Things have been interesting. My huge synchronicity for the week is that 2 of my aunts went to take care of my cousin and her family - she and her husband are both going through health problems and have 2 girls under the age of 4. The one aunt (we call her Auntie Mame :-) asked me to house and dog sit, right across the street from my parents. Perfect - I have the time and space to practice, even though she has no piano (gee, we could do a parody there - “Yes, we have no pianos......) It’s just been the jumpstart I need to use the lesson tapes more rather than just my written notes. So I’ve had a week and a half of quiet rehearsal time unless the dog needs to go out. A very nice Artist’s Date to boot. And if I have a show or get a subbing job, my parents are both retired and have no problem with taking care of her.

To address the question at the beginning of the assignment - yes, I do get jealous of other singers - especially if they *always* get precast in shows, so the auditions around here tend to be a big joke. (I don’t mind doing chorus, but I’d like other opportunities as well!) I’ve pretty much become used to dealing with it and just focus on the opera end of things. I really need this week’s readings.

I covered “doing it badly” in our last opera outreach (yesterday). We were singing the final song - its completely strophic - and got caught somewhere in the 3rd verse and couldn’t find our way out. Fortunately the baritone has done over 150 performances and just jumped in with the last few phrases and got us out of it.

As I already mentioned in the goals, my major issue is the weight. So I exercise. And count points.

I’m not surprised about my lack of progress this week. 5 morning pages and only a few exercises, but I will be going back to pick those up as I have time (namely the financial notebook - I find it no small coincidence that I have next to no money at the end of this week. I suppose that means I have nowhere to go but up and have a fresh slate.)

Other synchronicity: I found out about 2 masterclasses in the area, including one at a major festival near here that should be good exposure. So there’s another project for this week. Also about an audition for Guys and Dolls that’s just a one weekend deal for a community theater group, but I’ve been dying to play Sarah.

Creative luxury: “The Works” at a nearby car wash for my poor heap, rather than me doing it. A car wash always gives me a pick me up!