My wife had he back operated on yesterday. It went well except for one thing. She lost all feeling in her legs. Fortunately this morning she was able to move her toes and she did have some feeling in her feet and the Doc seems to think that with rehab she'll regain function in the legs. In the meantime, this means that when she comes home I won't be able to leave her for any length of time. Don't think I'll be able to do any gigging until she gets well. I'll need to figure out how to do something at home studio wise to keep me active in the Music. Not sure what at this point but I obviously need a new plan.

how about learning new songs, making new backing tracks (if you use them), developing a new stage show or list. working on playing skills. equipment maintenance . just be there when she needs you. i think just taking care of your wife will keep you busy. hope for the best for both of you.

Earl, the problem your wife is experiencing is not at all uncommon after spinal surgery. It is usually the result of swelling and inflammation at the surgical site and will slowly resolve on it's own with the aid of a few weeks of physical therapy. Hot and cold packs used intermittently during the day will also add to the recovery and shorten the physical therapy period and pain involved.

Now, as stated by Wrinkles, learn some new songs, put your own spin on them, and just have fun with that keyboard every day. One of my goals when I first began using an arranger keyboard was to learn at least one new song every week. This not only adds to your play list, but also broadens your performance horizons. It allows you to be creative, and additionally, makes you explore all those style files to find one that fits the song. Believe me, the style file you are looking for is in that keyboard, or stored on the USB drive. Once you find the right combination, save it either to the Music Finder Directory, or save it as a Registration, which will allow you to instantly recall your works with just the touch of a button.

On days when you can get some help for your wife, step away from the keyboard, pick up a six pack of ice cold beer and go fishing. Last time I was in your area, I recall a good run of black crappie and shellcracker bluegill this time of year.

Good luck,

Gary

A lot of good advice Gary, but I HATE fishing!

Oh well, there's always golf, recreational Bourbon drinking, bike riding, anything to change the pace. That reminds me, I haven't rode the recumbent bike today.

Good luck,

Gary

Earl, Very sorry to hear about your wife's health problems ... hopefully she will be fully recovered before you have to implement a new plan ...

Hi Earl:

Sorry your wife is experiencing this condition. It sounds like it will improve with time and I'm hoping the time will be less than you believe. Spinal recovery can be tricky so don't rush things.

Wrinkles has provided a great set of ideas for you to attempt when not giving your wife badly needed assistance. Your arranger can give you plenty of facets to learn and master.

All the best, ----Dave

Earl,

Best wishes to you and your wife. Some good ideas here to keep busy.

How about a new set list...of all of her favorite songs. Something pleasing for her to listen to while she can't be running around the house just yet..

The BEST idea on here so far !!!