I started college as a music major but graduated with an English degree. Ironically I think I have utilized my musical background more than my actual degree. I have been playing the oboe for almost 27 years. Music is a huge part of my life. I am currently playing in a community orchestra, a community band and have had some amazing opportunities over the years performing with other very talented semi-professional and professional groups. Recently I quit my main job as an oboe teacher with our school district to be more available to my family but to also be more available to myself. I am a stay-at-home mom with two beautiful girls. One is in middle school and the other is in elementary. They are both very active in team sports and school programs which means so am I.
My life has been an interesting and unexpected journey. The road that I am on now has definitely had the best view. I have been happily and contentedly married since 2001. My husband is one of the most generous and loving men that I have ever met. He has been my biggest fan and continually pushes me to be more creative.
Sometimes I think he believes in me more than I do.
Volunteering has been another big part of my life. Over the years I have been a public speaker, writer, coordinator and creator of programs that support women or young girls. I am passionate about helping women see themselves as strong, independent, smart and beautiful no matter what their religion, cultural background, lifestyle or social standing. We are all imperfect. We are all important.
You poured a lot of energy into your post about Martha Randolph Carr’s book, “Wired.” You are a gifted writer whose description was in-depth, but easily read. Thank you. I added your website to my Google reader so I don’t miss future posts.
I play the oboe, too! I majored in music and taught music for a few years before leaving to raise a family. Now I have 4 kids, and I write a small blog, and still play with a community orchestra. Not that you asked, lol! I just thought it was a funny coincidence- when I saw “musician” I thought you were going to say piano or guitar… My jaw dropped when I saw “oboe!”
I really enjoyed reading your blog.people don’t often see mother’s fell proud of their kids. It’s nice to see that you care about your’s. Your blog would set examples to other women who are also moms.
Wanted to let you know that I think your blog is a great and enjoy reading your articles.
I also wanted to invite you to ping and tweet your blog for free with my website BlogBuzzer.com
Craig Thompson
I admire your strength and desire to motivate and empower women. I am not a wife or mother, but I admire those who are for the many hats they have to wear. Great Blog!!!
Hey there, found you on Twitter. I’m a Michigan transplant too. Southwest corner. Gonna follow you on twitter if that’s OK
See ya around the blogosphere!
I’m a fan! Love to follow your thoughts. I want to share your blog and I’ve given you an award of sorts. Check it out here: http://tuesday2.wordpress.com/2011/01/23/its-all-in-the-game/
Very cool. You know, I started as a music major as well (classical guitar) and ended up majoring in English and French. It was a great choice for me, but being in the business world I haven’t really used either degree. =)
“I am passionate about helping women see themselves as strong, independent, smart and beautiful no matter what their religion, cultural background, lifestyle or social standing. We are all imperfect. We are all important.”
Beautifully put. You and I share the same goal and YES, we are ALL beautiful…or how I like to say, Perfectly Imperfected.
Hi! I can totally relate with you! Like you, I also have 2 girls and had an unhealthy first marriage. Anyway, I will include you in my blogroll. Kudos!
I truly appreciate that!
We are from opposite sides of the world yet I can totally relate to everything that you have gone through and in some way the more I read your blog, the more I find comfort in knowing that my mommy turmoils are not exclusive to me. Thank you!
Us moms have to stick together! We are a community that needs to support one another and encourage one another.
Emily,
Just an old oboe friend saying hi! It looks like you made a great life for yourself and have a wonderful family! Congrats on your achievements! I found your blog after seeing your name on Rita Linard’s fb friends’ list. I viewed your page and saw your blog. Very interesting posts! I’m glad you’re still playing oboe! Thanks for sharing!
Lisa (Barr) Koeck
Thanks Lisa! It’s good to hear from you.
Emily, I love that you have linked to Wendy Barker. Did you know my mother (who teaches with her and is a good friend of hers) also writes poetry, and finds her to be one of her inspirations to start writing poetry?
Also, I used to spend many hours of my childhood playing Playmobil with Wendy Barker’s son, David. I love her poetry. I’m going to make another one of her poems my Poem of the Day.
I had no idea that your mom taught with Dr. Barker. She was one of my professors for a couple of classes. I loved going to her poetry readings. Believe it or not, I actually took a computer presentation class with her too! What a small world. Oh – and so was Dr. Sellers. I had her as well and loved her class. She introduced me to Richard Russo – love his books.
Wonderful blog. Enjoyed it very much. If you get a chance stop by and see me.
Em, just wanted to let you know that I stopped in and read every post – I couldn’t stop. I went to an event once to see an artist/author I love and she signed my book “We read to know we are not alone”. Thank you for sharing a piece of yourself with the world. Your candid and heartfelt blog helps me know that I am not alone.