Cynthia Bythell Music

It’s Thanksgiving time again, but every day I can get great joy from savoring all I appreciate. It’s kind of selfish really. I just do it to make myself feel happy. Here’s how I write my (almost) daily personal gratitude list: 1.Put a positive spin on everything that happened yesterday. 2.Give thanks for today so…

The Holidays were cause for resentment when I was younger.  It felt like ‘Tis the Season to be Busy: Just one great big “To Do” list.  Now, I look forward to decking the halls, and having many gatherings of friends & family in our home.  My students love the decorations, and we enjoy learning seasonal songs…

‘Twas three weeks before Christmas and all through our house, not a person was stirring, but me and my spouse. Two stockings were hung by the chimney with care; Too bad no one would be there to share.  Ev’ry night we rested all snug in our bed, while visions of vaccines danced in our heads. …

Memories of Halloween come “trick-ling” back to me this time of year. My family lived in a small town where traditional Trick-or-Treat was entirely safe. I especially liked going to the Eminheisers’ house where we were invited in to see the extravagant decorations (nothing to “freak-out” little children in those days). The grand tour ended…

That’s what the townspeople called my Dad. I loved his huge toothy smile. He loved to play with my brothers and me, and he loved my Mom. I remember my parents dancing in the kitchen, holding hands, and sharing little kisses. Yes indeed, Dad was a true family man. My father grew up in poverty,…

Dear (Adult Student Name Withheld), After several tearful sessions, it’s no wonder you would be thinking of “taking a break” from your singing lessons. Usually when a student quits, my response is, “I understand, and it has been a pleasure working with you.” This is different because I have grown to care about you as…