Many years ago, my youngest daughter had a routine of coming straight home from school, grabbing an afghan (that I didn't dare wash) and plopping down in front of the television to watch Mr. Rogers Neighborhood. I don't quite understand, even today, her fascination with his calm demeanor, and the puppets, and the piano. Recently I watched the first of nine videos he made for historical purposes and was enchanted to learn that his mother knitted the variety of sweaters seen on his PBS program. He also spoke of using the piano to articulate his feelings. The youngest daughter taught herself to play piano--well enough, that she was gifted this upright DuoTone player piano. From time to time, we'll load the roll of Rhapsody in Blue and the entire house floods with the sounds of Gershwin's music.
By contrast, I took lessons for over 10 years and while, I read music, the extent of my playing these days would be a basic church hymn! I thought about my teachers when I dressed for this post. The first one had the most beautiful pale sculptured hands and I seemed to recall that she also worked as a hand model. The last one was a bachelor. I would trek to his home after school, making note of the scent of his home, just as I'm sure he recalls that I didn't practice my Chopin Etudes as often as I ought.
Many of you may realize by now that I've been trying to take a bit a blog sabbatical. I haven't been making my regular commenting rounds though I've been lurking here and there.
DH and I have had the house to ourselves for the past two weeks. We've celebrated our 16th wedding anniversary...among other things. It's been great to renew our sense of each other rather than take our partners for granted as can so easily happen with long-married folk.
My eBay experiments continue with mixed results, although its exciting to be learning something new.
Classes begin a week from Monday.
I'm going to continue to lay low for a week, resuming regular programming on 19th (Chanel's birthday). In the meantime, I've taken down my long outdated blog roll and if you would like to have your name listed on the new one, please leave a comment. And share your experiences learning to play a musical instrument.
Oh, Mr. Rogers. :) I will adore that man for the rest of my life, and if ever there are children, I will have every episode on whatever medium we're using to watch movies by then. In fact, when I was first considering dating The Rocket Scientist, I asked him what he thought of Mr. R. His reply of "umm, awesome, of course." helped cement my affection for him.
Hope you are enjoying your sabbatical, Terri, and happy anniversary. I bought a piano a couple of years ago, cheap from Ebay naturally (cost more to hire someone to move it than the thing itself!) I learnt to play as a kid, and I still enjoy it, though I play badly... Can't get my hands to do what I want them to! I am hoping one of the kids may be interested to learn, we shall see. Make the most of the rest of your holiday! xxxx
First, HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!! Second, I would love to be on your blog roll!! Third, I took piano for six years and it is one of my biggest regrets that I quit! I would love to be able to play again. I actually gave my piano to a musical family whose daughter was young then and about to graduate with her Musical Theater Degree, so I guess i had an investment in her future. I miss your posts...but know that sabbaticals are great. I went back to school last Friday! See you on the 19th!
As a fifth grader, I was given the opportunity to choose an instrument and take lessons at school. My friend chose the cello. I stared at her in horror as I gazed at the seemingly enormous instrument and visualized having to carry that thing around and having no one sit next to me on the bus. I promptly chose the smallest instrument available, the flute. And while it was fun for about two years, the more skilled I became at it, the higher pitched the music got, which I didn't enjoy. Fast forward twenty years to my realization that I LOVE hearing cello music. I've taken lessons for about a year now. It is difficult, and I was disappointed to learn I'm not naturally gifted at it. But what it does do is give me enormous sympathy for my students who don't learn the concepts I'm trying to teach quickly. It makes me a struggling student, which makes me a far better teacher. Thanks for the great post. And I'd love to be included in your blog roll! --Vivienne
Happy Anniversary!! I'd love to be included on your updated blogroll. My mother never had a piano lesson in her life, but she could hear certain popular tunes and sit down and play them on the piano with both hands. I took lessons for a while but never learned to sight read music, and lacked my mother's talent.
Mister Rogers...irreplaceable. My siblings and I and my children grew up in his gentle company, and we still love what we called the "field trips" that showed us how things were made.
Adventures in music-learning ... Mom and Dad were classical musicians. We kids attended concerts and recitals, took private music lessons, and played or sang in ensembles throughout the K-12 years. On any given evening the neighbors could hear practice sessions featuring some combination of piano, trumpet, violin, guitar, bassoon, oboe, French horn, or multiple voices of recorders. Only one "kid" went into music professionally, but the rest of us still play/sing for fun in our disparate lives, having also individually expanded into other instruments or ensembles including hammered dulcimers, cello, handbells (and assorted related melodic percussives), vocal jazz, classical choirs, and, for one sibling ... karaoke.
Happy Anniversary, Terri! I know the DH and I prefer to spend some quiet time together. It's always important to remember to slow down and appreciate your SO. Life is too short.
Enjoy your time off. I've got about two weeks until my school starts. However I plan to stay busy!
After the six-items challenge, I'm amazed you haven't run out of puff to blog this post! What an exhausting challenge and you did such a wonderful job - my favourite outfit was the one where you wore everything:)). I've never been interested in playing an instrument - I wanted to play drums for many years as a kid but Mum would always say "have mercy on me!" when I asked her for drum lessons or a little brother;)). I would love to be on your blog roll - enjoy your rest:)) xoxo
Why yes, Terri. I have noticed you have been laying low! I've certainly missed your comments.
