Surgery Recovery

I finally got my long-anticipated sinus surgery on July 20th.  Everything went well and I'm recovering as expected.  My sore throat (I was intubated while under general anesthesia) has disappeared and now I'm dealing exclusively with the sinus pressure from the packing and swelling as I heal.

Interesting side-note: I met with the anesthesiologist before the surgery and he asked me the normal questions about allergies and underlying medical conditions. In passing, I mentioned that I was a singer, which prompted him to assure me that they would use a smaller tube when they intubated me.  I was taken aback because I didn't even know that was an option.  So, to any singers getting surgery, be sure to mention your profession!  I admit I was a little nervous about the intubation in the first place, but didn't realize they could do anything differently.  I have learned my lesson and will now make it a point to mention that I'm a singer whenever seeing a new doctor.  When your body is your instrument, there's no telling what complications can arise that could put you out of work.

Attempted Improvements

We set up the sound system to record the funeral this morning to aid me in my attempt to get some updated sample tracks to use for this website.  Something went wonky and it only picked up my microphone and not the instrument mic that was setup to record the piano and organ.  So, if anyone wants to hear my a cappella version of On Eagles Wings... (you really don't).

We'll do better next time.

In the meantime, I need to sit down and actually order those business cards that I keep telling myself I need to get.  Maybe next time someone compliments me on my performance, I can casually slip them a business card.  Girl's gotta make a living, right?  Need to be careful of appropriate business-card-giving moments.  After a funeral? Probably not.  Working with a new accompanist?  Definitely!

I think the trick to getting jobs in this business is referrals.  I mean, we all want to work with people we know, and barring that, we want to work with people whom the people we know know, you know?

Hope you are all enjoying your summer!

Blessed

After Mass today, a parishioner approached me, squeezed my hand, and said, "Hun, let me tell you... Hearing your voice was the most wonderful thing I've ever heard in my life." She looked like she'd had a long life.

Once again I'm reminded just how blessed I am to have this talent and what a privilege it is to be able to share it with others and bring them joy. While I'd like to be able to make a living by singing and performing, this is ultimately why I do what I do. This is what brings me life.

May we all find renewed joy in our artistic endeavors.