Archive for July, 2013

Tabernacle Choir Tour final report, July 2013

Sunday, July 21st, 2013

The tour was memorable in every way. Meals were scrumptious as usual. I helped with the luggage, which is a duty that we take turns with to help out. It adds to the fulfillment of performances and rehearsals. I thought I would add this epilogue to my previous entires about the tour… I had a lot to say each day about our music-making but felt like leaving the group is such a let-down that it really changes one’s life virtually in every way. I now have a new church job that will keep me busy though.

We finished up the tour with a performance at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This beautiful area is so green! We had time to visit several places and enjoyed relaxing in their beautiful city.

Ringing a bell in one of our final numbers.

Ringing a bell in one of our final numbers.


People have asked me when seeing this photo if I am left-handed. I am not, but the microphone stand was in the way so I rang the bell with my left hand. What an honor to be selected as one of about 40 ringers and to participate in this part of the concert as a bell-ringer/singer! I will watch with interest as the choir continues to provide uplifting music and commentary to those who will listen. Although this has been a large part of my life, now I will have more time to do things with my wife and family. I will relish memories of the time I spent in the Salt Lake Tabernacle and in the Conference Center in the “big seats” behind those who speak to the world. I will miss my close relationship with the singers, and also the thrilling experience of hearing the mighty Tabernacle Organ and Conference Center Organ from the close vantage of the choir seats. My God be with you all, as you continue your important part of sharing the love of God through music!

We’re stuck in Ohio because of the weather

Monday, July 1st, 2013

We made it to the airport at the last possible minute due to the heavy rains and resulting traffic issues including a severe accident on I-71. We waited in a traffic jam for about 30 minutes and finally arrived at the airport only thirty minutes before our flight was supposed to leave the airport. Fortunately security didn’t have a big backup and we got through quickly. When we got to the gate there was not agent there and passengers were still sittings there. The flight had had been delayed for about an hour due to the weather and had not arrived yet. Because of this delay we would quite certainly miss our connecting flight in Atlanta and would then have to spend the night in the airport waiting for the next flight out, which didn’t leave until about 7am.
Not wanting to spend the night in the airport, I decided to call my sister Eli, who works for the airline. She suggested that we call the reservations desk and tell them our predicament and see what they could do for us. It was very reassuring to speak with her and get her guidance concerning our predicament. We were overjoyed to have our flight rescheduled for 7 AM Tuesday morning. The only problem remaining was, could Robyn and Eric keep us for the night?

Robyn reading to Oliver

Robyn reading to Oliver

We called them and they said could, so we are staying with them tonight. Now we get some “bonus” time with our Columbus grandchildren. It was fun walking back into their house and having them come out and greet us with their smiles and enthusiasm. We’re so grateful that we have family here and they are able to assist us!
Now I need to figure out how to get caught up at work, being away an extra unplanned-for day…