What was I thinking?

Last Monday night Kevin gave a great FHE lesson on setting S.M.A.R.T. goals. S - specific, M - measurable, A - attainable, R - realistic, T - timed. As he was sharing his lesson the piano was in plain sight and I knew my goal needed to be regaining the skills I have lost by not playing consistently over the last 18 months. I have always wanted to play the piano but had never felt like I had the time and being an adult I thought it was too late to learn. Then my dad inspired me by starting to take lessons in his 60's. If he could do it then I could do it. I found a teacher and have taken lessons off and on over the last 10 years. I had gotten to a point where I was actually playing songs that I once thought were impossible. I'd look at the music and think "really?" there are way too many notes stacked up there for me to figure out, but I was getting there. Then home school arrived and piano went by the wayside. Over the last couple of months I have felt like it was time to get back at it but had not done anything about it. After Kevin's lesson I made a commitment to myself that I would get started. The next morning I opened an email from a friend who has a holiday music party every December at her home. She invites family and friends to share their talents and have a fun evening of socializing and sharing in their love of music. Under the influence of Kevin's lesson I sent her a reply committing to play a song at the party. I know that I have a fear of playing in public and felt I needed to challenge myself to overcome that fear so I replied while I was still thinking about the lesson and before I could talk myself out of it. Playing at the party would fulfill most of the criteria - it makes the goal specific, measurable, and timed. The question is, is it realistic and attainable? I have not played in public because I don't have the confidence that I can do it without panicking and hitting the wrong keys. It is now Saturday and I have practiced everyday but I find myself wondering more each day - "What on earth was I thinking?"

Best way to start the day

I just got home from the most amazing seminary morningside. The topic was scripture study and the speakers were the students. 7 students had been asked to share an experience when reading the scriptures had helped them or made a difference in their lives, then the meeting was opened to the rest of the students to bear their testimonies. It was one of the most spiritual meetings I have ever been to. I am so grateful to be a part of seminary and to spend my mornings with these youth.

Super Ty!

Aren't his glasses supposed to come off in the phone booth?

Favorite Pictures from Alaska