Europe Tour of England, Scotland and France
May 26 to June 6, 2003
Journals
Matt's Journal || Anna's Journal
Matt's Journal
(This journal was kept on Matt's Laptop during the tour. It is meant to be a
chronological sequence of people's experiences as the trip went on.)
Monday, May 26 - 3:30pm (CDT)
It was so exciting today when we took off. Matt H. held my hand because i have never flown on a plane before! It was a little scary at first, but it is okay right now. We are cruising at about 33 thousand feet. I can't wait until we get to Europe! It is going to be a blast!!!! - Susan Packard
Monday, May 26 - 4:45pm (CDT)
I am so excited to be going on this trip. I have been waiting for a whole year now. What a year to end your freshman year of college. The best part of this trip is going to be all the great friends that we will be spending time with. We are currently sitting in Chicago airport waiting for a long long time to get on our flight Scotland. - Ben Spalding
Wednesday, May 28 - 9:00am (UK Time)
Well, the time since the last post has been pretty much nonstop action for all of us! Quite a bit has happened, so I'll try to catch up. The plane trip from Chicago to Glasgow was long, but not too bad. Everyone was excited to be getting closer to the UK. The arrival at the Glasgow airport was uneventful, except that Susan Packard's luggage somehow disappeared! (It has since been found). We began our day tired and jet-lagged, touring around Glasgow. We went to St. Mungo's Cathedral for a short tour, then rode on our coach (not a bus - as our guide, Mick, pointed out) to Edinburgh. With a different guide, we toured one of the queen's palaces and a castle. We also got a driving tour of the city. After a long day, we finally arrived at our hotel for some much-needed rest. We had dinner, and many people turned in early - around 9:30. Today begins with a rehearsal with a well-known director at a church here, followed by our first performance! - Matt Herndon
Thursday, May 29 - 2:00pm (UK Time)
The performance and clinic with the Choirmaster at St. Gile's Cathedral went very well. It was an eye-opening experience for some of us who have never performed in a cathedral with such a large echo. (St. Gile's had 3 second echo) It wasn't our best performance, but it definitely was a great warm-up. Some of our bodies were still back on Kansas time, so it was interesting singing at Noon here, but feeling like it was 6:00 AM. After a quick tour of St. Gile's (where the Knights of Scotland hold session), the rest of the day was ours to explore Edinburgh. There was a lot to see! Some of us went shopping and sight-seeing. Others went back to our hotel to catch up on some sleep. We can do that at home though, right? There were some fun tours about the "bad side" of Scotland and the murdering and torturing that took place over the centuries. Some say there were ghosts and poltergeists where some of these horrific acts took place. Pretty interesting stuff. Many of us found a pub that we enjoyed called the Filling Station. Others went to a club called Enigma, or so they think it was called, and had a grand old time. Now we are on the road again heading for York, England. We have stopped at a little restaurant called The Swan and we are all enjoying a little lunch. Tonight when we arrive in York, we get to go to a concert called Evensong. I am really excited to be in the audience this time. I am also looking forward to London and the musical theatre there! It is beautiful country side to take in as we drive. This place is beautiful and interesting. I really hope that everyone on this trip appreciates the opportunity to come over here and see these sights that many people never do in their lifetime. We really are blessed. - Michael Swickard
Saturday, May 31 - 12:30pm (UK Time)
Well, yesterday was definitely one of those awesome experiences that you never forget. We got up early as always and made our way into York. We checked out the amazing Yorkminster Cathedral. It is the most beautiful building I've ever seen with my own eyes. We got the tour and heard great stories about the amazing architecture of the building. According to our guide the architects had quite a sense of humor. Many of the structures had sculptures that were inside jokes designed to poke fun at people the artist didn't particularly like. Later we had our rehearsal at the All-Saints Pavement Church. I had some nice low notes for the rehearsal :) but they were mostly gone by the time we had our concert :( . After our rehearsal, a few of us went to the Burger King across the street and finally had some beef :D . It was great. Then we had to change in the Marks and Spencer department store. The personnel immediately recognized that we were American. Apparently the Kansas accent shows. Some of the guys had fun singing some kiddie songs in the dressing rooms while we were together. I hope we didn't annoy any blokes over here in the process. After the wonderful experience of changing clothes, we went back to the church, only to find out that Dr. Barham had made the mistake of telling us that the concert was at 7:00pm when it was really at 7:30pm. Well, we ended up taking some group pictures (about eleventy billion to be exact). After all these shenanigans we had our concert. It was one of the best concerts we've ever had. It was an very long concert with all the repertoire we had. Everyone seemed to be so much more energized and focused than we were in rehearsal. It's been one of the greatest experiences I've had so far, something to be proud of. What a pleasure it is to make music with this group and share it with anybody who will listen. Cheers! - Tim Cassidy
Tuesday, June 3 - 9:15am (UK Time)
Well, we are on the bus once again for a long day of traveling. Its been wonderful so far, singing over here is such an amazing experience. I didn't think that life could get any better than Scotland, but then we got to London!!! Its is amazing here. I went to see Ragtime on Saturday. Matt and I were sitting so close to the stage that we could feel the actors spitting on us!!! HA, it was an experience that is hard to top. I went out to see Big Ben and Westminster at night, It was so beautiful and was a great picture opportunity. We mastered the tube, well I didn't really Kelly and Sam did! It has been a lot of fun going out at night with the choir and laughing and having a good time. This is the best way for this choir to get to know each other really well. It will be hard to see everyone go separate ways at the end of the week. Well, off to Paris!!!!!! - Theresa Smith
Our stay in London has been amazing. In fact, our entire trip has been great. We started out the London tour with evensong at Westminster Abby. I were lucky enough to be seated right by the boys choir. I was right behind them, so during the service, I would lean up and follow along in there music. I don't believe that I've ever heard such moving music. Dru Rutledge said, "When the little boys walked in, I couldn't stop smiling. When they started to sing, I couldn't stop crying. It was the most innocent, pure, and gorgeous music I've ever heard." I would definitely have to agree with her. They sang with a type of excellence that I've never heard. Tears would just well up into your eyes from the "magnificence" of it all. Well, following the service, we had our long awaited masterclass with the world famous choir master. Mr. O'Donell worked with us for nearly an hour. We worked on the pieces that he knew, and ended up giving us some great tips. Overall, I think this trip has been great for our choir. The Thursday night concert was unbelievable!! Musically, it couldn't have been better. But we communicated through our music that night. I don't even know what to say about it except...ya know how our music teachers used to tell us about that one amazing musical experience that touched them in a way that they can't even explain? Well, Thursday was that experience for me. Anyway, on to Paris is up next for us. It should be interesting for us. I wonder if there will be any problems...I'd have to say, could we end this trip better? The last time that this group of people will sing together will be in the Notre Dame Cathedral. How amazing is that?!?!? GO A CAPPELLA CHOIR '02-'03!!! -Bethany Chronister.
