Christmas spirit had left the building...

As I stood there waiting, she came running towards me, stumbling and yelling as though her life was in danger. I turned to get a better look as security guards and a policeman surrounded the two of us. It was an unexpected happening as I innocently stood near my son’s PA system, guitar and mike stand. He had jogged into the parking lot to get the car while I waited at the door of the Casino.

                                

It was by then the wee hours of December 26th the day after Christmas. Moments earlier I stood there with the sounds of “Silent Night” softly coming from the outside speakers above my head. My son Eric had played a late night gig at a Mississippi Casino on Christmas night and I accompanied him. It was very nice, made even better by the presence of two of his favorite musician friends, the Van Etten brothers. They came with a girlfriend and their mother to enjoy the show. Both eventually took the stage and played some of their original music and some cover songs as well. All in all it was a great night. 

The event was over and our thoughts had turned to home. Now we were preparing to leave that casino.

The woman who ran out screaming, followed closely by 5 security guards and a policeman, had been told to leave the premises or face a possible arrest. She screamed, “Merry Fucking Christmas!” over and over, while I stood only a couple of feet away. Then she looked at me and screamed, “Are you with THEM?” ”You are all laughing at me!” First of all no one was laughing or even smiling. There were somber faces all around.  At that point I started responding that I was just waiting on my son; as I watched her closely in hopes that she did not step on or fall on his speakers. It was about that time that I turned to all of the security people and declared clearly, “I do not know this lady, I am only waiting on my son to get the car.”

Meanwhile this woman continued to use the F-word freely and she said this casino was ghetto, it was slimy, they did not treat her right. As she screamed so close to me, I noticed she was a natural beauty, dressed in very tight jeans with glitter on the pockets. Her low-cut top was a pretty magenta color, she had long curly brown hair that was in a disarray and sweaty looking. She had no control of herself, or her behavior or even her ability to stand up straight as she staggered and awkwardly stood, grabbing the brick wall nearby often to keep herself upright. It was very clear that she was intoxicated.

She exchanged some not too pleasant words with the guards as I entertained thoughts of an escape plan if things escalated. Moments later my son pulled up right in front of me and I sure was happy to see him. He quickly hopped out and asked if everything was ok. He told me later that he was shocked to see me surrounded by security and police. The security helped him load up his equipment and we left. 

I thought about it as we traveled home. How could such a normal appearing person allow themselves to get to this state of frustration? She obviously felt mistreated and disrespected, yet she was passing those same emotions to everyone in hearing range. Her anger was palpable and her unhappiness was hugely demonstrated. I do not believe anyone could have said anything that would have calmed her.

I feel certain this young woman was normally a pleasant person, perhaps it was the ingestion of too much alcohol, perhaps it was a deep sadness in her life. It could have been a combination of things that caused this bizarre show she was putting on for us. 

It was Christmas night, she had been at a casino alone for hours, that speaks volumes to me. I felt pain in my heart for her. She was probably in her mid thirties, she had lots of natural beauty, she has her whole life ahead of her. I wanted to shake some sense into her. I wanted to tell her everything is going to be alright. Sadlly everything may not be alright in her life. 

She is living her life in chains and does not know she holds the key. 

Themed Christmas Party!

All in FUN…

The bright green lights that were her earrings, blinked with a rapid rhythm as she spoke which made it difficult to follow whatever it was she was trying to tell me. I am sure that her words were eloquent, but my eyes kept jumping to those lights and the other lights around us and the mesmerizing blinking of bright green that screamed out at me made it near impossible to concentrate.

It was a Christmas party and all those present were ready for fun. Many had likely spent days or weeks planning, and some actually making their attire for this evening. When we arrived it was early and only a handful of people were there at the time, most were helping with the last minute details of the food and drinks and such things.

Unlike most shows that my son plays, this one was in a residential area and was a private party. The home was lovely. It was beautifully decorated, it screamed hello with so many bright lights and a beautiful reindeer at the street. A huge stocking with a whimsical look was on the front door welcoming the guests warmly. It was a place that was warm, friendly and magical. The Christmas tree had the backside of an elf poking out; it appeared he had taken a dive into the tree and gotten stuck there. This tree was fabulously decorated with some of the most unique and unusual ornaments I had seen. The decorations spoke to me, and they said, “We are happy”, “We are a filled with whimsy and joy”, “Please join us in celebrating Christmas!” What more could any guest want?

