My friend, Susan Hart, writes a great blog called Everyday PR. I love it because it takes topics likes public relations and branding and makes them accessible to everyone.
She recently had a great post on giving away free items to increase business during these rough economic times. In her follow-up post, she features several comments, including my comment, and my photo!
You can see the post here.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Redeemer Healing Prayer Service
Our church has been hit with an unusually high amount of suffering lately. We have many members in the hospital, facing surgery, or dealing with other serious medical conditions. The clergy decided we should do the best thing we can in times like these - pray.
Tonight, about 60 of us gathered in the sanctuary of Church of the Redeemer. Jenna asked if I'd join her for the music, and I'm so glad I did. I had been debating leaving work early and going to the service, and this answered that debate for me. It was just the two on us on music (le petit praise team!) and it was a good partnership. As people entered the church, we encouraged them to sing on songs like "Be Thou My Vision" and "Here I am to Worship." After a brief welcome, we lead them in a series of songs and choruses, including one of my favourites, "In Christ Alone."
Then, we were encouraged to gather in groups of 5 to share prayer requests, and to pray. There was no real guidance other than that. We could pray in any way that seemed right for us. We could pray for each other, the church, family, friends ... the only real theme was 'healing.' The clergy and elders stayed at the altar rail for those wanting individual prayer and annointing, and they played a gentle CD during the prayer time so people wouldn't feel self-conscious about saying their needs out loud. It was wonderful to be in the crowd and, without actually catching any of the details, to listen to the sounds around me. To my right, a group was in fervent prayer; to my left, people were telling stories; and in the back, a few old friends were sharing a spontaneous laugh, maybe because of a shared experience, maybe as a way to relieve the pain.
As the prayer time came to an end, Jenna and I regrouped to lead the congregation in "Blessed Be Your Name." Ever since the accident, I find verse 2 of this song emotional/difficult/challenging to sing - it just has new layers of meaning for me.
After the service, Jenna and I treated ourselves to a long visit at Fido (lemon cake!) and then braved the crazy dark-windy-rainy-thundery-lightningy weather on the drive home. Summer, please?
Tonight, about 60 of us gathered in the sanctuary of Church of the Redeemer. Jenna asked if I'd join her for the music, and I'm so glad I did. I had been debating leaving work early and going to the service, and this answered that debate for me. It was just the two on us on music (le petit praise team!) and it was a good partnership. As people entered the church, we encouraged them to sing on songs like "Be Thou My Vision" and "Here I am to Worship." After a brief welcome, we lead them in a series of songs and choruses, including one of my favourites, "In Christ Alone."
Then, we were encouraged to gather in groups of 5 to share prayer requests, and to pray. There was no real guidance other than that. We could pray in any way that seemed right for us. We could pray for each other, the church, family, friends ... the only real theme was 'healing.' The clergy and elders stayed at the altar rail for those wanting individual prayer and annointing, and they played a gentle CD during the prayer time so people wouldn't feel self-conscious about saying their needs out loud. It was wonderful to be in the crowd and, without actually catching any of the details, to listen to the sounds around me. To my right, a group was in fervent prayer; to my left, people were telling stories; and in the back, a few old friends were sharing a spontaneous laugh, maybe because of a shared experience, maybe as a way to relieve the pain.
As the prayer time came to an end, Jenna and I regrouped to lead the congregation in "Blessed Be Your Name." Ever since the accident, I find verse 2 of this song emotional/difficult/challenging to sing - it just has new layers of meaning for me.
After the service, Jenna and I treated ourselves to a long visit at Fido (lemon cake!) and then braved the crazy dark-windy-rainy-thundery-lightningy weather on the drive home. Summer, please?
BLESSED BE YOUR NAME
By Matt Redman
By Matt Redman
Blessed Be Your Name,
In the land that is plentiful
Where Your streams of abundance flow
Blessed be Your name
Blessed Be Your name,
When I'm found in the desert place
Though I walk through the wilderness
Blessed Be Your name
Every blessing You pour out ,
I'll turn back to praise
When the darkness closes in, Lord, Still I will say
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your glorious name
Blessed be Your name,
When the sun's shining down on me
When the world's 'all as it should be'
Blessed be Your name
Blessed be Your name
On the road marked with suffering
Though there's pain in the offering
Blessed be Your name
CHORUS
You give and take away
You give and take away
My heart will choose to say
Lord, blessed be Your name
CHORUS
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Ontario in Review
We're back in Nashville! We arrived Wednesday ... in our new car! After weeks of intense car-shopping, we ended up getting an awesome deal in very short time. I'm still just getting used to highway driving again, so my father-in-law, Gerry, drove down with us to relieve the burden. We made sure he was well-stuffed with BBQ and Cracker Barrel before sending him back across the border.
As my lack of posts imply, I'm still having some trouble keeping up with all things cyber. Here's an update on the rest of our Canadian gigs:
- On Thursday, we performed a midday concert for the final series of Music on the Hill. We had an amazing turnout and the whole program went very well. Even though this wasn't the final concert of the series, they decided to use this day to say thank you to those involved, and to hold a fantastic reception. It was great to see so many friends, and celebrate the end of an era.
- On Friday, we sang at the wedding of our friends, Deanna and Michael. Gerald accompanied Deanna as she sang a surprise song for her new husband, and later, Gerald and I sang the first dance. Such a beautiful day!
- On Sunday, we did a full concert at St. George's Church in Guelph. This church was originally built to be the area's cathedral, and it shows in the design - huge, ornate, and stunningly beautiful. The people of St. George's are fantastic (Dad has been the interim there for a few months, and we sang during their Christmas Carol Service.). We had a tremendous response from people, and felt very welcomed throughout the whole experience. Friends and family who attended the show said it was the best they've ever heard us, so that was very humbling and inspiring.
The rest of our time was spent doing this things we wanted and needed to do in Toronto - setting up insurance on the new car, visiting friends, and eating lots and lots of sushi.