Tuesday, June 3 - 2:00 pm (UK Time)
Well, right now we're supposed to be on our way to France via the ferry. Apparently there is a strike going on in France now. The public workers are not too happy with the French government....that's shocking! Anyhoo, we boarded the ferry about an hour and a half ago and were only onboard for maybe 20 minutes when they instructed us to go back to our coach. We've been sitting here for almost an hour now and we have just been informed that we will not be able to enter Calais until 6pm because they closed their borders. So yeah, we're actually backing up right now to get off the ferry and then get on another one that's coming from France. Who knows how long this will take though. Oh well. We're keeping high spirits. The people in the back of the coach are playing 'battle of the sexes' and having quite a good time. I can't wait to get to Paris though. We are all very excited. Oh yeah...I didn't get to write anything for London, but it was so neat because I met up with my relatives on Saturday after the evensong at West Minster Abbey and got to spend the night with them and then all day Sunday as well. It was a great time. We barbequed on Sunday and there was so much food. I bet my aunt probably spent about 200 pounds on food because we had steak, pork chops, lamb chops, kabobs, chicken, ribs, pasta, potatoes....just to name a few. I ate very well that day. It was so great to see my family. What's sad is that I don't know when I will see them again. I plan on coming back to Europe someday though. It's been an amazing experience. I would really love to live here. There is so much stuff to do and you can go country hopping whenever and experience so many different cultures. This has been an experience of a lifetime. Thanks to everyone for helping make it that way. ~Natalie Roman
Friday, June 6 - 3:15 pm (France Time)
Once again, it's been a while since anyone's had a chance to add anything to this page! After the failed ferry attempt, we decided to take a different route to get to France. We took the "chunnel," to get there. It's basically an underground (beneath the English Channel) train that takes cars, busses, and trucks between the UK and France. Although it took quite a while, we finally made it to Paris around 11pm. (We were scheduled to be there around 6.) It was frustrating, but everyone had a good attitude, and we had a good time anyway. When we arrived in Paris, the first thing that hit me was how crazy the traffic was! There was a roundabout around the Arc de Triumph where it was pretty much "every man for himself!" There were cars going every direction. Some were going around, some were going straight; at one time there were three cars facing directly at the side of the coach. Anyway, it was nuts.
Our hotel was very nice. It was definitely the most "high class" of the hotels we stayed in. We could even walk to the Eiffel Tower in less than five minutes. It was visible right outside the front door! There was a metro station very close as well, so it wasn't difficult to get around the city. All in all, it was a great place to stay!
We didn't really have a whole lot of organized tours in Paris, so we had a lot of free time. The only major tour that we had was of the Louvre. It was an amazing experience. There's just something about seeing pieces of art that we have seen in books and replicas for our entire lives just hanging on the wall! If it weren't for the alarms, you could actually touch them. And, in case anyone ever wonders, the Mona Lisa really does watch you anywhere in the room. It's creepy. - Matt Herndon
Ahhh the Eiffel tower!! What a great way to start your day by being able to walk out of our hotel and look up and there it is standing in all it's glory...the Eiffel Tower is only two blocks away from our hotel. The next task at hand though was to climb it, or should I say ride the elevator up! A good majority of the choir all took the time to tackle the tower together . When we arrived at the top it was breath taking as we were just getting up there when the sun was setting. Feeling in the mood we all decided that a song would be appropriate to sing. "Peace I leave with you" is what first came to our minds when we were up there. In a small huddle, Kyle gave us a pitch and we sang with such unity and compassion it almost moved some to tears. The crowd clapped and how good we all felt. Yesterday I had the opportunity to travel to Sacre Cour (Sacred Heart), which is a basilica of the Roman Catholic Church, and it was absolutely beautiful! This Church sits high on a hill overlooking the entire city of Paris. The travelers with me were my mom and dad, Eric Pretz, Natalie Ramon, and Matt Herndon. Also, right next to Sacre Cour was the artist square that you always here about when thinking of the culture of Paris. Natalie took the opportunity to have her portrait done in charcoal and it was interesting to see how quickly the artist could capture her in his work. It was such a delight to be able to travel around at our own leisure to see the things we wanted to most. - Anna Kepka
Who can say that they have seen the sunset both on top of the Eiffel Tower, and then from the river Ciene the very next night? What a surreal experience..but we'll get back to that. Speaking of surreal....Do you know where the choir sang yesterday? Well if you've seen the itinerary obviously you do. We were center stage in the middle of Notre Dame Cathedral for a concert that all of us will not soon forget. Vocally speaking it was tough because we couldn't hear each other very well at all. BUT when we cut off on a chord...the sound seemed to go on forever. And to top it off we had a great crowd...some of which heard the impromptu performance at the Eiffel Tower and wanted to hear more. After a chicken dinner, and a vote that named "Beati Quorum Via" as the choir's favorite piece of the tour, we went and closed off this tour right. After battling insane Paris traffic we ended up on a cruise boat that took us for an hour cruise on the river. It was the perfect way to end what has been just an awesome experience. The practice version (smaller) of the great Statue Of Liberty also was on this river and one of the coolest pictures of the whole tour was when we turned around and lady liberty in all her (mini) glory was set against the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower. How cool is that? -- KEMP-DAWG
Tuesday, June 24 - 4:45 pm (CDT)
It's such a privilege to have been a part of this amazing choir. What made this tour so special? Here are some possibilities: the devotion to music making, the joy in living, and the pride in A Cappella Choir shown by all the singers, and we don't want to forget the care and respect for others which were so naturally expressed among the singers and travelers. What a joy to think about and reflect on the artistry and finesse demonstrated in the York and London concerts, especially. It's like our hearts and minds were at one with each other as we performed. I was so proud of what the choir did in all those situations--including Notre Dame Cathedral where you singers couldn't hear each other very well and had had no chance to adjust. You walked out on that huge platform and moved people to tears. It still sounded great because you trusted each other and then realized what you sounded like after some of those big full-bodied chords rang for 3-4 seconds after a cut-off.
Thank you, A Cappella Choir members, for all you did to make the 2003 European tour such a big success. I think some of you have a new view of yourselves and others because of your being on this tour. Share that feeling with others. You are special and others need to feel that way too. - Terry Barham
Anna's Journal
(Please note: For Tour '01, the journal was edited to make it 100% acceptable. However, this time it seems the journal wouldn't be complete if it were edited. So here it is. It's not really that bad, but a low level of parental discretion is advised.)
Monday - May 26, 2003
I’m on the airplane sitting by Melissa Borders and Andrew Kemper and we are just getting ready to take off for Chicago. Mom and dad are on the next flight behind us. –Anna Kepka
Wow! I still can’t believe I’m about to fly. It’s my first time and I’m ready!!! Hope no one falls in love with a dirty Frenchman!! HA HA – Melissa Borders
I am so excited!! Matt Herndon is sitting next to me to hold my hand. I have never flown before. I can’t believe that it is finally happening! We are gonna have so much fun. –Susan Packard.