The number of guests had grown by the time my son began playing his music; many of these fancifully dressed people gathered to hear him. Some danced, some just listened, all were appreciative and gracious. There were many who were familiar with him and his music and for others it was a new experience. It is always fascinating as I observe the differences in people as they listen to music. People are unique in how they feel music and how deeply it touches them. Some will stand and sway, while others can’t be still, it grabs them all the way into their bones; yet some are like pillars of stone. I often wonder if these stoic ones are feeling it more profoundly than anyone but are unable to express it openly.

My attention was suddenly directed to a man who was friendly, kind and full of spirit, and his outfit was hilarious. He wore a very tight sweater that looked like the top of a Santa costume. I noticed each button was holding on for dear life and preparing to let go and shoot across the room at any moment. The fabric appeared to bow out between each button while straining to hold itself together. Then there was the tights, and those were likely the tightest tights I had ever seen. There was a pattern of some sort but I tried not to stare at his tights.  He wore snowman socks and bright red santa slippers with a row of white puffiness around the top in Santa style. After taking all of that in, I looked at his face and he had the most wonderful smile I have ever seen. He was happy and he was joyful throughout the night.

I saw many others wearing tights, two or three more were men but the majority were women. I have to say the tights looked the best of the ladies. One lady wore a pair that was brightly colored and had large candy canes in the pattern, they definitely drew your eye to her legs and it was difficult to look away.

I saw several costumes that were homemade for sure. It appeared they had gotten a regular sweat shirt or long sleeved shirt and attached garland and glitter. Some had even used Christmas stockings and other Christmas decorations they somehow had sewn on or perhaps glued.

Then I spied a couple that were my personal favorite. He wore a dark sport coat, a dress shirt and tie with a pair of pajama pants that one might wear at Christmastime. I believe the pajama pattern was snowmen but I do not remember for sure. He was tall, trim and looked very handsome. She wore a Santa suit that was unusual. It was red and white. It had the large black belt at the waist. It was what you might call form-fitted. It fit close to her body to show off her beautiful figure. I thought she looked adorable; I wanted to be her. She had pretty blonde hair that was pulled back in a ponytail and she looked happy as she danced and spoke with her partner.

The party was a success in my opinion. The hosts were pleasant and gracious, their home was fabulous and fabulously decorated. There was food galore and drinks galore for their guests to partake of and they were attentive to the needs of everyone who came. They had a raffle entry and name tags just inside the front door and that added a bonus to the party. The guests were intrigued as each one hoped to win the prize.

When someone decides to host a party it is a big commitment. These hosts thought of everything that could make for a fun night for their invited guests. No stone was left unturned in their plans and preparation for last night. If it was the county fair, they should get the Blue Ribbon. I hope they have a wonderful, FUN and Merry Christmas as they have added so much to the holiday season for so many people, including me. I would like to thank Brent for how welcoming and kind he was to me and to my son. 

It’s Officially Christmastime!

Immediately I could see some of my favorite people when I pulled up to the back door of the venue. They were all wearing “ugly” Christmas sweaters along with great big smiles. Ross, Ben, Gram, and Greg are members of a fabulous band called, The Mulligan Brothers. If you have not heard them, you should. Their music gives your heart a reason to keep beating and just makes you feel like a better person. After hugs all around with them, I went on to hug many other musicians who would be performing that night. 

It was the annual 2nd Tuesday 92-ZEW Radio Christmas Show that was held at Azalea Manor in Mobile. I was aware there would be a big crowd but it was amazingly packed out. All chairs were filled and many stood for hours to watch as Christmas came alive via the tremendous talent of local musicians who had all volunteered their time to perform for all of Mobile’s music lovers. 

As I perused the crowd as far as I could see there were many familiar faces, some old friends and some new ones. Also many were people I had not met before, yet all were joyous and eager to hear and feel this sweet barrage of Christmas songs that was coming. I heard many people say, “Now it is officially Christmas time!” “This has put me in the Christmas Spirit!” and other similar statements.

