Lindy Kerby's blog

Baby Report

noreply@blogger.com (Lindy) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 17:10:00 +0000

I just got back from my first appointment at the doctor. My official due date is February 4th! So I guess that means I'm 12 weeks along. What an experience to see a little life kicking inside of me! I was amazed at how active this little baby is! I might be in for some sore insides when this baby gets a little bigger. Pretty amazing to see. Anyway, I thought I'd just share a quick note to tell you about that. Everything looked normal and right on schedule. I feel blessed to have had such good experiences that way (knock on wood). First trimester almost down, two more to go!

Swim Lessons

noreply@blogger.com (Lindy) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 03:56:00 +0000

The kids began taking swimming lessons today. I was able to schedule all 6 of them at the same time! I feel pretty lucky. I thought I could just sit back and enjoy the half an hour. Unfortunately, my youngest son became afraid of the water, and didn't want to stay in his class. He screamed most of the time. Next time, I'll sit up in the bleachers, where hopefully he can't see me, and do a little better.

One of my other daughters has also been deathly afraid of the water. We'd try to teach her easy skills like blowing bubbles, and floating on her back, but she was too scared to try. She had this hurtle that kept her from ever continuing to learn. I put her in 3 different beginning swim classes, and she couldn't pass any of them! I told her that I didn't want to waste my money anymore for swimming lessons, because she didn't even seem to be trying. This summer we had the chance to practice swimming at my mother-in-laws apartment complex. She overcame her fear of the water, and began learning to swim. She did so well, that I went ahead and signed her up, putting her in the 2nd class. After today, it looks like I should have put her in the 3rd class, she's learned so much since those beginning classes.

Watching her go through that experience, it reminds me of my own similar experience with the gosple. I grew up in a strong Latter Day Saint home. I always went to church and did what good members of the church do, but I always relied on the testimony of my parents. Whenever I tried to read the scriptures, I couldn't. I didn't understand most of what I read. Most of my prayers were prayers of rote, the same prayer pretty much each time. Just like my daughter, I wasn't progressing.

Thankfully, something has changed. Most of it came as a result of trials that made me turn somewhere, and thankfully, I turned to my Father in Heaven. As my prayers became more meaningful, the gospel became more important to me. I began to understand the scriptures. I've been so blessed to have some great teachers in my church. I feel like whatever was blocking me before, is gone, and I am able to learn at a much quicker pace. I finally have a testimony of my own.

Things have slowed down a little, but I hope I don't ever stop progressing. I know there's so much more to learn, and I'm so glad!

My Busy Week

noreply@blogger.com (Lindy) — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 03:42:00 +0000

Well, Girls Camp was just the beginning of this crazy week. I drove up a car load of girls at 6 o'clock in the morning... so fun! We set up tents, and prepared for the day. It was so much fun. By noon, all the girls had all arrived, and there was a quick rehearsal for the group's song. How fun it was to hear them sing the song! Nothing compared though to when they actually performed it, tons of energy and smiles. It was a blast. I was totally embarrassed when they asked me to come up and thanked ME for the song. It needed to be ME thanking THEM. It was so fun to see.

I more than survived the "initiation". I LOVED it! It was so fun. Unfortunately I can't tell anyone about it, because the Ooga Booga Queen told me I was sworn to secrecy. But atleast I'm a member. So cool! =)

The next day we got up early so we could all go on a hike. A gorgeous nature hike up to the very top of the mountain. The view was spectacular! My daughter was with the group, and half way through I caught up with her, only to discover she was having a difficult time with the climb. I wanted to go the rest of the way with her, but I lost her in the group, and had to go the rest of the way without her. On the way, one of the girls from our group fainted and had to be carried back down. I worried about my daughter all the way to the top.

The last little stretch up the mountain was difficult, pretty steep and very rocky. About half way up, I could hear singing coming from the top. Three or four of the girls from our group were up there encouraging the others with song. It helped me make it all the way up. I gave them such a big heartfelt hug of thanks. Not a second later as I was going to meet the rest of the group, I could hear them begin singing again, my song, "One Virtue at a Time". I bawled. What an awesome experience.

I found my daughter, who had made it just fine to the top of the mountain. I made sure she was with me on the way down, but we went a different way, and I almost didn't make it. My quick trip up, and not enough water wasn't a good combination. Here I was trying to get up the mountain to help my daughter, and she was definitely the one who was there helping me on the way back down. How grateful I was for her.

I had to leave shortly after the hike. My next two days I prepared for and took my family camping for a family reunion not too far from where the camp was. The reunion was fun. The highlight for me was a family "talent show". One of my sons had performed a song at the school talent show, and was prepared to sing. He did a great job. Afterwards, My oldest, back from camp, sang with me my duet, "I'll Stay With You". It was spontaneous and not well prepared, but we pulled it off. She has a great voice. What happened next was pure entertainment. ALL of my children one by one wanted to be a part of the show, and each did something- a dance with made up lyrics, a cartwheel, an accapella song "I Love to see the Temple" was sung by two of my children... The only child who didn't perform was my 3 year old, who I'm surprised didn't, except that he was on my lap telling me how hungry he was, so I think he didn't really know what was going on!!! It was so funny. Someone next to me
made the comment, "I guess we know where they all get this from...." Ha. I have no idea!

The final day of the week, one of my little sisters got married in the Mount Timpanogas Temple. What an amazing experience. She met this guy less than a month ago. He's in the armed forces, and will be leaving for Afghanistan next May. They both have prayed about the decision and both felt a strong witness that they were supposed to get married. As worried as I might have been for them, that comforting witness means so much! My sister is incredibly strong in the gospel. I trust her feelings, and wish them the best.