Europe is cool. More later. –Matt Herndon
I will not fall in love with a dirty Frenchman! I love to fly! -Andrea Nichols
I am so excited that I’m EXHAUSTED! (Actually I have done so much the weekend before we left, that I have just worn my self out.) I can’t believe that we are finally on our way! -Carly Richards
I’m looking forward to meeting up with my family in London and of course singing in all those beautiful cathedrals. I, too, will not fall in love with a dirty French man!… But maybe a cute British boy… -Natalie Roman
This is going to be an awesome trip – I am so excited. This is going to be a sweet time with all my friends. –Ben Spalding
I love watching people fly for the first time and the amazing rush that goes over them! Good job Melissa, Kelli, Susan, Karly, Aaron and whoever else experienced their first flights today! -Anna Kepka
I have to urinate and have a scab that looks like Australia –Dru Rutledge
After the flying part is over the trip will go much better. The cranberry and ham is not settling to well. I am about to become a world traveler, how cool is that? -Theresa Smith
I don’t see how we can judge the dirty Frenchman until we meet him. Maybe all he needs is a shower and someone that cares for him. –Michael Swickard
Thank God I don’t have to piss yet, but these ears of mine are drivin’ me nuts! Can’t wait to leave Chicago and were not even there yet! Europe, here we come! YEAH! -Jessica Meyn
I want to fall in love with a dirty Frenchman! Ever seen Unfaithful? -Amy Mosebey
I told Amy that I saw crop circles and she believed me. –Ashley Mosebey
I’m sooo excited to finally be on our way to Europe!! This is gonna be the best time ever!! -Erin Reilly
OJ or water, Humm… -Aaron Hunt
All I have to say is this…”If it’s not Scottish…it’s CRAP!” –Eric Pretz
We are finally on our way! I can’t wait. Many memories are headed our way in the next 10 days. –Lara Powell
I’m going to Europe! I am so excited to be a groupie! –Heather Post
There seems to be “some excitement in the air”…if you “catch my drift” -Schlo (Jason Sickel)
So we’re already in Chicago… I’m not done eating my pretzels yet… but they’re not Scottish pretzels so they’re CRAP! –K-DAWG (Andrew Kemper)
My ears keep popping- ouch! Just like scuba diving, but in the air. –Courtney Slater
This is awesome… I’ mean, I’m going to CHICAGO!!! I don’t know about this whole Europe business though. P.S. Kelli is still alive and hey, my ears are popping too, what a coinkydink! -Tim Cassidy
Well, I don’t know about those Frenchman but I happen to think that a cute guy with a British accent is irresistible! YUM! How cool is it that we’ll be singing in Europe?!?!?! GO A CAPPELLA CHOIR! –Bethany Chronister
Ok, well, we are sitting in the Chicago airport. I am sitting with Bethany, Anna, Kyle, and Ben and everyone else but that’s beside the point. There was all of a sudden a cold blast of air…You know why? Because, a flight from Alaska just arrived, and brought the cold air with them. –The wisdom of Theresa
Bagels are cool, too. More later. –Matt Herndon
I had the “Chicago style” pizza. It was CRAP (it wasn’t Scottish style). This airport is kind of like a giant mall with planes flying into it, huh? Kinda neat. I’m really excited to see an opera tomorrow night. P.S. Schlo, that was dumb. –Samuel Barrett
I like my watch on my right hand Sam!! OK? Fine, Now I’m looking forward to talking about the Parliamentary process in the U.K. I can’t wait to go to a pub and have a nice discussion about the British Parliament. Am I weird? Maybe. Do I really care? NO! Thanks again. –Schlo (Jason Sickel)
I am Jason’s (aka Schlomo’s ) mother and I am sooo excited about this trip!! I have never been to Europe and watching ESU’s A Cappella choir sing in all those cathedrals is WAY COOL!! -Diane Sickel ESU alum 1976 (Jason’s Mom)
Tuesday - May 27, 2003
OK, so it’s like midnight at home and 6am in Scotland. We still have 2hrs. left and my back is killing me! It’s fun to look around the airplane and see who’s awake and who’s not. Some people are defiantly at their most innocent state when they’re asleep… right Kemp Dawg? He he he. Oh yeah, Ben Spalding said he wanted to join the mile high club. Courtney and I have been looking at the clouds making up what they look like…ice maybe, marble, or better yet a little slice of heaven. We’re almost there…more later. –Anna Kepka
Yeah for time changes! We’re up at the but crack of dawn/midnight –yuck! By the way, airplanes are like flying traps of butt cramps and there is no possible way on earth I could sleep on one. Just in case you cared. –Courtney Slater
I sat by Courtney on the plane and she let me lean on her and sleep. But then she woke me up and took a picture of me. We still have about two hours until we land. I’m sure I’m going to get excited but right now I’m still half asleep. -Amy Mosebey
Okay, who on this damn plane actually got sleep at all? Well, not me!! I agree with Courtney, time changes suck!! But, the alternatives is sitting back at home. So, I’m getting more and more excited with every minute. I just hope that I’m not sleeping walking!! Ha ha! Okay, Kelly and Sam have this book of questions! It’s totally cool!!! Anyways, here’s to jet lag!! -Bethany Chronister
Umm…I’m really excited about this whole trip. Especially the Louvre. I didn’t get much sleep on the plane though. Oh, and beware of the penguins. –Billy Crum
I like all of your comments, very fun! I was planning on hookin up with a Frenchman…you guys messed up my plans. Just kidding! I’m going to be sooo tired. I haven’t slept at all!!! -Karly Engel
Ok- I know I just wrote, but Anna wanted me to write and tell about how she has tummy bubbles but she’s not able to…uhm…get rid of it on a plane – So here’s the question of the day. Can you fart on an airplane? SUSAN: Sure you can…cause I just did! -Courtney Slater and Amy Mosebey
P.S. Matt Herndon wears makeup!
Wow. I just woke up. What time is it? I hope my sleeping pills aren’t still working. I love how those Scottish people talk (there are some next to me kind of on the plane) but I think I am with Natalie and will go after a British guy (*Cough.. Mr. Sheffeild Cough*) –Ashley Mosebey
It’s good to be out of the cramped plane and into our double-decker bus. But still, the memories of Misty and the voice of the first “double-decker buss” still haunts me to this day. Just when we moved out of the clouds and saw the beautiful green land, I knew this would be a good trip. P.S. nothing wrong with guys wearing makeup, Especially when they wear tights as well…or Lederhosen. Kemper! -Kyle Chamberlin
Blush is cool…or something like that. More later. –Matt Herndon
“Here we are in Scotland, I’m just wondering…when will we get to change money?” –Eric Pretz
Yay! Scotland! Yay! -K- Dawg (Andrew Kemper)
10 minutes after the fact…Whoa they drive on the wrong side of the road. –Anna Kepka Rentals
So, We are in Scotland and everyone is very tired and getting cranky. We have this tour guide that has a lot to say and is making very bad jokes. If he doesn’t stop soon I will have to shoot him up the Kilt! -Theresa the Terrible
I saw a nifty castle. It was fantacular. Did I mention I snap with my pinkies? -Timmy the Tyrannical
I am so hungry I think I might develop leprosy and eat my hand. The castle was cool though! -Andrea the amazing- he he
Jet lag is not cool. More later. –Matt Herndon
Ten words. “Time to drop the Cosby Kids off at the pool!”