There were children near the edge of the stage who jumped and twirled and sang along with “Jingle Bells” and many other songs. This happy energy and expression of feelings was not limited to the children; many adults held each other and swayed to “Silent Night”, “O Holy Night” and “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire” as well. My heart was warmed by the sight.

Ryan Balthrop sang an original Christmas song about a family who was going through tough times but coming out just fine. He has the ability to reach right in and grab hold of your heart with his music and let you know no matter what happens, you are going to be alright. Thanks Ryan!

The backing band for most of the show was a band we all know called PEEK! A group of wonderful musicians who donate their time to this and many other worthy causes. They have talent, they have heart and the show would not have been what it was without these men. Gene Murrell (from 92ZEW) accompanied everyone on the keyboard. Tim Camp (92ZEW) played on a couple of tunes as well. I thank PEEK, and 92ZEW for giving back to the people of Mobile in such a tremendous way, Merry Christmas to you all!

Stereo Dogs is a group of four young people who are still too young to drive but they sure know how to drive the music. They brought the crowd to its feet more than once as they performed with so much energy and excitement! This is a band that is going places, keep your eye out for them! 

One standout song was “The Grinch” which is one of the songs my son Eric Erdman always sings for this show. Kids and adults seem to just love his rendition of that song. A man named Paul who sat to my left sang every word. I was amazed because that is a long song with lots of strange lyrics. It is surprising how such a song is a true Christmas favorite at this annual event, for the young and the not so young. 

I met a musician whose name I had heard but I had never seen perform before last night, Jamell Richardson. He is often called the “Gulf Coast Blues Boy”and he sure can sing the blues. He is mighty good on that guitar as well. He and Eric partnered up on a couple of songs. When Jamell got warmed up I thought he was going to lift up off the stage, he was so full of spirit it was just oozing out of him. He took all of us with him up a stairway towards Christmas heaven, then he allowed us to return a lot happier than when we left. Thanks Jamell!

Many more wonderful musicians sang for us and they were all entertaining and filled with the Christmas spirit. 

This was truly a gathering of grateful people last night. We should never doubt the power of music. It has the ability to lift us all from any despair or sadness we may have inside. This crowd of happy people was rejuvenated last night, we were pulled up to the joyful place where we should be living. This event enabled us to temporarily forget the nightly news of hate, terror and anger and lead us to the light of inner peace. That is the Christmas spirit and that is what we all deserve, and that is what our local musicians did for us last night.

People Watching=yes, People Staring=No

We all have our scars, baggage or whatever you choose to call it. It is ok to visit those times briefly but not wise to get stuck there. I met a woman who came up to speak to me and introduce herself at a recent gig. I love meeting new people and observing people as I watch the shows. Everyone is unique and fascinating in one way or another; that is what makes life awesome.

At first this young lady was pleasant and smiling as she spoke. However, things changed a short time after she drug up a chair and took a seat right next to me that evening. She began by saying that she loves live music and had heard my son once before and decided to catch another of his shows. I was happy to hear that. She then told me that at the previous performance, someone pointed me out and said, “that is his mother”. I smiled and nodded. It kind of creeped me out when she added that she spent the rest of the evening staring at me.

She watched me sing along on almost all of the songs and knew I drank diet cokes then changed to water after I had my fill of the cokes. She told me, I played with my phone like many people do these days. It was a close and constant observation, even to the point she told me when I had gone to the bathroom, after my second coke. I wondered if she had taken notes, as she continued to describe my movements in such detail.

I did not feel threatened by this young woman, I just felt a little bit uneasy. I do not consider myself as fascinating, nor worthy of someone’s constant viewing. It feels strange to know that as I watched the show someone else was watching me. I remember hoping I had not done anything weird like pull up a bra strap, or pull out a wedgie when I got up to go to the bathroom.

This person told me how sad she is because no one loves her, not even her family. I hugged her and told her I was sure she was mistaken. She got an angry look and said, “You don’t know my family, they all hate me!”  I just sat there with my arm still hanging loosely around her and an awkward, half smile, half WTH look on my face. My mind was screaming, “please move on” but my heart was saying, “poor girl, she is so sad.” I did not and still do not know this person. I cannot even remember her name. I am sure she is a fine young lady. But I will notice her if I see her again and I will be cognizant of all my expressions, movements, bathroom trips, etc. because I will feel like a bug under a microscope.