What a week! I get two more weeks of summer vacation before the kids are back in school. I am feeling great, and look forward to my first doctors appointment in another week or so. Then I might have a due date (it will be sometime in February...)My kids are excited about the new baby and talk about it all the time. As long as I am not feeling sick or tired, I'm happy to let it take it's own sweet time. With all the good food that I ate this week, I "pooched" out. I am now officially "showing". (sigh)

Looking forward to a little less busy week this next week....

Off to Girls Camp

noreply@blogger.com (Lindy) — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 03:39:00 +0000

I thought I'd just write a quick little note. I haven't been writing 'cause there's really not much to write about. Thankfully, I think the "morning sickness" has worn off, and I am starting to get a little more energy. I really feel like this is a blessing, since I started feeling better, the day the kids got home from school. So now the kids are all out of school, and I can survive a day without a 4 hour nap! =)

Tomorrow I leave bright and early for Girls Camp. It's the first time I've been to girl's camp since I was in Young Women's, and got to go. I loved camp! I thought for sure I'd go as a leader, but alas, it's been music callings (which I love), and now finally, as Young Women's Music leader (are we stretching a bit?...) I get to go. Besides that, the Stake (All the different church Young Women's groups) are performing a fun song I wrote to go with their theme, "Building upon a Rock". I'm excited to hear it. I doubt I'll post the music, since, I only taught it to the girls with the words, but they have actions, and everything (It's a "rockin' " song), I only wish I had a camcorder so I could post the video!!!! (First item on my Christmas wish list...)

Anyway, I'm excited to go. My oldest will be coming with me, and she's excited to "initiate me". I'm sure I have no idea what that could mean. =) I'm sure I'll survive... Wish me luck!

"Be"ing a Mom

noreply@blogger.com (Lindy) — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 21:11:00 +0000

Always having to have something exciting going on in my life, and this time is no exception.... I am happy to announce that I am expecting again... #7.

I am the oldest of 11 children. I thought my mom was amazing. She seems to live to bring children into the world. Being the oldest, I had the chance to take care of many of those kids. I was pretty good at it. I figured I would make a pretty good mother. That was how I felt up until my first oldest was born. This child, was SO colicky, I couldn't even believe it. She was SO difficult!!! I'd call my mom and ask her how she did it. Her response was very telling, "I never had one of those..." 11 kids and not a colicky one in the bunch.... wow, I felt my education was lacking. I knew I didn't want to have as many kids as my mom did, but I vowed that if I had even one more child like this one, that would be it. 2 kids would be fine, and all I could handle.

Somehow I've been able to manage. Heavenly Father had more kids he wanted to send to us. One at a time they come, each bringing their unique challenges, but I've learned so much from each of them. Right now, I'm pretty tired. It's hard to get anything done in the day. I had a really rough time there for a little bit with the fact that I wasn't "do"ing anything. One of my good friends, gently reminded me that it was 6 "Be's" President Hinckley gave us, and not 6 "Do's". I knew that was true, but it wasn't until I received a very kind note from a young women in our ward, that I finally began to believe in the "Be" of "Being a Mom". She wrote just the sweetest note, expressing her thankfulness for my example, in using my talents, but even more especially for my example as a mother. She said that she watches me and sees the patience that I have with my children (she must not be watching ALL the time!) and that she hopes to someday be as good of a mom as me. It made me cry. It was just so sweet. Maybe I'm not "Do"ing anything, but maybe there is something in the "Be"ing.

It's been hard to slow down my life and not to do so much, but I've been able to enjoy it more. I take a nap, and when I feel up to it, I go read with my kids. I engage in a nice conversation. I try to do a little laundry before I fall asleep again. This should pass soon, but I hope that I don't forget the little bit of perspective that I've gained. I'm learning to better appreciate "Be"ing a mom...

Singing around the piano

noreply@blogger.com (Lindy) — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 14:05:00 +0000

This morning was one of those mornings I hope that will just stay in my brain forever. Unfortunately, I have a terrible memory, so I'm writing this down, in the hopes it will help me to never forget.

This morning, 3 members of the family were gone (to school, camp, work, or other) and I was relaxing at the piano. This is often what I do to unwind from the stresses of the day. This morning I wasn't playing anything in particular, in fact, I was just improvising all over the place. My 5 year old came over to the piano, and in the cutest little sing-songy voice, began to sing to my accompaniment. I couldn't tell you any of the words because they were things like, "My mom is the nicest mom ever,... what is that on the wall? I love my stuffed animals, etc." It was just so cute. That would have probably been enough to make it a good memory, but not before too long, my 8 year old, and even my 10 year old, also came over, and just joined right in!!! They were all singing their own variations of "whatever". None of them were the same, but amazingly, they have enough rhythm and melody, that it actually all sounded GOOD together!!! I couldn't believe it. At one point, I slowed it down and created a little ending, and immediately all the girls started yelling, "Let's do it again!!!"

It was the coolest thing. I love harmony. I love musicals where the two (or more) parts go together in some amazing counterpoint way, but this morning was something cooler than I ever could have written myself. It will probably be more memorable than anything I could write. What a great morning! I hope everyone has a great day. I know I will!

Living Water

noreply@blogger.com (Lindy) — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 03:58:00 +0000

I finished the choir song tonight. I wish I had some way to hear it performed, but in it's midi form, it really does sound beautiful. I haven't added it to my website yet since there's no way to link to new songs. (Will this mean a new remodel of my site again?!) Still, for now you can download the song here: Download Living Water SATB sheet music.