OK OK OK…so Matt, Bethany, Eric, Theresa, Erin, Kyle, Susan, Amy, Ashley, Ben, and myself, we all decided to go out for a night on the town of Scotland. Our curfew was 11pm because we have a concert tomorrow. We walked around in search of a pub to all get our first taste of European Beer. Well we looked and looked and finally a ways down we find a pub/tavern that we thought looked good enough to go into. We go in and ask the bar tender for the best brew. After all getting something to drink we take all sort s of pictures with our legal beverages we all bought ourselves. We finished our drinks and proceeded to go back to the hotel only we walk in circles down the windy rode and get lost just as we were almost back to the street we were supposed to be on we unknowingly ask for directions. Ahh we made it back safe and sound from our night on the town! What a way to end the night after our long drawn out 3-hour meal! –Anna Kepka
Wednesday - May 28, 3003
So we had a concert today. We did ok but it was the first concert. (I don’t know what I just wrote there.) Oh Well! Anna, Kyle, Billy, Pretz, Andrew, and I went shopping today! We had a blast. We shopped for just over 2 hours. We walked all the way up to the Castle! That was not intended. We also found a shop that had helmets and swords. We took lots of pictures at that place! It was a lot of fun! (Side note: Anna found a toothbrush for me today) Ok- time to sign off. Had a great day! –Carly Richards
I drank alcohol legally! That was fun. Today was our concert. It was cold. I am playing cards now. –Amy Mosebey
Tomorrow is Thursday!…When did that happen?
Well, we just got done walking around and spending way to much stuff. So far things have been wonderful here in Scotland. The concert today went pretty well considering that we haven’t sang together in 2 WEEKS! I can’t wait to see what things are like in England! -Eric Pretz
Today’s mission was a great success. I made a great investment. I bought a kilt complete with the whole outfit. I am very happy now. “Whoops! I dropped a pound”. Anyways things are good for now. The problem is now “where am I going to wear it?” I have had many suggestions. I am betting that it will make a presence some time during this trip. “I bought a Kilt, and I’m ok with that” –Kyle Chamberlin
Today was a lot more relaxed. It started off with an amazing concert at St. Giles. What an amazing feeling when the audience started clapping. There are no words on signs here. The exit sign looks like a man fooning. Anna said it means to run like hell. Today I asked where the restroom was and they said “you mean toilets”? I have a new saying. “UP YOUR KILT!” ha! -Theresa Smith
Thursday - May 29, 2003
Ok so we went bar hopping tonight and met up with an American and a British guy who bought us drinks all night long and was fun! I wish more of the choir was there to bond, but those who were there had was fun too. I took a green shot with something that was floating in it that looked like a brain. Matt Herndon gave it to me. Weird stuff. Well anyways, it’s time to shower and pack so we can be on the bus at 9am tomorrow. Oh yeah, by the way it’s like 2am. –Anna Kepka
Tonight was the funnest night yet. Me, Anna, Pretz, Kyle, Carly and some others. (Billy) went bar hoppin. Tonight was major bonding. Some American bought me and Anna some drinks. We danced laughed and had a good time. The walk home was fun also, well I’m tired and I’m out! Later –Theresa Smith P.S. It’s like 2:13 in the AM
I love Edinburgh; I wish that we were staying here. But I can’t wait to get to England. Scotland was great and I hope I get to come back again sometime. –Susan Packard
Wow, sounds like I missed a good time last night. I wish I had the energy to stay longer with the group but after climbing that dang hill I was really tired and not really in the partying mood. I discovered yesterday, however, that I am not a big fan of drinking; I mean I had a sip and it burned my throat, so no more. I wish I had a “more exciting” day, but oh well. Ta-ta for now. –Erin Reilly
So they weren’t lying when they said there are a million things to do here. The gardens are beautiful the cathedrals and castles are magnificent, and the roads are so narrow that I’m surprised I haven’t been run over yet. (The whole driving on the left side of the road thing still blows my mind). Erin and I found the Hard Rock Café in Edinburgh- good times. I climbed the mountain just outside of town yesterday, too. It was a great view. I got some spiffy gifts for super cheep. I got a nice snow globe for Tamara, a large glass chess set, a musical bagpipe magnet, and a Scottish terrier figurine for less than 20 lbs. You gotta shop around. I got a sore neck from checking out everything. –Tim Cassidy
I didn’t go out last night, but it sounds like you all had a good time. I climbed up the mountain, and that’s basically all I wanted to do in Scotland. Right now I am looking out the window on our way to York and there are a ton of sheep out there! They’re precious! Okay I’m done. –Ashley Mosebey
I stayed up late last night. I used all my energy reading this so I’ll write later. –Amy Mosebey
Ok. I think I will actually write more than a sentence this time. Last night. I went to bed around 3am. That’s the last thing I remember until this morning when Michael woke me up to tell me that we were loading! I know that I can get dressed fast- now I know I can pack fast! I have no idea where any of my stuff is but it’s in a suitcase or backpack somewhere! Also, does Mick ever stop talking? I mean, he’s interesting and all. But I just want to sleep! Sleep is cool. More later. –Matt Herndon
No partying for me last night. The one alcoholic drink I had tasted like crap. I also climbed a mountain yesterday to the highest peak in Edinburgh. It was beautiful. All I kept thinking was how much I wished Mikah was with me, but I called her and shared my adventure so that was cool. Then I stayed up talking with Erin, Andrea, and Amy. Scotland rocked. York here we come! –Kemp Dawg (Andrew Kemper)
Like Kemp-Dawg, I climbed to the highest peak in Edinburgh this morning from 4:30-6:00. I didn’t sleep much (or at all) But I have plenty of energy today. Look to your right look to your left….ZZZZZ. –Aaron Hunt
The countryside is awesome here! No time to sleep. I’ll miss something! I was sad to see Edinburgh go, but it was a beautiful town. I’m looking forward to York and especially London! – Lara Powell
I was worried a car might hit me, but yesterday a bicycle almost hit me! –Andrea Nichols
I wish we could spend like 2 months here instead of just 2 weeks. Edinburgh is absolutely beautiful. The nightlife here is quite exciting. Karly and I had an amazing night last night. We met some really cute South Africans (blond hair, blue eyes) and I also met a nice Australian chap. He was gorgeous. It was nice…we didn’t pay for anything last night! That’s how it’s done guys! Take notes! JK –Natalie Roman
Here a lamb there a lamb, everywhere a lamb! -Karly Engel
This is an amazing trip so far! I just wish we had a “wee bit” more time to absorb all this history! Woo-hoo, we’re going to London! By the way, Bethany may be going to London, but she’s traveling in an Alaskan coach. Brr!! -Kelli Brenner
On TV last night, there was this crazy sex show! It was about these couples that took a sex class. So they had the men go to these therapist to learn how to stroke their woman in the most pleasurable way then it was the women’s turn. All I can say is, I will never ever put on my choir pearls in the same way again. And I have Kelly, Sam and Jason to thank for that. –Bethany Chronister (isn’t Scotland beautiful?)
