Facing a new year often provides excitement with a little trepidation of what the new year may bring.   I always look forward to this time of year, anticipating the new joys and sorrows of living another year.  This year I find myself in an “unplanned” place – recovering from surgery and unable to play my handbells.  It has been a difficult spot for me to occupy.  Making music breathes new life into my soul.  Even when I am learning new music, which is often stressful and tedious, the music making nourishes me.  I miss that nourishment.  I am uncomfortable in my cast.  I am tired.   I can’t drive.  Heck, I can’t even tie my own shoes!  (we won’t talk about all the other things I can’t do at the moment!).  And I miss the bells.  I am trying hard to “rest” in this place.  Remember how I mentioned the importance of “rests” in music in my last blog?  I’m finding it quite difficult.  I don’t know how to “rest.”  I live my life at a hectic pace, and I’ve been slowed to a near stop with this injury.   So how does one go from 90 mph to a slow, leisurely pace?  I am working hard at being in the moment.  I’m enjoying the extra  time I have with my husband.  I’m sitting outside and enjoying our beautiful weather.  And I’m thinking about the music I will be able to play when I have recovered. I am preparing myself for the hard work I know is ahead of me when all the hardware is removed from my thumb.  It will be worth it.  I will be ready.  I want my music back.

I wish all of you a happy and safe New Year!