This blog was originally posted in May, 2014

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.

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.

Pam is dedicated to working out. You name it, she does it: she runs half marathons twice a week, runs nine miles in the hills one day a week, and road bikes for miles as though she’s in a race. (Believe me, I know since I bike with her.) Pam faithfully works out at the gym and does yoga as well. She says she rests on Mondays but I don’t believe her.

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.

Hilary mastered snowboarding by her 3rd time on the mountain.

I still wear padding from head to toe and continue to tumble after two seasons of practice. (I’m most proud of my colorful butt bruise.) Yeah, I’ve cracked a couple of 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, and not in a good way. 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.

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?

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.

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. I suppose 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. (One can dream.)

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

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.