Same Show, Different Places

All through this week I'm playing percussion in a Christmas production titled "Two from Galilee" at First Alliance Church.

7 years ago I played the same show for the same church, but at a different location. The previous location was only 20 minutes away from my house, and the current one would take at least twice as much time, depending on traffic. I have to drive along the busiest highway in Calgary - Deerfoot Trail (which I don't go on often), and it's rather nerve-racking to be on it during winter season (and in the evenings too) because you never know what kind of driving condition you would get. And my windshields are constantly dirty because of the mud you get from the snow. 

Furthermore, I am now playing this show with a different status. I was still a university student 7 years ago. School is out by December and I would have fairly flexible schedule. I would either chill at home (or study) or practice at the unversity until a certain time, and then grab something to eat and get going. Now, I'm a music instructor (and more). I have to cancel all my evening students in order to participate in the show. If I get to the venue early enough (again, depending on traffic), I may be able to grab a bite before the show. But tonight I didn't, unfortunately. By the time I arrived at the venue and set up, it was 3 minutes before the downbeat. I only finished my dinner now, at 11pm.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not whining here. Just some thoughts on my different stages in life.