The end of April still reminds me of the end of the school year, but this year, instead of wrapping things up, I’m kicking it into high gear. I’m not used to this kind of pace, having so many things to do, so much responsibility. I’m doing my best to handle it with grace, but every day is a different challenge, and I’m very wary of overdoing it. I do not want to burn out. I want to keep my sanity and my sense of humour. Stamina is my keyword this year. I’ve got to pace myself. Work when it’s time to work. Rest when it’s time to rest.
I’m deep in preparations for the Market, which opens in 3 weeks. I’m finding myself relying on so much of my life experience and challenges from the past, from working at Red Robin, to volunteering at Walterdale Theatre, and of course running the ONEcard program at UAlberta. Add to that some flavour from spending half my life in small towns, and the other half travelling and living in a city – it’s all relevant. But the biggest thing is communication. The good news is: I’ve think I’ve got what it takes. The bad news is: it’s a LOT.
So, April. I started out by re-organizing my work/studio space, and I’m really glad I did because I’m spending a lot more time in here now. It is truly a privilege to have a “Room of one’s own” and I really appreciate Aldon agreeing to let me take over this space (we moved his drum kit back to dad’s workshop in anticipation of their return). I’m so grateful to him for his support and willingness to pick up the slack around here while I’m otherwise occupied. He’s my partner and teammate in this life. I feel lucky in life and love.
Speaking of Aldon, he’s been writing quite a lot, and he’s given me permission to share a recent short story he wrote based on one of our adventures. He shared this with me back in March as a birthday present of sorts, and it means so much to me, I love it. If you’re interested, you can check out The Breezes of Tibidabo.
Mom and dad migrated home, and we jumped right back into our Sunday family days, which I think we all missed while they were away. We got together on Easter Sunday and celebrated mom’s birthday. And we’re playing music with dad again too, which is fun. Two +1 has a gig opening for Jolee, a country artist from PEI on May 13th.
Spring has arrived, but it’s a slow warm up out here on the coast. There’s lots of light, but it’s still quite cool with wind coming over the water. I hear Edmonton is getting crazy hot temperatures, which might feel nice, but is pretty disconcerting, no? I think like most areas we need some precipitation, but I’m just keeping my fingers crossed for pleasant and sunny Saturdays from May 20 into October this year, so the market does well.
This is all I have to share this month. I hope things are going well for you, but if they’re not, remember that you are loved. Take care of yourself and get some rest – that’s what’s keeping me going. And when all else fails, find an animal to love.
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