Confessions of a Less Than Enthusiastic Talent Show Mom

Okay, flame on, folks. I probably deserve it. But when I saw the flyer come home in the backpacks about the School talent show, I flashed back to last year's show: hours of acts, some true talents, some just really enthusiastic kids, and some kids that I will watch no matter what because they are good friends of ours. I had finally supressed one of the songs that gripped mercilessly onto your brain, refusing to be banished no matter how many other songs you crammed into your ears. I won't even mention the title for fear that it will creep back into my head. And, though I grudingly held onto the paper for a day, when neither of my boys mentioned it, I recycled it. Yes, I did stick it through the shredder first - with a smile on my face! Perhaps that was a little over the top.

So, imagine my surprise when my 2nd grader announced, gleefully, when I picked him up from my parents' house this afternoon that he was going to be in the talent show.

No, you're not. We never talked about it and I didn't sign the permission form. It had to be turned in today, Dylan.

The Nonni signed it.

Really?!? Seeking confirmation, I dialed my parents. Mom, did you sign the permission form for Dylan to be in the talent show at school?

No, let me ask your dad. [muffled chatter followed by laughter] Yes, your dad signed it. Dylan was really enthusiastic and walked him over to the sign-up. Did you tell him 'no'?

I sighed. No, I didn't tell him 'no', I just didn't mention it at all.

So the conversation continued.

Mommy, don't worry, it's only nineteen seconds.

No, it's ninety seconds. Do you have a plan?

So, here's what I've gathered: He's going to do a comedy show. He still has to write the script with his little pal. But he doesn't need a costume and he doesn't have to say anything. He's the guy who sits in front of the stage and laughs.

OMG. My kid is the canned laughter!

So, come one evening in January, we will be joining hundreds of other School parents, glued to our chairs, holding our breaths, and clapping as loudly as we can. Unleash the talent!