I have tried to learn three different instruments and I just never took to any of them. I didn't have the discipline to stick with the piano, flute or the guitar. I did best with the guitar because I wanted to learn it, and chose it as an adult. Even those I did choose to learn to play the guitar, it was tough...the bruised and painful fingertips and a constant rotation of teachers didn't encourage me much. My Mom chose the piano and the flute for me as a chile and I remember virtually nothing! I really wanted to play the harp....but that was a big NO from the parents.
Happy 16th. Anniversary! My husband and I thought we were going to be home alone for a week this summer with our daughter away with the scouts. But she caught a nasty cold and had to come home, so although we're glad she came home and is alright we're still missing having a few days to ourselves!
I was so terrible at playing any instrument at school that the teacher kicked me out! Naturally I haven't cared much for playing any instruments later - but I love listening to music. For years I thought I was tone deaf, but then I met a professional musician. She said that the way I sang lullabies to my daughter, it had to be a poor teacher! Nice to know now, although a bit late!
Hi Terry, You certainly deserve a break after your 6 pieces challenge. And Happy 16 years together. Hmmm, I think we might be coming upon our 16th. I have to stop and figure it out...1995, nope it'll be 17 years in Sept. Time flies.
No talent with musical instruments here. Somehow I was playing violin in elementary school, but I don't know how to read music. I remember we moved a lot and some schools didn't have orchestras, so it just sort of stopped.
I'd feel very special to be included on your list, Terri, yes indeed.
Hi Terri - So nice to spend a few weeks alone with your husband. Wish you would share your Ebay seller ID. It's better to buy from someone we know. My children never watched Mister Rogers all the way through. They would leave me alone to watch by myself when the train went to that other kingdom.
Happy anniversary! It's nice to take some time and appreciate each other. I'd love to get back on your blogroll. :) I took piano lessons for ten years, kicking and screaming. I had enough talent to sound as if I'd practiced when I hadn't, but I didn't enjoy it. I wanted to sing, rather, and ended up quitting piano lessons in high school in order to focus more on academics and on my one true extracurricular love, my very intense choir. Now I'm married to a musician and music (and the piano) is still part of my life, even if I'm not the one making it. Although I do sing to the baby all the time. A lactation consultant told me, upon learning my husband's profession, "I'm not going to ask you if you're musical. All mothers can sing." I thought that was beautiful.
I have to say I don't love Mr Rogers as much as most people, but my man (being from Pittsburgh-y area) did love him as a kid.
I wish I'd learned piano or stuck with trying to learn the viola (because of course NOW I WANT TO PLAY THEM). I also had a brief stint trying to learn to play drums in the school band. And now? I don't know how to play any of them anymore. :-) Never bothered to practice.
I always appreciated Mr. Rogers, as a mom, because he would entertain and educate my kids without winding them right up to fever pitch. So gentle. . . I have so many memories of learning to play piano, starting from when I was 4 or 5, through my various teachers, a few of whom became important mentors. Then I taught for many years, and it was interesting to sit next to, rather than on, the piano bench. . . My son-in-law wished and wished and wished for lessons when he was young and his family never thought that was a worthy expense, but he has so much natural talent, far beyond most of the students I ever taught. And I'm pleased to say that it manifested itself, and he can play almost any instrument he picks up -- and makes a living as a sound engineer and music producer. I wish every child could have good basic lessons in sight-singing, at least, and in rhythm -- programs like Orff or Kodaly are fabulous for bringing musical literacy and enjoyment -- develops the brain in powerful ways and is so enriching on so many levels.
Mr. Rogers had rare appeal. His gentleness touched many young children.
Glad to hear you're taking a blogging-vacation. We need time away at times.
I tried to play every musical instrument known to man and was bad at all of them. I then decided just to hang around musicians, 'cause they're fun, without needing to actually play.
I used to watch Mr Rogers when I was in high school. It was a rough time for me and his show had a wonderful calming effect. Way better than therapy and drugs.
I'd love to be your neighbor; altho I am not a fashion blogger, a travel or crafty blogger, nor do I write with any great wisdom. I haven't watched Mr Rogers. I don't play a musical instrument, but in jr high (what it was called then) I took 2 years of viola lessons. Why the viola??? I've almost always chosen the path less traveled. So glad you were able to have 2 weeks to yourselves!!! :-)
I met M. in play group. At first we didn't speak. At all. Insteadt we'd run from one end of the room to the other, flop down onto our bottoms and slide the rest of the way. Over. And over. And over. When I found my Dad's old recorder and (between screeching blows) insisted that I wanted lessons, it turned out M. had made the same demand and we started learning together. We'd walk down to our teacher's house hand in hand and marvel at the teachers father's wood workshop. We'd slow down and glance inside in passing. Between songs we'd marvel at our teacher's collection of pressed flowers and once, received one of our own each. A pretty wild flower encased in self adhesive plastic foil.
I carried on for quite some time but while I learnt to read the notes I never did get a feel for the music. I think I am better off listening than playing myself ;)
happy anniversery to both of you! the older i get the more i know how important it is to spent quality time together and not only to share daily life. have a good time!
