My Neighbor Does NOT Make Her Daughter Practice Piano

 "Where Art Meets Local Values" 

Photograph, c. Catherine Vines

I can hear your gasps now. About the headline, that it. Though the photo's pretty cool too.
But about the practicing: between lessons the 9-year-old generally does not touch the piano. Her mother doesn't want her to get tired of practicing and quit playing altogether.
I, who had to practice every day, quit piano but somehow ended up still ended up firmly believing in the power of practice.
And not just practice. I especially believe in practice with intent, for example, the intent of exploring color.
Which makes days like yesterday - when I can't paint my way out of shoebox - manageable. I just need more practice!