I’m almost three weeks into a three month sabbatical. Figure I’d check in on some of the goals I had for myself. All in all I’d give myself a grade of C so far.
I’ve gotten a little more regular with the gym, but I’m not back to being super-disciplined. Ideally I’d be lifting three times a week plus bouldering once or twice. I think this will be the first week I achieve that. Good news is that yesterday was the first day I felt like I wasn’t dragging. Started to feel strong. I also switched programs (and tracking apps) from StrongLifts to GZCL (using the Boostcamp app). I think this program is a better fit for my age and goals. I can write more about that later.
My diet hasn’t been awesome, honestly, the past few weeks have been beautiful… sunny, not too hot. Perfect springtime. These are probably the best weeks of weather we’ll get in Texas. It’s really hard to watch what you eat and drink in springtime. So I’m giving myself a bit of a pass for now. So far this week I’ve made picanha, migas, and red-wine braised beef short ribs.
I’ve definitely played a ton of guitar. I’ve finished writing a number of unfinished songs, including a brand new one that I’m really happy with, called Light-year. This is just a scratch track to get the ideas down, so don’t be too judgmental please.
I’ve played (and hosted) a couple of open mic nights and I’ve played a show with my buddy Chris. I think my music chops are as good as ever. Here’s a short clip from the last open mic — before I decided to join in on percussion with a cabasa. These are fun times.
Speaking of which I’ve been learning lap steel guitar. I played some songs with the lap steel at the show, but I wasn’t very happy with the performance. Sounded so much better in practice. Guess I need more practice.
As for making an album, I’ve started laying scratch tracks to share with potential partners, but haven’t found people to play with. I’m talking with a friend who runs a recording studio and I think we’ll be able to start recording, but I may not have a finished album before the end of the sabbatical. That’s ok… as long as I get on the path I’ll be happy with that progress.
This is my second blog post. That doesn’t qualify as “blog regularly.” Will try to be more diligent about that. Same thing with meditation. I’ve done it a few times but haven’t made it a part of my daily routine yet.
I haven’t fixed nearly as much around the house as I planned. I count two things that I’ve “fixed.” Still plenty to do.
I have started setting an alarm to get up earlier and I’ve been making lists of things I want to finish each day. To be honest, it’s a little like work though. I never seem to get through the list.
And that’s all the time we have today for sitting at my computer and blogging. Will see you around soon.