Gratitude List

I thought that before I draft up the New Years list for tomorrow (and it is already in ink), that I should take a few short seconds to reflect back on this year. We are always in such a hurry to move forward, that I am learning it is helpful to stay in the same spot for a short while and take a look around. I would say this has been a good habit for me to grasp the past year. Here are some milestones; some huge and others just a wee stirring.

Macy's Parade with the Madison Scouts - obviously a HUGE highlight and bucket list item in so many ways. I always regretted that I had to leave before my age-out year. I have stayed close to members and the activity, but it was a personal gift to re-enter the ranks and recreate the magic in such a huge way. The bonding, the work ethic and the adrenaline rush of icy cold New York with Balloons and Santa. I have seen many parades in my life, but this was tops.

New York with Jeff - we have had small getaways to Duluth or Des Moines. But in all our time we have never had the adventure of a real whirlwind vacation. This was great life lessons, sightseeing and company.

Waylon - all dogs are great companions. But this one is truly the best I have ever the pleasure of sharing in my life. What a playmate and sweet soul and I never tire of the morning ritual of wet kisses to wake me up.

My Summer Garden - each year there are the inevitable sad losses that a Minnesota winter can bring. This year it was my two gorgeous trees that I had planted in my 1st years here. But the seasons also bring the colors of old friends back and the addition of new ones. I can never spend too much time in the warm sun watching the flowers change from day to day.

the Firepit and Sunsets at Lake Calhoun - There is something about dusk, the bright colors of the sun on the horizon and water. I spend many a night just sitting on the grass taking it in. Or starting an evening fire and toasting up a marshmallow with a glass of red wine. Definitely a summer boy.

Harvest trip to Erie with Class reunion - I think I love getting home to see family most of all in the late Fall. The trees ablaze, the smell of grapes being harvested and apples all around. There is never enough time. But I was very fortunate to reconnect with old friends and spend quality time with family across many miles.

Summer Drum Corps and Winter Guard - I can't believe that 40 years later, I am still involved in this crazy activity that few really understand yet it gives me such joy. The sound of a wall of brass on a field or the soaring of a beautiful flag to the right piece of music. And that I get to judge this is amazing; that I am often the best seat in the house. I truly love the great things that continue to happen and emerge.


my Cabaret work - this had been a vow of mine a few years back. I don't know that I have retired from stage work, but have certainly been on hiatus. But the cabaret work I do with TCCAN has given me the home I have been seeking and the opportunity to become the artist I always wanted to be. I can spend hours digging up a lost piece of music, working on an arrangement or listening to obtuse recordings hoping to find a gem. And then I get to sing and share it with others. Look for much more to come on this front in 2015.