The solo version, and accompaniment for it, is on my new CD. I love the solo version, but I think this choir version is going to be gorgeous. There's a lot of neat harmonies in the voices. I don't think it's too hard, but then again, I haven't really tried it out yet. I'd be happy to get comments from anyone who has sung through or performed the song. If you are close by, I'd also love to come and hear it being performed!

I'd do an email update tonight, but it's late and I'm tired. I don't know if I've been having allergies or what lately, but I've been very tired. I've been starting to try and work on my 72 hour kits again. It's taking me FOREVER to get that done. (That and my year supply....) Still, I'm doing well, one project at a time... =)

Creative Energy

noreply@blogger.com (Lindy) — Sat, 31 May 2008 12:34:00 +0000

I heard this analogy once that made a huge impact in my life. You've probably already heard it. It's the one where you imagine a thick, steel cable that's about 2 feet in circumference and 100 feet long. Imagine this cable is stretched out on the floor and you are at one end and I'm at the other. I tell you, "I'll give you $100 if you can step onto the cable and walk across it like a balance beam over to me without falling off onto the floor." Would you try it? I probably would.

Then the scenario changes. Imagine that this cable is part of a high suspension bridge. A tram travels our cable to get from one side of the chasm to the other. Except you are not inside the tram. You are standing on one end of the chasm, and I'm on the other side of the chasm, with the cable suspended between us. Now I tell you, "I'll give you $100 if you can come across to me". Would you do it now? Most people, me included, wouldn't. The risk is too great. I'm also afraid of heights. You couldn't pay me a million dollars to come across.

But then the scenario changes once again. Same scenario as last, but at the other end this time, is someone who is holding your baby and says, "If you don't come across on the cable, I will drop your baby." Now would you come? It makes me cry every time.

I had heard this analogy before in a Relief Society meeting when I was a brand new mother, and I figured that my child would probably be the ONLY thing I would cross the chasm for. A few years ago I heard this analogy again, but it was in relation to your core values. What things are so important to you, that if you didn't have those things in your life, you couldn't imagine existing without them. One of the things that surprised me was that one of my core values is Creativity. Not just music but anything creative. Without being able to be creative, I don't know how I'd survive!

Lately, I haven't been as creative, and it's amazing how much that effects all other aspects of my life. It's good for me to notice those things. Knowing I'm not being as creative as I'd like to be, I started writing a new choir arrangement. It's an arrangement of one of the songs on my CD, "Living Water". It is SOOOO pretty. In one day, I feel so much better! It's amazing to me how much I need to be creative. It affects everything!

I'll post the song soon. I don't have any way to hear it performed, so I'm having my family be my editors.

Blog again, soon,
Lindy

Playing Zoo Keeper

noreply@blogger.com (Lindy) — Fri, 23 May 2008 19:13:00 +0000

I just got back from the zoo. It was one of those crazy spontaneous things that happened. My Kindergartner had a field trip this morning, and one of the moms was unable to help. So I offered to come. I wasn't doing anything else, it was just going to be my day to unwind.

This week two of my children had birthdays (one day apart). This is always a crazy time of year with that fact alone. In addition, I also had a concert at the Middle School where I played the piano for all the choir classes. It was their year end "Pops Concert". Also, two of my children sprang reports on me that were due the next day! I love being a mom, but sometimes some weeks are a little harder than others.

This week in particular, it seems like my life is a little like the zoo I just returned from- except the zoo was cleaner. Atleast I think my house smells a little better than the giraffe house we visited, although at times....

I take for granted all those times I've gone to the zoo and looked at all those animals, and not fully appreciated the work that goes into keeping all those animals in their places. There's a lot of people helping. I'm grateful that there's someone helping me out too, with my kids, and with my life. Not a day goes by that I don't thank God for all his blessings. Even weeks like this last one, where it seems like I'm the zoo keeper. Still, I know there's someone else who is in charge. He's just given me a few of his children to watch over and take care of.

Surviving Women's Conference

noreply@blogger.com (Lindy) — Thu, 08 May 2008 03:43:00 +0000

I absolutely LOVED singing at Women's Conference. I almost wasn't even nervous, until just before I sang. I was prepared, I had everything ready to go on the morning of, I didn't even feel stressed during the performance. I had no idea that almost immediately after we performed, I would be almost entirely exhausted! It is only in hind sight that I can even try to contemplate what happened.

Rewind 4 months ago, January 1st, and I was writing a song to sing for a "New Beginnings" program. I had to write and learn the song in only a few days. The performance went well, and I didn't think any thing else of it. Two days later, Sister Dibb asked me to sing for the three General Women's Committees at the Relief Society building in Salt Lake. A week later, we sang, and Jessica Perry and I were invited to sing at Women's Conference. A couple weeks later, I emailed Greg Hansen to get some advice about possibly having a CD available in the Bookstore at Women's Conference. Greg told me I should make the CD and that he would produce and orchestrate. From that point on, the next 2 months, was preparing the CD, learning from Greg, recording, praying, and wondering. Before we got into the process too far, Sister Lifferth told me she would get the CD into the bookstore, and when Greg Hansen relayed the information to Sounds of Zion, they offered to be the distributer for the album. It has truly been a ride. I loved every minute of it, but I also had no idea how much the last few months would wear me out!

