tag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:/blogs/news?p=2News2023-10-16T10:56:53-04:00Alan Cunninghamfalsetag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614572015-03-26T20:00:00-04:002023-12-10T11:41:38-05:00Lit. Fest. Ottawa
<p>I had a great day sharing my songs with the 3rd, 4th and 5th grades of Franklin Co.. Everyone got into the music, smiles were everywhere. I want to thank everyone that made the day happen and to all the kids that I saw, you where great. I loved the questions about writing words and music. I hope it was as much fun for you as for me!!!</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614562012-10-18T20:00:00-04:002022-05-09T04:21:57-04:00End of Summer
<p>It was a slow summer didn’t have as many shows as I have had in the past. Don’t know if it’s the economy or I need to get the word out that I’m still singing my songs. I had a show in Pomona. That was the first time in all these years that I performed for their library. Pomona is where all three of my children went to High School. It was good to see people from my past, people that knew me as a teacher and a coach and some that remember me with all that red hair on top of my head.
I also sang in Oskaloosa, that was my first time there also. It was a fun show with a lot of fun kids. It was good meeting everyone there. Hope to have more shows next summer and I guess I’m going to have to work harder at getting my stuff out there for the public to see.
I’ve been writing a lot the past 2 months, mostly big people stuff. I have been getting a bunch of my songs stuck in my head and worked up. I want to start sharing them with whoever would like to hear them. I’m thinking about even going out on Mass Street in Lawrence and stand there, singing.
I’m going to put together a CD with about 6 of my new older people music and then when that’s done I’m ready to make my third Kid Songs CD. I have a number of songs that I have written for school and for shows. It’s time to get them down on a CD. I have a lot of people and teachers that want my “Stand Up” song so this winter I’ll be down in my studio recording.
Last I need to let everyone know that program time is here again. The 4th and 5th grades are doing a show on Nov. 1st “Vote 2012” it’s a show that we put together in the year 2000 and every four years we get it out and let the students know how important it is the vote. We are Americans and that is something we should not take for granted. The 2nd and 3rd grades are doing a Christmas show Dec. 6th that I wrote “Santa’s Rocket Sleigh” It is a fun show with some great songs and I’m not saying that just because I wrote them. I have as much fun as the kids when we are working on them. Come by Eugene Field and take a look and what we do, you’ll have a good time, I promise………</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614552012-06-09T20:00:00-04:002023-12-10T12:35:13-05:00First shows
<p>I had a great time in Baxter Springs and then Fort Scott. Pj and I got up early and headed down for the show. It was a nice drive and it was fun looking over the country side. The show at Baxter Springs was fun and the kids were great. Good kids!! We sang and had a lot of fun. Had to get to Fort Scott pretty fast so not much time for messing around. Fort Scott was great, I've been there many, many times and the kids know my songs. There is a lot of singing along and smiling. It was so good to see everyone down there. Went and ate and then started home. Took the back roads home and looked at all the farm houses and barns. We stopped at Richmond and look at the furniture store there. They have the most amazing stuff there. It was a good day and I hope to be able to see you all next year.......</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614532012-05-30T20:00:00-04:002022-04-14T08:16:59-04:00Summer!
<p>Yes it's time for summer to start. I'm looking forward to having a fun and relaxing summer this year. Pj and I have already been off work for a couple of weeks and are starting to get into the routine of enjoying life. We have been able to see and take care of our granddaughter, Kennedy and that has been a joy. We plan on playing golf, swimming and just going different places just because. Chad is now in Colorado Springs so we plan to go out to Colorado a couple of times this summer. Cord is home, working in the city, making money for college. Tara is off for the summer like Mom and Dad, the time you are so glad that you are a teacher. She is having a great summer already being with Kennedy and being a Mom herself. I have a handful of Kid shows this summer but not as much and I usually do. Guess I will use the time writing more songs and finding different places to play my music. I did a show a couple of months ago that was just my big people songs, it was fun to share my other songs. I hope to do some more of that as the year goes on. I hope everyone has a great summer and life is good!! Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614522012-03-13T20:00:00-04:002023-12-10T11:41:43-05:00Franklin Co. Lit. Festival
<p>Just got home from the Franklin Co. Lit Festival. It was a wonderful day, we did 4 shows for the 3rd, 4th and 5th grades of Franklin Co. I had a great time sharing my songs and the kids were the best. They asked me some really great questions about writing and creating music. I enjoyed sharing with them about how some of my songs come to life. We sang some of my greatest hits and there were a lot of laughs, smiles, great singing and even some cool moving around when we did Stand Up. Remember if you have a dream or a talent and you love it. Don’t let people make you feel like you shouldn’t do it. Remember if it is something that you love then do it for yourself and if other people enjoy it then share it. Thanks for the great day!!!! Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614502012-02-29T19:00:00-05:002023-12-10T12:01:54-05:00First show of the year!