It’s me again, I’m just writing to let you all know how much I love drinks on the airplanes! I mean, when you get yourself a Pepsi from the fridge it’s just a Pepsi in a can. But! When a flight attendant asks for your beverage of choice with a smile on her face, opens the can, gets you a small plastic cup with ice, and sets it in front of you for you. To pour the heavenly liquid, in the cup, with the rate of speed of your own desire. It’s a great experience. I love drink time on the plane. Watch me order on the way home! –Bethany Chronister
Oh my GOD! It’s hot as a piece of bacon in a frying pan in this damn bus! I sure wish I had a refreshing drink from the plane right now! –Bethany Chronister
We are almost ready for our next concert in York. Nigel, our bus driver is leaving tonight. He is cool and we are all gonna miss him. Oh well- We are having a blast! -Susan Packard
Ok, so this is a day late. Yesterday, I was having a horrible morning. I was very tired and the bus was hot. We stopped to grab a snack, so I bought a ham and cream cheese bagel. It looked ok, but when I bit into it, there was no ham. It was raw fish. Memories of Denmark flashed back as I tried to keep from vomiting. Anyway, it sucked. Today’s better though. Raw fish is not cool! More later. –Matt Herndon
Buses are hot. Churches are cold. There are no pools anywhere. –Amy Mosebey
"Can I touch your poo, Matt?" –Susan Packard
I want to go pet the sheep. They are so fuzzy! –Andrea Nichols
Hi! We went shopping yeah! Hats, earrings, makeup, Mosebey’s and Susan and me do not mix well! FUN! –Courtney Slater
Friday - May 30, 2003
We had an awesome day today!!! We got to tour the York Minster church and it was beautiful, except for we tried to sing there and they wouldn’t let us- oh well!! We spent the rest of the day having a blast shopping. We are now waiting for our concert, which will be very awesome!!! –Ben Spalding
Today has been great so far!!! I’ve got to hang out with a lot of different people. We have been shopping in York, England all day. The farmers market was a lot of fun. This morning we toured York Minster- it was absolutely amazing! We are about to give a concert in the All Saints Pavement Church. How exciting. –Theresa Smith
Here are some cool sayings I’ve picked up so far: Tally-hoe…
Hello Mate…Bloody Hell…Old Bloat…Tally-do…Lifts…Toilets
Oh, and last night when I was talking to Nigel our bus driver he was telling me that he had 5 kids at home, well maybe 7 he wasn’t for sure. HAHA, Bethany and I had the giggles so bad last night HA it’s over!! Today is National Giggle day! Bye –Theresa Smith
Just a few thoughts…our York Concert was KICK ASS!! -Erin Reily
That’s not a few thoughts, that’s one thought. But a good one I agree! –Amy Mosebey
That was the best we’ve ever sun! WOW…would this be the time to say “Ah, the Power of Music!” Thanks guys! –Bethany Chronister
What an amazing feeling singing as a group tonight. It really touched me in a way that it hasn’t before. I love choir. Life is wonderful. –Theresa Smith
It was so surreal! I wanted to cry and laugh at different moments during our performance! A memory to remember forever! –Lara Powell
Aside from the pain in my shoulders, that concert was the most kick- awesomest ever! –Billy Crum
I feel truly blessed to be a part of this awesome choir! –Karly Engel
Um…I don’t know what to write…I will never forget this concert. I’ve never had so much fun singing before. The End. –Ashley Mosebey
A-W-E-S-O-M-E Awesome, Awesome are we! YAH! –Andrea Nichols
That was too cool, but the best was when Sopranos forgot “Peace” again. Oh, you gotta love that. Ah well, congrats guys for an awesome concert. –Courtney Slater
Tonight’s performance was an unbelievable experience. I wish it would’ve been recorded but I have a feeling we can do it again just as well. What made me shed a tear though was when I looked at Dr. Barham during “Peace I Leave With You” and saw his eyes tearing up. What an awesome man, conductor, friend…he has a great heart! Thank you all for such a heart-warming experience. –Natalie Roman
You know that when Dr. Barham looks at you and says “Wow” right after a song, that certain feeling of pride, accomplishment, and fulfillment surges inside you. It is that feeling that makes you smile involuntarily that makes music so worthwhile! What an indescribable feeling. –Tim Cassidy
Saturday - May 31, 2003
A reading from the book of Michael. At the early morning rise, the birds were screeching and the TV was singing “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Start”, not “Hosannas.” God looked down upon it all and pointed and laughed and it was good. The travelers packed their vessel and headed towards the next destination, London. Amen. –Michael Swickard
Michael thinks he’s God – Dru Rutledge
I experienced much last night, but just a hint of advice, sitting in a parking lot with good friends of yours getting to know each other really makes you have tons of fun!! -Bethany Chronister
Sunday - June 1, 2003
Hmm…where to begin? Today was awesome! To start things off we (me, Theresa, Anna, Anna’s mom and dad, Eric, Amy, Lara, Michael, and Alissa) went to Mass and then went and exchanged our money and got to feed the birds! After that we had a full day of riding the tubes, which rock. Went to Covent Garden and was looking for the Doc. Martin’s store which closed 7months ago and then we went to Piccadilly Circus to do some shopping. Then it was Dinner at Hard Rock Cafe where we all got awesome stuff. Tomorrow we have a concert! Yea! -Erin Reilly
Dear Diary- I love cards! I love playing with cards. I love the British music awards. But really- we had the most fun last night just sitting in Katie and my room and everyone seemed to come in. It was great! I’m sure some people didn’t have quite as much fun as I did, but it was still a food time. I love you all, and really feel we all have an awesome connection- maybe that’s why we have been singing so well… -Courtney Slater
If the chick on the British Classical Music Awards can go professional, I could stick a goose call up my ass and fart, and be a professional! - Susan Packard
I am a vegetarian but I ate a whole cow. It was an animal cracker. –Amy Mosebey
Monday - June 2, 2003
Ok, So Dru, Theresa and I were in Eric and Kyle’s room and this older woman with a British accent knocks on the door and we, thinking I was someone in choir, said come in. She was in a robe and she goes “Will you quit beating on the door and talking so loud because if you don’t I will have to report you to the management” She was really mean and moody. Then when she went to go back to her room she had locked herself out. Ha ha ha. Ok so we felt really bad about the whole thing and went to bed. I also went and saw the musical Chicago tonight with Ben, Susan, Courtney, Carly, Dru, and Matt. We rode in a taxi to and from the show which was exciting as well. I can’t help but sing those wonderful songs. I’m proud to say that the U.S. created “all that JAZZ!" What a great genera of music. Good night and goodbye London! –Anna Kepka
Tuesday - June 3, 2003
London has been absolutely wonderful! Yesterday we had another amazing concert. We recorded a CD – it will be a great memory of the trip. Now we are on the bus again traveling towards Paris. I’m sad that we have to leave London so soon. I went to see Ragtime. It had awesome music. Well I cant’ write on the bus, more later. –Theresa Smith
I finally got my theater fix for a couple of weeks after going to Phantom of the Opera, and the Lion King. They were both very good and very different. The Lion King was one of the most memorable times of the tour. I still have the music in my head. I hope that I can see it again, maybe in London some day. It was very inspiring. I can’t wait to tell everyone about it back home. I heard that Erin had sex on the beach with Tim and it burned her throat. –Kyle Chamberlin
