Well Kat, I've been out here for over 30 years, so I can't help ye much, but the folks on the stage might be able to once they get their land legs back. Caitrin gave 'em a bit of a rock on the way in. No, my folks moved out from Vermont the year there was no summer, 1800 and froze to death, remember. We've worked our way west over the past 30 years, and about 5 years ago me and my sweetie Mike moved out to a spot just up the river. I've been busy raisin our kids until just a bit back. Now they've gone and I come in to cook for LEJ when the stage comes through. Gives the easterners some good food, and I get to pick up supplies and any mail if it comes in. My sister did go back east, but she doesn't write much. From what I hear, sounds like the cities are gettin more crowded, the rich folks are puttin on airs like they were from Paris or London or somethin, and anone with any grit is movin out and headin' west.

All of this speech is delivered as Sue mixed cornmeal, a bit of buttermilk, some wild onions and fat, and sets a skillet sizzling. Soon there are crisp corn dodgers to go with a good pot of black coffee.

Dusting her hands on her apron, Sue reaches for her fiddle and says, And now for that Missouri Waltz.