As I walked through the Lodge Grounds this morning, all that remains of Fringe by The Sea are the yellowed grass outlines of the myriad stalls, tents, marquees, the Big Blue Tent, Lodge Tent and of course the yurts and ‘green room’ where we nervously waited in our blue choir Tee shirts to perform. To say that singing on stage was electric is an understatement - I loved every moment of it, highlighted by the fact that we were only 43 seats short of a full 1400 setting capacity.
What’s more, the feedback for the choirs, of which I am a tiny part, has been universal, sharing praise for uplifting tunes and a family friendly feel-good factor.
The sweetest ending to another successful FBTS festival was a spontaneous call to choir members to provide back up for Karen Cameron as she performed a rendition of Somebody To Love. As with all things seasonal, we will have to wait until next year to soak up the sights, sounds and unique spectacle of FBTS.
Photo: Dudendance on North Berwick East Beach
August in Scotland sees the annual Edinburgh Fringe in full swing, and I have a close friend who plans for and books events and activities with meticulous care and detailed planning. She has a spreadsheet, researches reviews as far as possible and entices close friends and family to join with her infectious enthusiasm.
Schools have also returned during what can feel like the middle of summer, and although I know that being back into a routine, can be a welcome relief, I can’t help but think that school holidays need to be more carefully considered. Perhaps with thoughtful consultation, local authorities could seek advice from parents about what actually might work best for them and their children in the current climate of technology and endless distractions.
10 years ago I wrote a short piece in TES (Times Educational Supplement) referring to 3 young people who had very different views on the school holidays - the most extreme declaring there should be no school at all.
Mary Contini wrote a similar piece in the East Lothian Courier recently, and when discussing holidays and childcare with friends and family, I am acutely aware of many challenges which can arise, not least the expense of keeping children entertained.
Sadly enjoying a fun packed summer school holiday often requires a considerable amount of money and as more parents than ever have to work, providing for their children at this time can be a source of financial burden. I wonder if a system could be implemented which would have holidays spread throughout the year, with perhaps no more than 6 week without a break: either long weekend or a week. A number of my clients talk about feeling burnt out by the end of the winter and summer terms, because the expectations and demands to maintain a sustainable approach to learning and teaching are exhausting.
Perhaps one day someone with compassion and authority, will have the foresight and courage to implement change in the school year.
What do you think? I value your opinion on this matter.
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This weekend I will be joining family and friends in a combined birthday party which will serve as a reunion for many, and I have high hopes for fun, laughter, reminiscing and planning ahead. I intend to enjoy every moment of this special occasion, before seeing one of my oldest and dearest friends for whom life has been a little less than kind. Every day she rises with determination, grit, a smile and an infectious Can-Do attitude as she supports her family. Jo - I salute you and cannot wait to see you on Sunday.
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