Cavalia's Odysseo in Scottsdale through Jan. 13

I love seeing beautifully choreographed shows. It's one reason I love going to Vegas - tons of beautiful costumes, soothing music, amazing acrobatics, etc.

Lucky for me, I got a chance to preview Cavalia's new show, Odysseo. I only saw select scenes, and it's gorgeous.

Odysseo features equestrian arts and acrobatics on a high-tech theatrical stage that includes a working carousel and an 80,000-gallon lake. I'll let some pictures show you what to expect.

My daughter's mouth was agape almost the entire preview. Many amazing riding tricks, gorgeous costumes and athleticism. The set was beautiful. Now the big screen could be amazing, but at times the video seemed too grainy. Still, you felt transported to a beautiful place.

This obviously isn't for everyone. The music is mellow, and if you don't like horses or acrobatics, well... But if you like theatrical experiences, this was a beautiful one.

Ticket prices range from $29.50-$149.50. The theater, under a huge 10-story white tent, is cozy. Even those cheaper, high-up seats aren't that far away from the action. That's good news if ticket costs are an issue. Taking a family can be expensive, especially if you go for a VIP package. But if you are looking for a memory rather than a gadget for Christmas, this could be a nice family outing. Click link for Cavalia's Odysseo show info & tickets.

Drillmaster me fails every time

I chose to quit a very full-time job a few months ago partly so I could be on top of my son's school work. High school grades matter, and my fear is my inattention because of work would mean he'd never go to college. Crazy? Maybe. It's my fear.

So I've been on top of him this past quarter. He gets work done, hating every moment. At least it seems that way. He especially loves when I ask, "Can you explain this to me?" and "Where's your work?" This means writing more sentences or showing how he solves math problems. Short answers don't seem good in high school, and right answers don't mean you get points. Work matters. He looks at me incredulously every time. "But it's the right answer!"

His grades, sadly, are just marginally better than when I was working and glancing to see if he was doing homework. Why? Well, he still doesn't show work. Grr! And he doesn't always turn in homework. What!? Yes, all that frustration over doing it, and yet sometimes he doesn't turn it in. That baffles me. Why do it if you don't get a grade for it? Maybe a good night's sleep makes him forget the crazy mom puts him through to get homework done.

He's a teen. I know they aren't always organized. I'm hoping it gets better. Drillmaster me isn't exactly working.