As a singer/songwriter preparing to play some live shows on the road I can drive everybody around me crazy if everything isn't just right. Everything goes toward that hour you're on the stage. If you really want to touch people and deliver excellence you can't let anything distract your complete and total focus. So don't even think about depriving me of my morning coffee time. It is my zen moment that can set the tone for the entire day.
Some people start the day off listening to or watching the news or reading the papers. I much prefer a book or poetry that might infuse something of a spiritual nature into my being rather than news that might make my blood boil. JJ's in Nashville is the perfect atmosphere for my kind of coffee time.
We hit the road tomorrow so today requires a full rehearsal, equipment check and some final publicity work besides normal packing. It sounds daunting at this early hour, but after my ritual with the magic bean and some time to read inspiring words, write in my journal and sit in JJ's, my friend Sam's wonderful Nashville coffee house, listening to classical music that soothes and heals jangled nerves while drinking his mountain blend coffee, I will be ready to rock all day.
Be sure to check back often this weekend and next week as I give coffee reports from the road and up in Minnesota.
May you have many happy refills.