Thankfully, I feel much better now. I was so happy to see my CD in the bookstore. It was one of those moments when you get to rejoice in hitting a milestone for your life. I grabbed a CD off of the display, and showed it to one of the ladies at the cash register. I told her, "This is me!" I showed her my name on the CD. She politely gave me the "Wow, that's great!" answer, and I was happy to share that moment with a stranger. Jessica Perry, who was with me, couldn't believe I was acting so silly. But really can you blame me? It was so exciting!

So, I guess it's all normal. It's funny how life keeps on going. Really nothing is that different. My oldest daughter Jessica and I, sang the duet "I'll Stay With You" last night for a mother/daughter young women's activity. Listening to her sing, moved me to tears, and I cried before we were finished. It was the first time I got emotional through all those times I've performed the song. It's easier to feel the love that Naomi had for Ruth, as I'm playing Naomi, and it's my daughter who plays the part of Ruth. She has such a sweet voice.

Tonight I got to attend a mother/daughter activity for another one of my daughters. I have been involved recently with their "activity day" activities, and so they had prepared to sing, "One Virtue at a Time". They did such a great job. I thought it would be fun for them to learn, so that when they got to Young Women's they would know how to sing it. I felt so blessed to be able to be a part of their lives.

I don't know what's next. I've stopped trying to guess, but I have to admit, my life has been very exciting and I am very happy.

"Women of God"

noreply@blogger.com (Lindy) — Mon, 05 May 2008 01:42:00 +0000

Several years ago, I attended the 2000 BYU Women's Conference. It was the first time I was privileged to go. I remember being amazed as I sat in the Marriot Center, looking at the thousands of women there. There were women from all over the country. We all wore a name tag with our names on them and where we were from. I remember feeling a kinship with everyone there. There was no way to know everyone that was there, but as we all raised our voices in song, we were united. We were all sisters.

During the next few weeks, I kept thinking about that experience, and tried to write a song that could capture the feelings I felt. I couldn't do it. Words were so difficult for me. I kept starting and giving up. I attended the next years conference, and felt the same way. I kept feeling those nudges to write the song. Unfortunately, I still couldn't get the words to convey the feelings that I felt. Through a series of interesting events, I was put in contact with a dear sister, Susan Noyes Anderson, who helped to write lyrics for the song which ended up being titled, "Women of God".

I showed the song to Michael Moody, who was head of the Church's Music department at the time. I told him that I felt like it should be performed at the coming Women's Conference that year. He told me that the song was very good, and that he would set up the performance. Later that year, there was a misunderstanding, and the song was entered, by mistake, into the Church's music contest. The song got lost, and never ended up being performed. I attended that next Women's Conference, and Sheri Dew gave a wonderful talk that I will never forget entitled, "Women of God". I cried through the entire address. This was where, I felt, my song should have been performed. Sheri Dew actually quoted almost the entire song! I couldn't believe how well the song would have fit with her talk, but it just wasn't meant to be.

Now, in 2008, I had the amazing opportunity to sing at Women's Conference. I know it was meant to be. I had many miracles that made it possible. Jessica Perry and I sang the duet that I'd written for our "New Beginnings" program in January, "I Will Stay With You". I found it another unlikely coincidance that the speakers titled their address, "Women of God".

Singing at Women's Conference was a wonderful experience. I was quite nervous just before we sang, but being on the stage, and performing was a lot of fun. I enjoyed listening to Margaret Lifferth and Carolyn Toronto's remarks, especially since again, the words of my song seemed to reinforce all that they had to say. I felt so blessed to be there. I appreciated all those that came to see us perform. My mother, and my mother in law were both there, as well as many from our ward. It was wonderful to feel their support.

Other than the exciting chance to walk through the BYU Bookstore and see my CD there, I also had another neat thing happen that day. That morning I received an email from a lady who wrote,

"I am writing from sunny Trinidad and I just love your songs. They are uplifting and soothing to the spirit. I attended a nun's ordination and heard "Women of God" and fell in love with it, so much so I will be using it with my graduating class this year. I teach music at a girls' convent here. 11-18yrs. Keep on writing. god has blessed you with tremendous talent."

I never know what purpose the Lord may have for the songs that I write. I can guess, but I'm usually wrong. I'm just grateful that I have been able to be His instrument. For that I will always be grateful.

Getting Excited

noreply@blogger.com (Lindy) — Thu, 01 May 2008 14:10:00 +0000

Tomorrow is the big day! I'm so excited. A couple people have asked me if I feel nervous, but I'm not yet. I'm just excited.

When I was younger, I did a lot of musical theater. I love to perform on stage. I really enjoy becoming a character, especially when there's also music. This brings back many memories of musicals gone by- Oklahoma, the Music Man, HMS Pinafore, all those Stake productions. Such good memories. I always get very nervous JUST before the play starts and then after it begins, I'm fine again. I imagine that's how it will be.

I was thinking about when I performed this song for the "New Beginnings" program. Because I had to introduce the song, I was very nervous about what I was going to say. Also, I was still making last minute changes to the song, so I was worried that I'd remember what to sing! Singing at the Relief Society building was a similar experience, adding with it, the fact that I was speaking and singing in front of so many important and spiritual ladies.

This time, though there will be many more spiritual ladies to sing in front of, it won't be me, Lindy, speaking and singing, it will just be Jessica and I as characters from the Bible, playing Ruth and Naomi. I'm excited to play the part of Naomi. I really think it will be fun. I think I've decided what I can wear. I wanted it to be something "Naomi"-ish. I found a simple outfit I think will work.