I notice others at shows, I observe people too; it is all a part of socializing. I do not focus solely on one person, if I found myself doing that I would stop it. I would Never tell that person in detail about it because they may find it scary, creepy and strange. We all have our idiosyncracies and our insecurities; keeping them in check is important.

I love people watching. People staring is another story.

The Netherlands=

Tulips, Windmills, Wooden Shoes and Mattanja

I met her on a Sunday afternoon. She was easy going, great to talk with and her accent was beautiful to me. Mattanja  Joy Bradley is her name and she is from The Netherlands.

When I first laid eyes on her, she was standing near the merchandise table as the seller was preparing her merchandise and that of other performers for the day. As I overheard her conversation, and her accent, I knew right away she was the one performer for today that I had never met. As soon as I realized she was from The Netherlands, my eyes slowly moved downward to her feet….I quickly discovered she was NOT wearing wooden shoes! I remember in school when we studied that region of the world, it shocked me to think of anyone wearing such odd shoes. Of course, I knew that wooden shoes were probably not practical enough and would be out of style by now, but a little peek never hurts.  Also visions of fields of tulips and windmills everywhere filled my head. I was able to speak to her and welcome her but the whole time my head was full of dancing tulips wearing wooden shoes.

Soon, the show began. It was at my very favorite venue on earth; a placed called Blue Moon Farms or The Frog Pond. Located in Silverhill, Alabama, this farm is opened on Sunday afternoons for half of the year and singer/songwriters are booked from all over the world. Local artists are also booked to add to the awesomeness of it all. Everyone sits on the lawn in their foldup chairs, facing a stand-alone front porch full of very talented people. The show begins early, about 3:00pm and it goes on for at least 4 hours.

To add to the experience, there is a large covered dish dinner inside the farmhouse. Also, there is a small house that is called the sugar shack and it offers fresh brewed coffee with lots of desserts.

A small bunkhouse is located right behind the merchandise stand. It offers homemade jellies and jams that are made locally and for sell at reasonable prices.

There are several dogs that live on the farm, my favorite is a 3-legged dog that lays at my feet and begs to be rubbed.

When the sun begins to lower and the light begins to dim, the trees light up with everything from full sized chandeliers and year-round Christmas lights to lighted decorative balls. The place becomes magical when darkness comes.

This was not my first visit to this wonderful piece of heaven on earth and it will not be my last. The show was fabulous! It included performances by Corky Hughes, Grayson Capps, Kristy Lee, Eric Erdman, Mattanja Joy Bradley and her percussionist. It was absolutely my favorite show so far at Blue Moon Farms.

Mattanja told stories of previous visits to America and she sang her songs beautifully. It was a day to remember. She is an artist to remember; google her, you will be glad you did.

Anyone who is reading this and has not gone to Blue Moon Farms or Frog Pond in Silverhill, Alabama, needs to check it out. Cathe Steele is the owner/operator and she is one of the most delightful people on this earth. She gives 100% of the cover charge at the gate to the performers. She is in this for the love of music and musicians.

How could there be a better experience than what is offered in this little place in Silverhill, Alabama?

Silent Night, Holy Night

All is Calm, All is Bright

Stress grabs hold of us this time of year, and it holds on with both hands. The Christmas rush is on. I do not know why, but a feeling of urgency covers me like a huge blanket and it is hard to wiggle from its grip.

Since I was a small child, Christmas has remained my favorite time of year. I am easily mesmerized by all of the colored lights, especially those that twinkle. My heart gets all a flutter when I am handed a gift; To: Juanita makes me smile as I hold it in my hand. Such small things have such a large impact.

As Christmas Eve approaches so many wonderful memories return and the rush of emotion is heavenly. I used to sit near my Nana’s feet and hand her gifts as soon as I was able to read her name. Her name was Zula Mae Cooper and she had a life that was very controlled by my grandfather Cooper. I can’t remember him giving her anything for Christmas, if he did it was not very much. I know times were tough and both of them spent years of their lives in the grip of the great depression. However, I do not believe his lack of enthusiasm to get her a gift was due to the lack of money. He owned many rental homes in Mobile and always drove a nice car. They lived in a time when men were the masters of their home and the women had little opportunity to participate in decision making, especially when it came to finances. Women stayed home and kept the house nice and raised the children. Life was very hard on a woman in those days, yet Zula (Nana) found a way to squeeze out a little joy here and there. She was a bit peculiar but she had a kind heart and I loved it when she laughed.

