In January, I committed to finally reading the unabridged edition of Victor Hugo’s famous novel, Les Misérables. Familiar with the moving story via its stage and film adaptations, I have long wanted to read the book, and I have had a paperback copy sitting on my nightstand for at least two years. But at 1,460 pages, it is an ambitious read, so I have repeatedly set it aside, as if waiting for some perfect time to magically emerge where I…
A few weeks ago, I was delighted to attend a wedding shower for a beautiful young couple in love, counting down the days until they could solemnize their union. At the same event, I finally got to meet a precious miracle baby that has been a long time coming to her devoted parents. I was thrilled to celebrate these joyful relationships and life events with my loved ones, surrounded by family and friends. Less than 24 hours later, my children…
“Let’s start at the very beginning, A very good place to start. When you read you begin with A, B, C, When you sing you begin with do-re-mi.” — “Do-Re-Mi,” The Sound of Music This week I was helping my daughter prepare for a choir audition, which included practicing sight singing using Solfege syllables and hand signs. If you’ve never heard of Solfege (never mind knowing how to pronounce it!), never fear. I hadn’t either until about three years ago. …