I still haven’t figured out a clever way to translate my musical progress into blog form. Until then, you’ll just have to take my word for it — I’m kicking ass. I can play a mean rendition of Battle Hymn of the Republic. My daughter says so. Seriously though, it’s a lot of fun. Out of all the things that I’m doing, nothing is more rewarding than when a piece of music actually comes together, and I’m the one creating it. It’s a weird sensation.

It’s also kind of addicting. In fact, playing the piano reminds me a lot of playing a video game. Let me give you an example. A few years back I was obsessed with a racing game called Gran Turismo. I would play every day, determined to beat the game. When I got stuck on a certain race track, I would just play it over and over again until I beat it. My frustration greatly outweighed my enjoyment while playing, but when I finally did beat the track, it was all worth the effort. Victory is mine! Well, the same thing seems to be happening when I sit down at the piano. In the beginning there is the challenge, then comes hours of frustration, and then finally the reward. And what a sweet reward it is. I can’t pass the piano now without playing that song. I even hum it at work.

By the way, I can also play Silent Night like it’s know one’s business!