The rest of the year passes quickly. I head off to a Law conference in Madrid, where I am again presenting. In fact, I get to present at two sessions; in addition to the one I've been preparing for. Two days before I leave Australia, a session Chair contacts me, to say that a speaker has pulled out of her panel; could I fill in? I pack an extra slideshow with me; it's ready to go, and at the conference I present it to a packed room. The one-week trip to Madrid provides an opportunity to build on the small amount of Spanish I learned for the previous year's trip to Argentina.
When I get back to Australia, I receive an email from an organization that I belong to (the National Speakers Association) to say that they are having a Christmas dinner meeting and they would like to make it a talent show. Would any of the members like to submit an item?
I put myself forward; I've got songs, and I've got backing tracks. I'm starting to be able to tell people "I'm a singer" and still keep a straight face. Derrick, the local President, auditions me, and declares me passable. I decide on "You Gotta Be" by Des'ree: "Listen as your day unfolds, challenge what the future holds, try and keep your head up to the sky. Lovers, they may cause you tears; go ahead, release your fears, stand up and be counted, don't be ashamed to cry."
It feels very strange to sing in front of people I know, seated at tables having dinner, but it's an opportunity to perform. I'm surprised about the adrenaline rush that occurs when I start to sing; I thought I'd be fine, but my body tells me to be afraid. It's the "flight or fight" syndrome which also kicks in when we stand up to speak in public. I'm beginning to conquer it when I speak; why does singing feel so different?
it's also time to register for the music school Christmas concert. I decide on a new song that I've never sung before - "These Boots are Made for Walking" by Nancy Sinatra. The key is fine; I put my name down and we start rehearsals. I need some dance moves; once again, Victoria's daughter Genevieve creates a simple routine for me. I've noticed the difference between performers who present an "act" and those who simply get up and sing with no stagecraft at all. This song calls for movement!
It also calls for boots. Winter's over, and in any event, I'm not keen to be stuck with extra footwear, so I visit some costume hire shops. I find a pair of long silver sparkly boots. They're a big chunky and clunky, and coming apart at the seams, but too bad; they'll do. On the day of the show they are a hit. I get up on stage and I feel confident; my song goes well.
Year 4 is over, and I have absolutely no idea of what is waiting for me in the next year. Something is about to happen, that will change my life, and it will never be the same again.
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