<p>I had a great time tonight singing at Corinth Neighborhood Library. You have put together a great space and you should be proud. Thanks for letting me share in the fun tonight. It was great seeing Pam and her kids and it was good to see their Mom’s and Dad’s, Oh, and Pam, thank you for the Birthday card. It was also good seeing the people that have become apart of my life because of my music, over all of these years. Last of all, for all of the kids, your singing, you sounded great!!!! Thanks for helping me sing my songs..... Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614482011-12-23T19:00:00-05:002021-04-21T11:37:03-04:00Merry Christmas
<p>I would like to say Merry Christmas to all. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas morn and that your next year will be filled with hope, love and peace to all!!!! Merry Christmas Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614462011-08-22T20:00:00-04:002023-12-10T12:02:05-05:00School is starting
<p>The summer is over for me. It’s back to school for me. I have to tell you I had a fun time in July with 3 really fun shows, Marysville, Baxter Springs and Fort Scott. PJ and I went up the Marysville and we had a wonderful drive. The country side was so green then and the rolling hills look so pretty. The Kids were great and we had such a good time doing the show with everyone. We had a big day when we went to Baxter Spring. Baxter Spring is right in the bottom corner of Kansas. We had never done a show there before. I have driven through on my way to Oklahoma and Texas but never really stopped before. The library was this a cool, old, big, building that was built to be something other than a library but it made a great library. We sang up stairs and there was even an elevator to get to the third floor. Everyone sang and had a great time, I was glad we were asked to sing there. After the show we headed up to Fort Scott. I've been singing in Fort Scott for a long time now and it does almost feel like I’m home when I’m there. The kids know all the words to my songs and we just have a wonderful time. Thanks again to all the librarians that ask PJ and I to come share my music….. It’s back to school so I will be teaching a lot of kids about music and hope that they fall in love with it as much as I have……</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614452011-06-16T20:00:00-04:002022-05-19T00:21:40-04:00Last Week
<p>Last week was a hard but good week also. On Saturday June 11th my Dad died. My brother and I where with him when he passed that morning. I will miss him so. I also was doing shows that week and to see all the smiling faces and children singing also gave me a warm feeling to see life and youth as they were all having fun. Thank you to all the librarians that I talk with about my father. I felt like everyone gave me comfort. Again Thanks</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614432011-05-31T20:00:00-04:002022-03-28T09:24:07-04:00June 1st
<p>Two great shows today. My first time at Osage City and the kids were great. Lyndon is like going home to me. I use to teach there many, many years ago. Some of the Moms were my kids. We had a great time. Good singing. Great Burps and fun moving to Stand up... Thanks for making me feel like a star. All I know is that you all were really the Stars......</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61613942010-12-16T19:00:00-05:002022-02-18T06:57:19-05:00It's a Girl
<p>I just want to let everyone know that I'm a Grandpa. On Dec. 9th at 2:17 in the morning my daughter Tara and her husband Chris had a little baby girl. Kennedy Grace, She weighed 6 pounds 15 oz. and was 20 inchs long. She is beautiful, really she is... I need to get some pictures up and I will make sure I get one of her. Everyone have a Merry Christams..... Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614422010-12-14T19:00:00-05:002021-10-18T05:08:37-04:00Christmas is coming!!
<p>First I have to say Merry Christmas to all. The last month we have been working on programs at both schools, Eugene Field and Eisenhower. My 4th and 5th grades did a show called 50’s Forever. It was just a fun show with a lot of great, fun music. We were singing, Dancing, doing skits it was about an hour of good old fun. We had some students do solos, I was proud of everyone and I think all the students were proud of the job they did. The last two week we were doing our Christmas programs with the 2nd and 3rd grade. We did a show called the “Elves’ Impersonator.” This too was a fun show, the third graders did all the acting and 2nd were the back up singers. There were some great Elvis moves by some of my students and the singing was great. I have to say that everyone did a great job…. In this last week the morning of my last program my daughter Tara had a little girl at 2:17 in the morning. I became a grandpa for the first time. My little granddaughters name is Kennedy Grace and she is beautiful….. I want to again say Merry Christmas to everyone. I know in our house we feel so blessed. I hope everyone has a wonderful, joyful Christmas season…… Alan Cunningham</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614412010-09-09T20:00:00-04:002021-11-25T09:49:39-05:00Summers Over, School has Started!!
<p>Summer is over and School has started. I would have to say that I had a great summer. I want to say thank you to everyone that asked me to come sing. I would have to say that I had some of the greatest singers and dancers and smiles ever this summer. I got to sing in some really fun places too. Big stages, Cool looking Libraries and I even got to sing in a Fire Station, that was the best!!!!! We did a show in Ottawa and had people bring food for Hope House, it was a great show. We had over 380 foods given to us and about 185 people came to sing and have fun. I think we will need to do this again next year!!! I’m sorry but I need to get some new pictures on my web site, I will be working on that but it is easier for me to write songs then it is to do computer stuff. I need to work harder on computer stuff… School has started and life is busy. I’m helping coach football and West Franklin again this year, you know I was a Football player, Tight End when I was young and had hair….
My 5th and 4th grades are starting to work on a program, 50s Forever, A lot of fun songs and dancing. It is going to be a great show!!! I’m singing about every other weekend, but if you need me to come sing for you don’t be afraid to ask, I love sharing my songs….. I will be getting back with you and telling you about what’s going on with my shows and schools and everything else. Oh, I need to tell you that it is just PJ and me at home now. All my kids have grown up. Cord my last kid has went to collage at Macpherson, a freshman, Chad at Ottawa, a senior, Tara is married and teaching school at West Franklin and she is going to have a baby in December so I’m also going to be a grandpa………I’m not that old!!!! Remember to have a great school year and also remember to Sing, Dance, Live, Laugh, Learn but most of all LOVE!!!!!!!! Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614392010-06-16T20:00:00-04:002023-12-10T11:56:26-05:00School is OUT! Benefit Concert for HOPE HOUSE!! Everyone come!!!