I remember being in awe of the fact that most of her Christmas gifts read:

To:            Zula

From:        Zula

And even though I was only 5 years old when I began handing her gifts to her, it just did not sound right.

She would always open each gift and exclaim with great excitement, “Just what I wanted!” Each time I would giggle and feel her joy in that moment. This provided years of intrigue for me.

Later in the night I realized, she bought her own gifts, wrapped her own gifts, yet she would be surprised with the contents and I could not figure that out. 

I laid there shaking my head for many years until I was old enough to understand and then it felt sad. 

None of the “To: Zula, From Zula” gifts were anything expensive, just nice little bottles of lotion and such things ladies enjoy. As I revisit past Christmases, I always think of Nana and I still feel her tugging at my heart. 

I leave those thoughts and jump to today; suddenly I am full of hope. May your Christmas season be filled with great joy and fellowship!

May all be calm and all be bright! I love you Nana!

 Zula Mae Cooper (My Nana)

Chances Slim to None...

It Was Still Fun...

I am all about some food, I suppose that shows when you see me with my Santa belly and full cheeks. My son recently did an interview and a music performance for a Food Network Show.

Whether it airs, when it airs, if it will include the footage of him, these are all uncertainties for me. One certainty is that I enjoyed myself and he and Holli Moseley (also from Mobile), sang and played music. Also he tasted the food of a chef and gave his opinion as they requested. 

With all of the excitement of the possibility of local people being on a national show, there was tremendous joy and gaiety in the air. The mascot of our minor league baseball team the Bay Bears was in attendance and he/she is adorable. There were about a dozen Azalea Trail Maids milling in and out of the building. We were physically located at a building across from the cannon on Government street that was once a nice restaurant called Pillars. Outside there was a grilling cook-off that included the two finalists, one team from Mobile (Meat Boss) and one from New York for a competition on the network. Inside there was a full house of people. Included in the crowd was the building's owners/operators, the directors, photographers, videographers from the show and the handlers who made sure everyone knew what to expect and had signed release papers just in case they got in a shot for the show. 

A chef, who spoke with a heavy accent, but I did not hear his name, had prepared several items from his repertoire. He stepped up to the Azalea Trail Maids to have them taste this food; then he asked that Eric and Holli taste and let him know what they thought of his featured items. Eric tasted chicken in a waffle cone and this man's version of a moon pie which he said were very good. Holli declined tasting and commenting (I am not sure why).

There was a lot less singing than is normally done at a gig as they followed the instructions of the program director…”stop”, “play”, “softer”, “louder”, “sing”, “don’t sing”… We had seen something similar when a  few years ago, a dating show came to Fairhope called “Sweet Home Alabama” and the characters came on a date to “The Shed” barbecue place on Old Shell Road, near University of South Alabama. Eric and his band “The Ugli Stick” began singing his song “Bird on A Powerline” and those in charge of the filming had them sing the same verse/chorus over and over and over again for about 40 minutes. By the time they got through even those of us who loved the song were quite sick of it. After all of that, there was not one second of their performance on this show!

It is exciting to think of possibly getting national exposure on a TV show, but realistically, the likelihood of real exposure is very slim. Yet the musicians will show up and donate their time just for the slight chance. They also come because they are asked and it is the right thing to do. It is right for our city, right for the musicians and right to give the correct impression to the TV networks that we want to help in any way we can to present our city in a positive light.

The reality show TV production is tough and there are lots of disappointments associated with the difference in what is filmed and what is actually used for the show. Also the music industry is so difficult and filled with disappointments. It takes a person with thick skin and extreme courage to pursue these careers. There are also rewards for these entertainers who know in their hearts that this is what they are supposed to do with their lives and it is what keeps them moving forward. As for Eric and Holli, they are not slowing down.

They Exceeded....

Great Expectations

The plans were made and we were ready to go. It would be Eric, my son who is a musician and Gram Rea, who is a musician friend and a member of The Mulligan Brothers. Tonight it would be just the two of them.

