Preparations begin!

Hello Everyone! So, I'm not gone yet - don't worry. But I've been thinking about this contract a lot and have a lot to do. First of all, I just received my medical requirements for a physical exam, and am trying to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Secondly, I received my letter of employment with its official seal and signatures, which was a very exciting moment for me. Although it refered to me as a "he" throughout, at least my name was written as "Ms" Andrea Smith and not Mr. :-) I understand that they don't have many female showband musicians, but I'm planning to call and make sure the cruise line is aware of my gender, as they also sent me a dress code information sheet apprising me of the fact that I must wear a tuxedo. Not that I don't think I would look great in a tuxedo, but I really don't want to spend the money. :-)

Also in preparation I've already spent a lot of money....which is a little painful, but I want to be prepared. So far I've bought the mac software for Band in a Box so I can work on my improv, a couple of Learn Italian CD's for obvious reasons, a new trombone stand since mine isn't all that stable, and most recently (aka 5 minutes ago) a new trombone case that is small enough to be a carry-on item and that has a strap. This is important because I need to be able to carry everything I'm taking with me by myself, and without a strap I'd be rapidly running out of hands.

All that to say, things are underway! I am getting more and more excited by the day, although my excitement tends to rise in conjunction with my nervousness. I know I will be in God's hands, and I'm ready to take the next step towards adulthood and independence in my life. Woohoo!!