the drive to do things well

This morning on NPR's Morning Edition I listened to the talented Yuja Wang chat and giggle while she played portions of the famously difficult Piano Concerto No. 3 by Rachmaninov. The drive she'd had since childhood to play the piano this beautifully made me stop and think (and well up a bit):

"The first thing that really got me was [Mauricio] Pollini's recording of Chopin's etudes. I just really wanted to have the same sound. You know how girls really want a doll or a toy? I really wanted to play the way I wanted to play. So I was really working towards that."

"I really wanted to play the way I wanted to play." I love that. That is what you need to be able to do something so well.

up

Well. Today's my birthday, and so far it's a good one: 

• Scott gave me a Jawbone UP that I hope will help me become more active and aware of my decisions that affect my health.
• We got our tax refund, just in time to pay a big bill.
• I got the barbell set I ordered, so I can get a great workout today.
• I decided to take the day off work, because I can.
• I plan to get a massage, and maybe even a pedicure.
• Every few minutes I get a friendly message from someone on Facebook.

So I feel happy and grateful. Off to do my workout!

joyful laughter

This photo was taken almost three years ago while the four of us were out for dinner. I have no recollection what made them laugh so hard, but I get a rush of joy each time I see this photo of my girls looking so happy.