My Love by the Ocean

From the earliest days of our relationship, my wife Katy wanted me to write a piece of music specifically for her. She wanted something that she could perform and that would reflect her personality and our very deep bond. Some composers would be excited by this intimate kind of collaboration, but I found it intimidating. I didn't want to pen a generic love song, but rather I wished to paint a compelling portrait of someone I love very dearly. At the same time, it was important that this piece showcase Katy's rich musical talents. The stakes seemed very high. Could you imagine the conversation if she didn't like the piece? All I could say would be, "Honestly honey, I do love you. I'll try harder next time." Who can live with that kind of pressure? So I put off the composition for nearly five years. Finally, I was running out of excuses. Then, one day, the two of us (plus dogs) took the weekend off to visit the beach. Wherever sand and rock meet the ocean, that place is special to Katy. I watched her there, relaxed and as happy as I've ever seen her. And, as I observed her pleasure, the piece came to me. I started writing. Within a relatively short time, the entire work was done.