As my lack of posts imply, I'm still having some trouble keeping up with all things cyber. Here's an update on the rest of our Canadian gigs:
- On Thursday, we performed a midday concert for the final series of Music on the Hill. We had an amazing turnout and the whole program went very well. Even though this wasn't the final concert of the series, they decided to use this day to say thank you to those involved, and to hold a fantastic reception. It was great to see so many friends, and celebrate the end of an era.
- On Friday, we sang at the wedding of our friends, Deanna and Michael. Gerald accompanied Deanna as she sang a surprise song for her new husband, and later, Gerald and I sang the first dance. Such a beautiful day!
- On Sunday, we did a full concert at St. George's Church in Guelph. This church was originally built to be the area's cathedral, and it shows in the design - huge, ornate, and stunningly beautiful. The people of St. George's are fantastic (Dad has been the interim there for a few months, and we sang during their Christmas Carol Service.). We had a tremendous response from people, and felt very welcomed throughout the whole experience. Friends and family who attended the show said it was the best they've ever heard us, so that was very humbling and inspiring.
The rest of our time was spent doing this things we wanted and needed to do in Toronto - setting up insurance on the new car, visiting friends, and eating lots and lots of sushi.
Wednesday, June 03, 2009
Tuesday, June 02, 2009
Gage Park
Tonight, Gerald and I joined 5 other artists in Gage Park, Brampton, ON, for the annual Inspirational Music in the Park. This is the ninth year for this weekly free music festival. Over the course of the summer, Gage Park will host close to a hundred artists singing all kinds of Christian music. Tonight was the opening night. The cooler weather kept the crowds small, but surprisingly enthusiastic.
Gerald and I did a 20 minute set which included "Just a Closer Walk," "A Church Song Broke Me Down," "Neighbour," and "Sin Ain't Nothing." The crowd loved the songs, and sang and clapped along.
After our set, we got to meet the other artists, and share stories from Nashville. It's always neat to see the way other artists are using their talents within their local churches and communities.
Oh, and a little good news: I think our car is going to work out okay! We're meeting with the dealer tomorrow to work out the details. It's going to take a few days to get insurance in place - I'm a Canadian with an American driver's licence buying a Canadian car. Apparently, I'm complicated. But hopefully, by the end of the week, I'll have a car again. Praying!
Gerald and I did a 20 minute set which included "Just a Closer Walk," "A Church Song Broke Me Down," "Neighbour," and "Sin Ain't Nothing." The crowd loved the songs, and sang and clapped along.
After our set, we got to meet the other artists, and share stories from Nashville. It's always neat to see the way other artists are using their talents within their local churches and communities.
Oh, and a little good news: I think our car is going to work out okay! We're meeting with the dealer tomorrow to work out the details. It's going to take a few days to get insurance in place - I'm a Canadian with an American driver's licence buying a Canadian car. Apparently, I'm complicated. But hopefully, by the end of the week, I'll have a car again. Praying!
Tuesday, Tuesday, Never Be a Blues Day...
The past few days have been a mix of Triumphs and Trials.
The Triumphs:
- On Friday, I drove on the highways for the first time since the accident. It was stressful, but I felt stronger after I did it.
- I attended a book reading by the brilliant and fascinating Lisa See. Lisa wrote my favourite book of last year, "Snow Flower and the Secret Fan." Her books are set in historical China and they study the intricate relationships between women as mothers, daughters, sisters, friends. At the reading, she spoke about her family's history, how she researches her books, and future writing plans. It was awesome! I'm currently reading her latest book, "Shanghai Girls." Mission trip to China, anyone?
- On Sunday, Gerald and I sang at our former home church, St. John's York Mills. The church is starting to incorporate Praise and Worship music into their service, so we were brought in to lead the congregation and the praise team. The response was overwhelming! Many of these people have known us for years, and they've been hearing me sing since I was a teenager. To hear them say, "You've both improved so much" was awesome because they have a real 'before' and 'after' image of us.
The Trials:
- Gerald and I continue to struggle with the emotional and the practical issues of the accident. We're tired and stressed. I pride myself on being reliable, punctual, and detail-oriented, but these days, I just can't get anything done. I'm missing all kinds of deadlines, and lots of things are slipping through the cracks. I know I need to be gentle with myself, and the people around me are all very understanding, but still, it's frustrating.
- The car hunt continues. We think we have a car, but now it's not for sure, so we're hoping it all gets sorted out tomorrow. Really praying it all works out as planned. I may have a mini-freak-out if we need to start from square one again.
- This accident is really making us re-evaluate everything we're doing. In some areas, this has been a great affirmation, and in other areas, we can see things we want to change. I know this will affect our plans over the next few months, and I imagine there will be many challenges in this.
The Blessings:
- Tomorrow night, we're singing at Gage Park in Brampton. This is a weekly summer festival that usually attracts some great artists. Praying for good weather!
- We've seen so many friends over the last few days. So good to be surrounded by loving hearts!
- We continue to be so grateful for simply being alive. It's an interesting state of mind to be so acutely aware of this most basic, yet mostly unappreciated, aspect of the human condition. It is all at once humbling, frightening, and invigorating.
The Triumphs:
- On Friday, I drove on the highways for the first time since the accident. It was stressful, but I felt stronger after I did it.
- I attended a book reading by the brilliant and fascinating Lisa See. Lisa wrote my favourite book of last year, "Snow Flower and the Secret Fan." Her books are set in historical China and they study the intricate relationships between women as mothers, daughters, sisters, friends. At the reading, she spoke about her family's history, how she researches her books, and future writing plans. It was awesome! I'm currently reading her latest book, "Shanghai Girls." Mission trip to China, anyone?
- On Sunday, Gerald and I sang at our former home church, St. John's York Mills. The church is starting to incorporate Praise and Worship music into their service, so we were brought in to lead the congregation and the praise team. The response was overwhelming! Many of these people have known us for years, and they've been hearing me sing since I was a teenager. To hear them say, "You've both improved so much" was awesome because they have a real 'before' and 'after' image of us.