I played for 10 years before giving up - I was a year away from teachers grade in exams. I regret giving it up but I went to University, started work, moved away and it got left by the wayside. My greatest achievements was a Chopin Nocturne in E flat major and Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata. I can barely read sheet music anymore it's been that long. Sniff. Anyway - Happy Anniversary!
Terri: Happy Anniversary! It's so true - you have to stop to appreciate your partner and you can only do that by spending time together like in the early days.
My kids liked Mr Rogers too - I think it was because he was so tranquil and peaceful. I can't believe his mom made his sweaters! I always looked to see what colour he would wear - although now that I think about it, he always took the next one in line.
Congratulations on your 16th anniversary! And so nice for your to enjoy each others' company alone for a while ;) I hope you also enjoy your blog holiday, you deserve one after a month of 6 items... phew! I was interested in you and your family's musical adventures... I played the clarinet for eight years in school and trombone for three... I attended a music school so i also belonged to the concert band (3hrs each Saturday) the orchestra (1 hr each Wed? I think?) and the choir (2hrs every Thurs), all that on top of 1 hr a day practise!! Needless to say, I OD'd and dropped it all entirely once I left school! I guess I satisfy my creative urges through sewing, which I have pursued since I was about 7! I didn't encourage my own children to do music but they all did an instrument for a few years before moving on to other interests. I am glad they CAN read music though :)
Sometimes a good blog sabbatical is all you need. I haven't been concentrating on my blog so much since finding out I'm pregnant. I'm trying to kick back & relax a bit more.
I used to play the violin, although I haven't played in a long time now. My Mum & Dad say that they just kept encouraging & praising my playing, even when I sounded like a wounded cat, and one day I got really good, haha. I'd actually love to take it up again.
Happy anniversary! I think it's good that you're taking some time to yourselves to enjoy it, especially since school is starting back up soon. I learned to play piano in first grade, and I remember my sweet piano teacher, Vonnie. She played at the church I went to. I had a few other teachers after that because I moved, but I'll always remember her. Now I rarely play anymore, but I hope to one day go back to it a little!
I've never played an instrument, I was more of of a choir girl! I do have fond memories of Mr.Rogers, he was very much a part of my childhood. Besides watching his show religously, I remember checking out his records at the library, I would listen to them on my harvest gold, plastic, fisher price record player each night as I fell asleep... ahhh good memories :)
I have been slow blogging as well, oh well it is alright - we will be there when you come back full force;0 Talking of piano playing, my mom is a pianist,she was concert pianist material - she still plays, she has a baby grant piano - she taught me a bit, i was kind of good but did not pursue - i should have, music is the best gift you can give yourself, this is what my mom said!
I think maybe the heat has us all a bit sluggish, here in the States, at least. I have in my home the baby grand piano that belonged to my mother. Her father gave it to her the year I was born (1953). Although I had a few obligatory years of lessons, I never really took to it. My husband, however, not only plays trumpet, but piano and bass as well. So I get to enjoy it almost every day.
oh I just love rhapsody in blue- I can just picture your house filled with its melancholy strains! I used to like mister rogers but I liked this cartoon that was on afterward even more, it was called Mya the Bee and I just loved to curl up and watch it!
I can well imagine why Mr. Rogers was a favourite. I only have to imagine hearing his voice and I feel safe and comforted. Sadly, he came along well after my childhood. My Mom wanted me to be 'well-rounded' (but not in the way I have now 'achieved') and she sent me to piano lessons for several years. My Uncle Bernard agreed this was important and so when money was tight he helped pay and often drove me to the lessons. Eventually Mom even bought me an old upright piano...which I rarely played after the lessons stopped. I remember a couple of piano recitals (I destroyed the decorative rose on a blue organza dress, fiddling with it nervously while waiting my turn to play). Somehow the piano didn't inpsire me. I don't even remember how to read music, which I regret. Funny though, I live in this house because a friend recommended I view it; she remembered it because the spinster who lived there gave her piano lessons.
I love your new semi-creepy doll-head profile pic! I always thought Mr. Rogers was super creepy, even when I was a kid.
I studied piano for quite a few years as a child too, but I was never very good because playing with emotion made me feel exposed, naked. I wondered how anyone could REVEAL themselves like that. I like the photo of you at the piano. The pianos they make now make my head spin! They are techno wonders.
Happy Anniversary to you both. I'm glad you are getting some alone time!
Since you've asked, yes, I would also be really happy to be included in your blog roll.
Taking a blog vacation to spend time with your husband and celebrate your anniversary sounds to me like the best of times. Happy Anniversary! And love the blue sweater that you're wearing at the piano.
I played the french horn from 7th grade through my senior year in high school. I loved it and continue to enjoy the unique sound of this horn, although I don't play it anymore. I have fond memories of the value that this experience contributed to my early life.
Hi Terri! Glad to hear you are enjoying your downtime. Happy anniversary! I didn't know you played piano. I played violin for almost 20 years, and it added a lot to my life, but now I prefer to sing in a community choir. As for Mr. Rogers, like your daughter, I found him soothing. But I did enjoy laughing at Robin Williams' impersonation of him many years later.
i still remember my piano teacher, mrs. kam. she was so good, and i'll always remember the beautiful drive to her house down a long tree-lined road. her house was totally set up for lessons...a huge room with several steps up like a stage with two grand pianos facing each other. our recitals would be there at the house, too. wish my kids could learn from her.
