Did I mention that I recently read “Julie & Julia?” Read. Not watched. (Well. I did eventually watch the movie. Last night. And the movie was only somewhat like the book. Hollywood…)
(Meryl Streep remains brilliant, by the way.)
I thought reading the book would be a neat way to end 2009, since so many people said my 100 song wildness was in line with Julie Powell’s cooking through “Mastering the Art of French Cooking” in a year. With every page I turned, I realized that Julie Powell and I were not that different… until she went & got a publisher and book deal and all.
And, it must be said that Drew knew nothing of Julie’s wildness when he suggested this lofty goal for my 2009.
But that’s neither here nor there.
The point is this: at the end of the story, Julie throws a beautiful party to celebrate the close of her year – the achievement of her goal – the journey of finding her fulfillment. But we, in my real life journey of 2009, didn’t throw a party. Drew and I had about a 15 minute “yay” and then continued packing our apartment, or something like that. I did get some “congratulations” – but when the chaos of December got in bed with some sort of humility, we had one heck of a “flop” on our hands.
And now, 2 months after completing my 102nd song of 2009 (stupid overachiever I am), as the dust settles in our new home, I find myself trying to pick up my guitar. But I’m stuck. Stuck looking back at one of the most exhilarating times in my life… but there was no ribbon flapping across the finish line.
At The Chapel, we are learning to be very intentional about our “wins.” In short, define the target. And when we hit it, acknowledge it.
I don’t want to yell “GO ME!!!” – in fact, I even feel a tinge of hesitancy in hitting “publish” on this. But I do regret not having some type of celebration that reflected the wildness of my 2009 goal… Some type of “online party” with this blog-reading community, because YOU were the faithful ones who walked with me. Gave me honest feedback. Suffered through poor recordings. Et cetera.
Is there anything wrong with saying, “This may be one of the biggest achievements of my life?”
But, what does it matter? I’m afraid the moment has passed.
Oh, girl. It’s never too late to throw thyself a party.
(Even if it’s just a little Miley Party in your own head.)
It’s OK.
Permission Granted!!!!
I’ve got an idea or two, now that y’all are talking through this with me!
Mandy,
I want to tell you that your song writing goal of 100 songs along with a podcast I heard you on inspired me to write possibly the best songs I’ve written. This isn’t saying much in the big picture ; I’m no pro. But it did help me to get through some things that needed dealing with by forcing me to REALLY focus on the lyrics, and more importantly, God.
Thank you for that.
wow… I’m really honored. Really. Thank you for your encouragement today. That means more than a silly party.
book that little coffee shop you’re lovin’ or some place on the island, make it a fri or sat pm, play your fave 20 from last year… i’d make the trip down to be part of that party! not a “look at me i’m great” thing, but a “hey, here’s the fruit of the crazy journey” thing. i’m in.
One small problem: I HAAAATTTE performing publically.
[Cliche' warning] Write on, sistah!
yessir!
2010 = 25 new ones. 25 rewritten ones.
can we celebrate together? in person?
yes please. soon. May 28th seems far away today.
wait. may?? or march?
dangit… march
oooh! can i come?!
HAAHAHHAHAHAHAH!!!!
I like Josh’s idea.
But even if a party doesn’t feel right to you at this point, I think now is a great time to mark and remember the accomplishment. You just moved into a new house…with a music room. Maybe you and Drew could go shopping and find something for your music room that will serve as a reminder of that accomplishment.
I always like your ideas as well… Always! Come see me.
I like this idea!!
It’s never too late to acknowledge your amazing achievement.
I’m thinking “Studio 102″ (one oh two) – as the “name” of my soon-to-be studio in my garage. eh?
LOVE it!!
The moment has NOT passed… we’re still celebrating with you! I’m just sayin’.
Thanks Bajan!!!
Mandy, I would be honored to celebrate this wonderous accomplishment with you. Do whatever you feel is best. You are some kind of marvelous cousin o’ mine.
Party! And there’s nothing wrong with celebrating achievement.
Party. Party? What would that even look like? Because I’m NOT crazy about actually singing in front of people. ick….
The moment may be over, but the artist you are becoming is just getting started.
That’s one of the most encouraging things I’ve ever heard. Thank you.
hey, just a little fyi…here in *******, we too watched Julie and Julia last night! Coincidence???? I submit that it is not!
I miss your wife…. I was just thinking about her yesterday.
(And I removed the *country* from your comment. Because I think I should? Or I’m not sure. Y’all are top-secret, though.)
yes. what they said.
You’re SO helpful!