I am anticipating an exciting February and March creatively, one day at a time. Some unique arrangements are in formation of some of the most wonderful classical and hymn melodies. All of this is in preparation for April, when I will be working with Grammy winning producer Will Ackerman on our 4th album together. Whatever I am looking ahead to in the future, I have to remember to live in the moment, to make the most of each day, to be thankful. Making music (i.e. serving others in love) is a life theme that applies to all areas, not just the literal sense of creating melodies on the piano.

This past week started with an amazing “An Evening of Peace” concert at Quest Church in Augusta, GA, followed by a visit to the Joseph Still Burn Center there where Music to Light the World donated 75 “Get Music Give Hope” CDs to touch patients and their families. There were other good things . . . family memories/activities, our first Music to Light the World board meeting of the New Year, and some exercise. There were frustrations . . . like a broken microwave oven and computer problems that haven’t been fixed yet. In looking back on this “week of peace,” the “peace that passes all understanding” is a gift that can only be realized on the inside, and that can be realized in spite of circumstances.

In the past 24 hours a beautiful new melody surfaced at the piano.  So, early this morning I was playing it over and over to get it into my memory.  Then, even though I am fighting a cold, I fit in a short aerobic and strength workout.  Following this, I got my hands dirty replacing a car battery, and now am working to book some concerts for 2011.  I have been growing in embracing the “zigs and zags” of life instead of being frustrated by them. So, I surrender the rest of this day.  A day that started out with new music and a car battery!