<p>School is out and summer is here. I have had two shows so far and they were both a good time. Eudora was fun we were on the stage at the middle school. I had a lot of kids play instruments and singing with me. At Bonner Spring they have a new library, it is beautiful, seems like it should be in Colorado. I met some every nice people there. I hope to be asked to come back to both places some day in the future.
I have a show coming up that I hope everyone will come to. If you live close or far I think it will be worth the drive. On WEDNESDAY, JUNE 30th at 7:00 p.m. I’m doing my kid show in Ottawa, at the First Baptist Church. I’m making it a Benefit for HOPE HOUSE. I want everyone to bring a can or box of something to eat; this will be giving to HOPE HOUSE where they work with people with needs. Times are hard this days and I thought it would be good to do something good of someone else and still have a lot of fun. The good people of my church thought, that it you be great to have ICE CREAM after the show. So please put JUNE 30th on your calendar and come to Ottawa to have some fun and eat Ice Cream. If you haven’t been to First Baptist in Ottawa you should come see it. It is a Beautiful old church, I have a lot of friends that have played music there and they say it’s like playing in the old Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. The show will be full of all my hits so, come plan on singing, moving and playing so instruments. Member what it says on all my CD’s, Sing, Dance, Live, Laugh, Learn but most of all Love!!!! Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614382010-05-09T20:00:00-04:002021-04-04T18:57:01-04:00Millions of Cats EF, and IKE
<p>Great Job!!!! My KDG and First grades at Eugene Field and Eisenhower both put on their music program, Millions of Cats. They both did a great job. It was a lot of hard work with four days of practice. The first two days seemed long but by the third day we looked great. It was exciting this year because this was the first time Eisenhower did one of my shows I write from a book. It worked out just fine in our little school and I thought everyone did a wonderful job. Great singing, Great acting, Great being cats……You’re the best, Alan Cunningham</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61613952010-03-10T19:00:00-05:002023-12-10T12:04:05-05:00Great Day at OU!!!
<p>Yes it was a great day!! Once a year in Ottawa Kansas, all the 3rd,4th and 5th graders of Franklin County come to Ottawa University to spend the day at the Franklin County Literature Festival. This was the 9th year; I have shared my songs and stories at 7 of the festivals. The students get to meet authors and illustrators, storytellers and yes me. I saw over 500 students that day. I did four shows, we sang, danced, played some instruments and even stopped to ask and answer questions. I think it is such a great thing, kids can see how writers work and think. They can see that we are all just people that love to share our gifts and talents. The best part is the smiles and laughter. Oh and signing my name on all your hands was pretty cool for me. Remember if you got an idea, share it. If you got a story, tell it. If you got a picture, show it and if you got a song, sing it. Alan Cunningham</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614362010-01-03T19:00:00-05:002023-12-10T11:44:29-05:002010
<p>I hope everyone had a very merry Christmas and a happy start to the new year. It's my last day of vacation and thought I would say Hi. Christmas day started out with big snows here. We had 3 to 5 feet drifts and everything was white. Chad's jeep was not snowed in like the rest of the cars so we drove to Dad's late afternoon and saw him for Christmas. All my family was home for the morning opening up presents and I would have to say it was a nice day. New Years eve was quiet, PJ and I spent the night together alone. It was a good way to start the New Year. Still a lot of snow and cold all vacation. We did make a trip up to Nebraska to see PJ's mom. Chad came with us and we had a nice time with her. I did get to do a show for the students of the after school program the day we got out for vacation. It was a lot of fun. The show was full of singing and moving and giving away free CDs. A lot of the kids at the show were kids I teach, so everyone knew the songs, smiling and was singing out.....fun, fun, fun.
Let’s have a great 2010. Do something good for someone else and be happy.
Happy New Year, Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614342009-12-21T19:00:00-05:002021-04-21T11:36:34-04:00Merry Christmas
<p>I would like to say Merry Christmas. I hope your holyday is full of Joy, Love and Peace. I know that it is great to get presents and I hope you get what you want but remember that it feels even better to give. To give something special to someone you love is a good feeling but to give a huge and a sweet I love you can do more for the heart then any present you could ever come up with. I hope your time off with your family is good.
Merry Christmas,
Alan Cunningham</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614332009-12-13T19:00:00-05:002021-07-03T04:22:46-04:00Christmas Programs
<p>I want to let everyone know how proud I am of my 2nd and 3rd graders. Both at Eugene Field and Eisenhower. We put on the program, How the Penguins Saved Christmas. Everyone did a wonderful job. Second grade you sang out so well and third grade, you did so good on your acting and singing. I had a lot of Moms and Dads come up and say great things about you and the show. Have a very Merry Christmas, Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614312009-11-16T19:00:00-05:002021-11-12T06:39:39-05:004th, 5th, United We Sing
<p>I just want to say, GREAT JOB. Both Eugene Field and Eisenhower schools did a wonderful job on their programs. Wonderful singing and great dancing, I was proud of all of you. You worked hard and it showed. You should feel good about what you did and remember that in life if you work hard and care, good things can happen!!!! Mr. C</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614302009-10-29T20:00:00-04:002023-12-10T11:56:26-05:00Football, Halloween
<p>I help coach football at West Franklin High School that is where my son, Cord plays. Last night was our last game and Cord's last high school football game. I was so proud of him this year, he came into his own. He caught a lot of balls, made some touchdown, and kicked a couple of field goals and extra points. What made me the most proud was that he became a real football player that wasn't afraid to put his body on the line and he never gave up. It made me proud to see him do something that I loved to do when I was his age. Now it is basketball time and I know that is your game so good luck and I hope for a great year for you and your team.