The Trials:
- Gerald and I continue to struggle with the emotional and the practical issues of the accident. We're tired and stressed. I pride myself on being reliable, punctual, and detail-oriented, but these days, I just can't get anything done. I'm missing all kinds of deadlines, and lots of things are slipping through the cracks. I know I need to be gentle with myself, and the people around me are all very understanding, but still, it's frustrating.
- The car hunt continues. We think we have a car, but now it's not for sure, so we're hoping it all gets sorted out tomorrow. Really praying it all works out as planned. I may have a mini-freak-out if we need to start from square one again.
- This accident is really making us re-evaluate everything we're doing. In some areas, this has been a great affirmation, and in other areas, we can see things we want to change. I know this will affect our plans over the next few months, and I imagine there will be many challenges in this.
The Blessings:
- Tomorrow night, we're singing at Gage Park in Brampton. This is a weekly summer festival that usually attracts some great artists. Praying for good weather!
- We've seen so many friends over the last few days. So good to be surrounded by loving hearts!
- We continue to be so grateful for simply being alive. It's an interesting state of mind to be so acutely aware of this most basic, yet mostly unappreciated, aspect of the human condition. It is all at once humbling, frightening, and invigorating.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Getting Through Thursday
Yes, some days right now, I guess it feels a little like "getting through." I think I must also be feeling a little better though, because I'm really enjoying the inner rhyme in my blog title.
Last Sunday, Gerald and I did our first gig since the accident. It was difficult preparing because we just haven't been able to get ourselves up for rehearsing, but it felt really good to sing and play and be involved in leading worship.
Tonight I took an online Song U class with Sue Smith on "Writing for the Christian Market." Very informative, and Sue always has a relaxed yet passionate teaching style.
The rest of the week has been mostly full of practical stuff, including car shopping, which I'm finding particularly stressful. I would usually like to take a few months to shop around and really weigh out the finances of it all, but we just don't have that luxury right now. Gerald has taken the lead in looking for good cars and great deals, and I really appreciate him for it.
Starting Sunday, we have 5 performances in a week, including singing at our friend's wedding. It's going to be busy, but it's the kind of busy I like, so I'm looking forward to it.
Last Sunday, Gerald and I did our first gig since the accident. It was difficult preparing because we just haven't been able to get ourselves up for rehearsing, but it felt really good to sing and play and be involved in leading worship.
Tonight I took an online Song U class with Sue Smith on "Writing for the Christian Market." Very informative, and Sue always has a relaxed yet passionate teaching style.
The rest of the week has been mostly full of practical stuff, including car shopping, which I'm finding particularly stressful. I would usually like to take a few months to shop around and really weigh out the finances of it all, but we just don't have that luxury right now. Gerald has taken the lead in looking for good cars and great deals, and I really appreciate him for it.
Starting Sunday, we have 5 performances in a week, including singing at our friend's wedding. It's going to be busy, but it's the kind of busy I like, so I'm looking forward to it.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Writing from Canada
I'm writing this from sunny Ontario. Given the events of the last few weeks, it's sooo good to be home right now! We've had this working vacation planned since December, but even if we hadn't, we probably would have come 'home for a rest' (to quote Spirit of the West).
After the initial shock of the accident, our injuries started to reveal themselves. I sprained the muscles in my neck. Gerald had bruising and a contusion. Given the severity of the accident, we're just grateful to both be alive and in whole, complete bodies. People keep asking me to post photos of the car. They're very graphic and disturbing. It still freaks me out to look at them, so I don't know how comfortable I am having them all over the internet.
We're still both fairly tired, and dealing with a lot emotionally. We are pursuing a lawsuit, so that's taking a certain amount of practical energy. I'm currently carless, and might be a for while. My car was paid for, and we hadn't planned on buying a car for at least 2 or 3 more years. We don't have the money for new (or used) car, so we'll have to wait on a settlement, and so I'm still carless, and we don't know how much money we'll get, so we don't even know what kind of car we'll be able to buy, and ... my brain hurts just thinking about it all. Stress.
I'm finding it really hard to keep up with the practical stuff. I've had a lot of pain with my neck, and I've been really tired. I had to take some time off from the Stamps-Baxter School, but with school being so close, I had to go in a few days to clean up the backlog and train new staff to cover me while I'm away. I was so tired, I couldn't even work a full day. I've also fallen behind on all my booking, planning, and all that 'freelance' stuff. I'm hopelessly behind on email.
Here's the one that hurts the most: We've had to put my hymns CD on hold. We were supposed to do vocals the week of the accident, but with all the pain, especially in my neck, singing just wasn't an option. I've found any kind of rehearsing difficult, so I'm certainly in no position to record anything. The plan is to start again when I get back from this trip, and, hopefully, release the CD in July.
We have 6 gigs booked for this trip, the first one being this Sunday. We haven't had the time or energy to rehearse, so we'll be trying to focus on that for the next 2 days. Luckily, we're performing at a church that knows us well and cares about us, so they let us choose music we already know.
I'm sure I sound tired and cranky, and many days, that's just how I feel. I haven't been sleeping well, I'm nervous about driving, and I have terrible flashbacks.
But I'm also aware of the amazing measure of grace poured on us that day. I feel God's hand on us constantly. We've been surrounded by an overwhelming amount of love and support. We've been prayed for, cared for, and fed til we fell over. I've received emails and facebook messages from friends I haven't seen in years, and industry people who I've only met in the briefest of meetings. If this had happened 2 years ago, when we knew nobody in Nashville, it would have been a very different story.
Tomorrow, Gerald and I are going to find a lovely patio, order a few giant lattes, and enjoy the things we love about Toronto. It's so good to be home!