I'll be singing right after the two speakers. I told Margaret Lifferth that I was a little worried that if her talk put me in tears, I might be too emotional to sing. She assured me that she had opted to keep her talk light- hearted and fun. That's really my biggest concern. Other than that, I'm just feeling very excited about the opportunity.

Jessica and I have to be there early tomorrow to practice in the Concert Hall. Hopefully we're awake and can make it on time. (Hopefully I can sleep tonight!)

At any rate, I am very excited!!!

American Idol Mommy

noreply@blogger.com (Lindy) — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 23:45:00 +0000

On Wednesday, we were watching American Idol, and there was a guest artist that sang. My little boy was sitting on my lap- he's three. Out of nowhere he said, "I wish she were my mother." I was surprised and said, "Why?!" He replied, "She has a prettier voice". I couldn't believe it. What a terrible (funny) thing to say. I pretended to be hurt, and said, "Josh, you don't like me being your mother?" He replied, "Sometimes". I really was so surprised that he seemed so serious. One more time, I tried to make sure I understood. "That makes me feel so sad! You'd rather have HER as your mother than me?" to which he replied, "I'm just kidding!"

Later I was telling someone else the story, and my son overheared, he rushed in to explain again, "Mom, I was just kidding!"

I love this kid! He is my youngest one, and has been the sweetest kid ever. This is the first time he's ever said anything like that. He loves it when I sing songs to him at bedtime, or tickle him. He's been my little "momma's boy" and I've loved it. For just an instant I felt jealous of this musical artist who could sing as my little boy desired for his mother. Of course I know I'm a good mother. I also know that he has no idea what life would be like if his mother were a pop star. Of course he had no idea what it was he was even saying.

It made me wonder how often we do the same thing. How often do we look at what someone has, or what someone looks like and we wish we had the same. I wonder sometimes if Heavenly Father looks down at us in those times and just shakes His head, knowing that what we have is so much better for us. He has everything already all planned out. We don't even know what it is we are asking for. Whether or not we're serious or if we say, "I'm just kidding!"

Kerby Music Update

noreply@blogger.com (Lindy) — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 04:45:00 +0000

Dear Friends,

I am happy to announce that my new CD, "Thy God, My God: Strength from the Hearts of Biblical Women" is now completed. The music turned out beautiful, and the artwork is amazing. I was lucky enough to get to use Judith Mehr's painting of "Ruth and Naomi", which fit the theme perfectly.

You can listen to samples from the CD at:
www.lindykerby.com/thyGodmyGod/

or you can also listen to the entire 2nd track, "Living Water" at: https://theneighborhoodjukebox.com/cgi-bin/ijb/mreg.cgi?ratingpubview=66

This CD includes all the accompaniment tracks to all 3 vocal songs, and also includes a bonus piano track, which I think you will also like. Also available to purchase on my website is MP3's and PDF's (sheet music) for all of the songs. Those outside of the United States, may consider buying the digital album, where shipping is not required!

It would make a wonderful Mother's Day gift, or just something special to lift your spirit on a sunday.

I have written lots more about the album and each of the songs on my website. I hope you'll visit, listen, and enjoy.

Thanks for everyone's support!

Lindy Kerby
www.lindykerby.com- Official website
www.kerbymusic.org- Free Sheet music by Lindy Kerby

It's here!

noreply@blogger.com (Lindy) — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 05:34:00 +0000

I drove up with the kids to Salt Lake to pick up the CD's. They look so great! I'm so happy. I listened to the CD over and over again in the car as we drove all over town to deliver the CD's to Greg Hansen and visit with my family. My daughter was singing the songs after we got home, it was so cute. I haven't sent out an update yet, but probably will tomorrow. I'm just too tired tonight. But samples are on my website, and you can listen to the entire 2nd track, "Living Water" at The Neighborhood Jukebox. It's a great site for people to listen and buy music from new artists. I'm gonna get some sleep. Tomorrow I'll finish up the store, but yay the CD's are here! =)

It's coming!

noreply@blogger.com (Lindy) — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 04:05:00 +0000

Can I just tell you how excited I am! I'm picking up the CD's tomorrow (hopefully...) I finished all the sheet music for the songs, and should have everything ready to go and in my online store in the next couple of days. I'll even be able to do MP3's and PDF's, so I'm thrilled. Greg Hansen says Sounds of Zion is ready to take some copies, and will for sure have them available at the BYU Bookstore when we sing at Women's Conference. I just love how everything turned out. Yippee! I'm just so happy, and thought I'd share...

The waiting game

noreply@blogger.com (Lindy) — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 01:37:00 +0000

Well, the artwork is finished, the album is complete, and now we are just waiting for the CD's to be copied. It's been nice to have the break. I spent the last week or so working on my lindykerby.com website. I put lots of information about the album on there, and fixed up the store a bit. I still have to finish the download section, but what I've done is a huge accomplishment.

I remember when I first started learning how to program. It took so long to do anything. Mostly since the learning curve was so high. Thankfully, learning how to do everything is so much easier and faster now. I'm so thankful.

My kids reminded me that they are all off-track for the next two weeks. I'm glad to have gotten so much done in the last week. I'll try to enjoy them. It's actually kind of nice when they don't have school, because I can relax a bit from my schedule with school. Unfortunately, it's a wierd two-week break, and the middle school and my husband's work don't have anything off, so it's like a schedule and not-a-schedule all at the same time. That's a little more difficult.

Well, this post is obviously not that exciting, but I thought I'd let you know what's been going on. By next week at this time, hopefully I'll have a new CD in my hand. After that? I'm not sure. I'm excited to sing at the Women's Conference, then I guess we'll see what happens...

