(EDITOR'S NOTE: Cooper High School fine arts chairman Tim Haynes will make his New York theatrical debut as an actor and a playwright this weekend. He was accepted into a prestigious Horton Foote workshop at the Ensemble Studio Theatre in New York City. While in the Big Apple, he will be blogging about his experiences.)

Sometime I wonder why I ever choose to go out of town. The preparation is almost overwhelming and this adventure has been a long time in the making. Set designs, acting roles, rehearsing at Baylor, co-directing a fall show, designing and building the set for the CHS Marching Band Half-time Show, casting two class productions, teaching classes, and working on our musical production of CATS. Just making a list is exhausting, BUT I have enjoyed every minute of probably the busiest fall I could imagine. I am so grateful for a great place to work, great associates & colleagues, and great students. Nothing would or could have taken place without each of them. So once again, I say: 'I appreciate each you.'

Very busy day preparing lesson plans, saying good-byes, giving last minute instructions, and making last minute arrangements. I can't remember the days before cell phones and laptops and email and voicemail. Thank goodness for technology and that I am able to crawl along in the midst of it.

During my last minutes at work this afternoon, I was so encouraged by watching Kristie Perkins choreograph a couple of students in a number from CATS. They are already fantastic and it's just October. The musical doesn't open until February---just can't wait to see them then.

And of course I had to drop by Starbuck's on Buffalo Gap for an evening cup of brew and a quick chat with my coffee pals before I head home, finish packing (Like I've already started!!!! hahaha) And I have to run by the grocery store for a bag of food for my crazy dog Hooch. He probably wonders where I go all the time.At least he has this old goat skin that he brought home to play with and to keep him company-----it is gross, but he really loves it. He wants me to play 'keep away'----and I just wish he would----keep away from me with that nasty smelling thing.

Some last minute phone calls to make to my own kiddos as we finalize our plans in NYC. Where and when to meet, etc. And we get to work with Anna McLaughlin, one of my past students and close friends with my kids---they all went to school together in Big Spring. This will be the first time Toryn and Anna have been on stage together since they graduated. That will be fun.

So the time has come----my suitcase awaits. And 4:30 AM is going to come earlier than usual. I wonder if I will be able to sleep tonight---I wonder if I will sleep for the next week.

More later.
Tim