Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Giving Thanks...

Wow, is it November 20th already?  Where has the time gone?  Oh, yeah.  It's gone into an amazing year spent with some of the most incredible people.  I've had another great semester at SMNW, working with some of the most talented young musicians.  I've nearly completed my second semester of PhD coursework at Kansas State University.  And, I've published my second novel on Kindle and saw my first novel come out in paperback.

Not too bad, really.  But what is more important, I have had the most amazing period of personal growth as a person and as a composer.  My creativity has been off the charts - several commissions already completed and an amazing new one on the horizon.  So what's my secret?

Family.

I have an amazing partner who inspires me.  She is the most amazing woman I've ever known and every day I give thanks for her presence in my life.  And then there's her kids, two of the most amazing young people I've ever known.  They have accepted me into their lives and I am so thankful for that.  And then there's my biggest fans: my folks.  Every year, every day, they never give up on me.

So, as we pause this weekend to give thanks for all that we have, I want all y'all to know how much I appreciate the love and support I have in my life.  And if you're a former student, colleague, friend, or family member, or a newfound fan of Bartemus or my music, I want you to know how much I am thankful for YOU.

Peace,

Jeffrey