Finished Recording

noreply@blogger.com (Lindy) — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 02:22:00 +0000

Today was a wonderful day of recording. We had hoped to finish most of the recording last Thursday, but we needed to record the strings today. It was a miracle I was even able to make it there today. Thankfully my oldest daughter "happened" to have the day off school (Teacher prep day?!) and she was willing to watch the the kids for the morning.

What an amazing experience to listen to my song with sounds that I have only dreamed and imagined being added. Greg Hansen did an amazing job. As I heard the orchestration for the duet, I couldn't stop the tears from falling. It is beautiful. I'm so happy with how it sounds. My only fear now is that I will be overcome with emotions as I perform this song at Women's Conference.

One of the other songs, "Living Water", also was deeply moving. Rebecca Lopez sings this song, and I can't imagine anyone singing it better. There were parts where we had added cello, and decided to drop it out so it wouldn't detract from the beauty of her voice. Her voice is just gorgeous, and the message of the song is deeply moving in the way she sings it.

All of the vocals turned out really well, and I'm very happy with the whole album. Steve Lerud was the engineer for the CD, and he is absolutely fabulous in making everything sound rich and warm. He also helped with my added piano song. It was fun to do some of my my own orchestrating for that song. I have so much to learn, and it was a privelege to learn so much from Greg, as he shared with me the reasons why he chose to do different things, and use the different colors of the orchestra. Someday I hope to orchestrate the way he does.

So I'm just excited. All that's left is the back and cover of the album. Once that's done, it will be sent off to the duplicators. April 15th, is really not that far away. What a thrill! I'm hoping to make a preview track of atleast "Living Water", that people can listen to before the album is released.

Below is a picture of Rebecca Lopez
recording "Living Water".

Happy Easter

noreply@blogger.com (Lindy) — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 02:32:00 +0000

These last months have been months of miracles for me. I have seen the hand of the Lord in my life so much, and it continues as I have selected vocalists to sing the songs on my album, as I have balanced things with my family and as I find direction in all that I am doing. I am constantly amazed at the people that have come into my life, and opportunities that have brought me growth and knowledge. Even in the disappointments of life, I have come to believe that there are lessons to learn and ways that I have grown. I have no doubt that God is there, actively part of my life.

Today, this Easter, I found some time to read my Bible, about the atonement, and especially of Christ's resurrection. There's so much I don't understand. I wish I did. I watched a movie today that depicted scenes from Christ's life, as He healed and performed miracles for the people of His day. Many of those miracles strengthened the faith of those around Him. Many believed in who He was. Others, of course did not.

I can't help but reflect on the miracles that have happened in my life. These are no different from the kinds of miracles He performed then. They have strengthened me. I believe in Him. I know that there is a God and that He loves me. I want to know Him better. I'm so grateful for His atonement and for the opportunity I have to live with Him again.

More miracles

noreply@blogger.com (Lindy) — Sun, 09 Mar 2008 03:57:00 +0000

It had been about a month since my experience in the Relief Society building, and although things were looking wonderful for a new CD, I hadn't heard anything from Sister Lifferth. I began to wonder if all this was just too good to be true. Maybe things wouldn't work out, and Greg Hansen wouldn't want to produce the album if I didn't end up singing at Women's Conference. It was dumb to even think that way, especially since I had no doubt that the Lord was helping along everything that had happened so far, but still I was insecure. I hadn't even told my family about my experiences. I don't know exactly why, but I wondered if telling people would somehow make the experiences stop. I decided to call Sister Lifferth and ask her.

She returned my phone call enthusiastically telling me that she was excited for us to sing! I was so grateful. I asked her if it was okay to tell people that we would be singing, and her response was, "Of course!" It was funny how relieved and freed I felt to hear that! I wanted her to know that I would have a CD available, and wondered if she preferred us singing to a backup track or to a live piano for the performance. She said she'd leave that up to me, and then mentioned that if I had a CD to sell, she could make sure that there was a spot reserved for it at the bookstore. I couldn't believe it. Wow. That was my goal! I was so happy.

I called Greg Hansen to tell him the news. He couldn't believe it. Another miracle, but that wasn't all. Greg decided to call some people he knew. He called me back only an hour or so later to tell me that Sounds of Zion would distribute the album, sight unseen, and that it would be available in Deseret Book stores and wherever else LDS products are sold. Believe me, when I tell you that I couldn't sleep well that night!

My Relief Society president called me that day to ask me how things were going, and I just had to tell her the good news. She was actually calling from her cell phone out of state, helping out with a new grandchild, but she asked me if I would share my experiences with the women in our ward. That was difficult, but having the encouragement from Sister Lifferth, I told her I would.

As I shared my experiences with the women in my ward, I was able to bear my testimony of how much I know the Lord blesses us. Sometimes more than we ever hoped or expected. I haven't always been this blessed, but there is no doubt in my mind, that these blessings have all come from Him. I'm so grateful. I hope that everything I have the opportunity to do now and in the future will bring Him glory.

A new opportunity

noreply@blogger.com (Lindy) — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 03:54:00 +0000

Knowing that I was going to be singing at Women's Conference, I recognized that more than just the chance at being able to share my music in such a neat venue, there could also perhaps be many people who would want a recording of the song.

I've struggled with wanting to make recordings of my songs for many years. Not because I haven't wanted to, but because I wanted to record them 'well'. Perhaps I've been too picky, but I didn't want a recording that I didn't love, to be available on the web where I would never be able to get it back.