I started playing the cello and viola then finally stayed with the violin Suzuki method trained, then classically for 9 or so years, I hardly dabble with it like I used to play , but I miss it much! I have always appreciated art/expression through music. I've only seen a few Mr. Rogers episodes but do remember him. Have a wonderful time away, and happy anniversary! :)
Fun post! And firstly I want to thank you and send a big hug for the beautiful text-like graphic scarf/shawl/wrap. I just returned from a week's vacation in the woods inside a cozy cabin without any internet or phone. We sure enjoyed every day, but back home again and out comes the laptop. I took guitar lessons off and on and loved dabbling in song writing but I never played the instrument very well. I love taking a harmonica along and making up old Gunsmoke style western campfire tunes. I also have a vintage mandolin and a chord book which I was going to teach myself but I'm not a very good teacher since the book has hardly been opened. Downstairs I have a bass guitar and amp and feel that with practice I could get pretty good, but my energy levels and pure laziness, along with other interests, always seem to put music on the back burner. Though I would love to make it more of a priority at some point in my life. It's never too late! I'd love to be on your blog list. ;)
Great new avatar Terri! Dose shaking beads in an empty oatmeal container count as playing an instrument? That's what I did in elementary school and that's all I know. According to one of those popular books out there, that's all I need to know. Glad you're getting some R and R. Please add me to the blog roll.
I sleep with a guitarist, does that count?! I'm tone deaf & with a singing voice so bad that I was once forcibly removed from the stage by the bouncers at a karaoke night. Tortoise-wise, in the winter, Jacob gets put inside a straw-filled cardboard box which we keep in the coal house. xxx
Happy anniversary to you and hubby! Glad to hear you were able to spend some quality time. I think it's very important to nurture our relationship with our spouse.
I'm afraid I fought my mom when she tried/encouraged me to get piano lessons...wish I had listen to her now. It is on my bucket list to learn to play....I hope I'm not too old to start. Hope you have a wonderful and restful weekend!
I always liked Mr. Rogers too. Seemed like such a sweet and caring man. I had no idea his mother had knitted those sweaters he wore. That makes him even more endearing. I took piano lessons for a couple of years around Junior High age I think. I have not tried to play or read any music in forever. Don't even know if I still could. My husband played the oboe through college, but has not played for many years. Congratulations on your 16th wedding anniversary. I'm glad you're taking the time to appreciate one another.
I used to watch Mr. Rogers as a child. I was amazed to learn he was an ordained minister.
I play trombone and clarinet. My first two years, I thought I wanted to be a music teacher and my major was music education. I realised I couldn't handle teaching music in large groups and became an English teacher instead. I now teach my JHS students' trombone section, but I am pretty happy not being responsible for the entire band!
Congrats on your anniversary. As for blog roll, that is completely up to you. You know my feelings on the whole tit for tat follow thing, and my own blog roll is pretty much limited to prep/ivy/trad blogs. But I'll always be an ever so often visitor.
As soon as i read the tittle of you post, i knew it was Mr Rogers! I too loved him - there was something magical about that man in a knitted cardigan, btw i did not know his mom knitted some of them. Happy 16th anniversary.
Awww, Mr. Rogers. My favorite part was the train that took the you to puppet land.
I never took piano lessons but my older sister did. We had a piano for her in the house and it is still there. When Wiley visits he "plays" it. Maybe he'll be interested in learning to play one day but I'm not pushing him.
My instruments were the clarinet to start off with and then the tenor and bari saxophone, for high school marching, concert and jazz bands. I didn't practice much and not sure if I ever got the hang of reading music perfectly. Had trouble remembering fingers for flat/sharps. I definitely couldn't play any of it now.
I'm in a bit of a blog break too, what with the house move. Having to wake up and deal with all my worldly possessions is really taking a toll on me, emotionally and physically. I just want to throw it all away and start new. We'll see if that feeling extends to the blog or resolves itself with a few car loads of boxes to the Goodwill...
Happy Anniversary! That is wonderful to celebrate together and having two weeks to yourselves. I remember Mr. Rogers and always thought his cardigans were pretty cool. Something very comforting about them. My musical instrument skills are awful but my husband plays drums and guitar and Kayla plays piano and flute. I just sing a long (but really off key)! Enjoy your blog sabbatical. Heather
Terri, I have gotten behind in my commenting. Somehow I have missed seeing your blog posts. I have got to get my blog list organized too. I noticed that my blog is missing from your list. I would like to be listed. I promise to start being more attentive to reading my favorite blogs (and yours is one of my favorites.) I read an article in the paper that said that people who took music lessons had better brain function than those who had not taken them. My parents did not think it worthwhile. Hmm, maybe that explains some things.
I hope you are enjoying your rest, Terri, and I'm happy to be your neighbor here in blogland.
ReplyDeleteYou look very comfortable at the piano, Terri! I took lessons for several years as a child, but sadly did not continue. But Gershwin moves me!
ReplyDeleteOh, Mr. Rogers. :)
ReplyDeleteI will adore that man for the rest of my life, and if ever there are children, I will have every episode on whatever medium we're using to watch movies by then. In fact, when I was first considering dating The Rocket Scientist, I asked him what he thought of Mr. R. His reply of "umm, awesome, of course." helped cement my affection for him.
