I am in need of a new post, and was trying to brainstorm a concise topic for today. I couldn’t think of one.  So instead of a long-winded post on one possibly meaningless theme, welcome to what my journal looks like… snippets of whatever is on my brain at that moment.

My week started out sad. I heard of the Uganda bombings in Kampala, and immediately felt intense sadness for this country so near and dear to my heart. Luckily, before I ever saw the headline, a dear friend from Kampala posted a Facebook status update that they were all fine (all meaning my sweet kids from tour and dear aunties and uncles) so my mind could be at ease. However, I still felt mopey all day. I hate the fact that bad stuff keeps happening to them, and the fact that so many people I love so much are constantly in danger. I hate feeling helpless so many thousands of miles away. Plus, I received news later that day that an American was killed. I didn’t know him, but he had a Tallahassee connection, and I know his girlfriend’s sister, who is now in Uganda on a mission trip. It made it hit even closer. Lord, please protect and watch over Uganda.

I’m continuing to work through the book, The Creative Call. It’s been a good book to work through, and has encouraged me to continue to seek out the creative person that I know is nestled inside me. With exercises like writing your favorite words, or your favorite anything (people, places, or things), it’s really helped to get my mind moving and thinking about creative things. I’m at the point in the book where she encourages you to start practicing your art. Luckily, I do have the chance to use my music in my job, but I’ve realized how much I have slacked on practicing it. As a result, I think my range has suffered, as well as technical stuff like breath support. So yesterday, I came home and fired up our free keyboard to do a little vocalizing. I even tuned up my guitar and played through a song while I sang. It did feel good to use my talent and refine it. Now if I can just keep up with it.

I am proud of myself in that I continue to do yoga every morning. Some days I push myself more than others; some days I just get up and get a good stretch. Today I pushed myself and did one more sun salutation. I have definitely seen some improvements, one of which being the refined muscles in my arms. The other night I tried a new video on the Yogatic website, called Somatics. It was a slow sequence, focusing on breathing and relaxation. They’re aimed at helping you release tension throughout your body and relieve pain. It worked! I had a slight pain in my back when I started and by the time I was done, it was all gone. Too cool.

I want to plant a flower bed in front of my house where there is currently a rock garden. I don’t know where to start, or if I even have enough money to buy flowers. Hopefully soon…

Drew is heading out this weekend for a business trip. I wish I could go with him. He assures me he will be working the whole time and there would be no time for fun. But getting away always sounds fun, even if it just might be hanging out at the hotel reading a book.