Earlier in the week, I got a call to work for two days on the NBC soap Passions. I've worked on the show before and really enjoyed it. Super nice cast and crew. Unfortunately, they needed me for both Thursday (today) and Friday. I had a conflict and wouldn't have been able to report to the set until 10am or so on Thursday. It probably would have been okay but shooting schedules can shift at the last minute. I had to pass.

What was the conflict? You see, my daughter graduated from her elementary school today. Seven years in one school. The longest she'll ever stay in one school. My wife and I have watched her and her classmates grow through the years and have each volunteered many hours of our time there. We taught art appreciation for a couple years, directed the variety show, helped at events, and much more. My daughter has volunteered, performed and has been on student council for three years -- and was the president this year. On top of that, she was asked to sing at the opening of the ceremony. I had to be there. No question.

In many ways it has felt like it was time to move on from this school. Several teachers and staffers we have known over the years moved to another school. Several families have left or moved. My daughter's grown in so many ways and, well, she's just ready. I really didn't think that it would affect me but I was wrong.

As I sat there taping the ceremony, watching these kids who I've watched grow, and then walking through the halls for one of the last times, I was hit by a flood of emotions and sentimental memories. Change is a part of life and especially in an acting career. I've gotten used to it to a large extent but sometimes, whew! It just hits you like a ton of bricks. This is one of those times.

I also just learned that a good friend of mine will be moving in the next month or two. I'll still see him or talk to him on a semi-regular basis I'm guessing that isn't helping my mood very much.

On the upside, I left the graduation ceremony and drove down to LA and the "Casting Cafe" for an ESPN commercial audition. It's my first audition through my new agent. I got there in plenty of time and was one of the first in the room. I did a bit of light improv as one of three businessmen in an elevator. Very simple stuff and we got some chuckles from the casting folks.

When I was done, I hopped in the car and headed back north. For some reason, I really felt like being close to family and home.

Afterthought: My daughter, by the way, is okay with saying goodbye to her "alma mater" and is really looking forward to attending her new school. She also had the pleasure of auditioning for an upcoming Al Pacino-directed project. She was "typed out" because of her age but got to meet Al himself. Pretty cool couple of days.

I really enjoyed reading this particular post. How proud you must be of your little girl!