After the initial shock of the accident, our injuries started to reveal themselves. I sprained the muscles in my neck. Gerald had bruising and a contusion. Given the severity of the accident, we're just grateful to both be alive and in whole, complete bodies. People keep asking me to post photos of the car. They're very graphic and disturbing. It still freaks me out to look at them, so I don't know how comfortable I am having them all over the internet.
We're still both fairly tired, and dealing with a lot emotionally. We are pursuing a lawsuit, so that's taking a certain amount of practical energy. I'm currently carless, and might be a for while. My car was paid for, and we hadn't planned on buying a car for at least 2 or 3 more years. We don't have the money for new (or used) car, so we'll have to wait on a settlement, and so I'm still carless, and we don't know how much money we'll get, so we don't even know what kind of car we'll be able to buy, and ... my brain hurts just thinking about it all. Stress.
I'm finding it really hard to keep up with the practical stuff. I've had a lot of pain with my neck, and I've been really tired. I had to take some time off from the Stamps-Baxter School, but with school being so close, I had to go in a few days to clean up the backlog and train new staff to cover me while I'm away. I was so tired, I couldn't even work a full day. I've also fallen behind on all my booking, planning, and all that 'freelance' stuff. I'm hopelessly behind on email.
Here's the one that hurts the most: We've had to put my hymns CD on hold. We were supposed to do vocals the week of the accident, but with all the pain, especially in my neck, singing just wasn't an option. I've found any kind of rehearsing difficult, so I'm certainly in no position to record anything. The plan is to start again when I get back from this trip, and, hopefully, release the CD in July.
We have 6 gigs booked for this trip, the first one being this Sunday. We haven't had the time or energy to rehearse, so we'll be trying to focus on that for the next 2 days. Luckily, we're performing at a church that knows us well and cares about us, so they let us choose music we already know.
I'm sure I sound tired and cranky, and many days, that's just how I feel. I haven't been sleeping well, I'm nervous about driving, and I have terrible flashbacks.
But I'm also aware of the amazing measure of grace poured on us that day. I feel God's hand on us constantly. We've been surrounded by an overwhelming amount of love and support. We've been prayed for, cared for, and fed til we fell over. I've received emails and facebook messages from friends I haven't seen in years, and industry people who I've only met in the briefest of meetings. If this had happened 2 years ago, when we knew nobody in Nashville, it would have been a very different story.
Tomorrow, Gerald and I are going to find a lovely patio, order a few giant lattes, and enjoy the things we love about Toronto. It's so good to be home!
Sunday, May 03, 2009
Please pray...
Gerald and I have just had a terrible car accident. We were hit by an 18-wheeler, which spun us around, pushed us down the highway, dragged us along under its wheels, and eventually flipped us one and a half times before landing upside down.
We are uninjured.
Our car is totalled.
The paramedics were amazed.
I don't know why I'm blogging right now. I don't want to cry or think about 'what if', so I guess, I don't really know what to do with myself.
Please pray for us.
We are uninjured.
Our car is totalled.
The paramedics were amazed.
I don't know why I'm blogging right now. I don't want to cry or think about 'what if', so I guess, I don't really know what to do with myself.
Please pray for us.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Thursday update
Today, I:
- Shared the rough mixes from last week's recording session with Tara and got great feedback!
- Brainstormed with Gerald about future creative plans.
- Made a worktape of my long-distance, Song U cowrite.
- Signed up to take a Song U class with Sue Smith on "Writing for the Christian Market."
- Made steps towards a possible booking next month.
- Planned our music set for Sunday morning.
- Relaxed and enjoyed the blessings of the day!
Good day...
- Shared the rough mixes from last week's recording session with Tara and got great feedback!
- Brainstormed with Gerald about future creative plans.
- Made a worktape of my long-distance, Song U cowrite.
- Signed up to take a Song U class with Sue Smith on "Writing for the Christian Market."
- Made steps towards a possible booking next month.
- Planned our music set for Sunday morning.
- Relaxed and enjoyed the blessings of the day!
Good day...
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Home from the retreat!
Last week, I warned people not to call me today. Judging by my sore throat and the very long nap I took today, it was probably a wise decision.
This morning was another early one. The toile bed was glorious, and the only thing that made crawling out of it worthwhile was the stunning view from the balcony. The lake was calm, one person was fishing, and the birds were just starting their song. I love city living, but I would be really happy with this kind of view every morning.
The only thing on the retreat schedule for today was a Holy Communion service. Kendra was the worship leader, and I joined her on vocals. Because the weather was so stunning, we pulled all the chairs out on the large deck and held the service outside. So stunning! The sun was shining with just a gentle breeze. Instead of a sermon, we were given a time to reflect on the weekend. We sat in a circle, and gave communion to each other.
The music was gentle and spiritual. We did great songs like "As the Deer" and "Knowing You." On "Eat this Bread," I sang alto, and thought of the hundreds of times I sang it with Monika singing that same line.
Lake Barkley is so beautiful, and if I didn't have to work tomorrow, I would pack up Gerald and the puppies and drive us all out there again tonight!
This morning was another early one. The toile bed was glorious, and the only thing that made crawling out of it worthwhile was the stunning view from the balcony. The lake was calm, one person was fishing, and the birds were just starting their song. I love city living, but I would be really happy with this kind of view every morning.
The only thing on the retreat schedule for today was a Holy Communion service. Kendra was the worship leader, and I joined her on vocals. Because the weather was so stunning, we pulled all the chairs out on the large deck and held the service outside. So stunning! The sun was shining with just a gentle breeze. Instead of a sermon, we were given a time to reflect on the weekend. We sat in a circle, and gave communion to each other.
The music was gentle and spiritual. We did great songs like "As the Deer" and "Knowing You." On "Eat this Bread," I sang alto, and thought of the hundreds of times I sang it with Monika singing that same line.
Lake Barkley is so beautiful, and if I didn't have to work tomorrow, I would pack up Gerald and the puppies and drive us all out there again tonight!
