Attention!!!

Dear Friends and Family, Many of you have not noticed that just a couple of days ago, I started blogging again. My resurgence comes at a time of change for my family. I mentioned in my previous blog post that I had some big news. Here it is...

Brenda has accepted the position of Director of Orchestra Personnel for the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and Cincinnati Pops Orchestra! I cannot even begin to express how proud I am. Brenda has always been a very humble and content person in regards to her work position, but I'll say it how it is. Brenda is the most organized, hardworking, caring and detail oriented person in her field. She has been able to manage the day-to-day operations of orchestra musicians for 20 years with incredible grace, compassion and professionalism. I truly believe that the CSO/CPO is happy to have Brenda join their team as evidenced by their announcement to musicians and staff as well as conversations Brenda has had with them in recent days. However...they really have no idea what they have gotten. I believe that Brenda is at the top of her profession not only in the U.S., but in the world. Cincinnati, I have one request of you. Take care of her; you do not want to lose her! Brenda will be an employee that you will want to fight tooth and nail to keep should another orchestra ever try to snag her away.

With this announcement comes something very bittersweet for me and Oda Mae (Alli). We are so happy for Brenda's new position that will begin at the end of June, though very sad at the thought that we will be separated for the next year until Alli graduates from high school here in Texas. Alli is currently planning on attending college in Texas after graduation. At that point, if all goes as planned, I'll join Brenda in Ohio. Of course, we'll be visiting often, but it will be difficult at times. I have no doubt her choice to advance in her career is the best for our family so a temporary situation like this will be well worth it in the end.

Much more to come...