So with my new found freedom, I discovered a whole new way to find time for doing music more… play first, and work later! It’s not usually the way I work, but for this one week, I’ve done it that way, and it’s been SOOOO much fun! I’ve actually found that if I spend the first 2 hours playing (I’ve been playing piano, guitar, and writing some songs) by then, I’ve had enough time for myself, that I don’t mind spending some time cleaning my house, or working with my kids on their homework, running errands, etc. I don’t know if I can keep this up, but it’s been a lot of fun.
I found a really great website that had some great finger picking exercises. If you want to see, it’s at: http://guitarfingerpicking.tripod.com/ I printed off all of the exercises and I’ve been playing every day. My fingers have huge callouses now, and don’t hurt too much anymore. (That’s when I know I need to stop.) At any rate, it’s been a lot of fun.
I’m working on writing 3 songs right now. I’m also thinking about finishing up my quilt. Yes, it’s the one I showed you. I finished the top, but then I never added the back and batting. I was going to sew it with the sewing machine, but after starting it that way, I’ve decided just to tie it. I’ve learned how to do that at Relief Society meetings. I know how to tie a quilt, I’m just not sure how people finish the edges. Maybe someone can show me.
At any rate, I’m having fun. I’m getting together with some friends this weekend, and we’re going to sing and play some music. The other thing I realized this morning, is that I have an opportunity to sing (and in harmony!) every morning with my family! Right before we read our scriptures, we sing a hymn together. This morning we sang my arrangement of “The Spirit of God”. My family loves it and it’s so cool to hear the harmony. (We just sing the first verse in two parts). I’ve decided I can enjoy singing harmony, now, in my own home. Maybe I’ll even have to make another arrangement of a hymn that has 3 parts harmony. “Scatter Sunshine” would be fun.
I’m learning that making my dreams happen, is really just about how I look at my priorities, my attitude, and making things I HAVE to do, into things I LOVE doing!
Hope you’re all having a great week. (I am!)