Hope you are enjoying your sabbatical, Terri, and happy anniversary.
ReplyDeleteI bought a piano a couple of years ago, cheap from Ebay naturally (cost more to hire someone to move it than the thing itself!) I learnt to play as a kid, and I still enjoy it, though I play badly... Can't get my hands to do what I want them to! I am hoping one of the kids may be interested to learn, we shall see.
Make the most of the rest of your holiday! xxxx
First, HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!! Second, I would love to be on your blog roll!! Third, I took piano for six years and it is one of my biggest regrets that I quit! I would love to be able to play again. I actually gave my piano to a musical family whose daughter was young then and about to graduate with her Musical Theater Degree, so I guess i had an investment in her future.
ReplyDeleteI miss your posts...but know that sabbaticals are great. I went back to school last Friday! See you on the 19th!
As a fifth grader, I was given the opportunity to choose an instrument and take lessons at school. My friend chose the cello. I stared at her in horror as I gazed at the seemingly enormous instrument and visualized having to carry that thing around and having no one sit next to me on the bus. I promptly chose the smallest instrument available, the flute. And while it was fun for about two years, the more skilled I became at it, the higher pitched the music got, which I didn't enjoy. Fast forward twenty years to my realization that I LOVE hearing cello music. I've taken lessons for about a year now. It is difficult, and I was disappointed to learn I'm not naturally gifted at it. But what it does do is give me enormous sympathy for my students who don't learn the concepts I'm trying to teach quickly. It makes me a struggling student, which makes me a far better teacher.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the great post. And I'd love to be included in your blog roll!
--Vivienne
Happy Anniversary!! I'd love to be included on your updated blogroll. My mother never had a piano lesson in her life, but she could hear certain popular tunes and sit down and play them on the piano with both hands. I took lessons for a while but never learned to sight read music, and lacked my mother's talent.
ReplyDeleteMister Rogers...irreplaceable. My siblings and I and my children grew up in his gentle company, and we still love what we called the "field trips" that showed us how things were made.
ReplyDeleteAdventures in music-learning ... Mom and Dad were classical musicians. We kids attended concerts and recitals, took private music lessons, and played or sang in ensembles throughout the K-12 years. On any given evening the neighbors could hear practice sessions featuring some combination of piano, trumpet, violin, guitar, bassoon, oboe, French horn, or multiple voices of recorders. Only one "kid" went into music professionally, but the rest of us still play/sing for fun in our disparate lives, having also individually expanded into other instruments or ensembles including hammered dulcimers, cello, handbells (and assorted related melodic percussives), vocal jazz, classical choirs, and, for one sibling ... karaoke.
I enjoy and learn much from your blog.
I just found your blog. And I really like it. I dont play instroments yet.
ReplyDeleteHappy Anniversary, Terri! I know the DH and I prefer to spend some quiet time together. It's always important to remember to slow down and appreciate your SO. Life is too short.
ReplyDeleteEnjoy your time off. I've got about two weeks until my school starts. However I plan to stay busy!
After the six-items challenge, I'm amazed you haven't run out of puff to blog this post! What an exhausting challenge and you did such a wonderful job - my favourite outfit was the one where you wore everything:)). I've never been interested in playing an instrument - I wanted to play drums for many years as a kid but Mum would always say "have mercy on me!" when I asked her for drum lessons or a little brother;)). I would love to be on your blog roll - enjoy your rest:)) xoxo
ReplyDeleteWhy yes, Terri. I have noticed you have been laying low! I've certainly missed your comments.
ReplyDeleteI have tried to learn three different instruments and I just never took to any of them. I didn't have the discipline to stick with the piano, flute or the guitar. I did best with the guitar because I wanted to learn it, and chose it as an adult. Even those I did choose to learn to play the guitar, it was tough...the bruised and painful fingertips and a constant rotation of teachers didn't encourage me much. My Mom chose the piano and the flute for me as a chile and I remember virtually nothing! I really wanted to play the harp....but that was a big NO from the parents.
Happy 16th. Anniversary! My husband and I thought we were going to be home alone for a week this summer with our daughter away with the scouts. But she caught a nasty cold and had to come home, so although we're glad she came home and is alright we're still missing having a few days to ourselves!
ReplyDeleteI was so terrible at playing any instrument at school that the teacher kicked me out! Naturally I haven't cared much for playing any instruments later - but I love listening to music. For years I thought I was tone deaf, but then I met a professional musician. She said that the way I sang lullabies to my daughter, it had to be a poor teacher! Nice to know now, although a bit late!
Hi Terry, You certainly deserve a break after your 6 pieces challenge. And Happy 16 years together. Hmmm, I think we might be coming upon our 16th. I have to stop and figure it out...1995, nope it'll be 17 years in Sept. Time flies.
ReplyDeleteNo talent with musical instruments here. Somehow I was playing violin in elementary school, but I don't know how to read music. I remember we moved a lot and some schools didn't have orchestras, so it just sort of stopped.
I'd feel very special to be included on your list, Terri, yes indeed.
Hi Terri - So nice to spend a few weeks alone with your husband. Wish you would share your Ebay seller ID. It's better to buy from someone we know.
ReplyDeleteMy children never watched Mister Rogers all the way through. They would leave me alone to watch by myself when the train went to that other kingdom.
