I am still in a strange place as I try to process what is happening to Dan since his early stage Alzheimer’s diagnosis. He begins the clinical trial at UAB soon after one more test. He is in good spirits most of the time about it all- but that’s my Dan; always doing his best … More Dreams in Pieces
I am still finding it really difficult to write. Countless posts have ended up in the drafts folder, languishing. My mind is too jumbled, my heart too heavy. We all have our periods of challenge and heartache at some time or another, and I am no different. I know how much writing helps me calm … More On the Little Things Lost
(This blog should have been published weeks ago, but- life. I am determined to getting back to regular posting, so please bear with me.) Have you ever had a holiday where you thought, “Dear Lord, we could write a country song about this one!” I’m just going to be honest; this holiday has been a … More Better Late Than Never: Have Yourself a Messy Little Christmas
I am in a pretty dark place today and I’m not quite sure how to shake it. We had over an hour meeting via Zoom with Dan’s neurology team, followed by Dan doing 2 1/2 hours of cognitive testing. The poor guy was exhausted after all of that, so we went out to enjoy a … More Navigating the Unknown
My best friend and duo partner, Diane, and I have been traveling together to rehearse and perform for many of our almost forty years of friendship. Right now we are in the mountains of western North Carolina, enjoying a lovely cabin as we celebrate the end of Diane’s third battle with cancer, rehearse for our … More On the Aging Clarinetist
I swore to myself that I would write and post something last weekend and the weekend before that…but it didn’t happen. I have begun so many posts that fizzled or languished away in my drafts folder because either my brain freezes up or I am totally focused on the myriad responsibilities, deadlines, performances, and whatever … More On Silver Threads and New Beginnings
Today is my 59th trip around the sun. It’s actually been one of the loveliest birthdays that I can recall; gentle, peaceful, fun, and filled with love. I am reminded again and again how fortunate I am to have a wealth of wonderful folks in my life. It truly is humbling as I receive messages … More Birthdays in the Here and Now
I am curled up on the couch with Marley this Christmas Eve, Dan in his chair next to the fireplace. We’ve turned off the television and are enjoying the festive lights and relative quiet here in our Southside, Birmingham, neighborhood (other than the occasional fireworks). The comforting hiss of the gas fireplace accompanying the blessed … More Missing Pieces
I’m lying in bed listening to one of the wonderful sleep mixes Dan has put together for us. The view is crystal clear after last night’s storm blew away most of the remaining leaves. Marley is snoring between us and the fluffy comforter feels wonderful on this chilly night in Birmingham. Along with listening to … More On Medicinal Escapes: Part I
Hi I felt it so clearly a few days ago as I sat in the quiet of my studio between lessons; a heavy wet blanket settled over me from my head to my feet, leaving me feeling weighted down both physically and mentally. Depression. I know this feeling well and it always follows on the … More On Wet Blankets and Bright Spots
The View from Here 