Never give up the sticks

I'm overwhelmed with these great replies. I'm going to think on them overnight, and post a tad more detailed reply tomorrow.

But tonight, I just wanted to thank all of you for the wonderful responses.

Welcome- You are right about this board: Sincere people and excellent information.

I am in a similar position in life? Job, kids, space issues, etc. I work up patterns on the table or in spare moments and I try to consolidate my very little practice time, by only working on these ideas. I guess what I am trying to say is enjoy the process and welcome the challenge. I went for a few years without playing, and I would rather struggle through not feeling like the old days than not playing at all!!

Take Care and I'll see you on the board. F.S.

Excellent responses from esteemed HB members [img]graemlins/thumbs_up.gif[/img] , so anything i would have to say further would simply be repetitive, here...
The only thing i would add [in ADDITION to these OTHER fine responses] is...even tho it's already a "given" & often taken for granted: eating right/having a sensible, healthy diet; & getting the proper amount of sleep, within a consistent timeframe [keep those "late nighters" to a minimum..unless, of course you're practicing! - lol, just kidding]...set yourself up a good practice routine with a decent time "alottment"...keep a decent or moderate excercise routine, enough for you to stay feeling healthy about...& of course, the obvious; stay away from excessive "drink" or other things that would detract one physically & mentally [you guys know what i mean [img]wink.gif[/img] ]...but then, you know that already [img]wink.gif[/img] [img]graemlins/thumbs_up.gif[/img]

A couple of additional comments -- the recording is really good advice. My mind can fill in mistakes, but the recording shows the truth.

I really appreciate the comments about not expecting too much too soon -- I was doing that. And then feeling bad when it didn't work out perfectly. By having more realistic expectations, I will be less likely to feel as if I am failing. I've been back playing less than a month, so . . .

I'll also think about checking out some local people for lessons -- not sure how that will work out, but it is a good idea. I haven't had lessons since I was in high school, so I'll have to get my mind back in shape for that.

Speaking of in shape -- I guess I'll have to get my body back in shape too! [img]smile.gif[/img]

As soon as I get the right set up, I will post a short clip of my playing to show where I am at (and to show the sound of the electronic drums too).

Anyway, again, thanks for the advice and the welcoming spirit.