Just the two were enough for the job. As they greeted and set up their equipment in preparation for a night of fun and folly, I enjoyed watching them speak of getting together for recording on future projects. They were like two old buddies that had been apart for a long time and pleased at the opportunity to “hangout”for the evening. This was clearly not work to them but rather the chance to play together.

From the time the first note of music was played the evening was magnificent, it was entertaining and it was even better than the audience had hoped. There is no way to fully explain the atmosphere in Manci’s Antique Club in Daphne, Alabama last night. You had to be there. This was a show not just for hearing, but also for feeling and we felt it all the way to our bones.

Gram is a multi-talented musician who is right at home with a fiddle, a mandolin, a harmonica and with vocals as well. He listens to the song and finds his place in it. Instinctively Gram knows which instrument works and where it will sound the best. Eric welcomes the partnership as he proceeds through one song after the next, loving every second of it.

The applause was reflective of the utter joy of the crowd. There was clapping at the beginning, in the middle and at the end of the songs; as everyone rose and fell with the emotions these guys sent to us. Anticipation of each word and note grew as the night progressed and spirits were lifted one song at a time. I believe that every soul that occupied a chair in Manci’s last night was lifted up and inspired.

They played mostly original songs, but some covers and some that they made up on the spot. There was even a moment in time when Eric and Gram, feeling the energy and love of the crowd, broke out in dance. The faced each other while playing and did everything from a nerd dance to a Russian dance and the crowd roared. It was not a HUGE crowd but it was a respectable sized crowd and those who attended were so happy they were a part of this magic.

There was great expectation and those expectations were met and exceeded by these two artists last night. Bravo to Gram and Eric for the impressive show they presented. These guys threw out tons of spirit and joy to their audience and it stuck like glue to everyone as they looked on with great big smiles and hearts filled with love. 

These are the kind of moments the world needs to experience. This is the peace and harmony that is lacking in so many lives. We listened and let ourselves be transported to the place in the song and the emotions that it imposed; all outside worries and concerns were temporarily erased. That is what real music is supposed to do. Thank you Gram Rea and Eric Erdman, you did your job well and exceeded our great expectations!

Warmth A Blanket Cannot Offer

Warm Bodies, Happy Souls

Last night there was a benefit concert at Callaghan’s Irish Social Club in Mobile. It was more than a concert, it was a gathering of like-minded people who wanted to help their fellow man while having a great time. 

Mobile winters are not Alaska cold, but our cold weather is a wet kind of cold that is bone-chilling. I cannot imagine what it must feel like to be outside in it without a blanket or a decent coat. We know there are many people walking our street who suffer helplessly, especially when it is cold. This benefit was organized to help them.

There was a schedule of musicians: Deluxe Trio, Ryan Balthrop and Friends. Everyone knew with such a cause, there would be many other musicians in the crowd who would likely grace the stage at some point in the night as well. Greg DeLuca (from Mulligan Brothers) played the drums, he was relieved at one point in the night by Bryan Ayers (from Stereo Dogs). The bass player changed out a couple of times, first by John Keuler(from Molly Thomas and The Rare Birds),  then Ben Leininger (from Mulligan Brothers). There was a fabulous harmonica player, steel guitarist and electric guitarist that joined them and I do not know their names but they were all very proficient and entertaining. Singers included Eric Erdman, Holli Moseley and Angele Ballthrop (Ryan’s mother). At one point the crowd on stage included a baker’s dozen as they ended the show with a couple of Hank Becker tunes.

When the beautiful Holli Moseley stepped up, with her powerful voice, she sang “Bobby McGee”. Many in the audience joined in with the spirit of cheerleaders from the winning team at a high school homecoming game. It was awesome to watch.

The crowd happily joined in with Ryan for, “Don’t Worry About a Thing, Every little thing is gonna be alright.” Everyone also joyously sang the chorus to “Standing in The Rain”, Hank Becker’s beloved song, which was the finale. 

The reason for the show was to help the homeless feel warm for the winter. We let them know our community cares. If anyone doubted our loving hearts, last night pushed that doubt into the ground. I am certain summers are not pleasant as a homeless person, but winters are especially tough without coats and covers. Helping comfort them and providing a softer place to exist, was a win-win feeling for us all. 

