Describe your most ideal day from beginning to end.
Let’s be honest-my ideal day exists in two versions: The Realistic Dream and The Absolute Fantasy (which, let’s face it, could only happen in an alternate universe where the stars align and Maynard James Keenan himself grants me VIP access to music heaven).
The Realistic Dream
It starts with waking up feeling refreshed, happy, and—brace yourself—anxiety-free. No racing thoughts about emails, no existential dread about deadlines, and absolutely no surprise text messages that begin with “Hey, quick question…” (which we all know is never actually quick).
I stroll downstairs to find that my kids are already awake, smiling, and—miraculously—not fighting over something ridiculous like who got more syrup on their pancakes. Instead, they greet me with smiles, maybe a coffee (one can hope), and no sudden requests for money or last-minute school projects that “definitely aren’t due today, but also might be due today.”
The rest of the day is an adventure—maybe a spontaneous road trip, blasting my favorite music, stopping for scenic photos, and embracing the freedom of a stress-free existence. No one needs me to make a decision. No emails. No deadlines. Just happiness, music, and my camera.
The Absolute Fantasy (a.k.a. The Maynard Miracle)
Now, if we’re dreaming big—let’s go all in.
Not only do I wake up with no anxiety, but I also wake up to an email that says:
“Kristine, we’d love to offer you front-row tickets to A Perfect Circle/Tool/Puscifer, plus exclusive backstage access to meet Maynard himself. Oh, and by the way—he personally requested that you photograph the show. Hope that sounds good to you?”
Cue instant screaming, phone flying across the room, and me frantically texting everyone I know while simultaneously attempting (and utterly failing) to keep my composure.
The day unfolds like a musical dream come true—a stress-free morning, no obligations, just pure anticipation for the unforgettable experience ahead.
Maynard casually strolls up and says:
“Hey Kristine, want to take some exclusive shots?”
To which I respond by internally combusting while outwardly nodding like a totally calm and professional human being.
After the show, I’m granted all-access backstage passes where I get to chat about music, photography, and life… The night ends with me floating home on a cloud of pure musical bliss, knowing that this is the peak of my existence.
Moral of the Story?
Life is all about balance. Some days, the ideal is just peace, happiness, and a break from the daily grind. Other days, it’s manifesting a completely ridiculous fantasy where you somehow end up as Maynard’s personal concert photographer.
Either way, here’s to hoping!!!