I have a neighbor who has written an LDS musical. There is hope that he will be able to have it performed in the near future. He worked with Greg Hansen, an incredible record producer, arranger, and composer to help record and arrange the music. I was fascinated with all he could tell me about the process. I love to learn, especially anything having to do with music and musicals.

I had done some arranging/transcription work for this friend, and he emailed me to ask if I would be interested in doing another project. Because I was thinking about making a CD, I was hesitant to start a new project. His email also started me thinking about Greg and his friendship with this friend. In my mind, I started thinking about possiblities. Maybe if I told this friend about my opportunity to sing at Women's Conference, he might say something to Greg, maybe he would want to help...

My friend's response was encouraging, he told me not to worry about the project until after May. I was grateful, but wondered what else I should do. After that, my mind kept thinking about Greg Hansen. I decided it couldn't hurt to email him myself. I had emailed a producer before, and the worst thing that happened was that I was rejected and told that I should read some books about the music business and how to approach a record producer. I was wary, but still felt like it was the right thing to do.

Finding Greg Hansen's website, I discovered that Greg offers a mentoring program. For just $25, Greg allows artists to submit a demo and they receive a song-review, advice and feedback on how you are doing as an artist. For those that are ready, Greg will also help produce singles, miniCD's, full albums, or for top artists that Greg discovers, be a part of his label, Eagle Springs Records.

I've been to enough music workshops to know that I wouldn't be willing to give up my life, family, and kids for a label opportunity, but I was definitely willing to pay $25 to get Greg's opinions and insights on what I should do.

I sent Greg a home recording of the song we were to sing at Women's Conference. I spent 2 hours writing an email to attach with it. I have a really difficult time writing emails (and blogs for that matter), especially since my last 'producer' experience. I had faith though that if this was what the Lord wanted me to do, it might have a better ending this time.

Greg's reply was fast. If I could afford it, he thought I should do the miniCD. He was willing to orchestrate and produce the album. He told me that of all the artists he'd worked with, none of them had been able to have the opportunity to sing at Women's Conference. It felt good to tell him that it had all come about because I was using my talents in filling my calling as a young women's music leader, nothing else.

So now a new journey begins. So far, it has been fun and exciting. I have loved being in the studio and meeting with new people. Greg, in particular, seems like a spiritual giant. I look forward to things I can learn from him both musically as well as spiritually. Over the last several years I've had the chance to know many LDS artists. In fact, it gets a little embarrassing when people keep asking, "So when are YOU going to have an album"? In the past, I'd just smile, and shrug my shoulders, but finally, I have a release date! The CD is set to be released April 15th. Two weeks before Women's Conference!
Yay!

Singing in the Relief Society building

noreply@blogger.com (Lindy) — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 03:45:00 +0000

January 11th, just 3 days after our "New Beginnings" program, Sister Dibb called me on the phone. Of course the chaos at my house was the usual intensity, and I had to lock myself in my bedroom so I could even hear. She thanked me for the beautiful job that we had done the other night, and wanted to know if Jessica Perry and I would consider singing the song for a committee meeting that the General Relief Society, Young Women, and Primary boards were holding the next Thursday. We would need to come to the Relief Society building in Salt Lake City. She asked if I would also come teach them the song, "One Virtue at a Time", which I supposed our Young Women's president had told her about.

I told her I would check with Jessica and call her right back. I can't even tell you all the thoughts that I had running through my mind, but I knew that I had to do it. What an amazing opportunity! I was also very excited that she wanted to hear the "One Virtue at a Time" song. I have felt ever since I wrote that song, that I was just God's instrument in writing it. I guessed that now the song would be able to serve an even greater purpose.

I called Jessica, and she told me that she was supposed to be at a work conference right during that time. She didn't know if her boss would let her come. Her boss is LDS though, so she told me that she would call her and explain the situation. She called me back a moment later, and enthusiastically told me that a miracle had happened, and that she would be able to come.

Jessica and I met in a parking lot at Albertsons near where the Relief Society building is. My husband had taken me out to dinner the night before, and drove me around the area so I'd be able to find it easily. We said a quick prayer in the parking lot, and warmed up our voices on the way over.

We were supposed to park under the parking lot at the Church Office Building. Sister Dibb said that she had secured a parking pass for us, but gave us a number we could call in case we had any problems. It was a good thing that she did, because our name was NOT on the list! A few minutes later, Sister Dibb came running out to talk to the parking attendant. She got the required approval, and jumped in the back seat of our car as we went driving around the parking lot looking for a parking. This was actually quite a bit of fun. We were unsuccessful looking for a spot, and finally Sister Dibb told us that we could park in one of the "reserved" parking spaces.

We arrived a little late, but before we could go into the meeting, we still needed to make copies of the song. Finally ready, we entered the main hall of the Relief Society room. I remember as we walked in, seeing the presidencies all on the front row facing forward. Portraits of all the past General Relief Society presidents were hung on the wall, including Emma Smith down to Mary Ellen Smoot. There was a wonderful spirit in the room. As Sister Beck, who was conducting the meeting, saw us entering the room, she invited us to sit on the stand... (with all of them!), I hope it wasn't rude, but I hardly felt worthy to sit there with them, and just took a spot on the back row.