At school we are starting programs, 4th and 5th grades, Eugene performs next week. Ike performs the next. We have been working on our music and dances, now we have to put it all together.
I have been busy on weekends a lot, singing at festivals. It was a lot of fun and I sold a number of CDs. I hope to do more next year.
Now that football is over I hope to have more time to write and if I can get a chance to do some more shows that would be great too.
I hope everyone has a fun and safe Halloween!!!!
Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614292009-08-30T20:00:00-04:002022-03-25T07:56:17-04:00School starts again.
<p>It’s that time of year again. School has started. We are already getting back into the swing of classes. My 5th and 4th will start working on a program for the first part of November, the name is United we sing. It will be a fun show and we will get to show off a lot of talent.
I had a great time on vacation. The last time I talked with everyone I said I was going to heaven. We went first to Moab, Utah. We jeeped in Canyon lands first and then went to Arches the next day. The land is amazing there. If you have never been go. Take a lot of water you will need it. After that we took the RV back into Colorado and stayed up by a river close to Silverton. It was so beautiful there. We jeeped all over that part of Colorado, Chad drove most of it this year. First time Chad drive Black Bear, It was a little different for me to set and not drive. Chad did a great job. After all that we headed to the cabin. The cabin is up on Grand Mesa, it is just a great place to relax.
I’m helping coach football at West Franklin, this is my second year. Cord is a senior so it makes it fun to be with him and watch him work on his game. He is looking good.
I will be doing a little singing, the next couple of months; I will be letting you know.
Come see me if I’m in your area. Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614272009-07-23T20:00:00-04:002022-04-05T19:37:21-04:00Clearwater
<p>I did the last show for the summer. PJ and I had a wonderful drive down to Clearwater. It is a nice little town with some real nice people. We had a fun show. At first everyone was singing soft but it didn't take any time before everyone was singing out. There was a boy on the front row that had the greats voice, I could hear every word he sang and it sounded great. He got up on my Tooth song and did a wonderful job. Everyone did a great job who came up. A2Z, Burbs, instr. everything.
I'm going to take some time before school starts and be in heaven for awhile. I'll get back to everyone and get some pictures up!!!!!!! Have a great rest of the summer!!!</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614262009-07-12T20:00:00-04:002020-08-07T03:17:41-04:00shows and wedding
<p>Will I would have to say it has been a busy few weeks but still a lot of fun. I did a show in Wellisville, I had some girls that were getting into the music, singing along. They told me they saw me at the Franklin Co. lit. festival. It was fun watching them have fun. Next I was in Burlingame, great crowd and I meet some real nice people. I think I have some new fans, thanks for the nice words. Corning City was a new place for me to go. I had a long but nice drive. The country side was beautiful up at Corning City. We had a new library and a new place to sing. I enjoyed the kids and I meet some that new about Ottawa and the University. I drove home through the country side and loved everything I saw. I was up in Johnson County and got to see old friends and some of my best fans. We did two shows there, each show was a little different because of the age of kids but I got to here some great singers. Thanks for sharing your talents with me.
Next on July 3rd my daughter Tara got married to Chris Huggard. We had a wonderful wedding at the church and then came out to my back yard and had the reception and a dance. It went well and everyone had a good time. We had the biggest tent right out side our back door. It was a great night and we got to see all our family and friends. Thanks for everyone’s help. We couldn’t have done it with out all of you!!!
On Monday, after the wedding, PJ and I went down to Viola and did a show there. I have been there three times. Some of the nicest people and good singers, we had a good time and thanks for all the smiles. I will be getting pictures on of the summer so be looking for them.</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614252009-06-12T20:00:00-04:002019-12-14T14:13:45-05:00It's summer!!!
<p>Summer has started!!! The last 2 weeks have been full of kid shows and enjoying summer vacation. Fist we went to Fort Scott. I would have to say that I love going down there. I have been going for some years now and because of being there every year it seems everyone knows my songs. The singing was big, with everyone singing and laughing and having a good time. I had a super star there for my first show; she was 5 years old and could do anything, even burp!!!! She was special. I saw faces that I knew from past shows and friends that have known for many of years.
Next we went to Overbrook. It has been years since I was there, it was a great show. A lot of kids and everyone was singing and dancing. Overbrook has a great place to do the shows. It was a lot of fun. I got ask to do 2 shows and Brookside and I’m so glad I went and shared my songs. Lunch was great and everyone was so nice. I look forward to going back to Overbrook!
PJ and I went up north to Wetmore. I though it was my first time there. I was wrong. I was there right after my motorcycle wreck 5 years ago. I remember it was my first show and it was still hard to move but I was having so much fun that getting in the square metal tub wasn’t that hard at all. PJ was afraid I wouldn’t be able to get out. Wetmore has a great program, a lot of kids and a nice place to do concerts. Good people! Great kids!! I had a girl that sang out on every song.