I’m going to play “Rafiki” in the Lion King someday – Dru Rutledge
Hi! Only three more days until I can get drinks on the airplane! Go Me! –Bethany Chronister
I love London so much; I want to live there. I miss it already. But I am so excited for Paris! –Susan Packard
Well, I don’t think I’d want to live there, but I certainly do like London! The things to see and do seem endless! I saw three musicals in three days -almost a dream come true! I can’t wait to come back in the future. Musicals are cool. More later! –Matt Herndon
I detest this bus and all of it’s cousins- may they all burn up and get turned into compost –ha! All this time he’s never been awake before! Susan- I’d love to see you become a “professional” – that would crack me up!!! (Look back a few pages) –Courtney Slater
We just left London and I already miss it!…… -Andrea Nichols
I’m really tired and I wish I had a ed on this bus! –Karly Engel
Great times in London… Saw Buckingham and Kensington Palaces, got pictures ad Trafalgar Square, went to the Glove Theater and St. Paul’s Cathedral. We even rode the tube! Fun times!!! I could spend months in London and still not see everything. Paris here we come! –Jason Sickel
Oh I don’t want to leave London, but it was time to move on to Paris. I have to say the last three days probably have been the best and have brought good memories! Now we’re on our way tot Dover. Eric and I are writing a French dialogue so will see how that turns out. And yes to make it clear…I am a prince William fan! He’s a hottie!! -Lara Powell
And we thought we were going to leave England…France sucks. – Courtney Slater
So it is 4:00pm France time and we are still not in France! France needs to quit striking and let us in! Please? Oh, come on… let us in for the Love of GOD! -Eric Pretz
3:10pm England time. Ok, we’re not out of England yet but I guess we have the Chunnel to look forward to! So I think we got a good deal ~ we were on the Ferry and the Chunnel on this trip, but hopefully nothing else goes wrong. Oh, and just one more thing. We (Kelli, Lara and I) were told that some certain friends of ours from Chicago and Australia know some people who think tornado alley is an actually alley in a city! Now who are these people, I mean seriously! They need to appear on street smarts on (WGN)! –Jessica Meyn
One word…London! –Kelli Brenner
We are about to leave England and what a thrill it has been to experience my son perform outstanding music with the choir that represents my alma mater! I’m having way too much fun in the back of the bus! –Warren Sickel ’76 (Jason’s Dad)
JASON SICKEL’S DAD ROCKS!!! -Anna Kepka
Waiting in the tunnel- who is in the bus in front of us? Someone famous? Many stories to tell when I get home! -Agnes Kepka (Anna’s mom)
Climbing up and down the mountain/hill at 4:30 in the am in Edinburgh –Worth the trip. Finding Kings Cross Baptist church and the unbelievable people from all over the world meeting there- priceless. I will never forget it. –Aaron Hunt
I just met a famous drummer for a band from London The Cooper Temple Clause. He was nice. Anyway… I’m so glad to say that there has been no more illness by my side and I could finally enjoy my touring. I love everyone in choir!! I feel like I have gotten to know some people so much more. This trip really opened my eyes for the people and I have learned so much. I love it all! –Melissa Borders
Wednesday - June 4, 2003
I have eaten baby Rollos and baby pie now. Things are bigger and better in the U.S.! Ahh how wonderful it is to be an American. –Anna Kepka
Thursday - June 5, 2003
The bartender at Planet Hollywood was really awesome. He was showing Anna, Ben and myself some pretty sweet tricks with Vodka bottles and glasses. He was extremely talented. He also let us go behind the bar and get pictures with him. It was cool. -Natalie Roman
Well, getting to watch the sunset on top of the Eiffel Tower is something you can’t say everyday! IT was awesome. Now we are off to Notre Dame to Sing! -Lara Powell
Really Really Really excited about singing at the Notre Dame Cathedral! This is a real once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. –Jason Sickel
The top of the Eiffel tower was incredible. No other way to describe it. I could have stayed up there all night, but then again I could have missed out chance to sing in Notre Dame Cathedral, which I am thrilled to be doing. Paris ROCKS! -Kemp Dawg (Andrew Kemper)
I had the chance to go to the top of the Eiffel Tower yesterday. It was worth every Euro! This choir has been wonderful to travel with, however I can’t wait to get home. –Eric Pretz
Well, in Scotland and England we saw cattle, horses and pigeons. But I wanted to see chickens. Finally here in Paris, I got to see chickens! Yippee! I’m looking forward to singing in Notre Dam and climbing the Eiffel Tower later today! This trip has been great! –Kelli Brenner
Today we are singing, and then Andrea, Kelli, and I are going up the Eiffel Tower. I can’t wait…very exciting! -Karly Engel
Friday - June 6, 2003
I can’t believe our trip is close to the end, and everything has been great. I’m so grateful to Michael for helping me out with the trip up to the top of the Eiffel Tower! I’ll pay him back with a cheap dinner! I just realized something as well, I’m going to miss all of you guys~ this is going to be my last concert with you at the Notre Dame Cathedral. Way to go out with a bang I guess. Thanks for making it memorable! –Jessica Meyn
Thanks guys for a great trip! –Courtney Slater
Right now we’re on the way back and I am glad we’re leaving but once I get home play with my puppy, and go to Taco Bell then I will wish I was back in Europe. I feel like I’ve gotten to know many of you really well. I’m gonna miss you guys!! I also have no idea how I’m going to make it through this summer with out singing “Beati Quorum Via”. Okay, I’m done! –Ashley Mosebey
Our vacation is almost over now. It was a lot of fun but I’m ready to go home now. I’m not really going to miss Europe so much (not even London) as I am going to miss all the choir members this summer. I can’t wait until the end of August so we can all start singing together again. –Amy Mosebey
Now it’s time to say goodbye to all our company…yeah…so the trip is coming to an end. As expected, it’s been awesome. So many friends have been made… So many memories have been formed. It’s awesome that we have become so close. I can’t wait until next fall when we will all be together again. I can’t wait to see what we can accomplish. Until then though, the memories of this trip will be with us. A Cappella Choir is Awesome!! None later. –Matt Herndon
Going into this trip, I was curious to see what it would be like compared to the one I went on two years ago. All that I know now is that they (the trips) are un-comparable! I had just as much fun on this trip as I did on the last one. I shall miss everyone dearly, and I can’t wait to see everyone again in the fall. I think it is rare that we had the opportunity to go to so many places in Europe all at once. I took a lot of pictures and cherished a lot of soon to be memories. One of the many that comes to mind is my journey to the “Sacred Heart Cathedral” in Paris, France. Some people took the elevator to the top of the hill (ahem…Anna!) but I took the road less traveled by or “stairs” to the cathedral with my mind in a “pilgrimage mode”. This “mode” allowed me to clear my mind and my heard to receive the spectacle of worship that I was about to see. When I reached the top I saw the wonderful and awesome cathedral, up close. It was just as I remembered it (1997) and many memories came to mind. To make a long story short…I enjoyed fulfilling the promise I made to myself by re-visiting the cathedral. I am thankful for this opportunity (trip) and I truly hope to get many more such opportunities in the future! –Eric Pretz