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Redeemer Women's Retreat
(Posted after the fact - no internet connection in the woods!)
I’m dragging my fingers across the keyboard. It’s been a long but very satisfying day.
Last night and this morning (early this morning!) I was a judge for the TN Fine Arts Competition. It’s basically like a Christian talent competition, where junior high and high school students get the chance to present different kinds of creative ministries. I judged some of the drama categories, and it was really fun. It’s always neat to see what happens when you give kids a chance to tell stories for themselves.
After this morning’s session, I packed up the car, picked up Sally Barris, and drove out to Cadiz, KY, for the Redeemer Women’s Retreat. I’m currently sitting in what only can be called a hotel room in Lake Barkley State Park. People keep saying we’re camping, and let me tell you, if this was camping, I’d be camping all the time! Our room looks like an HGTV version of “rustic chic” - dark stained walls, toile comforters that match the imitation-silk gingham curtains, and a granite and slate lined 3-piece bath. The true piece de resistance: each room has a private balcony and a completely clear view of the lake. Truly stunning!
Sally and I arrived just in time to rehearse with Jenna and Kendra for tonight’s sessions. Crazy rushed, but we worked with the time we had. I had a glorious 25 minutes to sit by the lake. The water was calm, and three fish jumped right in front of me. My kingdom for a pole!
At supper we ate BBQ and banana pudding, and chatted with the Redeemer ladies. It was easy to tell they’d been having a good time - everyone looked beautiful and relaxed. Laughter dominated the conversation.
Right after the meal, we gathered for our evening worship set, which I was leading. Jenna and Kendra filled out the all-girl praise team. Jenna had really blessed me by entrusting me with the leadership position, and it was somewhat intimating to lead with her on the team, but it all worked out so well. She and I have learned each other’s signals, so once I allowed myself to get out of the way, things flowed beautifully. We did a four praise songs, included a little acapella group singing, and Kendra ended the set with prayer. It was powerful and awesome!
After our Bible study session (Ruth - one of my favourites!), Sally and Jenna did a mini-concert. In the rehearsal today, they asked if I knew “Down to the River to Pray,” so tonight, we did it acapella in 3-part harmony. Our voices blended so well! We’ve decided we need to find another song or 2 and do it again some time. Sally did some of her originals, which were fantastic, and then they lead us in a hymn sing. We’d put all the chairs in a circle, campfire-style, and it was lovely to look around the circle and see all the beautiful faces. For the last song, “In Christ Alone,” Jenna called up Kendra and me to sing along. By the end of it, all the ladies were on their feet and the energy was too strong to stop, so we broke out in a round of Michael W. Smith’s “Angus Dei”. So awesome!
As we packed up the sound system (our SoloAmp!) and mics, some ladies prayed, others laughed, and other just hugged and talked about the beauty of the weekend. After the room cleared, Kendra and I did a quick rehearsal for tomorrow morning. I’ve now been on the go almost 18 hours. I’m tired. My voice is tired. My feet are tired, but I feel so good and satisfied and relaxed. Looking forward to climbing into my fluffy bed and dreaming of fishing...
I’m dragging my fingers across the keyboard. It’s been a long but very satisfying day.
Last night and this morning (early this morning!) I was a judge for the TN Fine Arts Competition. It’s basically like a Christian talent competition, where junior high and high school students get the chance to present different kinds of creative ministries. I judged some of the drama categories, and it was really fun. It’s always neat to see what happens when you give kids a chance to tell stories for themselves.
After this morning’s session, I packed up the car, picked up Sally Barris, and drove out to Cadiz, KY, for the Redeemer Women’s Retreat. I’m currently sitting in what only can be called a hotel room in Lake Barkley State Park. People keep saying we’re camping, and let me tell you, if this was camping, I’d be camping all the time! Our room looks like an HGTV version of “rustic chic” - dark stained walls, toile comforters that match the imitation-silk gingham curtains, and a granite and slate lined 3-piece bath. The true piece de resistance: each room has a private balcony and a completely clear view of the lake. Truly stunning!
Sally and I arrived just in time to rehearse with Jenna and Kendra for tonight’s sessions. Crazy rushed, but we worked with the time we had. I had a glorious 25 minutes to sit by the lake. The water was calm, and three fish jumped right in front of me. My kingdom for a pole!
At supper we ate BBQ and banana pudding, and chatted with the Redeemer ladies. It was easy to tell they’d been having a good time - everyone looked beautiful and relaxed. Laughter dominated the conversation.
Right after the meal, we gathered for our evening worship set, which I was leading. Jenna and Kendra filled out the all-girl praise team. Jenna had really blessed me by entrusting me with the leadership position, and it was somewhat intimating to lead with her on the team, but it all worked out so well. She and I have learned each other’s signals, so once I allowed myself to get out of the way, things flowed beautifully. We did a four praise songs, included a little acapella group singing, and Kendra ended the set with prayer. It was powerful and awesome!
After our Bible study session (Ruth - one of my favourites!), Sally and Jenna did a mini-concert. In the rehearsal today, they asked if I knew “Down to the River to Pray,” so tonight, we did it acapella in 3-part harmony. Our voices blended so well! We’ve decided we need to find another song or 2 and do it again some time. Sally did some of her originals, which were fantastic, and then they lead us in a hymn sing. We’d put all the chairs in a circle, campfire-style, and it was lovely to look around the circle and see all the beautiful faces. For the last song, “In Christ Alone,” Jenna called up Kendra and me to sing along. By the end of it, all the ladies were on their feet and the energy was too strong to stop, so we broke out in a round of Michael W. Smith’s “Angus Dei”. So awesome!
As we packed up the sound system (our SoloAmp!) and mics, some ladies prayed, others laughed, and other just hugged and talked about the beauty of the weekend. After the room cleared, Kendra and I did a quick rehearsal for tomorrow morning. I’ve now been on the go almost 18 hours. I’m tired. My voice is tired. My feet are tired, but I feel so good and satisfied and relaxed. Looking forward to climbing into my fluffy bed and dreaming of fishing...
