Sangin'

I have been doing a little out of state singing. First I went to HOTLANTA. I have always wondered why they call it that, and I experienced it first hand. It is hot there. Very hot. AND humid. Perfect weather for my natural curly locks...

I flew in on a Wednesday night at 1am and competed in a competition the next day at 1pm.  I placed in the top ten, and was not a winner...but I felt like a winner.  I had set a new personal best for myself, one of those moments where you completely rely on technique to serve the music, because your body and brain are tired. Interestingly enough, when I stood up to sing a lot of adrenaline jumped on board and I was able to focus right in the center of the nerves.  It was a great experience. One I am so glad I had.

I learned how to shoot a gun for the first time in my life! It was heart pounding, pure adrenaline....

Here I am again making sure not to lock my elbows....

Not bad for a first time shooter....

My friend from Brazil...who jokes about me looking like I am Brazilian...? MOM?

 Then I went to Chicago to work with the famous Stephen Smith. Actually, I went to Evanston where Northwestern University.  What a gorgeous campus they have!! I was in heaven.  Working with Mr. Smith was a dream come true.  I observed his lessons for an entire week and had a voice lesson myself.
Here is is bio:http://wstephensmith.com/bio.html

The first day there before I had met him, can you see the anticipation in my eyes!!

Lutkin Hall

I also went to the art museum in Chicago, which deserves its own entry entirely...here are some pics of the big city.  By far Chicago is the coolest city I have ever seen.  I missed my husband and kids terribly.