Well, the adventure started off with the usual chaos. I flew into Seattle yesterday afternoon. Planned to hook up with the Magical Strings, William Pint & Felicia Dale and others for dinner and long night's practice to prep for a concert in Spokane Friday night.

Opened my little book of phone numbers to call and say I'm on my way and I didn't have the right phone number. Called everybody's answering machines hoping somebody would think to check when I was late showing up. Somebody did, but not till they were in the dregs of rehearsal. Magical Strings(Phil and Pam Boulding) live out in the boonies and I hadn't been there for 8 years so didn't want to chance it.

I decided to make the run even though it was late and so missed practicing with everyone but did get in some work with Phil on harp and Pam on hammered dulcimer(me singer).

It's been 8years since I've played with these folks and it was such a joy to reunite. We have our favorites and a tried a few new. Minstrel Boy. Mo Ghile Mear. Red is the Rose. Lannigan's Ball.

Tonight I'm practicing with William and Felicia. Both "modular" practice ie. work out with them what I worked out with Phil last night. We'll put it together on stage!

And also putting our own stuff together and getting ready for Saturday and Tuesday. Since I play mostly solo it is always wonderful to be back working with ensemble.

Marc