Emily, John, Truman, Bill, Joann, Paul, Randy, and Kaley--

This is not big news, but since you all were kind enough to give me some advice on critiquing, thought I'd let you know I went ahead and had my only recorded song critiqued at an NSAI meeting tonight.

I thought I was going to pass out from nervousness while the song was playing. I was sitting there thinking how I wish I had recorded it differently--without the instrumental, and no repeats--and how I didn't sing it that well, and how I play the song so much better now because it was only a week old when I recorded it many months ago. Anyway, the NSAI members were really nice to me, and gave me lots of ideas on how to "fix" my lyrics, and just said positive things about the melody. It wasn't nearly as painful as I thought it would be.

I didn't like some of the suggestions, but I did come away with one thing I'll probably change. Sure is uncomfortable asking for opinions, but it was good to find out how the words came across and whether the message I intended actually got through. It's a lot easier giving my own opinion on someone else's song than getting feedback on my own.
I'm SO glad to have the first critique behind me. Next time should be easier to take!

Anyway, I'm sure this was thrilling to read! My point was that I am grateful for the good advice on getting critiques. Thank you!!

--Jean