July 27 - The Most Incredible Classrooms

On the walk to today's new "classroom"


Learning to send angels to heaven


Foot Massage Bliss


Fiona Walker

July 27

The other day I had a dream that I can now called recurring -- I had this same dream last summer on Galiano. The symbolism is so entertainingly obvious. I dreamed that the face of my watch had been smashed. My sleeps have been refreshingly easy and deep, although I'm glad I brought earplugs as I've sometimes needed them to shut out the frisky frogs whose flirting grounds I've camped so close to. I'm sure this ease of sleep has been a result of the delicious air, the beauty that surrounds me, fine food, some sweaty runs along gorgeous paths, yoga and meditation every day and long hours of focussed concentration.


Alexis demonstrates foot flexion in Anatomy class

Yesterday we trekked to a sandy spit in the ocean for an incredibly picturesque change of location for anatomy class -- as if the usual beautiful studio with deer grazing outside (including a tiny spotted fawn) isn't perfect enough! Willo is a most entertaining teacher, really bringing the learning experience in through many means that help drill in what could be a rather overwhelming subject. This evening, we learned about all the muscles involved in my epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow) and the bones that they surround and affect. Then we went into his treatment room where he carried out a TCM procedure to help with the healing and with the pain which involved burning tiny balls of an herb called mugwort into my arm around. Pretty wild stuff. I can't say as of yet whether it's been effective. Still a bit concerned about how well my arm will hold up through the upcoming Random Order tour.


Deer coming to learn some human anatomy

Our teacher, Fiona, has been so inspiring and full of wisdom. This course is proving holistic in the greatest sense of the word -- physical, emotional, spiritual, intellectual, historical, theoretical and scientific. Besides lots of learning to execute technique, this has been a veritable spa for my own body's pleasure when the tables are turned and I offer myself to another's hands. I've attached a photo of my blissed out face in the midst of about 2 hours spent on my feet alone! This evening I luxuriated with Fiona's hands on one arm/hand and a student's on the other. So spoiled! This has been such a gift to myself in so many ways and I'm so excited to share it with those I care for back home.

I have time off Saturday through Monday and unfortunately, will have to spend a chunk of it doing some graphic/web work for clients back home. But I'm looking forward to getting back to my bass which has not been so neglected since Africa. It has felt a little strange to be so separated from my musical life, but, frustrating is this is, it's probably been the best choice for the recovery of my elbow which is still posing problems. At night I have been giving myself a little musical fix with the little mbira (thumb piano) I bought in Burkina Faso. So the frogs and I serenade each other in a two-way dialogue. I also look forward to venturing out to "downtown" Denman on the weekend -- checking out shops and galleries etc.

Time for anatomy class. Over and out for now.