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Studio Day!
Okay, now I'm home, I'm still tired, but I have to blog about yesterday before all my memories slip away.
Yesterday, we gathered at the Soundshop on Music Row to record tracks for my new hymns CD. After our Monday rehearsal, I was very confident about the music, but I still had some nerves in the morning. How could I not? Tracking days are always expensive, and you hope and pray that you'll get everything you need in the time you have.
The Soundshop is an amazing studio with a long pedigree. Last summer, Aaron and Johnny Minick bought it and snazzed it up. We were in the smaller Studio B, which is cozy and intimate - the perfect place to record this music. Aaron was there to help us get set up, and my friend, Rebekah, has just started her internship there, so she spent time with us too.
Brian Speer played dual role of engineer/producer, and it was good to have a fresh set of ears hearing the songs. When Aaron heard a bit of "Just a Closer Walk", he pulled out this gorgeous old Gibson for Gerald to play. Ends up the guitar was once played by Chet Atkins. The piano Teri played was, over the course of its history, played by such people as Buddy Killen, Paul McCartney, and Ray Charles. Where else but Nashville?
Then, we started making the music, and it was awesome! We did the guitar songs first. It took a while to get all the sounds balanced (as it so often does) but once we got comfortable with things, it was great. The guitar songs had a lot of flair, and then we moved on to the really intimate piano songs. For most songs, we only did one or 2 takes. We'll do my vocals on a later date, so the most important thing was getting a gorgeous, moving instrumental take.
Once or twice, Teri would replay just a few bars and Brian would "punch it in". (Basically, it's like pasting that little section into the larger song.) But for the most part, every instrumental part you'll hear on the CD was done in one take. Amazing!
When we broke for lunch, we went across the street to the Pie Wagon for blackened chicken and chess pie. As we're walking in, 'Whispering' Bill Anderson was walking out. Ben Speer came to join us for lunch. A few minutes later, the Isaacs walked in. They were recording in Studio A, right across the hall from us. As I was sitting there, I had the most surreal moment. I thought, "I'm recording on Music Row," and it had all the excitement and aura and cool details that you think that moment is going to have. It was awesome and good.
At the end of the day, we had all the tracks, and they sounded excellent. I was tired - physically and vocally - but very, very satisfied. I'll get copies of the tracks on Friday, start rehearsing, and record the vocals in a few weeks. In case I haven't said this in a while: I love my job!
Yesterday, we gathered at the Soundshop on Music Row to record tracks for my new hymns CD. After our Monday rehearsal, I was very confident about the music, but I still had some nerves in the morning. How could I not? Tracking days are always expensive, and you hope and pray that you'll get everything you need in the time you have.
The Soundshop is an amazing studio with a long pedigree. Last summer, Aaron and Johnny Minick bought it and snazzed it up. We were in the smaller Studio B, which is cozy and intimate - the perfect place to record this music. Aaron was there to help us get set up, and my friend, Rebekah, has just started her internship there, so she spent time with us too.
Brian Speer played dual role of engineer/producer, and it was good to have a fresh set of ears hearing the songs. When Aaron heard a bit of "Just a Closer Walk", he pulled out this gorgeous old Gibson for Gerald to play. Ends up the guitar was once played by Chet Atkins. The piano Teri played was, over the course of its history, played by such people as Buddy Killen, Paul McCartney, and Ray Charles. Where else but Nashville?
Then, we started making the music, and it was awesome! We did the guitar songs first. It took a while to get all the sounds balanced (as it so often does) but once we got comfortable with things, it was great. The guitar songs had a lot of flair, and then we moved on to the really intimate piano songs. For most songs, we only did one or 2 takes. We'll do my vocals on a later date, so the most important thing was getting a gorgeous, moving instrumental take.
Once or twice, Teri would replay just a few bars and Brian would "punch it in". (Basically, it's like pasting that little section into the larger song.) But for the most part, every instrumental part you'll hear on the CD was done in one take. Amazing!
When we broke for lunch, we went across the street to the Pie Wagon for blackened chicken and chess pie. As we're walking in, 'Whispering' Bill Anderson was walking out. Ben Speer came to join us for lunch. A few minutes later, the Isaacs walked in. They were recording in Studio A, right across the hall from us. As I was sitting there, I had the most surreal moment. I thought, "I'm recording on Music Row," and it had all the excitement and aura and cool details that you think that moment is going to have. It was awesome and good.
At the end of the day, we had all the tracks, and they sounded excellent. I was tired - physically and vocally - but very, very satisfied. I'll get copies of the tracks on Friday, start rehearsing, and record the vocals in a few weeks. In case I haven't said this in a while: I love my job!
Quick studio update...
Yesterday was awesome! I was way too tired to write last night and I'm working for Ben today, but I'll write an update tonight. Awesome day!!!
Monday, April 20, 2009
Studio tomorrow!
Teri, Gerald, and I met this morning for our final hymns rehearsal. We made sure the arrangements are solid and the endings tight.
Tomorrow morning we're recording the tracks. We're actually recording on Music Row, which is pretty cool.
It'll be an early morning, so off to bed! Soooo excited!!!!
Tomorrow morning we're recording the tracks. We're actually recording on Music Row, which is pretty cool.
It'll be an early morning, so off to bed! Soooo excited!!!!
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Easter recovery...
Yes, I've been in Easter recovery all week! Don't get me wrong - last weekend was amazing!
On Saturday, I attended a wonderful Seder meal at Redeemer. Sunday morning, Gerald and I led worship at Harpeth Springs. We planned some great songs for Easter, and we were joined by a great bass player. (We're hoping he'll join us again this Sunday!) I'd given up fast food for Lent so, after church, we broke the Fast Food Fast at Fat Mo's. Anyone who's eaten there knows you need a nap after, but we had to clean the house and glaze the ham! Sunday night, we hosted Easter dinner for 9 people. And before you give Gerald all the credit - I did the cooking!