Happy anniversary! It's nice to take some time and appreciate each other. I'd love to get back on your blogroll. :) I took piano lessons for ten years, kicking and screaming. I had enough talent to sound as if I'd practiced when I hadn't, but I didn't enjoy it. I wanted to sing, rather, and ended up quitting piano lessons in high school in order to focus more on academics and on my one true extracurricular love, my very intense choir. Now I'm married to a musician and music (and the piano) is still part of my life, even if I'm not the one making it. Although I do sing to the baby all the time. A lactation consultant told me, upon learning my husband's profession, "I'm not going to ask you if you're musical. All mothers can sing." I thought that was beautiful.
ReplyDeleteGood luck with the return to classes!
Very, very nice. This triggered too many thoughts to comment, which is what a good post does!
ReplyDeleteHappy Anniversary!
ReplyDeleteI have to say I don't love Mr Rogers as much as most people, but my man (being from Pittsburgh-y area) did love him as a kid.
I wish I'd learned piano or stuck with trying to learn the viola (because of course NOW I WANT TO PLAY THEM). I also had a brief stint trying to learn to play drums in the school band. And now? I don't know how to play any of them anymore. :-) Never bothered to practice.
I always appreciated Mr. Rogers, as a mom, because he would entertain and educate my kids without winding them right up to fever pitch. So gentle. . .
ReplyDeleteI have so many memories of learning to play piano, starting from when I was 4 or 5, through my various teachers, a few of whom became important mentors. Then I taught for many years, and it was interesting to sit next to, rather than on, the piano bench. . . My son-in-law wished and wished and wished for lessons when he was young and his family never thought that was a worthy expense, but he has so much natural talent, far beyond most of the students I ever taught. And I'm pleased to say that it manifested itself, and he can play almost any instrument he picks up -- and makes a living as a sound engineer and music producer.
I wish every child could have good basic lessons in sight-singing, at least, and in rhythm -- programs like Orff or Kodaly are fabulous for bringing musical literacy and enjoyment -- develops the brain in powerful ways and is so enriching on so many levels.
Mr. Rogers had rare appeal. His gentleness touched many young children.
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear you're taking a blogging-vacation. We need time away at times.
I tried to play every musical instrument known to man and was bad at all of them. I then decided just to hang around musicians, 'cause they're fun, without needing to actually play.
I used to watch Mr Rogers when I was in high school. It was a rough time for me and his show had a wonderful calming effect. Way better than therapy and drugs.
ReplyDeleteI'd love to be your neighbor; altho I am not a fashion blogger, a travel or crafty blogger, nor do I write with any great wisdom.
ReplyDeleteI haven't watched Mr Rogers.
I don't play a musical instrument, but in jr high (what it was called then) I took 2 years of viola lessons. Why the viola??? I've almost always chosen the path less traveled.
So glad you were able to have 2 weeks to yourselves!!! :-)
I met M. in play group. At first we didn't speak. At all. Insteadt we'd run from one end of the room to the other, flop down onto our bottoms and slide the rest of the way. Over. And over. And over. When I found my Dad's old recorder and (between screeching blows) insisted that I wanted lessons, it turned out M. had made the same demand and we started learning together.
ReplyDeleteWe'd walk down to our teacher's house hand in hand and marvel at the teachers father's wood workshop. We'd slow down and glance inside in passing. Between songs we'd marvel at our teacher's collection of pressed flowers and once, received one of our own each. A pretty wild flower encased in self adhesive plastic foil.
I carried on for quite some time but while I learnt to read the notes I never did get a feel for the music. I think I am better off listening than playing myself ;)
Oh.. and happy anniversary to the both of you of course :)
ReplyDeletehappy anniversery to both of you! the older i get the more i know how important it is to spent quality time together and not only to share daily life. have a good time!
ReplyDeleteHappy anniversary!!!
ReplyDeleteMy daughter adored Mr. Rogers and loathed Sesame Street!! I think she liked his gentle calm approach as opposed to the frentic pace of Sesame Street
I played for 10 years before giving up - I was a year away from teachers grade in exams. I regret giving it up but I went to University, started work, moved away and it got left by the wayside. My greatest achievements was a Chopin Nocturne in E flat major and Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata. I can barely read sheet music anymore it's been that long. Sniff.
ReplyDeleteAnyway - Happy Anniversary!
I love being your neighbor :). Mister Rogers is a hero of mine. My daughter in particular was transfixed by the show.
ReplyDeleteI don't play piano anymore, too hard on my hands.
Enjoy your blog vacation!
Terri: Happy Anniversary! It's so true - you have to stop to appreciate your partner and you can only do that by spending time together like in the early days.
ReplyDeleteMy kids liked Mr Rogers too - I think it was because he was so tranquil and peaceful. I can't believe his mom made his sweaters! I always looked to see what colour he would wear - although now that I think about it, he always took the next one in line.
Congratulations on your 16th anniversary! And so nice for your to enjoy each others' company alone for a while ;) I hope you also enjoy your blog holiday, you deserve one after a month of 6 items... phew!
