Sunday, October 28, 2012

The One About The Cheshire Cat...

I randomly re-read Alice in Wonderland after finding a very used copy at the airport. I enjoyed the dizzying conversations between Alice and her nonsensical acquaintances but one particular interaction stood out.

Alice: Would you tell me, please, which way I ought to go from here? 
Cheshire Cat: That depends a good deal on where you want to get to
Alice: I don't care where
Cheshire Cat: Then it doesn't matter which way you go 

Almost three months since we buried my father in Samoa and I'm finally realizing how dazed I've been.  In my hastiness to cope with this sentimental loss, I've continued a vigorous routine of work and school (and work again) with no true sense of direction or purpose. I've wallowed into just surviving each new day. My new church calling as activities chair has helped tremendously. Serving others has that tendency of putting life back into perspective. I still think of my dad every day with incredible sadness. But I'm at least slowly hobbling on a path away from aimless wandering. After all, my dad would have never approved of me asking a cat for directions...

Up to Bat: Starting 2nd half of last semester of my first year (dizzying, right?)
On Deck: Trip to Rome with the Madre in 3 weeks 
In the Hole: Christmas/Holidays with the entire family!

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

The One About EP...

I remember when I first discovered my love for singing. It was when Whoopi Goldberg told Lauryn Hill that if singing was the first thing she thought of after waking up in the morning, singing was her true passion. (anyone know what movie?) I definitely empathized. Not that I wake up every morning singing... I don't live in a musical. haha. But I'm always humming a tune during my morning routine. Will even belt a couple melismas if its a great morning.

This last weekend, I was part of Everyday People's 25th Reunion Show. Everyday People (EP) was the college a cappella group I sang in during my undergrad years. We wore all black, wailed soul, r&b, and Motown classics and even traveled the world. Seriously. I've toured the east coast (DC to NYC), Jamaica, Mexico, Bahamas and Hawaii with the group. That's pretty impressive for a financially independent student group.

There are a number of groups and communities that I have been affiliated with over the years. One group I will always have time for is EP. Not only was I constantly enveloped in music but heftily supported by great friends. Trust me, you'll always be close to those you sing oohs and aahs with... haha. EP25 allowed me to reconnect with old friends but also remember how much I enjoy singing. Will attempt something musical until EP30. Aca-amazing.

                                                 25 Years of Everyday People