It was an awesome day, and an incredible week, but I was just thoroughly exhausted after all of it. I had to work Monday morning, and I've just been tired all week. Tuesday I really wanted to nap all day, but Tara and I got all glammed up and headed out to Smyrna for the SGN Awards. It was really a fantastic show, and I got to see lots of friends. To be honest, it was actually a bit of a profound night for me. I don't know that I'm ready to write about it yet, but I may in a little while.
Today was the first day I was really feeling ready to get back to work (creative work, not day-job work), so it ended up being a wonderfully creative day! Gerald and I had a creative meeting this afternoon to discuss my CD and his demos. We try to have these meetings every week or 2. In them, we talk about our creative dreams, and then try to put together the steps to make them come true.
Gerald is developing an 8-song demo package that will be a mix of Christian and country songs. To keep things affordable, not all the songs will use a full band, so we'll probably use several studios to make the different demos. We're hoping to get at least 3 done before our next trip to Canada, and we'll post them online when we get them.
We're in the studio Tuesday to record the tracks for my hymns CD! So excited!! We're recording them right on Music Row, just steps from the hotel where we spent our honeymoon. On the day, we'll record the guitar and the piano, and I'll do a 'scratch' vocal. This basically means I'll sing along to guide Teri and Gerald, but we may not keep it. We'll focus on the musicians as opposed to spending our time getting the perfect vocal. (We'll do vocals at Brian's studio in a few weeks.)
Tonight, I worked on my part of a long distance cowrite. My partner sent me several lyrics, and I chose the one that sounded most Southern. I've written a melody that I think is pretty solid. I recorded a rough acapella verse/chorus (reminder: learn how to use Garage Band) and sent it to him. Hoping he likes it!
There's a lot to do over the next 10 days. In addition to recording next week, I'm also working for Ben, attending Bible study, judging at the TN Fine Arts competition, and leading worship at the Redeemer's women's retreat in Kentucky. Please don't call me next Sunday afternoon - my phone will be switched off!
On Saturday, I attended a wonderful Seder meal at Redeemer. Sunday morning, Gerald and I led worship at Harpeth Springs. We planned some great songs for Easter, and we were joined by a great bass player. (We're hoping he'll join us again this Sunday!) I'd given up fast food for Lent so, after church, we broke the Fast Food Fast at Fat Mo's. Anyone who's eaten there knows you need a nap after, but we had to clean the house and glaze the ham! Sunday night, we hosted Easter dinner for 9 people. And before you give Gerald all the credit - I did the cooking!
It was an awesome day, and an incredible week, but I was just thoroughly exhausted after all of it. I had to work Monday morning, and I've just been tired all week. Tuesday I really wanted to nap all day, but Tara and I got all glammed up and headed out to Smyrna for the SGN Awards. It was really a fantastic show, and I got to see lots of friends. To be honest, it was actually a bit of a profound night for me. I don't know that I'm ready to write about it yet, but I may in a little while.
Today was the first day I was really feeling ready to get back to work (creative work, not day-job work), so it ended up being a wonderfully creative day! Gerald and I had a creative meeting this afternoon to discuss my CD and his demos. We try to have these meetings every week or 2. In them, we talk about our creative dreams, and then try to put together the steps to make them come true.
Gerald is developing an 8-song demo package that will be a mix of Christian and country songs. To keep things affordable, not all the songs will use a full band, so we'll probably use several studios to make the different demos. We're hoping to get at least 3 done before our next trip to Canada, and we'll post them online when we get them.
We're in the studio Tuesday to record the tracks for my hymns CD! So excited!! We're recording them right on Music Row, just steps from the hotel where we spent our honeymoon. On the day, we'll record the guitar and the piano, and I'll do a 'scratch' vocal. This basically means I'll sing along to guide Teri and Gerald, but we may not keep it. We'll focus on the musicians as opposed to spending our time getting the perfect vocal. (We'll do vocals at Brian's studio in a few weeks.)
Tonight, I worked on my part of a long distance cowrite. My partner sent me several lyrics, and I chose the one that sounded most Southern. I've written a melody that I think is pretty solid. I recorded a rough acapella verse/chorus (reminder: learn how to use Garage Band) and sent it to him. Hoping he likes it!
There's a lot to do over the next 10 days. In addition to recording next week, I'm also working for Ben, attending Bible study, judging at the TN Fine Arts competition, and leading worship at the Redeemer's women's retreat in Kentucky. Please don't call me next Sunday afternoon - my phone will be switched off!
Thursday, April 09, 2009
Maundy Thursday
I decided last night to give myself today off. It's one of those things that I couldn't really afford to do, but I also couldn't afford not to. Now that I've hit the end of the day, it was definitely the right choice. I relaxed, spent time in a cafe with Tara, and had a long dinner out with Gerald.
Tonight I went to the Maundy Thursday service at Redeemer. It was awesome. We did Holy Communion, foot washing, and stripping the altar. The music was great, and the whole service was powerful and moving.
When I got home, Gerald and I rehearsed for Sunday morning. These are the songs we're doing:
Tonight I went to the Maundy Thursday service at Redeemer. It was awesome. We did Holy Communion, foot washing, and stripping the altar. The music was great, and the whole service was powerful and moving.
When I got home, Gerald and I rehearsed for Sunday morning. These are the songs we're doing:
- Holy is the Lord (Chris Tomlin)
- Above All (Paul Baloche)
- In Christ Alone (Stuart Townsend)
- Angus Dei (Michael W. Smith)
- Worthy is the Lamb (Darlene Zschech)
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
SoGo Central Nashville
Tonight I sang at the SoGo Central Nashville Dinner Theatre. It's a neat little community theatre where they do lots of plays and musicals, and for the last few months, it's been the home of monthly Southern Gospel concerts.
