Noticing the Extraordinary

Greetings, everyone!

We are winding down our first week in Syracuse! We only got here four days ago, but since that time, we have rehearsed, polished, and staged ninety minutes of music. Not a small feat! And in between that time, my colleagues and I have gotten used to some of the extraordinary things in our new surroundings. 

Whenever traveling, no matter where, there are things that pop out at us as special and notable. That is not to say that a spectacular view, a tall building, or a momentous event are not worth noting. By the size of their spectacle, we notice them. 

And here is my list of "Five Notables" for this week (maybe this will be a Friday thing ...)

1. Painted Horses. Syracuse has a series of horse sculptures throughout town which are painted in tribute to different artists. (Watch the photo later). It really picks up your spirit when you are on the (Van) Go(gh).

2. Coffee-shaped benches. Who wouldn't love to sit on an espresso-shaped demi-tasse? How cute is that? The diameter of the cup is amply sized, no doubtedly designed for two amply-sized American rear ends. 

3. Our hotel will put dinner aside for us if we call ahead. Dinner, which is on the house at our accommodations, is strictly served between 5:30 and 7:00 PM. If you call ahead and sweet-talk the clerk at the front desk, they will save you a plate and it will be waiting for you upon return "home." When I'm busy on a production, sometimes with 8-10 hours of practice or rehearsal a day, the last thing I can think about is preparing, eating, and cleaning a meal. 

4. The coffee shop 'round the corner has the most spectacular pumpkin spice products imaginable. I walked in a few days ago and noticed the aroma of homemade pumpkin spice wafting from the bakery. Ahhhh. Heaven can be purchased for a few dollars. 

5. Syracuse rain is rectangular. It hits your face sideways. It will get you when you least expect it. Have a ten minute break? Walking outside? Don't worry, for the rain will surely find you.

It is the artist's job, after all, to notice the remarkable, and then to proclaim it to the world.