April 21: Playing Organ, Birthday Party, New Cartoon

I like playing the pipe organ.  I like the instrument--its sounds and mechanics.  I've been playing the organ for close to 30 years at two different churches.  Recently, I have been filling in for the senior organist at the United Methodist Church.  The senior organist had a heart attack and a stroke last week; she's was sick the week before, and, the week before that, she was on a trip to Maryland or something.  That's three weeks thus far.

I never aspired to be a church organist.  It just sort of happened.  I learned on the job.  I remember the first Mass I played at Saint John's in my home tome over 27 years ago.  It was simple.  Four standard hymns, no liturgical music.  Quick and easy.  I got sick to my stomach before I sat down to play.

I don't get physically ill any more when I play the organ.  I get nervous.  I make mistakes.  But I don't vomit.  Haven't in years.  I've played for bishops and at cathedrals.  I've played funerals and weddings, first communions and Easter Vigils.  I've never played for a cardinal yet.  If I was asked to play for the pope, I'd probably blow some chunks.  Aside from that, nothing rattles me too much.

I'm going to be filling in for the senior organist for a while.  She's in physical and speech therapy now.  About the only thing that causes me stress is playing anthems for the chancel choir.  That music is complicated and requires hours of practice.  At the moment, I don't have hours to practice.  I'm going to have to find them, somehow.

Yes, playing the pipe organ is one of my favorite things, even if it causes me some anxiety. 

No more anxiety for me today, however.  It's my sister's birthday, so my wife is cooking dinner for her.  It will be a good time.  My kids will eat cake and ice cream.  They'll probably fight with each other, and my son or daughter will end up crying.  Good times will be had by all.

Saint Marty is ready for some good times.

Confessions of Saint Marty

January 17: More Snow, Word of Welcome, Sick Son

It has been snowing and blowing all day, which is alright if you can stay home and drink hot chocolate spiked with peppermint schnapps.  However, it sucks if you have to go to work, teach, and attend a meeting in the evening.  The drive home was hideous. 

Then I had to deal with my sick son.  He's been throwing up since this morning.  He just threw up again in his crib.  I had to give him a bath.  The first thing he did when I put him in the tub was wash his hands, which were covered in vomit.  I feel so sorry for him.  He's absolutely miserable and doesn't understand why he's miserable.  I really hope he feels better tomorrow morning, especially for my wife's sake.  She was cleaning up vomit all day long.

Thanks for stopping by!

On a completely different subject, I'd like to welcome the newest disciple of Saint Marty, Sonia.  I don't know what drew you to this blog--the witty observations, the brilliant poetry, or the  undeniable wisdom underlying everything I say.  Maybe it was my humility.

Whatever it was, Saint Marty hopes you continue to visit.