaded Middle school years and….he is flourishing.  Opting to join band and learn the French horn he has excelled.  First chair.  (okay, out of 3…but c’mon, I gotta brag)  Superior at solo and ensemble.  (that’s fo’ realz!)  The funny thing is neither Hubby nor I are musical.  Not one bit.  In fact, when I sing, the kids beg me to stop.  Except at church.  Somehow they know they can’t here.  However, THIS kid, is so self-motivated and self-disciplined it’s amazing to watch.  “Mom, I’m going to learn the French horn.  And next year, I am going into Advanced band.  (beginning this year, he’s decided to skip Intermediate)  Perhaps pick up the trumpet and join Jazz Band.”  I have no doubt he will.  When he puts his mind to it, he does it. And then, he decided he’d like to give tackle football a try after years of flag.  When a spring league opened up, he joined.  And for the first time, he’s not top dog.  Now he is the youngest in the 12-15 league and that makes a big difference in size and experience.  I’ll give it to him though.  He gets beat and bruised and exhausted and he utterly loves it.  He’s improving.  And now his brain is contemplating if he could play football and be in the band.  Hmmmm.  Time will tell.  For now, it’s pretty fun to watch. This past weekend, we combined them both.  Solo and ensemble on Friday night.  Double-header football game Saturday.