2009

I don't really think a review of 2008 is really necessary for me. I mean, great things have happened, but I'd much rather look forward to what the upcoming year holds. Hence:

SHORT LIST (WITH A DISPROPORTIONATELY LONG TITLE) OF THINGS I HOPE 2009 HOLDS FOR ME IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER

1. More financial responsibility
While I often say things like "I can't; I'm poor," once the paycheck comes in, I feel like a rich man. I pay my rent and bills on time, but then spend rather recklessly. While I don't mind being poor, being able to maintain a savings account is probably a life lesson worth learning.

2. Workout plan
Cliché? You bet. But I actually do need it-- I feel like it's finally starting to catch up with me (not my waistline, but my mood, strength, and alertness). So I'll probably start out slow, eventually going to a real gym for the first time in my life... yikes.

3. Hikes/Nature-loving
I need to stop ignoring my love of the outdoors. California is a freaking gold mine of awesome hikes, so I really have no excuse. Anyone is welcome as a hiking buddy. Spontaneity always a plus.

4. More performance opportunities
Pay for said opportunities would be nice, too.

5. Classes I enjoy going to

6. Great wines

7. More Great American Music Exchanges

8. More drive to practice

9. Great new friends

10. Great old friends (and staying in touch)


I love you all, and have a happy, safe, and prosperous 2009.

look on the bright side

Admittedly, this is not something i do extremely often. However, in light of recent events, i feel that in order to not completely lose grip of everything dear to me, it is a necessity. So, let's review this past week.

I've been sick for about a week--lots of coughing, laryngitis and flu-ish stuff, but thank goodness for drugs. It's a blessing to know that i can always count on modern medicine, however ridiculous the cost.

Due to being sick, i've missed quite a bit of class this week, including voice lessons. Good thing i've got understanding professors.

CSULB Music Department is now the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music! This is definitely going to put Long Beach on the music world's map and i couldn't be more excited.

I was extremely privileged to sous an amazing meal on Saturday with Dr. Carnahan and Dokko. Course 1: 3 Lentil Salad with Truffle Oil and Pancetta Vinaigrette. Course 2: Gnocchi in a Saffron Vanilla Cream Sauce with Basil Foam and Roasted Peppers. Course 3: Braised Spare Ribs on Fried Pimento and Mascarpone Polenta Cakes with Spinach and Rosemary Oil. Dessert: Chocolate Éclairs ala Mrs. Talberg.

I've kept up with friends and family fairly well.

I still have a couple of months until my recital, so i have no reason to panic.

I sing with some incredibly talented people who continue to be accepted to amazing grad schools left and right.

I live in a furnished (thanks Erin!) apartment biking distance from an amazing university that i willingly attend.

My family loves and supports me in all my endeavors.


Looking at this list, i truly have no place to complain. I live life. And my goal in it is to love every fucking minute of it.