I was able to sleep in a bit, which is always good. I was able to rouse myself slowly to get ready for a lunch date with some lovely, music-loving ladies that I met this summer here in Grand Rapids. I felt honored to be asked to an afternoon of wonderful conversation about life and music! It was a perfect way to spend the afternoon. 

Afterward, I went and rested for a bit, then I was off to pick up my mom! I hadn't seen her in 9 months...too long. Here's a brief history to understand our relationship. My mother and I are extremely close, and I am blessed to have a musical connection with her. I sang from a very young age, and my mom often accompanied me. She is the most musical person I know. I grew up listening to her play piano for many different choirs growing up, and when I say "growing up", I really mean it! While accompanying a local women's choir in the suburbs of Mpls, MN, she pedaled the piano with one foot and rocked me in a little seat with the other. My mom understands with her whole being how to listen to a singer while she's accompanying. She breathes, leads and follows as necessary. 

So here I am, in Grand Rapids, MI. My step sister lives here with her family. My mom flies here, is able to spend time with her, her husband, the grandkids AND come and see me sing! We went for an early, relaxed dinner, then off to the rehearsal. I was THRILLED that she was able to come to the rehearsal and witness how a production of this magnitude is put together. Just to hear her description of surprise in watching all of those people walk on stage, was priceless! I am honored that she and my family that lives here will be able to attend the concerts this weekend to include, of course, my new-found family in the amazing women and men I've met here in Grand Rapids!