USA Part 1 – If you want to make God laugh…tell him your plans.
Hello USA!
We arrived 9 days ago with a plan in place. All my crazy dietary restrictions simplified into meal ideas that were easy to travel with, all my supplements ordered ahead of time and shipped to our first stop in Illinois. I was ready to be the picture of health on this trip, and having lost those last pesky 9 pounds, I have to tell you, I’ve been feeling pretty great lately. My energy has returned.
The best laid plans. Making good choices in Davenport, IA.
Concert #1 was a good time at the Triplett home, except that I found myself suddenly affected by the pollen count, and since all the Benadryl was expired, I tried Claritin D for the first time, and now I know that I am allergic to this allergy medicine. The night was marked by chills, numb and tingly fingers, and a crazy distant feeling. Apologies to all of you who thought I was being a diva, sitting in my lawn chair throne after the concert – the world went dark as I walked off the concrete porch stage, and I was merely trying not to pass out. Thanks to everyone there for coming out, overlooking my spaciness, and showing us a great time. We loved seeing old friends and making new ones.
By Concert #2 in Moline all was well. The Perry house was new to us, but we just had a blast with their friends and in their gorgeous restored old home. I cannot believe we didn’t get a picture with Jim and Stephanie. We were having too much fun. (Jim & Stephanie – if you have any pics, send them to me!)
By the next day, my voice was gone. Just disappeared! It wasn’t sore, it never felt overworked. It just got up and left the room. So…like dominoes, we have been watching and waiting–watching our concerts go bye bye as we had to cancel or postpone them (Sorry Omaha! Sorry Warehouse!), waiting for my voice to come back, and trying all kinds of things to get it there. If there is an article on it, I tried it.
This straw exercise was recommended by Diane Sharp, expert vocal coach.
Breathing steam in the Motel 6. I feel pretty!
We had a sweet night in Wellfleet, Nebraska just talking to our audience as it was too late to cancel. They made us welcome at the potluck dinner that was to precede the concert, and just let us tell them about our adventure thus far. They even bought some cds and donated toward our travel expenses. Can you believe that? Wellfleet, we love you!
Leaving early from the Timmons’ house for a TV interview. It’s obvious the Timmons are better “morning people” than we are!
Tonight, at the Kearney Public Library, with a cautiously curated setlist, we are going for it! I intend to bully this voice into submission like a whiny kid that won’t get up off the couch. Stay tuned…
