Round 5: Days 9 & 10: Opening the door and 2nd cousin phone call

I HAVE to make this blog really short since I am about to be picked up by my manager for a private party gig this evening.  However, I didn't want too much time to be lost (yet again) between my entries.

Day 9: Before being picked up for the gig at Ballydoyle in Aurora (one of the Irish pubs that Classical Blast is on regular rotation for - thank the Universe,) I was waiting downstairs for my ride.  I saw one of my neighbors approaching the front gate.  I fished out my keys and opened it up for her.   I barely know her (only in passing once.)  She thanked me.  Turns out we have the exact same ski parka (blue Columbia jacket.)  I said, "nice jacket."  She laughed.  Said, "yeah.  Looks familiar."  Good passing moment.

Day 10: Before writing this, I made a phone call to my sister (or rather, I returned her phone call.  Got no answer.  She raises three kids and works overnight as well.  So, no surprise.  I left her a voice message.)  Therefore, I contacted my 2nd cousin in Indiana.  This is the first time I have talked to her since the funeral.  She was on the road with her husband and in between engagements today.  It was a short but nice conversation.  It turns out that she is working on gathering a small group for the Blue Chip Casino gig in Michigan City, IN on Sat. Feb. 16th.  Took a minute to sink in since I am still "out of it."  This phone call was keeping with the amends that I made to my late grandfather that I will do my best to keep in touch with family (the family members that aren't "off their rocker," so to speak.)  Was nice.

Gotta go. Make this a great weekend, 29-Day Giving Challenge Family!  :D