So many changes in my life keep happening

I believe music is very powerful in many ways. It can heal, make us remember, make us forget, change our perspective of time, bring us joy, and move us to tears. I have found all of these to be true as musician.

In the Summer of 2008 I was at a very low time in my life, I was depressed, I was not myself, I was seeing a counselor, I was learning how to adjust to things I didn't even realize I needed to adjust too. I wasn't singing anymore which is a true passion of mine and brings me immense joy. I found a chorus called Gem City, it was group of women who shared my same passion, it was a style of music that is so often forgotten that I grew to love in High School thanks to my inspirational director that spoiled me on quality chorus' and what good singing in a choir truly was. Through Gem City and the power of music, I got a little of myself back, even when I didn't feel like going because I was depressed I stuck it out and once I was there I was smiling. Jean Barford is truly one of the greatest directors I have ever worked with and probably ever will work with. She is the Ninja of Barbershop Harmony. I love Barbershop, I love Gem City and I love Jean Barford.

She has decided that it is time after 40 years to retire. I respect her decision but it makes me so very sad and I feel a little cheated that I only had the privilege of working with her for not even 2 years. I am at a low part in my life again although I have more support now than I did back when I joined I am so sad and beside myself that what helped me find me again may be no longer when I feel I need it most. I am so thankful I was able to go to Nashville with the chorus because if I hadn't I would have never been able to go to an international with the Gem City Chorus under the direction of Jean Barford. Some reading this don't understand how big of a deal this is but we were a family and so are the Sweet Adelines and they have been a big part of my life these last 2 years.

That is all.