Wednesday, May 18, 2011

LOCAL MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS, PUBLIC HOLIDAY and ANNIE

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!
MAXMOM here...

It's voting day today and the citizens of this country are going to the polls to choose representatives for their local councils and municipalities. 
(Photograph: Craig Strachan - www.notesfromthecape.com)

Our elections here are proudly 'free and fair', with an independant electoral commission overseeing the whole process. Our family's visit to the voting station this morning went off smoothly and without a hitch. The atmosphere in the lines was lighthearted and happy.

There are many issues under scrutiny in these elections.  "Service delivery" is one of the main concerns across our country. Amongst many things - housing for the poor, sanitation, water, refuse removal, general repair and maintenance.  The spotlight recently has fallen on the issue of "open toilets" in some parts of our country and potholes. I can't resist including the amusing cartoon of "Madam and Eve" from our newspaper last evening
(click to enlarge):

An added benefit of this election is that today is a public holiday.
This means that my family is home -even though most of them are studying for serious exams, and have their noses in their books. 
Nevertheless, it is a really beautiful winter's day - warm and sunny - ideal for "tea in the garden".






It's also a great day to take another break from the hectic rehearsals for

'ANNIE'.

The curtain rises next week with a full technical rehearsal on Monday, a DVD recording and photographs on Tuesday, a matinee production on Wednesday morning and the official opening night on Wednesday evening. Further performances take place on Thursday, Friday and Saturday night. 

If anyone is interested, I still have tickets for the Friday and Saturday nights' productions.  Please contact me if you are:

Besides two more official rehearsals and a visit (for Toby) to the theatre, my pooch is ready to take the stage. All that remains now is to hope and pray that he gets his 'lines' right, when his moments arrive. 

I must admit, I am really excited about it all.  It's been an amazing experience - from the early days of training the specific commands in isolation, to the exuberant recent performances with the young cast members at the school.  My pleasure has also come from watching Toby with his interactions and seeing him grow every day. 

He absolutely adores the children - especially 'Annie' herself, who, in the last few days has 'owned' him when he is onstage with her.

During the times, when it all comes together, I can't help but get a lump in my throat.
mmm....
Then there are those other times when Toby decides to 'ad lib' himself -

Like the scene when he refused to get off stage - preferring to re-lick the last remaining remnants of the peanut butter which had been left his bowl.  He preferred to shovel it across the floor instead.

All these things have created some fantastic 'memories' which I will cherish always.
Especially this 'pose' of his - which he offers to everyone who is willing to give a tummy-rub:

For the moment, however, its chill time and an opportunity to reap this magnificent day.

Sending lotsaluv to all my friends/family across the world.
Have an awesome day too.
MAXMOM IN SOUTH AFRICA

 

19 comments:

Milo and Alfie Marshall said...

We smiled at Toby's ad-libbing! That's our boy!

Huskee and Hershey said...

Hello dear friends!! Sorry we have not visited for quite a while.. please know that we have been thinking of you and wondering what you have been up to. Seems like Mr Toby is one very busy pup!! Love his exposed belly pose... who can resist him??

Jake of Florida said...

"Ad libbing" will produce aahs and cheers from the audience.

Can't wait for the details of the performance!!!

Wirey woofs,

Jake and Just Harry

MySpecialDoggies said...

We love the "ad libbing". Looking forward to reading about the "real" show!

Woofs
Nadine & Neeli
Angel doggie Apples (1994-2010)

Amber-Mae said...

I KNOW Toby will do all his lines perfectly on that day! You did a wonderful job working with Toby for this play so I applaud you for it. Be sure to take a video of him doing his scenes. I would really, rally, love to see!!

♥♥ The OP Pack ♥♥ said...

We are all rooting here for Toby's big performances. We know he will do fine. And we bet there is at least one opportunity for a memorable ad-lib.

Woos ~ Phantom, Thunder, and Ciara

Angus said...

Good luck to both two and four legged family members !

Chester said...

Oh how I would love to see Toby in his performances - unfortunately, I live in the USA and it would be a little too far to travel. I'm hoping to see some pics or even a little video. *hint, hint

Is it OK to tell Toby to "break a leg?" before his debut?

Your day looks spectacular and I'm glad that you are able to relax and enjoy it's splendor!

Chester's Mom ;0=)

*PS. Give that beautiful white tummy a good scritch-scratch from his Pennsylvania friend! ♥

Two French Bulldogs said...

We're interested but momma said we can't go
Benny & Lily

WFT Nobby said...

Hi Toby
Enjoying tea in the garden with your family. The perfect way to relax before your big moment next week.
Toodle pip!
Bertie.
PS Could you feel Gail there, tickling your tummy through the computer screen? She told me she just couldn't resist!

Suka said...

hey Toby,

We are so very excited for you! Good luck! We are thinking of you and know you will rock!

So nice that your family is together enjoying such a lovely day in each others company! Those days are always the best!

Nice to hear your Country has "free and fair" elections. Hope the best man/woman wins. Cute comic.

Suka and K

Angel Ginger Jasper said...

I know Toby will be just fine and a few ad libs will make for an even better performance.. Go Toby go.. Hugs GJ xx

Rob said...

I love the tummy rub picture, it doesn't take a lot to make a dog happy does it. Only the schools get a day off when we have elections and I think that is because the polling booths are usually in the local school.

Asta said...

Toby and MaxMom
Happy voting and holiday fow the family
Tea in the gawden and playtime sounds tewwific aftew all youw hawd wowk..I wish I could fly ovew and see youw pawfowmance in pawson. I just know it will be a not to be missed wondewful one.
I hope you keep "adLibbing" cause those awe aways the best moments.
I'll be thinking of you as aways wif love and best wishes
smoochie kisses
ASTA

Anonymous said...

Woo Hoo Toby way to go!

woo woos, Tessa

houndstooth said...

We just know you're going to do great in the play, Toby! I think you are going to be the star of the show!

Bunny

Scout and Freyja said...

I can just imagine the butterflies you have in your tummy in anticipation of Annie's opening day. If it is at all possible, from way over here in Michigan, I am very much excited along with you. Can't wait to view the DVD!

STELLA and RORY from Down Under said...

Oh what a lovely way to relax and unwind. Afternoon tea in the garden sounds just the thing. Toby's belly sure looks inviting. How can anyone resist giving it a stratch and rub. Can't wait to hear how the first performance goes. As I always say Toby, no worries, love Carol.

Tweedles -- that's me said...

Toby
We are cheering for you
love
tweedles