I thought that I would give you a bit of a flavor into one of my favorite pastimes. Each summer I go to at least one drum corps competition. I guess I’m an addict of sorts. I enjoy the music, the energy, the color guard, well…just everything.

Above in the video is a corps called the Bayonne Bridgemen. This video (both parts) is from 1976. In each successive posting, I will show clips of how this art form has evolved.

Some of what you see above still takes place and some of what you see is now considered outdated. I will not tell you much of what happened because you will be able to see for yourself. It will be a primer for those who never have seen what drum and bugle corps used to be like.

Just thought I’d share a little of what I like with you.

Your Nashville Friend,

Thom

There have been some out there that wanted to know what I looked like. I know I know I know: I’m not a model, but then again, I live in the real world. At least I did not photo shop this at all. I even took this with my Blackjack mobile phone.

I guess that this picture represents what this blog is all about; honesty. I write and tell you about how I am doing. I share with you the ups and downs, the fun and the routine, and the silliness and the seriousness of life.

Recently I have been doing real well. I feel secure, I am making some good friends out there, and I am having a better outlook on my life. I sometimes wonder why I am doing better. I suppose that jotting them down in this blog helps. I know that there are many of you that are sending me good vibes and saying some prayers for me. I also know that it’s a change in mindset on a daily basis…okay…sometimes an hourly basis.

How about you? Are you so bold to be honest with those who are around you? Are you sharing your feelings…your true innermost feelings with anyone? Do you admit that sometimes that you are weak? Have you taken a chance on a life that you have always dreamed of? Just asking.

I wish you all the very best as always!

Your Nashville Friend,

Thom

Well…Here are some snapshots that I took with my trusty Blackjack phone this afternoon. After all of this rain, it is rejuvenating to have a day like this. I mowed my yard, chopped away at a hedge, did some weeding, did some edging, and took my Greyhounds for a walk along the grounds so that they could inspect what I had accomplished. Taylor the Latte Boy (from Pod Is My Copilot: www.podismycopilot.com) inspired me I guess.

This was the first day that the lawn had dried up enough to cut. It felt exhilarating to cut the grass. I know that that must sound quirky by most of you out there, but if you read the last entry, you would see that it has been tough trying to feel great with all of the rain that we recently have been encountering.

I hope that where you are is as beautiful as it is here in Nashville. I know that there will be rain, but it sure is great when there is sunshine. Get out and enjoy nature.

Your Nashville Friend,

Thom

I know that rain is a part of Springtime but come on! My backyard looks like a bog. It has been raining here 6 out of 8 days here. The skies have been grey for a long time…so long that I wonder what blue sky looks like anymore. I really had to look hard to find some joy during this time of year.

Usually it is winter that gets me depressed. You know the cold weather and the bitterness of the stinging sleet against your face can really get to you. I had hoped that the season of spring would help me to feel better. With all of this rain it has not made me feel better so far.

What I have learned is that the season or the weather should not be in charge of my emotional state. I need to find within myself the joy that we all should have to keep us level during all seasons of life. When I go outside and the rain hits my face I now smile because I know that I am stronger than the rain, I am stronger than the grey skies, and I am stronger than the current bleak forecast.

I hope that you are all doing well. If it is raining where you are; don’t let it wear you down. Be strong and get out in the rain and smile. Know that you are stronger than what is around you. Hugs are great during this time. If you need a hug, giving one means that you get one in return.

You’re gonna make it afterall!

Your Nashville Friend,

Thom