Vocal Rest

I'm putting myself on vocal rest for a couple of days.  A lot has been happening.  I'm singing next Saturday with PIVO, a new jazz group I'm a part of.  Check it out on my Upcoming Gigs page.  Lots of singing lately, and it's time to slow down.

I'm learning to be more content with the less busy times of life.  I have been trained value busyness more than relaxation.  But one isn't better than the other.  I tend to feel restless and anxious when gliding smoothly through life, as though I need to always be tackling a new stretch of whitewater.  I'm pretty sure most people would drown if they paddled down rivers without any breaks from the rapids.  Not appealing. 

I need time to assess my creative endeavors, my relationships, and my work.  The silences are critical to growing a greater understanding of myself, my life, and the world.  It's time to take a step back and enjoy all the gifts I've been given, including those I have done nothing to achieve.  I can sit and be content, enjoying the sun, the cool breeze, or a day without any commitments or duties.  I can give a friend a call or just lay on my living room carpet, thinking and smiling.  Will the world come crashing down?  I think not. 

I've learned that I always eventually get up from a period of rest and pursue something new.  I enjoy achieving goals, and I enjoy rest, too.  The fear that I will sink into idle stagnation is an unfounded lie.  I can and do trust myself more and more each day.  I trust myself to enjoy all the different feelings and parts of life. 

The quiet times are the best times to hear new songs...

Short and Sweet

I realize that my posts have been incredibly infrequent and short lately, but that’s what happens when life gets busy. Music, recovery, love, life… I’m growing in multiple areas. If you were hoping for a long, detailed entry about my latest exploits, unfortunately, I still lack the time to provide it. But I will tell you where I’ll be playing this Friday at 6pm: Craft Salon!

PROW Houston is putting on a major shindig called Heart of Texas. There’s a $20 door fee, but inside you’ll find local food, local art, wine, and a silent auction—all benefitting three local charities: R3, New Spring, and the Museum of Cultural Arts Houston (MOCAH).

It’s a great way to support good things in Houston. Learn more about it on my Upcoming Gigs page. Or at the Facebook event: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=143097409067867.

Since I rarely get to catch up with you this way, I hope to see you there. Perhaps soon, my buzzing thoughts will make their way onto the computer screen. Until then, keep loving!

Opening for Jennifer Grassman on October 23!

Visit my Upcoming Gigs page for more information. 

Jennifer Grassman has kindly asked me to open for her at the Artery on October 23.  It is an amazing location, and we will be shooting videos that will be posted all over the Web for your viewing pleasure.  Jennifer is a truly special talent.  This event reminds me how important creative connections can be and how inspiring it has been to work with so many talented individuals over the last few months.  Hope to see you at the Artery!

Stay Tuned...

I haven't disappeared!  I'm just very busy working on lots of new projects.  New songs are in the pipeline as well as some adventures in recording.  I've also joined a new jazz ensemble that will be debuting this fall.  It's all exciting, and you will get to hear about it... when I have a moment to breathe! 

Until then, stay centered, take a few minutes for yourself to just DO NOTHING, and then smile.  Life isn't that big a deal.  It's fun.  Believe me, I now know, it really is.  I'm not always at the top of my game, and my anxiety still runs quite high.  But I have enough experience under my belt to keep on going even when it gets tough.  I hope you do the same.

I have many friends to thank for the progress that has been made this year.  I can't ever do it alone, and I am grateful for all of you out there supporting me.  I'll play you a song anytime... paid or not ;)

Pie in the Sky

Thank you to everyone who came out last Saturday to Pie in the Sky Pie Co. to celebrate White Linen Night in the Heights.  It was such a blast!  Many, many people came out, and everyone seemed to be having a great time.  I am particularly grateful that I was able to set up inside!  Hot stuff... and I'm not just talking about me. 

Anyway, I can't wait to see you for the next one.  It was a very uplifting experience.  Here's to more fun times!