ReplyDeleteI was interested in you and your family's musical adventures... I played the clarinet for eight years in school and trombone for three... I attended a music school so i also belonged to the concert band (3hrs each Saturday) the orchestra (1 hr each Wed? I think?) and the choir (2hrs every Thurs), all that on top of 1 hr a day practise!! Needless to say, I OD'd and dropped it all entirely once I left school! I guess I satisfy my creative urges through sewing, which I have pursued since I was about 7! I didn't encourage my own children to do music but they all did an instrument for a few years before moving on to other interests. I am glad they CAN read music though :)
Sometimes a good blog sabbatical is all you need. I haven't been concentrating on my blog so much since finding out I'm pregnant. I'm trying to kick back & relax a bit more.
ReplyDeleteI used to play the violin, although I haven't played in a long time now. My Mum & Dad say that they just kept encouraging & praising my playing, even when I sounded like a wounded cat, and one day I got really good, haha. I'd actually love to take it up again.
Happy anniversary! I think it's good that you're taking some time to yourselves to enjoy it, especially since school is starting back up soon.
ReplyDeleteI learned to play piano in first grade, and I remember my sweet piano teacher, Vonnie. She played at the church I went to. I had a few other teachers after that because I moved, but I'll always remember her. Now I rarely play anymore, but I hope to one day go back to it a little!
Happy Anniversary. I played clarinet in the high school band. Played badly I might add.
ReplyDeleteDarla
First, happy anniversary!
ReplyDeleteI've never played an instrument, I was more of of a choir girl! I do have fond memories of Mr.Rogers, he was very much a part of my childhood. Besides watching his show religously, I remember checking out his records at the library, I would listen to them on my harvest gold, plastic, fisher price record player each night as I fell asleep... ahhh good memories :)
Hi Lovely Terri!
ReplyDeleteI have been slow blogging as well, oh well it is alright - we will be there when you come back full force;0
Talking of piano playing, my mom is a pianist,she was concert pianist material - she still plays, she has a baby grant piano - she taught me a bit, i was kind of good but did not pursue - i should have, music is the best gift you can give yourself, this is what my mom said!
Ariane xxxx
I think maybe the heat has us all a bit sluggish, here in the States, at least. I have in my home the baby grand piano that belonged to my mother. Her father gave it to her the year I was born (1953). Although I had a few obligatory years of lessons, I never really took to it. My husband, however, not only plays trumpet, but piano and bass as well. So I get to enjoy it almost every day.
ReplyDeleteI love it.
oh I just love rhapsody in blue- I can just picture your house filled with its melancholy strains! I used to like mister rogers but I liked this cartoon that was on afterward even more, it was called Mya the Bee and I just loved to curl up and watch it!
ReplyDeleteI can well imagine why Mr. Rogers was a favourite. I only have to imagine hearing his voice and I feel safe and comforted. Sadly, he came along well after my childhood. My Mom wanted me to be 'well-rounded' (but not in the way I have now 'achieved') and she sent me to piano lessons for several years. My Uncle Bernard agreed this was important and so when money was tight he helped pay and often drove me to the lessons. Eventually Mom even bought me an old upright piano...which I rarely played after the lessons stopped. I remember a couple of piano recitals (I destroyed the decorative rose on a blue organza dress, fiddling with it nervously while waiting my turn to play). Somehow the piano didn't inpsire me. I don't even remember how to read music, which I regret. Funny though, I live in this house because a friend recommended I view it; she remembered it because the spinster who lived there gave her piano lessons.
ReplyDeleteI love your new semi-creepy doll-head profile pic! I always thought Mr. Rogers was super creepy, even when I was a kid.
ReplyDeleteI studied piano for quite a few years as a child too, but I was never very good because playing with emotion made me feel exposed, naked. I wondered how anyone could REVEAL themselves like that. I like the photo of you at the piano. The pianos they make now make my head spin! They are techno wonders.
Happy Anniversary to you both. I'm glad you are getting some alone time!
Since you've asked, yes, I would also be really happy to be included in your blog roll.
Taking a blog vacation to spend time with your husband and celebrate your anniversary sounds to me like the best of times. Happy Anniversary! And love the blue sweater that you're wearing at the piano.
ReplyDeleteI played the french horn from 7th grade through my senior year in high school. I loved it and continue to enjoy the unique sound of this horn, although I don't play it anymore. I have fond memories of the value that this experience contributed to my early life.
I would love to be part of your blog roll.
Hi Terri! Glad to hear you are enjoying your downtime. Happy anniversary! I didn't know you played piano. I played violin for almost 20 years, and it added a lot to my life, but now I prefer to sing in a community choir. As for Mr. Rogers, like your daughter, I found him soothing. But I did enjoy laughing at Robin Williams' impersonation of him many years later.
ReplyDeletei still remember my piano teacher, mrs. kam. she was so good, and i'll always remember the beautiful drive to her house down a long tree-lined road. her house was totally set up for lessons...a huge room with several steps up like a stage with two grand pianos facing each other. our recitals would be there at the house, too. wish my kids could learn from her.
ReplyDeletewould love to be on the blog roll.
enjoy your time off.
[oomph.]
Mr. Roger's mother knitted him sweaters? So cute. And WOW. 16 years, that is so beautiful, amazing, awesome and lovely. Congratulations! :-)
ReplyDeleteHappy Anniversary! Enjoy your blogging break. And thanks for sharing about Mister Rogers. I used to love watching him when I was a kid. : )
ReplyDeleteI played piano as a child and was given a pink guitar for my birthday a few years ago. I can plau some cords but I want to get better.
