Endorphins!

This week has been full of self actualizations, and tonight was a highlight. I love exercising and people that share that commonality. It is a bit of a necessity to me. I stopped by a friend's bicycle shop to say hi, and before I knew it I was borrowing clothes, a bike, and headed out on a critical mass ride in Charleston. The 15 or so miles had me a little concerned, but I was sure I could handle the rest. Turns out it was the most relaxing thing I have done in a good while. We left North Charleston and did some road riding until we hit the boulevard then we rode around the city, picking up bikers at different stops and parading through town. It was a great time and great exercise. For a half time break we headed to Tricky Fish for some food and socializing. I met some absolutely incredible and connected people. We finished up our ride back at Company Bicycle and then Adam, the owner, gave me a great guitar lesson. Exercise, good food, great company, and music -- honestly, I'm not sure there was anything I needed more tonight. If I am back in town, I will definitely hit up another critical mass ride and hope I see some of the same people. The rides are in every big city so check the site for one close to you. With so many endorphins going, how could it not be a completely positive experience?

New friends

Comin' out of the dark...

Alright, so I know I have basically been in hiding for two months. I'm not sure exactly why, but I guess I haven't been too happy with life and didn't exactly realize it. I spent the rest of August wrapping up Jenny Wiley then to the beach with my family (which was loads of fun). After that I headed to Nashville for a gig which didn't quite work out because of company financial difficulties during this economic time so I've been at home for the past two weeks and have one more before I head to my next gig in Wisconsin.

Home is always a bittersweet time for me because it signifies transition. This is where I go before I start something new, and unfortunately, I haven't learned how to rest in order to prepare for what is next. The older I get the more I cling to the familar and hesitate toward the unknown; perhaps, it's because my life is comprised of so few familars. My life is constantly new places, new people, new skills, and rarely do I find a recognizable comfort zone. I've a notion that it is not yet time for my comfort zone, but I do believe it is not too far away. Chasing a dream is the path I've chosen and while the journey is often wearisome and discouraging, I do believe the transformations that occur along the way may be just as important as the dream's fulfillment.

When times gets tough, hold on to hope --" in the hearts of men, it lives on lean pasture".
Tristan and Isolde

p.s. Thank you Tara and DJ for being there -- ups and downs :) I'm not sure what I would do without both of you in my life. Someday I hope you meet because you're made of the same stuff.