Join the Two Writing Teachers blog for the Slice of Life Challenge.
Music has always been a part of my life. From very young listening to my mother play the piano to teenage years hearing my brother through the walls between our rooms. The musical talent was passed on through the lefties in our family, my mother and my brother.
I took piano lessons until I entered college. In high school and beyond even to today, I’ve sung alto in multiple choirs. So you could say music is part of me, but I’ve never felt very musical when it came to playing an instrument.
At NCTE this year, I sat in a circle of ukulele players. Jan Burkins placed her instrument in my hands and taught me three easy chords. She said, “You could do this!”
I asked Santa (my husband) for a ukulele for Christmas. He loved the idea. He researched and visited local music stores to find the just right one. I started practicing early Christmas morning. I’ve practiced every day since.
I cut my fingernails on my left hand. Those fingers are sore and numb from pressing hard on the strings. They say this gets better with time. I am determined not to give up because of a little pain. My husband, the runner, says you have to move past the pain.
I haven’t been able to sing and play at the same time which is my end goal. I do have an awesome teacher, though. Her name is Cynthia Lin. She’s patient and kind and takes it slow.
I’ve decided to take on the word EXPLORE for my One Little Word for 2018. No better way to begin my exploration than to learn to play an instrument. I will be exploring chords, strumming, and patience.
This photo is a bridge over the Mississippi River near New Orleans.
Reflections on the Teche 
Your uke inspiration/instigator was correct – you are doing this! Hope to hear you in person some day. Margaret. It’s another gift from you to The World. And to yourself. Wonderful Santa, too. Brava! for EXPLORE.
Thanks for your enthusiastic cheerleading!
What a great word and I love the story of your ukelele and how it led to your OLW. Maybe once you are a little more comfortable you’ll post a video for us!
How fun! I love that you never stop learning.
I like how you linked your new musical pursuit with your OLW. “Explore” covers so many experiences! Have fun with your new passion!
I have never been able to play a note on any instrument, so I admire your “pluck” (pun intended). I do love learning new things because it is a chance to “explore” a new facet of life, as you are now doing. Good for you. I’m sure your new adventure will bring you much joy in the coming year.
Sounds like so much fun. I’ve always loved exploring too. I know you are a risk-taker, especially with your writing and teaching. Next year maybe you can post you singing with your new treasure. xo
I heard the ukulele playing moments before I ran into you in the Marriott Lobby. Very cool! Hope to hear you play in Houston this fall.
Enjoy your year of exploration, Margaret.
It does get easier! Love meeting other uke beginners 🙂
Maybe we should “facetime” and practice. It won’t be long until Houston! I think your “explore” is going to match well with my “curious”! 🙂
Whatever you are curious about let me know and I’ll explore!
[…] creativity will be more difficult to make time for. I also have to squeeze in ukulele practice (see this post) and exercise. Oh, and reading, and crochet, and cooking, and walking the […]
Great photo and a wonderful word for you.