Brilliant Trees, Hamlet Lives, Acapella & Crazy Auctions

I went to visit my daughter in college this past weekend.

It is always an exciting trip out west, (it’s actually only 95 miles from my home – a straight shot out Route 78).

The excursion normally starts early on a Saturday, (9, 10 am or thereabouts).

There is a palpable energy circulating as I start the car and head to the highway.

At this point I have made the trip more than a baker’s dozen times, yet there is still a newness to it. Perhaps it is the anticipation of knowing within 90-minutes-to-two hours I will see my favorite person, (EVER!!!).

The main artery to get to my destination is lined with brilliant trees for most of the trip, as you descend into the Lehigh Valley, (which includes the towns of Bethlehem, Allentown and Easton, Pennsylvania. The Valley is a culture- and nature-rich region about 90 minutes from New York City and 60 minutes from Philadelphia by car).

Upon arrival, I contacted my daughter – via text – as the carrier pigeon I entrusted to perform the task of notifying her, left me somewhere around the county line.

Only a mere 30 minutes were required for her to emerge from her quarters and be ready for shopping and grub.

Off we rode into the grey, windy afternoon, with our sights set on purchasing the essentials needed to complete sophomore year. We arrived at the mecca of college supply stores. When deodorant, toothpaste, water, make-up brushes, and caramels are vital for success, all roads lead to Target.

We ventured to a local chain establishment – (btw, if a restaurant has four or more locations all owned by one company, then it is a chain).

The fare could be classified as adequate, yet tasty. Not an overwhelming endorsement but an honest assessment; it kept us company as we discussed current courses, studying abroad, summer plans, and BoJack.

The time passed with an effortlessness reserved for my moments with her. Some topics were of a serious nature, while others were injected with humor and joy.

The tab was paid and we were off to the next adventure.

She needed to return to school and prepare for the final performance of 12 Ophelias. Her love of theater is inspiring. There is an appreciation that extends beyond the thrill of live performance. It is part of her being. The type of admiration one has for the things they hold closest to their heart, nurturing it with respect and protecting it through commitment.

Her part was emotional, and she executed it well, with passion and skill. The drama took place in a beautiful home situated on campus. I have seen her in many productions, in diverse settings, this one complimented the subject material superbly. Throughout the play there were garden doors which consistently swung open as if the ghosts of playwrights had decided to attend unannounced. Their presence was perfect.

By the end of the show twilight had taken a bow and exited stage left for darkness to assume its proper place and lead us forward.

Last stop, the cabaret.

She has been singing since she was seven. Her voice has evolved from its ethereal origins to an expressive vibrato.

The event included an auction, (the acapella group she is a member of were raising funds to make their dream of recording an album a reality). It was fun and well accomplished. The highlight was toward the end when this devoted, crazy lady would not be outbid, securing her prize of a private serenade from the Chaimonics.

As the final melody filled the spacious room, Saturday was giving way to Sunday. The music we had all been lucky enough to absorb had disappeared into the good night.

I extended my gratitude for being able to share this experience, hugged my daughter tightly and gazed back as I left. She was in the place meant for her. Warmth enveloped me as I watched her smile genuinely excited about the hours, months, and years to come.

The next morning, we met up for another recital, a quick bite, a stroll on campus, and more exciting news regarding her singing.

All in – it was slightly more than 24 hours. A day in the life of my little girl, who is now a thriving young woman. One who is ready to soar as she traverses the skies that lie ahead.

DID YOU KNOW? Acapella music began in the 14th century but became much more popular in the 1500s. It started with music written by Josquin des Prez, a French and Flemish composer who lived from 1450 to 1521.