Smooth as Sand

I've had some rough days this fall.  Lots of people I love struggling with their health.  Cancer sucks.  My feelings of inadequacy sometimes get the best of me.  My family lost 2 dear friends within a week.  First we lost Matt up in Chicago.  It just won't be the same when we visit the Rajskis.  Today, we lost Pat Mellon.  She's one of my mom's oldest and dearest friends.  Growing up, she was my other mother. 

The good news is - I just found out I had a student make all-state choir for the second year in a row! 

So with the smooth and the rough, I'll keep getting up, trying my best and looking for the positive.

Strings and more strings

Just got home from my first violin lesson.  I decided this summer I was going to learn and try new things.  Perfect timing when a friend posted on face book offering adult violin lessons.  For my birthday, my mom gave me my great grandfather's violin.  We think that he made the violin and that it's @100 years old.  It has a beautiful, warm tone and I couldn't be more thrilled.  :-)

Today, my new ukulele was delivered.  Sean ordered me an Oscar Schmidt Koa uke for my birthday.  It's lovely!  Again, warm tone.  When Sean played it he commented on how happy it sounded... perfect!

Now, there are a few more things on my list to do this summer.  In summers past, I have played in the community band and done summer theater.  As much as I've enjoyed both of those activities, I decided not to do either this year.  I need a break from the band people and I'm not in the mood for the crazy that comes with the theater.  So instead, I'm doing the violin and starting an exercise program.  I figure instead of memorizing lines, I can put one foot in front of the other. 

And, go...

Straight Ones!

Ethan received straight ones for his tuba solo today at state contest!  I'm SO proud of his hard work and determination!

Superior

Concert Choir received straight one ratings at state contest.  I'm so proud of the one in sight reading!  Chamber Choir also received a one rating.  I picked a very difficult piece Soneto de la Noche and have worried since January about the score.  My kids never cease to amaze me though.  They rise to the occasion every time!

Almost Forgot

Some things I almost forgot from last year...

Changed churches.
Aidan got baptized.
Ethan got his license.
Had my first student make All-State Choir!
Had a wonderful Christmas minus the illness(es).

New Year

Here I am at the start of a new year.  After being sick for all of Christmas break, I'm looking forward to feeling better.

This is the year I will turn 50.  I am dreading all the over the hill jokes, age jokes, etc...

Just read a great idea about making resolutions.  Instead of a year list, make a monthly list.  So for this month, I will bring a healthy lunch and drink more water everyday. 

Alex is moving out today.  I'm excited for him to start this new chapter.  He's moving in with Bryant who he has been friends with through thick and thin. He is still dating Taran and after spending Thanksgiving with her, I'm glad they found each other.  She's got a good head on her shoulders and is someone I could see him with for a long time.  Hopefully this will be the year Alex starts school again.  Can't wait to see where this year takes him.

Ethan will be 17 in four days.  Can't stop shaking my head and wondering where the time has gone.  With him, I've spent most of it in the car driving to practices and lessons.  He's happy, healthy and makes good decisions.  Can't ask for more.

Aidan is seeming to love high school and has made many new friends.  It's a joy to see him be happy and hear him laugh.  He's still a puzzle to me and I look forward to watching him grow and see who he is.

Sean is getting ready to start his last class for his MBA.  I'm proud of how hard he's worked and all the while gotten a promotion and new position which he loves.  He's terribly worried about money and I just keep telling him it will all be ok....

Barkley was sick at the beginning of break with an ear infection but he's back to his usual tricks now.  He brings so much joy and happiness to our whole family.  He is the perfect dog for us.

Here's to a great year.