Ok, Anna, you wanted the details of our awesome three days in London! What an awesome three days they were let me tell you. On Saturday night Kelli, Jessica, Carly and I stayed and danced at this club called the Rocket. We were there three hours. That’s all dancing and some drinking. Well towards the end, we began talking to two guys. One was Stuart Minson, who I was a little fond of. He was from Melbourne, Australia. The other guy was Jon Rogers..I think Kelli really liked him a lot and he liked her back. They had both been studying abroad for the past year. Well we took a few pictured with them and asked if they wanted to hang out with us the next day. So they came to the hotel after 12:00. We went to a play called “Goose Fer Lunch.” By the way, it was Kelli, Jessica, Melissa, and I for this day. Lunch was good and then we tried our first ride on the TUBE. It was a lot of fun. We then went to Bucking ham Palace, and then walked toward the Thames River. Kelli, Jessica, and I went on there and later met the guys and Melissa at a bar an hour later. We then went to Trafalgar Square and got pretty friendly with the pigeons. Melissa, Kelli and Jessica heach had pigeons on them at one time or another. Then the boys took us to a place called Revolution. Jon had worked there previously. It was dark, but peaceful atmosphere…laid back as well. We all sat on some cushions and started with coffee. However, as the evening went on, more drinks were to come. This was the first real time for LARA to drink! The guys got most of the drinks. Besides, they were half off when Jon ordered them. The place specialized in drinks with Vodka. So at two or three instances the guys had 5 shot glasses in one tray at one time. They were all different colors…PRETTY! I’ll show pictures later. Then they took us to a bar called Cheers. Yes… just like the TV show and they had it playing in the background and then there was a dance floor. Once 12:00 hit, we said Happy 22nd birthday to Stuart. He was a lot of fun to dance with…good moves! We then said goodbye back at the hotel, but told them about the concert the next day. The nice thing about Stuart was that he said goodbye like the French…very pleasant! Two kisses on the cheeks! Well they ended up coming to the concert, which made a good impression on us. They sat through it and later said they really enjoyed it. We then met up for dinner. Stuart picked the Chinese restaurant Superstar. Karly, Andrea and Natalie joined us as well. Seven girls and two boys. Stuart brought Champagne for the special occasion and was so sweet through dinner. It was a nice, formal place, but at a good price. We then went to a place I think called New York…. Pub or something. We ordered drinks there and had a good time singing and talking. Later a guy named Dan, from South Africa met with us. Jon and Stuart decided to take us to the bar/club called Heaven. It was kind of weird having it being called this because it was a gay club. It was awesome though. Strobe and laser lights everywhere. There were 3 different dance floors and it cost 4lbs to get in and dance. The music was loud, but perfect! I didn’t want the day to end! But we had to head back to the hotel. It was hard saying goodbye to they guys, but we exchanged email addresses and home addresses. We got tons of pictures and awesome memories of those three wonderful days in London! –Lara Powell, Kelli Brenner, Jessica Meyn, and Melissa Borders!
Well, well, well. What a wonderful adventure this trip turned out to be! We learned many things. We learned that the ”Zebra” crossing in Paris is just a suggestion. We learned that we can go far away and yet still feel the love from home. And we learned that music is the universal language to touch all hearts. May God bless and part the prayers of all who read this. Be it ever so humble…there’s no place like home! –Michael Swickard (I think this is who wrote this but the signature wasn’t too clear)
What a wonderful trip! I’ve enjoyed Scotland, England, and France greatly! Being able to sing together has truly been a blessing. I’m glad to be going home, but I’m also glad I have all these wonderful memories. Have a wonderful rest of the summer and I’ll see you in August. –Alissa Fox
I have learned so much about myself and the other choir members on this trip. It has been really wonderful getting to know everyone and I know it will be hard to leave everyone when we arrive in Kansas City. However, this trip has been wonderful. How amazing is it that the ESU A Cappella Choir has sung in Notre Dame. Each time singing was such an experience. How much better can life get, traveling with friends and doing the one thing we love the most-singing. God bless A Cappella Choir! –Theresa Smith
Hey guys! (Sigh) I don’t know if I can sum up our trip. Just by writing in here. Sigh…Well; this trip has been amazing in so many ways! Personally, musically… as far as choir, who could ask for a better group of people to make incredible music with? I never imagined how shocking/incredible/unexplainable this personal and musical experience could be. I have grown close to people and have made great memories. It really sucks that this group of people won’t be singing together again, but I know we ended it on a good note…Notre Dame!! Thanks for all the memories and for contributing to the experience of a lifetime!! I’m sad to go home!! Love you all. Bethany Chronister (PS-Damn those nasty Italian guys and married men)
Wow! I can’t believe I just spent two weeks in Europe! It was amazing, and I will never forget it. I have learned a lot about the people in choir, which was a very good thing. I think we all feel that we are a closer group now. Singing in the Notre Dame Cathedral was such an honor; I can’t even explain how proud I felt. This whole trip has been awesome. I’m kind of sad to see it end. –Karly Engel
I’ll tell you what’s been great about this trip…finding out hat when we really focus and when we let nothing interfere with our concentration, we can sing like professionals. I am fortunate to have had the opportunity to take two international tours while in choir at ESU. This tour was outstanding with out a doubt! -Jason Sickel (aka Shlomo)
Words just can’t begin to express how amazing this trip was! I not only learned many new things about the members of the choir, but I also learned a lot about myself! Through this self-reflection I have come to some conclusions… Music brings people together when the world is in chaos People’s natures really are to care for and love each other- no matter what. A group with a common goal, no matter how different their backgrounds, can achieve anything! ESU A Cappella Choir has given me once in a lifetime experiences and beautiful new friendships that I will always cherish!! To everyone in the choir…Each and everyone of you have a special place in my heart! Even if we have differences, it is those differences that make you uniquely beautiful! (Or handsome in the guy’s case) Guys-you have been surrounded by some of the sweetest ladies you’ll ever meet! And ladies aren’t these guys the greatest! Well, I just wanted to thank everyone for making this a wonderful experience! I thank God each and every day for allowing me to be a part of such a great group of people! Great job in England, Scotland, and France but I’m ready for America! Love All Y’ All! -Kelli Brenner
