Dreamin' the dream. Kids, the comedy dream is alive and well, thank you. A couple weeks ago there was a goal setting workshop at church. I took the class because lately I've been feeling I needed to work on some issues of focus. A pretty eye-opening experience! This got me thinking about were I want my life to be in the next few years, and what my dreams and goals are. The stand-up comedy thing has been put on hold lately, largely because I didn't have the money for the comedy classes that are being offered at the local comedy club.
I had mentioned the goal class to my friend Sheryl, who was very interested, so we got together to work on goal-setting. Sheryl was remarkably helpful in getting me to verbalize my comedy goal, and we agreed keep encouraging each other to work and keep working toward our goal. I've written down more ideas and comedy concepts in the last four days than I have in the last four years. I'm also researching the various stand-up comedy sites on the web to gather advice and encouragement. I now know I can achieve anything I desire, because I already have all the necessary God-given abilities within me. I just need to bring them out and shape them into reality.
Oh, and a word about Sheryl (she'll probably kill me!). She has been working on a book and a one-woman show, which I got a sample of the other day. She is remarkably talented, and she has her dream and goal down to even minute details. Right now she needs to finish the book and mold the show, but when she unleashes it on the world, watch out! A new star will be born. Actually, being her agent wouldn't be a bad gig either!

Wynton Marsallis, my hero. We went up to Santa Fe to see the great jazz trumpeter Wynton Marsallis perform at the Lensic Theatre, and it turn out to be the concert of a lifetime. The music was brilliant, flawless, and a brilliant example that "real" jazz is alive , kickin' and better than even, despite all the "smooth jazz" stuff you hear on the radio. But what struck me the most was the sheer effortlessness and joy with which Wynton and his band played. It was as if Wynton was merely a channel from which God poured this perfect music. I would love to a have just one-tenth the confidence, ease, and grace that this man displayed on stage. Talent like that is a treasure to all who are lucky enough to be exposed to it.

Brain Farts. Quick comments as they explode in the old brain box.
...Saw Around the World in 80 Days over the weekend and was shocked at how entertaining a movie it was. Fast paced, a mix of dry British wit, pratt falls and Jackie Chan acrobatics. Steve Coogan of 24 Hour Party People gave a perfect performance as Fogg and Jackie was fun as usual as his sidekick. Highly recommended for brainless fun....Also recommend Lighthouse Hill, a very quirky, very funny, inspirational and very touching British movie, which was this month's offering from the Spiritual Cinema Circle, a monthly service that brings uplifting, spiritual movies into you mailbox every month....Saw country/folksinger Caroline Herring at the Bio-Park tonight. She reminds me a bit of Iris Dement, but with a stronger deeper voice. Good songwriting, but for God's sake, how about and upbeat, happy tune just once?....Off to the Los Lonely Boys concert at the Zoo tomorrow. The show is sold out, and based on recent crowds there, we're showing up at 4:30 to get a good place in line. Remember John, patience, tolerance and joy...Just chill, enjoy the tunes and don't worry about the crowd.