Quiet around here, huh.  

I been working overtime to finish a project which is going live this weekend.  I've also been kinda burnt out on playing.  Ever time I say I should practice, I said, nah, too much work right now.

So last night after a long day, I took the mando out and played for like an hour and actually enjoyed myself pretty much.  I also felt more relaxed and thought I played better than when I was practicing every day.

So, I think it pays to take a three or four day break when your burnt.

I also think it helps to have a relaxed attitude when you pick up the mando.  When I play every day, I'm too aggressive about making progress.  Last night, I just want to have fun.  I tried playing Two Dollar Bill up to speed and then said, nah, it doesn't help to practice mistakes.  I backed way down for about five minutes and then went back up to speed and all of a sudden I was up to speed but relaxed, made a big difference.

I find that putting the mandolin down even when I'd like to for a few days helps in focusing on the playing when I finally pick it back up.  If I play every day, even for an hour, it's begins to turn into work and less of a hobby.

I try to play every day (uke)  I can't wait sometimes in the morning to go into MY bathroom, and instead of reading a magazine...

No, I don't think I play like shit.

All serious.  If you have your own bathroom, use it for your music studio during your, um, down times.

I just started reading the book "Effortless Mastery" by Kerry Werner. I hope it will improve both my playing and my perception of my playing! Anyone else read this book?
Don