That's what I call this annual pilgrimage to a certain city within our state for musical competitions. Truly, Little Son did not go home empty-handed, thanks to his involvement with a piano chamber trio. As there were 1400 participants this weekend, I would guess on average that 1 in 10 took home a trophy. Anyway, I have to say that the experience continues to be an intense, exhausting, grueling, emotional, and often discouraging one (for most kids and their families). At present, we do not know all the results but we do know that Little Son's chamber trio emerged as the winner in their category. Little Son did not place at all in his solo competition, although he played his piece flawlessly and all the other participants were about 4 or more years older than he was (one "boy" sported a mustache). As for the concerto competition, we do not yet know the results, but we would be extremely surprised if our son placed, because there were many incredible violinists in that competition, 23 participants overall. Nevertheless, he did play his piece with excellence. He really can pull it together when he needs to.
Here are the children after the award ceremony holding up the trophy.

And Violin Mom discovered that she simply just cannot sleep in a hotel bed anymore. I had a miserable long night, and that didn't help matters. I am much better off sleeping in the camper van!

When these competitions are over, then parental wisdom needs to kick into high gear, as we discuss with Little Son the value of these types of experiences, how much having a specific interim goal enables him to improve his skills, and what the Lord is teaching him through these experiences. One thing he did keep in mind was that before he began to perform each piece, he reminded himself that the purpose of the performance was to glorify God. He reminded me afterward that this was on his mind.

He certainly learned what is important this weekend.