1. How often does one get to flashback to the past? Not much, besides in memories and pictures one holds. Through encouragement from my sister, who of which still doesn’t think she did any whatsoever, I went back to my hometown for an alumni band football game. I know, I know. You are now thinking—wow you are a geek! That’s ok, I am glad to say I was in the band in high school. I thought it would be really weird going back, but the only weird part was the initial awkward walking into a school that no longer is what I remember. I do mean this literally; it was partially torn down and re-built/modeled.
How long does it take for someone to forget how to play their instrument? Well, I can tell you one thing—Mandi (my sister) and I were both struggling!! Let’s not even talk about memorizing the music! It’s funny how a simple thing of forgetting notes makes you realize how old you are or how fast time flies by!
Highlights of this highlight?
a. getting sun burnt in October, first time of the year
b. alum playing a kazoo instead of a clarinet, and insisting on reading music (alumni band directors’ response? “that’s more effort than you did in high school!”)
c. just plain fun. Make it happen if you get the chance
2. I have a lot of respect for runners, especially ones who just pick it up out of thin air.
Shawn decided one day to run a half marathon. It was a real encouragement to see his perseverance in accomplishing his goal. By setting this goal, he also allowed his dad to pursue a similar goal. It was really awesome to see both of them run the race and to see what they could actually do when pushing themselves. Congrats!
3. I joined a choir! It’s very non-traditional and unique, though. Picture flexible practices, backwards rules, and only a few are asked to perform at a time. Confused yet? The choir is for hospice patients. It consists of many members, but only groups of three go out when asked. The patient is usually in a fragile state, so singing is very different. Singing has a very soft way to it, no projection, no diction. The singing is more focused on blending and harmonizing, since it is all acapella. Songs are short and repetitive. Words are nice, but the focus is more on the tune. Think of a calm peaceful state and what music keeps you there. It is definitely a change from my years of vocal training, but I like the new challenge because it is keeping me on my toes to learn something new.