My Stamps-Baxter friend, Brandon Andrews, has been the host, so I was thrilled for the invite to come and sing a few songs. I was also excited because I'm big fans of the headliners for the night - Mike and Kelly Bowling. For the uninitiated, Mike and Kelly are a husband-wife team who have built one of the hottest trios in SG today. They have a great sound and they choose great songs - last year's "Your Cries Have Awoken the Master" was Singing News #1 song for 2008.
I opened the show with "Neighbour" and "Real Big Fan", and both went well. Brandon did a great set with his huge, powerful vocals and awesome songs. Then Gerald and I did our new arrangement of "Just a Closer Walk" and we had the crowd singing along. Mike and Kelly gave a great show with stunning vocals, and an easy, friendly stage presence. They're awesome to listen to, and just so comfortable to watch.
After the show, we got to chat with the audience, staff, and other artists. "Just a Closer" got terrific feedback, so I'm even more excited about putting it on the new CD. Overall, there was a really positive feeling from everyone. Hope we can do it again soon!
My Stamps-Baxter friend, Brandon Andrews, has been the host, so I was thrilled for the invite to come and sing a few songs. I was also excited because I'm big fans of the headliners for the night - Mike and Kelly Bowling. For the uninitiated, Mike and Kelly are a husband-wife team who have built one of the hottest trios in SG today. They have a great sound and they choose great songs - last year's "Your Cries Have Awoken the Master" was Singing News #1 song for 2008.
I opened the show with "Neighbour" and "Real Big Fan", and both went well. Brandon did a great set with his huge, powerful vocals and awesome songs. Then Gerald and I did our new arrangement of "Just a Closer Walk" and we had the crowd singing along. Mike and Kelly gave a great show with stunning vocals, and an easy, friendly stage presence. They're awesome to listen to, and just so comfortable to watch.
After the show, we got to chat with the audience, staff, and other artists. "Just a Closer" got terrific feedback, so I'm even more excited about putting it on the new CD. Overall, there was a really positive feeling from everyone. Hope we can do it again soon!
Sunday, April 05, 2009
Happy Palm Sunday!
I love Palm Sunday! Actually, I love all of Holy Week. I have Bible study on Wednesday, but I'm planning to attend church on Thursday and Friday evenings. I'm also doing a cool reading this week. Max Lucado's "And the Angels Were Silent" covers the final days of Christ as recorded in Matthew. The chapters are all broken down for the days of the week, so this week, I'll read it according to the days of Holy Week.
This morning was a first for us - we each sang at different churches! Gerald was back at Harpeth Springs, where he lead worship by himself for the first time! He was a bit nervous (aren't we all the first time?) but by all accounts, it went well. For the final song, he did his new song, "The Good Tree," which talks about the tree that would become the cross. Awesome song!
I was on the praise team at Redeemer. We had a fairly large group with 7 of us on the team, and 2 more coming up to sing in a quintet for the offertory. I sang "Go to Dark Gethsemane" from the red Anglican hymnal during communion, and it went really well. The whole service was pretty awesome, and we got a tremendous amount of feedback after the service.
Busy week ahead! Must rest up so I'm good for the whole week!
This morning was a first for us - we each sang at different churches! Gerald was back at Harpeth Springs, where he lead worship by himself for the first time! He was a bit nervous (aren't we all the first time?) but by all accounts, it went well. For the final song, he did his new song, "The Good Tree," which talks about the tree that would become the cross. Awesome song!
I was on the praise team at Redeemer. We had a fairly large group with 7 of us on the team, and 2 more coming up to sing in a quintet for the offertory. I sang "Go to Dark Gethsemane" from the red Anglican hymnal during communion, and it went really well. The whole service was pretty awesome, and we got a tremendous amount of feedback after the service.
Busy week ahead! Must rest up so I'm good for the whole week!
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Awesome rehearsal!
Gerald, Teri, and I met this morning to continue our hymns rehearsal.
We started with the 2 guitar songs. When Gerald and I were in Alabama earlier this month, we came up with a really cool arrangement for "Just a Closer Walk." It's got a really cool groove, and Teri is going to play a little solo near the end that's jazzy and fun. Then we worked on the classic "Give Me Jesus." I've really fallen in love with this song, and I imagined singing it with a very simply guitar arrangement. When we were rehearsing last night, Gerald started doing this cool tapping thing with the guitar. Instead of strumming or plucking the strings, he taps them with the tips of his fingers, giving them a ringing, sustained kind of sound. Add in a little piano, and the whole thing sounds so beautiful! I had chills while we were working on it. I am sooo excited about this one!
Next, Gerald got to hear what Teri and I have been working on. It was great getting to touch the songs again. We don't want to overwork them before we get in the studio, but playing them again today allowed us to settle into them a little more. We found some beautiful moments, and most of it is just so pretty and simple.
We need to book a studio day soon for the tracks, but I don't think that'll happen til after Easter. I get more and more excited each time we take another step on this project!
We started with the 2 guitar songs. When Gerald and I were in Alabama earlier this month, we came up with a really cool arrangement for "Just a Closer Walk." It's got a really cool groove, and Teri is going to play a little solo near the end that's jazzy and fun. Then we worked on the classic "Give Me Jesus." I've really fallen in love with this song, and I imagined singing it with a very simply guitar arrangement. When we were rehearsing last night, Gerald started doing this cool tapping thing with the guitar. Instead of strumming or plucking the strings, he taps them with the tips of his fingers, giving them a ringing, sustained kind of sound. Add in a little piano, and the whole thing sounds so beautiful! I had chills while we were working on it. I am sooo excited about this one!
Next, Gerald got to hear what Teri and I have been working on. It was great getting to touch the songs again. We don't want to overwork them before we get in the studio, but playing them again today allowed us to settle into them a little more. We found some beautiful moments, and most of it is just so pretty and simple.
We need to book a studio day soon for the tracks, but I don't think that'll happen til after Easter. I get more and more excited each time we take another step on this project!
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