“Desire is the starting point of all achievement, not a hope, not a wish, but a keen pulsating desire which transcends everything.

–Napoleon Hill

I get happy and I smile to myself when I replay in my mind all the fun I had last night when I finally arrived at Sullivan’s Restaurant/Bar for its New Year’s Eve party.

Needless to say things were in FULL swing by the time I got through the traffic, which was nearly paralyzed along Glenwood South.. and finally got the car parked. 

I can say without hesitation that as I walked toward the back of the bar, I could see that every man and woman inside that place had found his or her happy place a long time ago.  Stick a fork in them, I thought. They’re done!

My excitment about singing took a turn south when I heard the music coming from the back of the bar.  It wasn’t the finger-popping sounds of Sinatra.  It sounded like a DJ was spinning the jams.  The music was loud and pumping.  I didn’t even see Bill or his beautiful wife Melissa. 

Inside I panicked. I thought they were gone!  I was all dressed up in my gown and sparkly jewels and was afraid I’d missed my moment.  I collected myself and began to calmly ask the staff if they’d seen Bill– the man performing tonight.  One guy thought he’d left (gulp).  A woman thought they were taking a break. (oh Lord). 

I went back to the back, and sure enough they were there.  I apparently just didn’t look closely enough.  I was beyond relieved!

I slowly began my shift– after I’d connected with Bill.  He had downloaded my songs and would call me up to sing as soon as he’d performed a few more songs.  I had to transform from news lady to singing lady.

Soon, I had the mic in my hand, thanked the crowd, thanked Sullivan’s and did my thing!

I started with a sultry song, called The Wave… then I sang Sade’s Smooth Operator. 

The party goers had been listening to a man’s voice for most of the night, so I had their attention when I started if only for the distinct difference in vocals.  They seemed to like The Wave, and then some of them danced in their seats and on the floor when  I sang the more upbeat Smooth Operator.

I danced to my music and connected with many of the men andwomen there.  At the same time I was in my own space– feeling deep satisfaction and pure joy for an opportunity to start 2010 singing.   That was my goal.  I don’t every want to forget those feelings.

Things worked out exactly as I had hoped. 

I will never foget Bill’s generosity.  This was HIS night.  He gave me a piece of it.  I am so thankful.

Also, I only gave Bill three songs.  The crowd wanted me to sing again, but I didn’t have the resources to make it so.

They say, it’s always good to leave them wanting more, right?  So that was good, too.

I spent the rest of the night/morning dancing.  Have so much fun… as Bill put his DJ hat on once more.

It was a great night, with super great people.

I am ready for all the exciting twists and turns I know await me.

Happy New Year!!!!