We headed to Lyndon after that show. It was raining cats and dogs and anything else that could come out of the sky. We made it just it time to do the show. I say Lyndon is like going home. I taught there for 5 years, many years ago. I saw friends and students that were mine and now they were bringing their children, hard to believe. It was a fun show. I had one mother tell me that I taught her K – 3rd grade. She was in my first musical, Proud to Be Elves. The thing she said that I loved was when we sang A to Z, my ABC song, she told me she had been singing that to her children and didn’t know where it came from. She learned it in kindergarten from me and the song was living through her and she didn’t even know it was mine. I think that is exciting. That’s how folk music stayed alive for years and years.
We went to Carbondale the next day and I would have to say, what a show. I had 2 little ones that were like my wiggle jack. Full of energy, all over the place but still it was a fun time. There were some great singing and dancing and really nice kids. I would go back anytime to Carbondale, I just wished I had as much energy as those 2 little ones.
I just want to say have a great summer, I get a week off and then I’m singing again. I wish I could sing all the time… and that’s the true!!! Tara and Chad have their birthdays tomorrow, June 14th has always been a big day in our family. My Mom's birthday was June 14th also. Flag Day, Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614232009-05-03T20:00:00-04:002021-10-30T04:46:44-04:00Little Engine that Could
<p>Great Job!!! My KDG and 1st grades at Eugine Field put on one of the best programs!! I'm proud of all of you. You sang and did actions, smiled and frowned, you even made some cry on the Old Train Song. All first graders did a great job on their acting you were in the right place at the right time, every time. You sould feel proud.
It is always a lot of hard work but in the end it is so worth it.... Like I said,
Great Job!!! Mr. Cunningham</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614222009-04-12T20:00:00-04:002019-12-14T14:13:45-05:00Blessed Easter
<p>I hope everyone had a blessed Easter. Ate a lot of candy and got to be with family.
We had a nice meal and my kids all were home. My Dad came and it was just nice to be with everyone. I watch the Masters that afternoon. I am addicted to golf so it has always been something I have to watch. If you are a golfer you would understand why. That morning I played guitar and sang in church, it was a nice service with a great message. Joel, our pastor does a great job toughing the heart!!!
My KDG and 1st grade program it coming up on the 30th. I always take a book and write a musical. This years book is, The Little Engine that Could. The songs are coming along fine. The kids seem to like them a lot. I do have to make costumes and some of them will be trains. I have never made trains before as costumes. I have an idea in my head, I hope that it works out the way I think it might. If you don’t having anything going on that night come by the school and see the show. We have been doing this for 15 or more years……
I set down and wrote a new song for this summer, it should be a lot of fun and I hope to see some creative kids add to the song. You will have to come to a show to see what I’m talking about.
I’m weighting for spring to come, Oh they say it is hear but it doesn’t feel that way to me………. Hope everyone’s doing fine. Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614202009-03-11T20:00:00-04:002022-03-29T03:38:45-04:00What a great day!!!
<p>I just want to say that I had a wonderful day at the Franklin County Children’s Literature Festival. I want to thank all the singers that helped me lead The Loose Tooth Song. I want to thank all my wigglers on Wiggley Waggley Jack. I also want to thank some of the best Burps I have ever heard on Big Bad Bumble Bee. Everyone sang out strong, smiled and was the best kids around, I had a wonderful time. Thank you also for letting me share my story and all the stories about my songs. Remember that we all have gifts and all you have to do is find yours. When you do embrace it, live it, love it and life will be good. Again thank you to everyone that made the Literature Festival happen!!!!!</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614192009-03-01T19:00:00-05:002020-10-19T03:21:37-04:00Birthday
<p>Today is my Birthday; it is true I am older..... It is hard to believe that this much life has pasted by but it has. I would have to say Life is good. I wrote a song called that about PJ and me many, many years ago. I had a write up in the Sprit. Ottawa U's magazine, it was nice to see them talk about my music and my plays that I write. I hope to hear from some of those old collage friends that I haven't heard from in a long it. If you read this go to the guestbook part and write a little note. I hope everyone is doing fine. I will be singing a lot next week, it is always fun...... Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614182009-02-01T19:00:00-05:002019-12-14T14:13:45-05:00Ground Hog Day
<p>Thought I'd stop and say Hi. It's that time of year when everything is brown and it's mostly cold. I always get a little down this time of year. I need to be out in the sun, moving, playing, working; still it has been a good years so far. At school we got ready for Kansas day. We sang Kansas songs and we learned how to square dance. The kids didn't know about dancing at first but when they learned the calls they were the best. When I was in Junior high, I learned how the square dance in 4-H. We had the greatest teacher Max Randel. He made us do it right and because of that we were good. Square dancing in school brought back some great memories. I've got some singing coming up, Franklin Co. Lit. Festival on March 11th. That will be at Ottawa University, it is always a great time, singing to the students from all over the county. On March 10th we are trying something new in the district. All the 5th grades will come together with the junior high and High school, even Ottawa U. We are going to have a big concert at the Junior High; it should be a great experience for all. Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614172009-01-04T19:00:00-05:002022-02-02T07:11:41-05:00Happy New Year! 2009
<p>I had a great 2 weeks off at Christmas. I got to be with family and see friends. I played a little golf and wrote a beautiful Christmas song called, "Mary" I wrote the lyrics from Luke 1 -26-38. I hope to put something together for next Christmas so I can share the Christmas music that I've writen.
