Wow, @jon-nyc that's a lot! Also, @bernard that's a lot too, albeit a different "a lot."
Unlike last summer, I have not traveled this summer (I have a conference trip coming up but it's short), so this summer has felt very relaxed. I really, really needed that! I've done a fair amount of work, mostly on research projects (and very little admin, yay!). But unlike during the academic year, I'm not working on weekends, I don't go in super early and I don't stay late. Wow, it's almost like having work/life balance!
And I have filled all that extra time with piano, which makes me very happy! I've worked on a ton of new music, and just today, my cellist friend and his (professional) violinist girlfriend came over and we did some music together.
And it was amazing. There is nothing like playing with a highly experienced musician by your side. It makes me feel so relaxed and is a huge confidence boost! It's like standing on the absolute most rock solid foundation and knowing that, because of the foundation, you will be able to jump so high you'll touch the stars.
It was absolutely glorious.