Author Archives: maryannniemczura

A Respite at the Lake

Posted on July 20, 2018

As I sit on the dock bench stretched out over the lake, an inner peace envelops me.  Worries cease. Boats pass leaving waves and ripples. A distant highway. Surrounded by nature’s embrace, I feel calm. Life assumes new meaning. Birds … Continue reading →

Posted in a summer escape, dock bench, fishermen, Onondaga Lake | Tagged , , , , | 4 Comments

Sage Advice from an Elder

Posted on July 13, 2018

My mother succinctly declared one day when I was a teen that she found it difficult to fathom why an adult child would declare a family elder as incapable of living alone after a spouse passes. A church friend who … Continue reading →

Posted in advice, downsizing, independent living, senior living | Tagged , , , , , , , | 10 Comments

Comforting Those Who Mourn

Posted on July 6, 2018

Flowers carried in and placed on the altar. The casket was draped in white. Music began. Choir sang.  Comfort offered to those mourning. Last words by a family member. Tears. Off to the cemetery with prayers graveside. Sometimes music is … Continue reading →

Posted in funerals, life's meaning, music as healing medicine, offering comfort, prayers | Tagged , , , , , | 26 Comments

Why Taking a Break Matters

Posted on June 29, 2018

Vacation time allows us to recalibrate. We gain a fresh perspective on our lives. Traveling and exploring new places and meeting new people in other countries always affords a new outlook on life. Vacations allow us to spend more time … Continue reading →

Posted in creativity and empowerment, taking a break, vacations | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 24 Comments

Keep On Singing!

Posted on June 22, 2018

The appointed hour had arrived. More than 100 choristers from around the world converged in Baltimore at Goucher College for one week of rehearsals and classes.  It was as if I had returned to college when I opened my dorm … Continue reading →

Posted in Baltimore, Berkshire Choral International, Conductor Betsy Burleigh, Goucher College, singing, The Bay City Symphony, The Seasons by Haydn | Tagged , , , , , , | 10 Comments

The Wonderful World of Music!

Posted on June 9, 2018

It starts with learning the music: tempo, dynamics, practice at home and in rehearsals. Weeks of preparation and driving to and from rehearsals including dress rehearsals. Count, breathe, phrasing, self-correction. An endless list of individual work in private lessons; group … Continue reading →

Posted in Berkshire Choral International, concert attire, dress rehearsals, Haydn, performances on stage, singing, The Seasons by Haydn | Tagged , , , , , , , | 27 Comments

Until Next Time: Auf Wiedersehen!

Posted on June 1, 2018

When life hands you lemons, make lemonade. Acceptance and coming to terms with your lot in life is key to moving forward while remaining positive. My glass continues to be half full. The German expression auf Wiedersehen (until next time) … Continue reading →

Posted in auf Wiedersehen, German, handshakes, retirement, teaching German | Tagged , , , , , , , | 17 Comments