Oh, it is SO hard to get back. The travelling home was nice, though, with Janie and I having another 7 hours or so to process everything, sing a few more songs and cement the memories.

What can you say about a Shellback? What can you say about 20-odd of 'em invading Camp Ramblewood?? It was WONDERFUL!! I'm not much of one to start a song going, but God knows they are, so it was great fun for me to stand back and sing along. They know SO many songs among them, and their joy in singing is infectious. Not that the Getaway lacked anything at all in previous years, but they added some spice to the pot, and I, for one, enjoyed it THOROUGHLY.

Mostly, though, they reminded me of the importance of singing your heart out once in a while. They are fortunate to have that tradition still relatively common where they come from. Janie and I have vowed to try harder to bring it to our corner of the world. Thank you for the inspiration.

The FSGW people were, as they always are, generous, welcoming, kind and thoughtful hosts. And damn fine musicians, to a man and woman. Thank you to all. It is a wonderful gift that you give us!

And it was, of course, a treat to connect with Mudcatters in the flesh. Old friends had warm hugs, and new friends were a wonderful treat to meet, most particularly these: Alaska Mike and his lovely wife Tawmmie (SP?). I knew him the minute I walked in the door! He and his music are big and fun and smart and warm. His smile lights up a room, and his songs are terrific! He led us in Barrett's Privateers last night; talk about goosebumps! Susan A-R was so nice to meet. Her singing is lovely, fiddle playing as well, and her smile! She is sublime roommate, thoughtful, non-snoring. Also, apparently, a highly talented cook!

Missing Mudcatters were definitely missed. You were ALL in our thoughts, and your absence felt, but most especially Rick. Many a glass and song were lifted to an absent friend.

What else? Roger, Oregon Inlet was Annie's song, she's Janie's sister, and has a very sweet voice, doesn't she?. I'm looking forward to learning SO MANY of the great songs I heard this weekend. I'll post inquiries to Rogers' other thread.

I will submit these ideas for (a new thread?) Songs of the Getaway:

"Hang on the Shower Curtain, Nelly"

"The Water is Warm" (...I cannot come out. And neither have I ... never mind)

I love you all.

Grateful Dani