I hope everyone has a happy and wonderful New Year. Remember it all starts with us. If we believe it can be good we'll have a better chance that it will be good. Sing, Dance, Live, Laugh, Learn but most of all LOVE!!! That is the answer, Love. Lets make this year good!!
Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614162008-12-09T19:00:00-05:002019-12-14T14:13:44-05:00Merry Christmas
<p>I have to stop and say Good Job!! Good Job to the Eugene Field 3rd and 2nd grades for putting on a great show. I was as Proud of you as Santa was Proud of all the Elves.
There was great singing and acting, I hope someday I will see some of you on stage when you are much older.
I also have to say Good Job to all the Eisenhower students for a great Christmas program.
KDG you sang out and look so excited as you sang. It was fun being on stage with you.
4th and 5th, like I said that night you are the greatest. You sing so well and you have so much fun when you perform, you all where great. 1st, 2nd and 3rd put on Proud to Be Elves, you did a wonderful job and everyone looked so good on stage. I was Proud of every one of you, for all your hard work and great talent.
I’m tired now and ready to enjoy my Christmas with my family. Like the song said, We’re Done, We’re Done, It’s time to have some fun!!!!
Merry Christmas to Everyone,
Alan Cunningham</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614152008-12-01T19:00:00-05:002020-09-10T03:09:14-04:00Xmas program week.
<p>This is a busy time. Thursday Eugene Field will have their Christmas program and Monday Ike will have theirs. We are doing the first show I ever wrote, 19 years ago, Proud to Be Elves. Everyone is working real hard and trying to get their lines down for the play part. Songs sound good we just need to fine turn everything but we still have time. Come see the shows if you have the time. Eugene will be at the school at 7:00 p.m. and Ike will be down town and the OMA, also at 7:00. Remember that we need to spread love and joy. It is Christmas time. Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614142008-11-17T19:00:00-05:002021-04-08T06:49:01-04:00Turkey Dinner
<p>It was nice seeing everyone at the High School for Thanksgiving dinner. It is always fun to share my songs. The RV song was nice because I had someone come up to say they lived in an RV for half a year. They had gone to all the places my family went to that first RV trip. It was like living the trip all over again, she said. I love to end with, "Our Love Circle" when I'm with people I love. We are all apart of this Circle called life. I hope we all can live as one. I hope everyone has a peaceful, Thanksgiving, Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614132008-11-03T19:00:00-05:002019-12-14T14:13:44-05:00Eisenhower, Great show!!!!
<p>My 4th and 5th graders at Eisenhower put on a great show last night!! The singing was wonderful and I have to say every one seemed to love the show. I think every one got the idea that we need to vote and today’s the day to do it. I want to let you all know that I am proud of the performance and work that you all did last night.
I also would like to say I enjoyed Saturday sing for the women at O.U. It is always fun to share my songs and I loved the smiles and the nice things that were said afterward. Your work is for a good cause so keep it up. All of you that bought a CD, I hope you get to enjoy sharing it with someone you love. Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614122008-10-28T20:00:00-04:002019-12-14T14:13:44-05:00Great Job!!!!!
<p>Last night my Eugene Field kids had there 4th and 5th grade program. "Vote 2008" There were 13 songs, speaking parts and a skit and it was great!!! Standing ovation, the parents loved you all. I'm very proud of all the hard work and singing from the heart. Great Job!!!</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614112008-10-21T20:00:00-04:002022-01-11T08:48:17-05:00Life is Busy!!
<p>Life is busy right now. Football is a couple of weeks from being over and we have a chance to be playing on in districts.
I had a fun but busy weekend, we did three shows at the Maple Leaf in Baldwin. I saw a lot of kids that were having fun; I think the A2Z song was a big hit. I saw some old friends and an old student of mine that was busy watching his little girl singing and moving along with the songs. Hope to be back there next year.
At school we started having practice for the 4th and 5th grade program, Vote 2008. We will put on the show at Eugene Field Oct. 28th at 7:00 and at Eisenhower Nov. 3rd the night before the big election. The kids have been working hard on songs and learning their lines. It will be a fun and educational program. Hope everyone comes that can.
It’s raining cats and dogs and even cows right now so I’m going to get ready for a cold damp night. Hope everyone is good!!!!! Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614102008-10-05T20:00:00-04:002022-04-26T13:58:43-04:00Eudora, Baldwin, School
<p>I had a great time this weekend singing at Eudora Fest. I saw an old friend and it was good to talk with the people running the festival. We had a cake walk and gave away a lot of goodies. I’m going to be at the Maple Leaf festival in Baldwin in two weeks. I don’t know about the times yet but it will be in the afternoon on Saturday and Sunday. You need to bring the little ones around and we will have fun singing and moving to the music.
At school the 5th and 4th grades are working hard on their program, “Vote 2008.” We are handing out parts and learning all the songs. Eugene Field will be on Tuesday, October 28th and Eisenhower will be on Monday, November the 3rd. Both programs will start at 7:00 p.m.
