A Reflection on 2017

Thank you all for a wonderful Holiday Recital. Things ran so smoothly despite the number of different groups performing and the new things we tried to do. Our Ceilidh group class was so much fun playing our favourite songs and visiting with one another. Such a great way to end 2017.

How old are you Maggie?

Looking back on where I was and who I was last year at this time, my life has changed in more ways than it has stayed the same. Although this change has been incredible it has also been a challenge, both physically and mentally.

I see Margaret approach huge milestones on a weekly basis. As adults, our milestones of growth stretch out over years and decades. As I approach one of these milestones in just over a month, I've been reflecting a lot and setting goals for the future. This has been daunting.

Just as I tell my students that learning never stops, that even though we have done something one way for so long does not mean that we stop growing or stop learning. We can always learn to do things better, to practice more proficiently and to listen more intently. This is continuing education, a lifetime of learning and something I want to give focus to in 2018.

Before I take a break for the Holidays, I'm starting my plans for the New Year and making lists of new things I want to try and improve at. It can be all too easy to get lost in the everyday busyness and forget to really notice if what we are filling are days with are really the things that make us happy. Making the decision to do something different even if just for 5 or 10 minutes a day can make all the difference in the world and positively influence every area of our lives. The strong bent thumb challenge has reminded me of the importance of the "one point lesson" and that simplicity is key for making these changes possible.

As we approach the holidays, stop to see the young ones in awe of this time of year. Get out into the cold for an adventure and relax with the people who mean the most to you. Share your music with family and friends and keep the holidays simple.

I look forward to seeing everyone back in 2018 starting private lessons on January 15th and group class on January 23rd.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!