I can sing the Charlie Parker licks that I know how to play, but not the other way around. I should work on that, good advice. Sorry to hear about your family situation. I'm not too worried about in-laws, they are nice enough to me (with one exception). I'm not sure they approve of many of her choices, and I didn't expect I'd be an exception. I wasn't expecting so many people to respond with comments about how I shouldn't study music while on vacation, but I really hate flying and thought I could use a distraction. I guess it's in our nature to judge first without the whole picture.

Anyway, I got a lot of good ideas here for practicing without the guitar for next time I need to leave it home, or (knock on wood) can't play due to injury or something. I picked the guitar back up today and my hands are feeling loose again. I really enjoy taking breaks because it seems like when I play again I don't get so bored or frustrated with myself as easily.