ReplyDeleteHappy Anniversary to you both!
ReplyDeleteI played the sax as a child but gave it up along the way. How I wish I'd kept going! I can still read music though.xx
I started playing the cello and viola then finally stayed with the violin Suzuki method trained, then classically for 9 or so years, I hardly dabble with it like I used to play , but I miss it much! I have always appreciated art/expression through music. I've only seen a few Mr. Rogers episodes but do remember him. Have a wonderful time away, and happy anniversary! :)
ReplyDeleteHehehe, may I just commend you on your new blogger profile pic?! Awesome-ness!!
ReplyDeleteFun post! And firstly I want to thank you and send a big hug for the beautiful text-like graphic scarf/shawl/wrap. I just returned from a week's vacation in the woods inside a cozy cabin without any internet or phone. We sure enjoyed every day, but back home again and out comes the laptop.
ReplyDeleteI took guitar lessons off and on and loved dabbling in song writing but I never played the instrument very well. I love taking a harmonica along and making up old Gunsmoke style western campfire tunes. I also have a vintage mandolin and a chord book which I was going to teach myself but I'm not a very good teacher since the book has hardly been opened. Downstairs I have a bass guitar and amp and feel that with practice I could get pretty good, but my energy levels and pure laziness, along with other interests, always seem to put music on the back burner. Though I would love to make it more of a priority at some point in my life. It's never too late!
I'd love to be on your blog list. ;)
Great new avatar Terri!
ReplyDeleteDose shaking beads in an empty oatmeal container count as playing an instrument? That's what I did in elementary school and that's all I know. According to one of those popular books out there, that's all I need to know.
Glad you're getting some R and R.
Please add me to the blog roll.
I sleep with a guitarist, does that count?! I'm tone deaf & with a singing voice so bad that I was once forcibly removed from the stage by the bouncers at a karaoke night.
ReplyDeleteTortoise-wise, in the winter, Jacob gets put inside a straw-filled cardboard box which we keep in the coal house. xxx
Happy anniversary to you and hubby! Glad to hear you were able to spend some quality time. I think it's very important to nurture our relationship with our spouse.
ReplyDeleteI'm afraid I fought my mom when she tried/encouraged me to get piano lessons...wish I had listen to her now. It is on my bucket list to learn to play....I hope I'm not too old to start.
Hope you have a wonderful and restful weekend!
I always liked Mr. Rogers too. Seemed like such a sweet and caring man. I had no idea his mother had knitted those sweaters he wore. That makes him even more endearing.
ReplyDeleteI took piano lessons for a couple of years around Junior High age I think. I have not tried to play or read any music in forever. Don't even know if I still could. My husband played the oboe through college, but has not played for many years.
Congratulations on your 16th wedding anniversary. I'm glad you're taking the time to appreciate one another.
I used to watch Mr. Rogers as a child. I was amazed to learn he was an ordained minister.
ReplyDeleteI play trombone and clarinet. My first two years, I thought I wanted to be a music teacher and my major was music education. I realised I couldn't handle teaching music in large groups and became an English teacher instead. I now teach my JHS students' trombone section, but I am pretty happy not being responsible for the entire band!
Congrats on your anniversary. As for blog roll, that is completely up to you. You know my feelings on the whole tit for tat follow thing, and my own blog roll is pretty much limited to prep/ivy/trad blogs. But I'll always be an ever so often visitor.
As soon as i read the tittle of you post, i knew it was Mr Rogers!
ReplyDeleteI too loved him - there was something magical about that man in a knitted cardigan, btw i did not know his mom knitted some of them.
Happy 16th anniversary.
Awww, Mr. Rogers. My favorite part was the train that took the you to puppet land.
ReplyDeleteI never took piano lessons but my older sister did. We had a piano for her in the house and it is still there. When Wiley visits he "plays" it. Maybe he'll be interested in learning to play one day but I'm not pushing him.
My instruments were the clarinet to start off with and then the tenor and bari saxophone, for high school marching, concert and jazz bands. I didn't practice much and not sure if I ever got the hang of reading music perfectly. Had trouble remembering fingers for flat/sharps. I definitely couldn't play any of it now.
I'm in a bit of a blog break too, what with the house move. Having to wake up and deal with all my worldly possessions is really taking a toll on me, emotionally and physically. I just want to throw it all away and start new. We'll see if that feeling extends to the blog or resolves itself with a few car loads of boxes to the Goodwill...
Happy Anniversary! That is wonderful to celebrate together and having two weeks to yourselves. I remember Mr. Rogers and always thought his cardigans were pretty cool. Something very comforting about them. My musical instrument skills are awful but my husband plays drums and guitar and Kayla plays piano and flute. I just sing a long (but really off key)! Enjoy your blog sabbatical. Heather
ReplyDeleteTerri, I have gotten behind in my commenting. Somehow I have missed seeing your blog posts. I have got to get my blog list organized too. I noticed that my blog is missing from your list. I would like to be listed.
ReplyDeleteI promise to start being more attentive to reading my favorite blogs (and yours is one of my favorites.)
I read an article in the paper that said that people who took music lessons had better brain function than those who had not taken them. My parents did not think it worthwhile. Hmm, maybe that explains some things.