First day back at work after a long trip.

Istanbul was a reset.

Coming back made familiar things feel heavier than they are.

That old voice showed up fast:
keep your head down. don’t screw this up.

I’m realizing that voice appears most when I care.

Anyone else feel this after time away?

My mind lies to me.
It talks like an angry ref with the voice of Darth Vader yelling in my head.
I’m learning those thoughts aren’t facts — just noise.

Anyone else fighting the evil inner critic on a daily basis?

ccnicholsauthor.com

#ImposterSyndrome #MentalHealth #Growth

🎶 Mule Skinner Blues—the punk rock of bluegrass?

From Jimmie Rodgers to Bill Monroe to Dolly Parton, this bold two-chord classic pushed me to my limits. Now it’s a favorite to perform!

Read my take: ccnicholsmusic.com/blogs/cc-s-t...

#MuleSkinnerBlues #Bluegrass #RootsMusic

Red State Blues