I think I've discovered that I really don't like high school buildings. Partially, it's the standardized test bit. Different from the average high school day, I am sure. But I don't like sitting in one room for four hours, not talking or hearing music, singing or being creative. I don't like being in a place where everything looks the same, the windows are small and the adults are all conformists. It's soul-stifling. When we were dismissed from the SAT today, I made my way quickly to the doors outside, muttering 'bugger this' to myself. And then, to be outdoors, free to speak as I wished and to skip about on the sidewalk if I wished, what glorious liberty!

Less interestingly, I liked the ACT better than the SAT overall and think that my ACT scores will turn out better.

So I was all ready to record a new song, and then my voice gave out. I have the general structure done and am just waiting for my singing ability to return before recording it. I was going to do an instrumental instead, but it wasn't working out and my hands were very cold. I write better on the actual piano, but people were making noise over here. (I was over in the office, you see)

One thing I discovered while taking the SAT...music is so very freeing. (I mean, not that I didn't know that, but it was a moment where it really struck me) As I took the test, different songs would play in my head and every once in a while I'd notice them. The Gypsy King by Patrick Wolf, Kiss Me Again (best known version done by Frank Sinatra, I think?), and other things that, when I'd realize I was thinking them, were a little glimpse of the worlds the songs open up, a little escape from the tedium of the test and the classroom.

Well, I think I shall go and enjoy Merlin, along with some milk and perhaps some Peanut Mn'Ms. Those were my snack for the SAT by the way (that is one way in which it is superior to the ACT, although five minute breaks do not give one much time for eating), inspired by Dean in 'Wendigo'. Also because I didn't really have much money for anything healthy. Granola is usually gross, you see. I did get real food afterwards though. Reason number five thousand why Sheetz rocks - I got two hotdogs with relish, ketchup, cheese and sauerkraut for less than two dollars. Oh I say, random thought. I need Snow Patrol and Patrick Wolf albums (hard copies!). Especially Patrick Wolf.

-SXM, Sarah Meholick, Bane of Shadows