I just talked with Dad. He is, as he likes to say, "still vertical." Talked a bit about music and instruments. He COULD have been a concert violinist, having been invited by the Philadelphia Philharmonic. But opted for other adventures, among them fighting in "the last good war." Gonna plan a visit to him over the holidays while he is still here.

It is my day off AND my birfday! Mom is taking me to a rilly nice restaurant to honor it.

Had a great smoke, Smauel Gawith 1792 in a 3/4 bent rusticated Aldo Velani.

Picked up my Alvarez Yairi and thoroughly enjoyed its sound and some of the songs I have missed. "When you learn a song, you've got a friend for life." I think that is from Bill Danoff. Still haven't decided if I will keep it or sell it in favor of a Martin. But it is a thoroughly wonderful instrument. And after my tour of the Martin factory, I am sooo appreciative of the effort and skill that goes into making any guitar.

Watching The Daily Show (that I time-shifted cause it's on too late for me to stay up). The folks that put it together are pure genius!

Mudcat Cafe is purring along, and it is a GREAT place to go to be with GREAT people.

Truly a very good day!