Hey Everybody! We've been a month in Kentucky and our laptap refused to function there (stunned reaction to all the mountaintop removal going on, I think, so I got far behind with Mudcat. Lovely surprise to learn that my name was included for a Mudcat Award. I always have the feeling that our old family songs are so ancient and bland, compared with the entertainment-conscious music, or with. the exciting and different music from all round the world, which is the popular Folk Music of today- that it is being given a rest by most folks as they discover and enjoy the newer sounds. SO- I'm used to being left off lists, and not invited onstage at places where quiet stuff is lost in the presentation. That's all right with me; but just want to say that this is why I'm surprised at getting Awards

And this is the year for them-* I'm agog. And Kat- I DO think it's because I'm still living- just! I'm to be 85 in December and I can hear award givers saying to each other, "Geez- this may be her last year- we'd better hurry!" It's a giggle for me to think of this, and I certainly don't resent it. You young'uns, your time will come...

Katlaughing- my humble thanks for thinking of me, and taking this interesting action for Mudcat. Art, Sandy and Caroline are all good old friends- to be Awarded anything in their company is a joy for me.
And thanks to all of you for the above letter of congratulations and good wishes. The same to all of you!       Jean Ritchie

*Will tell of the others if anyone wishes to hear- I don't like to brag!!!   J.