Okay, the weekend is here, just finished a sweet little gig with Ebbie and a few others and now have an hour or so before what promises to be a great evening of music! Here are some of the memories I hold dear, in no particular order......

Seeing Micca for the first time since London a few years back, hearing him sing his songs with such gusto, and the general merriment everyone feels in his presence

Having the privilege of riding with Mick to the Getaway. From the moment he poked his head into the hotel lobby, it was as though we were reunited with an old friend. Lots of stories, songs, laughter, and yes, even tears, and that was before we even got to Ramblewood! The man is a walking heart! A very kind soul, indeed. And a heck of a singer. Expect original tunes from this man.....they are brewing.......

Having the privilege of riding with Carly back from the Getaway, sharing stories all along the way, as if we'd been friends for years, meeting her wonderful husband and son, sharing that delicious meal (even if the rice WAS yellow!) and chocolate brownies at the restaurant! And that waitress! What a kick!

Singing on the porch at the Cracker Barrel......hearing Alaska Mike's songs then and throughout the weekend. Walking back to my cabin late one night (er....early one morning) and hearing Mike's voice pierce the darkness....very warm, very comforting....What a powerful voice! I can see a trip to Anchorage in the future.....(too bad I didn't realize until yesterday that Bill Staines is performing there tonight......)

Thursday evening at Chance's house - hearing the talent in that room, that at once, delighted and intimidated me...hearing Chance play and sing, chopping veggies with Suzette, witnessing the joy and love and pride on TJ's face as he sang a duet with his son

First meeting Kendall and Jacqui, on Friday night....what a thrill to meet these two people I've carried in my heart without ever having met them, yet there was instant recognition....

And their wedding reception....the love in that room was palpable, and I was so moved to witness and be a part of it

Hearing Charlie sing Hineh Ma Tov, and several other songs, and having him send us off to bed with a blessing....(I know it might not be considered a traditional blessing, but bless me it did!)

Meeting and hearing Ed Trickett!!

Swapping harmonies with Karenk and heaing her beautiful, clear voice as she sang, This Time Again

Meeting Gutbucketeer and being amazed by his creativity. Did you see that guitar he made?

Having dinner with MTed before realizing who he was!

I attended a nap workshop one afternoon, but all the tunes and laughter running through my head made it impossible to sleep. Feeling so full and content with all that had happened so far, I decided to just take a walk and let it all settle in....It was then I happened upon Kendall and Ed playing on the patio. WOW! Little then did I realize what a sacred space I had entered. Thanks, guys, for allowing me to listen.

Hearing Carly sing her songs, solo and with Charlie!

Sunday morning in the sunshine, sharing music and stories with Kendall and Jacqui. I am changed for knowing these two lovely people and honored to call them friends.

Trying (in vain) to stop giggling in the middle of the night after seeing Ebbie buried in her sleeping bag

Dani's beautiful smile, powerful singing voice and a promise of more time next time

Hearing MMario sing! And watching him, gracious host that he is, haul a bed and a box spring into the other room for his guests to sit upon! But Mario, I didn't get to see the shawl!!

Joe Offer's enthusiastic rendition of any song! (Especially the ones on Friday night!) And the way he gave his rapt attention to everyone's song!

Bill D's GREAT songs and wonderful spirit!

Ron Davies incredible vocal and viola harmonies

Alan C's repertoire of singable songs and the ease with which he gets everyone to sing along. "All the leaves are brown......."

Hearing the Schatz brothers! Awesome!

Finally putting faces with the names of Jeri and Sinsull, whose printed words here, I have come to respect and anticipate with eagerness.

Meeting Max and Jeff! I am in awe of these two, and look forward to getting to know them better in the future. And seeing the pics of Max's darling daughter

Kazoos!

Bobert! (Nothing like I expected, but now, just thinking of him makes me smile!)

Jerry's concertina playing

Lucy's clear, honest songs and David's harp playing....phenomenal!!!

Meeting sweet Tinker on Friday night, and then being surprised and delighted by her smokey renditions of some great songs! And her watchful eye......she doesn't miss much!

The harmonies everywhere!!

Saying goodbye 5 times before leaving the grounds of Ramblewood, 30 minutes each time!

ElGreko - whose honest, powerful music moves me to tears. I've been listening to his music at work and now he's got my workmates in tears, too. It still baffles me that you flew over for two and a half days!!!

I had no intention of signing up to perform in the concert. El Greko made me do it!! I don't know why he had the ability to convince me to do it... he's got some kind of charm, but I'm grateful that he did. And grateful for the opportunity to sing with him and Alaska Mike.

Talking to Rachael and Richard after Friday night's concert.

Many other conversations which took place over the weekend, too numerous to mention, but held dear all the same

The graciousness of every single person I had the privilege of meeting

Being treated to a smorgasbord of fabulous music....It was such a gift to be able to listen to each and every one.

Though I've many, many more fond memories, I'd better stop for now. Thank you, one and all, for a weekend full of joyful memories. Can't wait 'til next year!

KT