Another long lapse since last checking in. Will try to do better. Not like I've been sitting on my hands, though (which would never work). (Oops) I did it again, and accepted the position of Musical Director for the fall (contemporary - as opposed to the spring "classic") musical at Church Hill Theatre. Auditions ended Tuesday evening, but casting was not resolved until this morning. We will all have a challenge on our hands for this one, (and perhaps) especially me, as this is the rare (and before last year's production, virtually non-existent) "reading" gig. Feeling a little less overwhelmed about this one, but still will be putting in many hours of prep. My reading chops are far from where they should be, as all the eggs rolled to the improv side of my basket. The good part of that is the acknowledgment of weakness, and the recognition of strength. I can work to strengthen the weakness, while also getting deeper into where my specific gifts are. Recent gigging has been nothing short of awesome. Nonetheless, I am continually humbled by (even more) awesome possibilities. Watched a bunch of YouTube jazz video with Robbie the other night (who is now a big fan of McCoy Tyner, and Marcus Roberts, among others). Humbled and inspired. Practice, practice, practice.

I did it again (or, more accurately, didn't). Nearly 2 weeks since my last post. Guess I've been busy :) I'm sure any reasonable observer (knowing all the details) would advise that I am involved in too many "projects" - but who (among the productive) isn't. Still gigging most every day - not shown on the schedule as they are almost all private/corporate. Most of my promotional energy is (and has been) spent on creating public concert opportunities (like the Mainstay concert in October). If I allowed myself (and sometimes I fail in the restraint), it could get a little frustrating that more dates aren't finalized. Right now a number of public events are stuck in the cattle-shoot. The gigs will happen, but (typically) won't "close" until after (or late) Summer. Just keep plugging, and eventually everything will fall into place. Busyness includes, of course, the household "chores". For me this includes much of the cooking and food shopping (by choice - I like it). Occasionally I have a little fun filling up a shopping cart at the Dollar Tree (yes - a dollar store - check it out). Carol and I watch the "Clark Howard Show" (money management guru-type) on HLN each week. Clark would be impressed :)