Lol zook, I am so pleased you are going to start learning the piano! That's an amazing choice to make - you won't regret it

I've played since I was young, but without any lessons or training so I've not reached any cosmic level. It's my bolthole, my sanctuary, and my saving on many occasions. Music really can soothe your soul. And if you are making it, no matter what the level, it is always powerful and magical.

Initially the exercises will probably seem a little repetitive if you haven't played before, but try to see them as a kind of physio for your pain - I still do scales and arpeggios as finger/hand exercises, and that repetition allows you to lose yourself in them. I find that brilliant pain relief.

Let me know how you get on with your first lesson - it'll be great to hear your reaction to it! I hope you fall in love and lose your heart a little to it...

Do you have your own piano? If not, try to get one ASAP - you can get a second-hand (pre-loved ) one for the cost of transporting the thing. A real wooden piano is an incredible friend to have...

Interestingly, I am about to have my first ever formal cello lesson next weekend! I've had my cello (Edward ) for years, but only got back into playing him again this year, and I want to have a grade certificate in case my left arm continues its involvement in the CRPS dance....

New things are always good I think. They involve your brain and emotions so much that it pushes your pain away just a bit. Sounds like a deal to me

Good luck,

Bram.

Bram,

Thank you!! I took a few lessons when I was around 8 yo. I loved it back then and since have always been drawn to them. So when I was trying to find things I could do to keep my sanity during the winter months and my mind occupied.. I thought of how wonderful it would be to learn to play. My only worry is how long I could tolerate sitting to actually play. My hope is that I will lose myself enough in it that I won't think about the pain

Amazing that you taught yourself!!! You must be one smart lady

I love that you named your Cello "Edward" that is funny! Oh have fun at your lesson and do let me know how it goes.

I think it is really important with this disease to find or create new passions so that depression and self worth doesn't get a chance to take hold! I truly appreciate all who take the time to respond. Shoot, it helps us learn a few things about each other.. a bonus!

My other goal this winter is to learn sign language (Vrae inspired). I really think that will be great therapy and who knows someday it could become quite useful.

Have a fantastic day Bram,
Tessa

Well, I am not as exciting as you guys are. We do not have any pets, nor can I play any instrument What helps me is watching TV, it is my escape from reality. What also helps is coming here I love my iPad and will play some games on it when my hands will allow.

lol Nanc.. I can't play an instrument either but I'm sure gonna try. Heck my husband sings me awake in the morning and even though I love it, it can be rather annoying.. so now I intend to make music for him haha maybe we will start a band!

What is your favorite show? You know you can learn an instrument on the iPad

you are too funny Tessa! Let me know when your new album drops Seriously though, I think it is great that you are going to take piano lessons. I got the garage band app on my iPad...really got it for my husband. My hands hurt too much to do much with it myself. I used to draw and scrapbook, can't do either anymore

I have so many "favorite" shows. True Blood, Revenge, Scandal, Grey's Anatomy, How I Met Your Mother, Big Bang Theory...it goes on...I love a good comedy!

Big Bang Theory!!!!! Grays Anatomy!!!! How I Met Your Mother!!!!! YAY!!!!!

Go Nanc! I love those shows. E4 is on a LOT in my house!

You can't beat a bit of escapism......like a good film does that too. I love Lost In Translation with Bill Murray, it's set in Japan, and it really is like a different world. Plus it's about 3 hours long lol

Bram.

Big Bang Theory is the best!!! So sad that this is the last season for How I Met Your Mother...but at least we will finally meet your mother!!

I have not seen that movie, not sure why. I have seen it on the movie channels lately. I will have to watch it...I like Bill Murray. There are my favorite movies that keep coming on and my husband can't believe that I keep watching them...Return to Me, Fools Rush In, A Walk in the Clouds....