We sang a hymn together, and after some initial announcements, we were up. I had brought my ipod speaker/player with me, as our accompaniment, and I stood in front of these women. I had confessed to Sister Dibb, that I was a little nervous to do all this, but I loved her response. She said, 'Don't be nervous. The sisters just represent a group of "best friends in the gospel." They really are.' As I stood in front of them, I remembered her words, and thought of them as my sisters. I shared with them briefly the story about writing this song ("One Virtue at a Time"), and then Jessica and I sang the song for them. After we sang, we divided up the room in half, and Jessica and I led the different sides of the room in singing the song. What a wonderful experience!

Following this song, Jessica and I sang, "I Will Stay With You". We returned to our seats in the back of the room, and were privileged to hear from the presidents of the General auxiliaries, as they bore their testimonies. Following this, the ladies were excused to go in different groups (based on where their birthday months fell!) and continue with their meetings.

What followed for Jessica and I though, was an outpouring of love. So many of the sisters, afterwards came up to us, with thanks, and hugs. Sister Beck came right up to us and gave us a personal hug, as did Sister Tanner, and many others. I shed tears as I even think of that time. What a privelege and a blessing. I hope I never forget that experience!

Once most of the sisters had left for their classes, one of the sisters asked if we could do an encore performance of "I Will Stay With You". A few of the sisters, had arrived a little late and were unable to hear the song. Jessica and I had the privelege of singing the song again for this intimate performance of about 5-6 people. One of the sisters there was Margaret Lifferth, first counselor in the Primary Presidency. After we had sung, and we were about to leave, she asked for our contact information. Sister Dibb told her that she had all the information and could give it to her.

A few minutes later, she came back and said, "I'm not going to wait, I just want to ask you now..." She wanted us to sing for the upcoming BYU's Women's Conference in May. She had been asked to speak, and thought the song would go well with her speaking assignment.

My heart, overflowing from all the experiences we'd just had, I had a hard time even thinking. I told her we would love to.

As quickly as Jessica and I could get in the car and close the door, I said a prayer of gratitude, and tears just fell. Wow. What an amazing miracle. As much as I was excited about the opportunity to sing at Women's Conference, the experience I'd just had with those wonderful women, was amazing. I am so grateful for that experience and opportunity. Truly these women were just great women. There was such a neat spirit there, and more than anything, I had felt their love, personally.

New Beginnings

noreply@blogger.com (Lindy) — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 19:58:00 +0000

Someone the other day mentioned that this was all a "New Beginning" for me. I think that was a very significant comment, considering that this all started as I prepared for our Young Women's "New Beginning's" Program.

The month of December was crazy. I decided for some unknown reason that I was going to "make" all my kids personalized Christmas presents this year. The kids all did the same. The month of December had us all making hats, clothes, dresses, pillows, blankets, and other personalized typed gifts. It was a neat Christmas. One that I will probably always remember, but I don't know if I will ever try to do it again! The week after Christmas, it was probably no wonder that we were all sick. We had Influenza Type A. It was NOT fun, but as far as having the whole family sick, it wasn't a bad week to have it happen.

The first week of January was a brand new beginning for me. I set my New Years Resolutions, and I wrote a song. A song called, "I'll Stay With You".

The words came from several different sources. My mom had asked me if I would sing and speak for their wards Visiting Teaching Conference in January. I have a lot of songs about Visiting Teaching, but she wanted the sisters to leave feeling inspired both as teachers, and as those struggling, as they bless each others lives. She also wanted the women to feel uplifted in sharing their testimonies.

I serve right now as the Young Women's music leader in our ward. A ward is a small geographical area of Latter Day Saint church members. We were preparing for our New Beginnings program, and I was assigned to come up with a song to sing, either myself, or for a small group. We had a special guest speaker who would be speaking to us- a Sister Dibb from the General Young Women's board. She also is President Monson's daughter, and we were excited to hear the things she would be sharing with us about her mother, and the example that she had been in their family.

Last year, I wrote a song called "One Virtue at a Time" for our "New Beginnings" program. It was an experience I treasure, because it was one of those songs that I wrote, where I just can't hardly take any credit for writing it. The music and words just "came". Because of that experience, I wanted to write another song. I was hoping for a similar experience. Because of Christmas, and our family being sick, I hadn't even begun thinking about the song I wanted to write. The program wasn't scheduled until the 22nd, but Sister Dibb needed to change the date to the 8th. I only had 1 week to write the song.

My husband has been a great resource for ideas, and critique on my songs. In this crunch time, I asked him what I should do. What kind of song could I write for a solo or duet, that could maybe work for both purposes- a song to sing at the Visiting Teaching conference, and for our New Beginnings Program. He thought for only a moment, and suggested a scripture story that came to his mind. The story of Ruth and Naomi from the scriptures. He pulled out his scriptures and began telling me about these two women. I knew this was what I should write the song about.

Only a couple days before the program, I asked my good friend, Jessica Perry (a young women's advisor) and asked if she wouldn't mind learning this song to sing. Jessica is an amazing lady. She is a professional actress, and has a gorgeous voice. I knew she would be perfect to sing with. She learned the song and we found it very fun to sing together. I didn't have enough time to try and get an accompanist, so I recorded the piano onto a CD.

The night of our New Beginnings program, I gave a brief synopsis of the book of Ruth in the scriptures. I was way more nervous to talk than I was to sing, but I was also quite nervous to sing. I don't usually get that nervous, but I was. If I'd had any idea what was about to happen to my life after I sang that song, I wonder if I would have been so nervous. But that night, after Jessica and I sang the song, I was just so glad it was over!

Our New Beginnings program was a success. Sister Dibb's talk was excellent and I was just so grateful that the song had worked, and hopefully had served it's purpose.