I have begun piano lessons in Santa Fe. My teacher is Charles Tichenor. He is gentle but demanding. I still miss my New York teacher, Chaim Freiborg, but I feel like I will quickly bond with Charles. I am trying to practice a half an hour a day, and so far I thoroughly enjoy it. My dog, Tiger Lily, loves music, and when I practice, she creeps close. I find this encouraging. I must sound musical to her.

When we are willing to be a beginner--when our ego will allow it-- the rewards are many, including heightened self esteem.

Fill in the following sentence five times:

If I didn't have to do it perfectly, I'd try...