Well, in the midst of all the heat, humidity and summer adventures I find myself inside on a rather cool rainy July afternoon, chillin. Thinking about where the summer has taken me and where it's taking me. Seems I always start these notes by remarking about how I can't believe the summer, winter or spring has flown by. Again I'm feeling that way but I'm not going to say anything about it this time. Really! No, really!
Just coming off a great event called Summer in Paradise this past weekend, it makes me feel good to be part of something that is both a great musical experience, raises money for a good cause (Easter Seals) and involves Parrotheads in Amish Paradise, lots of friends, lots of laughs AND beer. Does it get any better?? Brent Burns' first trip to our area was a treat. What a great writer and genuinely nice guy. Robbie and Lynley (The Calypso Nuts) just light up the night with tons of energy and talent. That's only one of the events that we've been fortunate enough to play this year. Since last time, I did a 21 day Florida tour ending up at Margaritaville in Key West for six nights played locally in Harrisburg, York and Lancaster, traveled to the Jersey, Maryland and Delaware shores several times and next Thursday am off to Florida for twelve days including stops in Miami, The Navagator in Lake Suzy, "The Yard" in Tampa, Rapscallions in Land O Lakes and four days at the Hogs Breath in Key West. If you're in Florida check the gig dates page for more info.
It's been almost three years since I fell off the corporate ladder, landed on my feet, head spinning, guitar in hand. I had never "planned" to play music full time. I was resigned and used to the regiment of a "regular" job. Happy in getting to dabble in this music thing part time for many years with some level of success. Thinking that I would probably starve if I ever tried to make a living at music. And may even end up hating the rigors of playing that much. Way too scary for me. Though it did cross my mind periodically (like when I had a really crummy work day...) I never had the nerve to take that leap of faith. A lot of folks look with envy as they comment to me about "living the dream" and I truly am living a life that is a rare gift. Funny that after these last three years, it's hard for me to imagine ever going back to the real working world. Yikes! Talk about scary!! Well, things always do seem to happen for a reason. You know, some crazy person said once that most of the best things in life happen with no plans at all. Hmmmm. can't remember who said that......but man I love this job.
Dennis