If you don’t have anyone in the show still free the come watch, it will be fun and it has a good message. Get Out And VOTE!!!!!!!! Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614092008-09-07T20:00:00-04:002022-05-29T00:23:00-04:00What's Going On.?!
<p>Last weekend I sang in Lyndon. It was a fun night and I got to sing many of my songs. All different kinds. The best part was I got to see old friends and students that I hadn't seen in many, many years. It was great seeing their families and we talked about the old times.
I'm singing this weekend at the tractor show in Ottawa. I sing for just a short time but I always have a good time there. My Little Red Tractor song is always a hit. If your there stop by and sing along.
This year school is busy we have started working on the 4th and 5th grade concert. "Vote 2008" A lot of good songs, two are mine. The best part is talking with the students about how important it is to vote. Something that is a right for us all and something that we need to do. The future is to important not to care!!!!
I'm also a football coach this year at West Franklin, the school that Cord goes to and PJ and Tara teach at. When I was a young man just starting out as a teacher, I coached football there. Chuck Lee called me this summer and asks if I would coach with him again. I thought about it for a long time and decided to say yes. Football was what got me to go to Collage, I could catch footballs!! I wouldn’t be here without football and going to Collage, there I studied my one true love, Music!! We won our first game and I would have to say it was fun to see the boys work hard and believe in themselves. Life is busy but good. I hope everyone is doing well and I hope to see you sometime at one of my shows.
Oh yes and I’m going to a B-day party this weekend after I sing, it’s for a good old friend of mine, David Clayton. David and I were Collage roommates and we also played football together. We have been the best of friends for a long, long time. He is turning 50, Happy Birthday. Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614082008-08-13T20:00:00-04:002021-12-11T03:05:35-05:00School time again
<p>Yes,,, we are back in school. Today was the first day with my kids. It was good to see all the smiling faces, new cloths and shoes but the best part was the big smiles. I look forward to the year. We are going to have some great shows. Vote 2008 will be the first with the fourth and fifty grade classes. It will be a lot of work but I know we will be great!!! Out side my door at Eugene Field it says," I believe, that ALL students can fall in Love with MUSIC!!! That's what I believe and it is my job to make it happen. Let's have a great year and sing from the heart!!!! Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614072008-08-04T20:00:00-04:002022-04-19T07:49:46-04:002 Weeks in Colorado
<p>We just got back from our trip to Colorado. We were gone for 2 weeks and had a wonderful time. The whole family went. Tara, Chad, Cord, PJ and I. We took the RV and pulled Chad’s Jeep. Didn’t know about the RV because of the price of gas but went for it anyway. We headed south to the Great Sand Dunes. We took a jeep trail through the sand and we all climbed to the top of the dunes. It was beautiful at sun set and Cord got some great pictures. I will let you see them, just give me some time. After that we headed for the San Juan Mountains. I love the San Juan’s they are the most amazing mountains in Colorado. We stayed just out side of Silverton by a river. It was like when I was a kid, we found a spot pulled in and it was free. I love the sound of water running, it is so soothing. We jeeped for the four days we were there. We did some easy ones for PJ, Tara liked the mines and the history of the area but the one we did that we’ve wanting to do for years was BLACK BEAR into Telluride. It is one of the hardest trails in Colorado and we thought we were ready. When we got to the top we didn’t know if we should go on because the last part is something else. We were about ready to turn around when we met this guy on his motorcycle. He told us we could do it and he would talk us through the gnarly part. He did and we saw some other jeeps and I would have to say it was amazing!!! Looking down over the hood and seeing the town of Telluride like is was a street map. AMAZING!!! After all the crazy fun we went up to the cabin and stayed for 5 days. I wrote a song, worked on the cabin. We took a hike over crag crest trail and just felt the peace. We saw old friends went golfing with Dennis and stayed with PJ’s sister Beth and family, there is always a warm spot in our hearts when we see them. They are the best!! We are home now and it’s time to get ready for real life but it was a great break. Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614062008-07-04T20:00:00-04:002020-11-14T03:47:58-05:002 Fun Shows
<p>In the last 2 weeks I went to 2 towns that start with W.
Wellsville and Waverly, I sang at Wellsville many times over the past years and every time I go there it is a fun place to sing. We had a good crowd, all the kids sang out loud and clear. There were many parents there too. Wellsville isn't to far from my home so it makes a nice trip though the country side. You have a nice town. Waverly is a town I use to go to a lot when I was a kid. I would play ball there in high school and knew a lot of kids my age back in the old days. It was fun to pull into town and look around. The show was the best. Your kids are the best. Singing and just being good. You should be proud. I know there is a lot of pride in Waverly and a lot of orange!!!! Thanks for asking me to be apart of your summer programs, I hope everyone has a great summer!!!!! Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614052008-06-16T20:00:00-04:002021-08-30T05:53:40-04:00Camp Out, June 14th
<p>June 14th is a very special day for me and my wife Phyllis. Well, yes it’s Flag Day but in our family it is also Birthday time. My Mom, Betty June was born on June 14th. When my daughter Tara came into the world, yes it was June 14th but 3 years latter Chad decided to be born on the same June 14th. It is a big day in our home. I should tell you that Cord my last child wasn't born on June 14th; he came into the world almost 4 years latter on May 13th, a month and a day short of everyone else. Now why I said Camp Out is because that night, June 14th I was ask to sing at Fairway's Father and Childs camp out. It was a lot of fun, we sang around the camp fire. Everyone danced and sang, we had a great time. Franzi was there, she was at the Johnson Co. Library show days earlier. She is in Pam's daycare and was the one that knew every word to my songs. It was so much fun to see her again. I think everyone had a good time. I know I did! Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614042008-06-11T20:00:00-04:002021-04-29T05:59:40-04:00Old Friend!!