Going overseas a couple times has given me so many great experiences, and it just goes to show me how much I’m still missing out on. However, there is one thing that I haven’t been missing out on…the great power of music! I thank each an every one of you guys for giving a part of yourself for such a great cause. You’ve all touched me in a positive way at some point on this trip. It makes me very sad to think that I’ll be graduating before another opportunity comes around like this probably. These trips will probably be the greatest musical experiences of my life. Seeing Jason Sickel’s dad clap like a madman at all our concerts is just one reminder that people really appreciate what we do. I mean we had groupies from Missouri! What a great opportunity to sing with your heart in this group. I’m really gonna miss it. –Tim Cassidy
Isn’t it bittersweet? We are all ready to go home, but yet it means that our adventure has come to an end. This has been a once and a lifetime opportunity and I feel honored to be able to have experienced it with each and every one of you. On this trip we have made lasting relationships and it is sad to think that we have to part away, even if it is for only two months. We have all made lasting memories. How often is it that a talented group of people can get together to do the one thing they all love in extraordinary atmospheres? When we look back on this trip we will remember all the fun we had together (singing on top of the Eiffel Tower will always come to my mind) but the one thing that will always be present is our love o music. Performing as a choir means the world to me and I thank God everyday for each and every member (though sometimes it doesn’t seem that way). To you Anna, you have been one of my best friends and I will miss you over the summer, as well as everyone else. I hope to see each and every one of you at Anna and Kyle’s party in July…I know I’ll be there! So until then my friends have a wonderful summer and hope to see you soon. –Erin Reilly
What can I say? It is hard to describe the awesome time that I had on this trip. I am so lucky to have spent it with A Cappella Choir, and all of my dear friends. It amazes me that I almost didn’t get to come on this trip. I am so thankful that I was able too. All of the memories that we made will stay with me always. Thank you all for making this trip the greatest!! -Susan Packard
Hearts touched, lives blessed, joys shared, lifelong bonding…what a wonderful opportunity we’ve all had on this tour. Thank you…all of you…for giving yourselves for a higher purpose…for holding to that which is good…for being as One…one voice of joy, youth, ambassadors for our school, our state, our country! I love you all for being in this truly outstanding choir. –Dr. Terry Barham
Even now as we are soaring above U.S. skies soon to land in Chicago, words are not coming close to explain these last two weeks. I think that even after a few days of recuperation this will still be the case, but Anna is watching me write…she’s my plane partner… so I will try anyways. First off isn’t the Lord the coolest guy ever? I mean he brought this group from many different backgrounds and interests and molded them together in a family that made exceptional music. Putting all stories and feelings aside this choir once again proved that it rises to whatever occasion is asked of it. When I think about where we had the greatest honor of performing this summer I cannot help but smile. A shout out to Dr. Barham- sometimes I don’t understand or even comprehend how you lead and direct this choir, but I’m glad you do. This choir would not sing the same if it wasn’t you behind the music stand. Then last but not least to all of my family. Guys I am going to miss you like crazy. New friendships made, and older friendships strengthened. It was both my honor and privilege to share the experience of singing with you all. It is my hope and prayer that our Lord Jesus Christ will watch over you all and your families and that you all return safely to Emporia or wherever your future roads lead. God bless every one of you. And remember, we will “always have Paris”. Peace OUT! –Kemp Dawg (Andrew Kemper)
All I can really say to some everything up is WOW! What an incredible experience. This was a once in a lifetime event for me and I will never forget it or the wonderful people who shared it with me! I love you all! –Melissa Borders
Geez, I don’t have much to say that everyone else hasn’t said already. I don know that I’ll miss everyone so much next year when I’ll be at K-State. I’ll try my bet to stay in touch and visit when I can. Okay, we’re about to land in Chicago…almost to the near end of our adventurous trip!! I hope to have a job by the end of net week! See you all at the get-together in July, hopefully! -Jessica Meyn
Ok, so we are on the final flight to Kansas City. I am sitting by Michael and we are having a hell of a time. Before takeoff an Indian women behind Dru put her foot up on her seat, and touched Dru. I’ve never seen Dru suppress her laughter and want to vomit at the same time. The flight attendant told the woman that she couldn’t do that because it was offensive. HA HA Well God Speed and God Bless –Theresa Smith
What an amazing trip! I have had so much fun! It is bitter sweet to go home because we have had so much fun. I am happy to be able to sleep in my own bed! Anna- I have had such a gret time with you on this trip. Thanks for making me feel like a part of the group. That is something that I have longed for, for two years. There are so many things to say about choir, but not enough time. So I will leave with a great big I LOVE CHOIR!!! –Carly Richards
Well I guess it’s my turn to tell you all how much I love you and to close out this journal. When I auditioned to be in A Cappella Choir last August I had no idea what I was getting myself into. I had set out a year of not singing or doing anything musically and I missed it terribly. So I decided to audition and seek out my love of music. At the beginning I was so intimidated and unsure of myself I even cried and wanted to get out. With a little encouragement from Lara Powell and my parents I decided to give it a shot and stick with it. Now I can see why God put me into this group and what beautiful people he has blessed me with. You all have given me a new family and a place I can call home at Emporia State. I have gotten to know most of you on a personal basis and have spent some serious quality time with you. The memories that have been made through this past year are endless and some I will keep close to my heart forever. This trip has just been the icing on the cake! Some of my personal favorite memories include: Singing on the Eiffel Tower, Missouri Groupies, Singing in Notre Dame, Kilt shopping, the five story bar (two for one), dragging about 12 people across London to a shoe store that had closed 7 months before…I AM SOO SORRY GUYS!, the musical CHICAGO, the bus ride sitting in the back with Warren Sickel (I love that you are at all our concerts and that you clap as if no one was watching and you mean it!), Dr. Barham and the proud, tear felt face he had when we sang in York…what an amazing man you are, all the giggling nights with my roommates (Theresa, Carly, Susan), Scare Coeur (Sacred Heart) …I think I took the road less traveled by there, and the best for last…the power of music! The beauty that you all have as individuals is absolutely priceless and so incredibly special that I thank God for getting to know you. So many of you don’t really know how special you are to me, and I hope that some day I might be able to put it into words. Hats off to all of you for an amazing time musically, spiritually, and socially on this European tour. With all my love and God bless, –Anna Kepka
