Sunday, February 8, 2009

Shout Out Sunday


Today's Shout Out goes to Debbie Talley. She was my co-worker who was the most fabulous accompanist, vocalist and friend who I have ever met. I was blessed to work with her for 4 years at Deer Park Junior High in the room we called "choir" (sometimes it was a zoo!).

A few days ago, the kids and I were headed in town for me to teach a couple of hours at a Houston ISD middle school. We heard the Sponge Bob Square Pants theme song come over the XM radio. I think of Debbie Talley every time I hear this little ditty. Actually, anytime I ever hear a tv theme song I think of her. She would play and sing these as a fun warm-up on Fridays or just for fun anytime to get them out of a funk. To actually see her say, "Are you ready, kids?" was hilarious!

So, that got me thinking about what else makes me think of her. I mean, I obviously just couldn’t leave you thinking that is the ONLY thing that reminds me of her. Here are a few:

I think of Debbie....

-Every time I have an accompanist who can’t read my mind. She was amazing at that. I think maybe I might have taken it for granted.
-Every time I am with a boy/men’s group. She is so good with their voices and really taught me all I know.
-Every time I do a “Flah Frisbee” warm-up. It helped me with my own voice.
-On my birthday every year. (She has a September birthday and she was the one who informed me of the terrorist attack going on.)
-When I see a child who is struggling. She always knew what to say and how to encourage them.
-When I want perfect pitch.
-When I am transposing anything.

I am sure there are many, many more. But, if there is anyone walking around in this world who I desire to be more like, it is Debbie Talley. She is loving, caring, genuine, funny, smart and talented. I love you and miss you, Debbie!


I am really sorry that this is one of the only pics I have of you. The others were at Lock-In and I didn't think you would appreciate those! HA! It would seem that I always had the camera and was taking kid pics. To actually have our pic taken together would have meant handing the camera to a kid! Love you anyway!

1 comment:

Leslie said...

What a great shout out. Debbie sounds like a wonderful and talented friend!