What I Did This Week While Blowing Off Practicing

Generally, I think I have built up a pretty consistent practice habit. Since last October, I have only cancelled a lesson once due to insufficient practice—until this week, that is. Here are some things I did this week (in addition to, you know, my full-time job) while I was not practicing: 

• Watched two-plus games from Euro 2012 (Germany vs. Portugal, Italy vs. Spain, and parts of Croatia vs. Ireland). A couple of friends have been trying for years to turn me into a soccer fan, and they’re definitely making progress. I can now relate who and what I’m seeing on the field to what I saw at the previous two men’s World Cups, at least. 
• Read an entire novel in two sittings. The book was Gone Girl, and it was unlike any other thriller I’ve ever read. I’m usually one to wait for the paperback, but in this case, I am thankful I read it soon enough after its publication to avoid spoilers. Wow. 
• Started looking at houses with my real estate agent. I saw seven houses and actually liked three pretty well. It’s too early for me to bite—I’m not pre-approved yet—but I saw enough to be encouraged that I will find something in my price range, in a good location, that I really like. I need to remember that feeling of excitement when packing my stuff and selling my place become a massive PITA.
• Went to a baseball game. Ate a bratwurst, filled out the entire scorecard, enjoyed luscious spring/summer weather. It was as restorative for me as, say, going to a spa probably is for some people. The breeze soothed me. Tracking every play on the scorecard focused my mind. Eavesdropping on the family behind me as they talked about the game reminded me of going to games as a kid with my family. It doesn’t get much better than that. 
• Inspired by my baseball experience, I re-watched Bull Durham. Now that it’s been around for almost 25 years, I feel comfortable saying that it qualifies as one of my favorite movies.
• Bought, wrapped, and will mail a gift for the 8^th birthday of one of my favorite family members.

So yes, I was slacking on practicing, but I made the most of the week anyway! I get back on the wagon this weekend. 

"This sonofabitch is throwing a two-hit shutout, he's shaking me off. You believe that shit?"