A few weeks ago I told you about my experience of playing and singing in public for the first time. It was humbling. At the time I didn’t know if I’d ever do it again.

And a week later, I did.

And the next week. And the next week. And again last night.

The photo is from last week, taken by James Townsend, an amazing singer and musician who graciously shares his stage time with rank amateurs like me. He even let me play his beautiful Taylor guitar.

Now make no mistake, I’m no James Townsend, but as I get more comfortable, my playing and singing edge toward acceptable. I hope I can keep improving because it really is a lot of fun. I’m working on this one by Glen Hansard, Falling Slowly. And check out his guitar. Maybe I don’t need a new one after all.

But the song that puts me in my comfort zone is the Leonard Cohen number, Dance Me to the End of Love. Then James does the best version of Hallelujah I’ve ever heard to end the evening. We call it the Cohen Close.

Whatever it is you’ve always wanted to do, figure it out and do it. You won’t regret it.