It felt so good, as we gathered at Callaghan’s, in honor of those who are down, out and without. In the process we refueled ourselves. I believe everyone there, left happier than when they came.

There was another benefit of this show; we witnessed a magical night of music, and we received a warmth that's greater than the warmth a blanket might offer. 

Many people are lifted by the kindness of others. The givers are also elevated higher by the feeling of being relevant, being powerful enough to help others and feeling that together we CAN make a difference. 

Thank you to Lynn Henderson Oldshue for your valiant efforts in spearheading this and other wonderful causes. Thank you John Thompson of Callaghan’s Irish Social Club for offering your place to allow this magic to happen. Also Thank You to the wait staff last night, you had a tough job with the sheer numbers of people filling every space and requiring you to squeeze through to get the job done. You were magnificent! Thank you to everyone there that lifted the spirits and expectations of this aging lady as I witnessed it all last night.  Our homeless people will now have warm bodies, happier souls and our hearts are warmed in the process. Life isn’t perfect but it sure is good!

Harrison Scott Key

He Makes Me Happy

The alarm went off at 5 am as I had wanted it to do, yet I was not happy to hear it. Only four hours earlier I had laid my head on the pillow in hopes of sleeping fast and hard to make up for the short time I had to offer the bed.

I hopped up, ok I guess hop is not an appropriate adjective to use. I rolled myself off the bed catching my left foot in the covers and falling to the floor with a thud.

After assessing the damage and realizing I was ok, I had to laugh at myself.

Lack of sleep is commonplace when you hook yourself to a musician. My son, Eric Erdman, is a musician and I enjoy attending all of his shows I can. I realize there will come a time when I may not be able to keep up, so I am enjoying every minute until then. He played until about 11:15 the night before and by the time I got home it was nearly midnight but today we had to get up early and head to Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Our destination was the Louisiana State Book Fair. I love authors, it feels like heaven when I am amongst them, he also loves authors and reading. He is a singer/songwriter, which is an author with a twist, one that sets their words to music. 

Eric is a part of a new multi-media art project called TRIO. This is a project in which a book is given to a singer/songwriter and to a visual artist. They read the book and create something that represents the book in their medium. So he read a book and created a song that he sang at the TRIO display which was set up in the Louisiana State Library. Meanwhile I met authors that I had not known before so we were both content. At first he seemed reluctant to sing in a library, he had been taught all of his life this was a place of silence. He leaned to me and whispered, “I am about to make noise in this library!” Then he sang his song with a big smile.

We went to the lectures that were given by the authors that day. There were far too many to catch them all so we had pre-planned who we were most interested to hear and how we could make it to each of their shows. We made it to most of the ones we had selected. There was our friend, Shari Smith (who had invited me) and her lecture was emotional. She told the story of her book, "I Am A Town". This book tells of a time when she was feeling low and searched for a place where she could hide from the world as she healed from whatever had hurt her. This small town and its occupants changed her life and lifted her spirits in ways she could never have imagined. It is a wonderful book that is well worth your time and money; I recommend you get it. You will enjoy her humor and her observations of regular people, doing irregular things. Then there is Judith Richards, an award winning author of Thelonious Rising. It is her 6th novel (two of her novels have won Alabama Library Association awards). This one is part of the TRIO project and it is a story set in New Orleans. A fascinating story which involves music and the way we hear it and feel it. She is a sweet lady with stories to tell and she tells them well.

My personal favorite was a guy named Harrison Scott Key. His book was “The World’s Largest Man”. I knew after the first sentence of his reading that I had to have that book. This man tells the story from the bright and innocent eyes of a child who often felt he did not belong. Though you felt a bit of his pain as he never seemed to be able to please his dad or fully earn his respect. He told tales in his own manner, which was so entertaining that it left you with pains in your gut from laughing so hard. He has the best way of looking at life and dysfunction of anyone I ever met or read. It was my first introduction to this man and to his writing but I will buy everything that he has written or that he writes in the future because he makes me happy. I felt some of the same feelings he experienced and I loved looking back at the absurdity of those days when I was a child; Harrison Scott Key helped me to do just that. I wish I could thank him in person. If you ever get a chance to read his books, grab on with both hands and don’t let go!