You know Rick, a few postings back you really hit the key to a good hoot ... be careful who you invite.

There's hoots and then there's hoots. Last Sunday we had a very successful gathering. It started with an afternoon BBQ and potluck. By midafternoon the tables were groaning from the weight of the gifties. The yard was full of familes, children and happy people. As the evening approached, some more 'serious' folkies arrived and we moved into the woodshop. As the sun went down, I lit the pot bellyed woodstove, the jug of wine came out, and the serious music started. I once counted 27 souls sitting on chairs, stools, work benches, and saw horses. Some folks noticed that there were a few photos of past participants sitting on the workbench.One song led to another. Solos, duets, group songs, some poetry. We even had one little darling seven year old perform her very first violin solo ... Oh, it was swell! At one point, I stepped back into the shadows and just looked at the scene.

I'm 66 years young, and I've been enjoying and participating in these kinds of gathering since I was thirteen. I swear, there is nothing in the world MORE WONDERFUL than being in a roomful of people who want to sing, share their music, and enjoy yours. And it's all free! CHEERS, Bob(deckman)Nelson