<p>I had a great start to the week, first I was at Louisburg Library for there summer kick off. There were a lot of kids and parents and we all had a good time. We did have to go indoors because the grass was to wet but in was a fun time. I hope to go back to Louisburg and do that outside show some time soon.
I was also in Johnson County and we did the show in an old junior high. It was a great place to sing and everyone seem to have fun. There were 200 kids and everyone was great. I think I was having as much fun and the kids. Everyone was singing, dancing and laughing. I just have to say thanks for all the fun.
Pam was there with her daycare, it has been sometime since I saw her and her kids, Every time I do it is like seeing an old friend. Pam thanks for everything you do, your kids know every word to all my good old songs. It warms the heart to see kids singing my songs. It was a good day!!! Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614032008-06-02T20:00:00-04:002021-12-18T06:18:02-05:00Fort Scott, Fun Day!!!
<p>Today I had a great day. I went down to Fort Scott for the library show. We had a full house and alot of fun. Some of the greatest kids come to the show at Fort Scott. Smiles, singing and just good old great kids. The Square Metel Tub was alot of fun, 4,6,8 and 10 year olds showed us how to fit into the tub, thanks for the help. Everyone who came up and help lead the show, thanks I couldn't have done it without all your help. Hope to see you again next year. Keep singing, Keep reading and Keep being the great kids that you are!
Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614022008-05-26T20:00:00-04:002019-12-14T14:13:44-05:00Summer is here!!!
<p>Yes it is true. I am a teacher and just like the kids I look forward to the day we can say, " Schools out for Summer." I haven't got as many singing jobs this summer as I have in the past but plan on having a great summer. I think I will trying to get some more shows for the kids around the area. I also have this new CD that I need everone to hear. So if your like me and you get a break, Have a Great Summer. Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614012008-05-08T20:00:00-04:002021-02-08T01:25:34-05:00Great Job!!!!!
<p>To my First and Kindergaten students, I want to say, Great Job!!!!
You put on a wonderful program and I'm so proud of you! It is so much fun making a book come to life and Caroline you are the first, first grader to have ever read the book at our program, YOU WERE GREAT!!! Everyone that came said it was a wonderful show and they all had a good time. Just remember that " Piartes Never Tuck"!!!!!!
Great Job again, Mr.C</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61614002008-05-01T20:00:00-04:002021-10-07T07:59:27-04:00k-1 music program
<p>Last night we were to have our k-1 program, How I Became a Pirate. We were all dressed and ready looking great and then a storm came, right before we started. Everyone was in the hall waiting out the storm. We called it off for the safty of everyone but Monday night the 5th we are going to try it again. The kids are ready, the songs sound great and the set looks good. hope to see you, we start at 7:00.</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61613992008-04-15T20:00:00-04:002022-06-01T21:35:02-04:00Fun Afternoon
<p>I wanted to let everyone know I had a great time singing in Garnett. There were cookies and punch and a lot of smiling faces. I saw some of my old students from Lyndon. They are all grown up now with kids of their own. They told me they remembered some of my songs when they were kids. One of my best friend’s kids was also there, thanks for the help after the show.
I love it when I see kids singing all the words to my songs. Many of them told me they had my first CD and I could tell by the way they were singing it must have been a favorite. Thanks again and I hope to come back soon. Alan</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61613982008-04-03T20:00:00-04:002021-08-26T12:42:20-04:00Kid Show in Garnett
<p>I'm going to be singing in Garnett Kansas, Tuesday, April 15th at 3:30 in the GEC Gym. It is National Library week and Amanda Teal is wanting to have something nice for the libaray. It is nice that she ask me to come. So bring the kids and come have a fun time. I look forward to seeing everyone.</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61613972008-04-03T20:00:00-04:002023-12-10T11:33:14-05:00Gospel Jam Session
<p>Sunday night, April 6th at 6:30, there is going to be another Gospel Jam Session at the First Christian Church, here in Ottawa. I was ask to come sing a few songs, this will be my secound time. It is a great time with alot of good music. I will do a couple songs I've wrote and maybe a praise song or two. If you don't have anthing to do that night come and sing along.</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61613962008-03-09T20:00:00-04:002023-12-10T12:10:53-05:00Franklin Lit. Festival
<p>I've been asked to come share my music with the students of Franklin Co.. I have done this about 5 times now. It is so much fun, the kids enjoy the songs and the stories. I love letting the kids know that writting can come in many forms. Mine is music.</p>
Alan Cunninghamtag:alancunninghamkidsongs.com,2005:Post/61613932008-02-10T19:00:00-05:002023-12-10T11:46:27-05:00Birthday Party
<p>I'm excited. March 2nd is my 50th birthday so lets put on a show. I'm playing many songs that hasn't been heard or at least in a long time. Country, Rock, Folk, Kids, Christan its all there. Friends are coming to play it should be a good time. Love to have you there. Alan</p>
Alan Cunningham