Stayin’ Cool in 100 Degrees!

It was hotter today in Eugene than in Philly.

100 degrees at 2:00 pm.

We are very hot.

We had an extra long, extra FUN (extra HOT) day today!

We started our day with, what else, rehearsal! I am in awe of the level of progress they have made in just a few days. They sound spectacular!

Good morning from Ralph and Bryce!

The “Card Sharks” chap group.

After lunch and a short one-on-one workshop with Dr. Snow, we go the opportunity of a lifetime:

POOL TIME!

On such a hot day, we were ecstatic to jump in U of O’s beautiful pool which was reserved just for PICFest singers. A whole hour and a half of watery bliss! What fun!

The US Olympic team was here for time trials- how cool!

Sopping wet, we returned to our dorm to change and head to the BBQ on the lawn!

One of the best parts of this tour is meeting members of the other choirs. Each day I notice more and more connections being made and email addresses being exchanged. Not only have they grown as a singing ensemble, but the relationships they have made has helped bring them together as a small, temporary community of singers. It’s neat to think that these singers will never all be in the same room at the same time after this week and that there will never be another PICFest ensemble exactly like this one. Helps to realize that moments are fleeting and it’s best to enjoy them while you’re in them!

BBQ dinner!

Frisbee, anyone?

After the BBQ we had a special evening rehearsal followed by a social with the other choirs. As if they didn’t get enough singing in during the day, they felt compelled to continue singing until we made them head back to their dorms. Ah, tour!

BBQ picnic on the lawn

It was so hot on the 3rd floor where there girls are staying, we had to rent fans from the festival. We felt like Oprah delivering them…. “You get a fan and you get a fan! Everybody gets a fan!” The girls, in their late-night delirium, met us with equal excitement. It’s the little things, you know?