Sometimes I’m envious of people who excel in a particular area. That’s because I’m limited in the talent department. I can think of only 2 areas where I’m decent: I’m an okay writer and I can play tennis. That’s pretty much it. I love baking but I’m no Martha Stewart. I enjoy cooking but I’m no Rachael Ray. And no doubt I’d be the first to get booted from Dancing with the Stars and most definitely The Voice.

Thankfully, my friends make up for my inefficiencies. I’m surrounded by talent so I’m hopeful through osmosis I’ll soak up some of theirs. For instance…

Joan is a warm and inviting teacher who also has a gorgeous voice. She sang at my wedding and I can still hear her beautiful version of Sunrise, Sunset.

Joan

Sue is a gifted Special Education teacher. I wouldn’t last one day doing what she does. I think it’s one of the most challenging careers but she’s really good at it. And she makes a difference for those kids.

Sue

Barbara, in her late-60s, swims miles each morning and is often off trekking in other countries, hiking their tallest mountains. She seemingly never tires, outlasting those much younger (including yours truly). I run 3 miles and I’m ready for a nap.

Barbara

Then there’s Sharon. She excels at just about everything she tries. And she tries everything. She’s an excellent cook, baker and seamstress. People often ask her for home decorating tips because she has a flair for design. I could go on and on.

Sharon

Hilary

Hilary mastered snowboarding by her 3rd time on the mountain. I still wear padding from head to toe and continue to tumble after 2 seasons of practice. (I’m most proud of my colorful butt bruise.)Yeah, I’ve cracked a couple ribs, but so far it’s been worth it. Besides, I have an extra cheek and more ribs, so I’m good to go.

Frankly, I’m amazed at how much talent is out there but how little I possess. God was generous with me in the nose and thigh department but when it came to doling out natural gifts, he slacked off a tad. Now don’t get me wrong; I don’t hold it against him; I figure ya take what ya get.Take my computer Guru, Kellan. He’s an unassuming guy with talent seeping from every pore. Kellan’s experienced a lot in his life and it seems whatever he attempts, he accomplishes. For 20 years he was an actor/singer on Broadway and is also the best computer instructor I know.

I was incompetent where computer knowledge is concerned, but with Kellan’s help I’ve graduated to marginally incompetent. And that’s saying something.

Mr. Talented

When Kellan divulged he’d been accepted into the renowned San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus, I couldn’t believe it. It’s kind of a big deal. He auditioned last minute and not only made it but he received one of the coveted solo spots out of 309 men! Three girlfriends and I attended one of his performances and my mouth literally dropped open during his solo. Kellan is far from braggadocios, so I had no idea he had talent with a capital T.

But you know one of the most thrilling parts of the evening? We encountered no one in the ladies room! I kid you not. Literally not one single lady. Normally at large events, lines for the women’s restrooms are out the door, right ladies?

Typical line

But even though the concert was almost sold out, women were only about 20% of the audience.  And apparently not one of them had the urge to pee when we did. So we were giddy with delight when nature called. That alone was worth the price of admission.

Sheila, Patty and Pam – ecstasy in the restroom

Anyway, if I could choose a talent, I’d be a singer on Broadway. I love the theater and the excitement of live performances. But alas, my animals leave the room when I break into song. Guess I’ll have to stick with what I know best and live vicariously through my talented friends.

But one of these days I plan to snowboard down an expert run at Heavenly Valley without one single tumble.

Why not?

I’ll make a delicious five-course dinner and won’t forget the rolls in the oven.

Not a burnt one in the batch

Maybe someday I’ll even serve an ace, despite the fact it’s yet to happen after 28 years playing tennis. That reminds me. I have one additional talent: I believe in the impossible.