Back in the UK

Remember what I said about sleeping on the plane? Well... it didn't happen for me... I think I might have dozed for an hour or so, but as soon as I started to nod off - I would get this horrible pain in my neck/back/arm/leg anywhere that would wake me up. Also, that damn little airline pillow is the work of the same person who invented the tuxedo - - - I swear!

Anyway, I am back. And, I have so much to do. Not as much as one of the other euphonium players here - as he keeps reminding me - but enough to keep me busy, mind you. I am in the process of completing my SPS requirements. At the beginning of the school year I signed up for 3 SPS requirements (you have to sign up for 3). These being: (1) Preparation for External Competition (2) Directed Ensemble (3) Chamber Music. Now, in the next 2 weeks I am being examined on number 1 and 3. No big deal, although I still have to learn one piece on the External Competition list, and the quartet needs to rehearse - BIG TIME! Couple that with the piece that I have to learn for the Senior Cup (next brass band competition) and you have one stressed-out-Pat!

But, the weekend is almost here... and the weather is actually tolerable today. The sun has come out twice this week (a new record, I think), and until the sun goes down you can actually wear shorts and survive - - - not quite sandal weather, but we're getting there. I am sure that once I get to Phoenix in July I will be cursing the sun and praying for snow - but for now I'm looking forward to it!

I finally have all of my plans for the summer laid out and it is going to be a BUSY summer. I have to go back home to the US after my parents/Mary come over here to the UK, then move to Phoenix, come back to visit friends/family, meetings for TA at ASU, and somewhere in there - find time to practice... right... ;)

Anyway, that's about it for now. I have my first lesson with Steve since I came back, and I wanted to polish up a few things before it - so more info later!