I have been sans computer for several weeks but am back in the saddle, as they say.

I hardly know where to start. I guess it should be with Jean, George and Jon. They are such wonderful hosts. I have never met anyone more enjoyable to be around. They open up there home, and their hearts. Marylou, Ciara, and I stayed around and chatted with these good folks (thanks for the Guinness, George!!), and my beloved karen k. I could see Jean was tired, or I surely could have sat there and chatted till the wee hours. Ciara, my 14 year old, fell squarely in love with these gentle souls.

And Jon, we surely must play a little more music together. I enjoyed your banjo style and the songs you sang. Sure hope we can do some more of that.

Remember when Geeta and Dan were boyfriend/girlfriend? Remember when she hardly sang? That woman has a voice, and when she sings with Dan, it is pure joy. Dan is already one of my favorite musicians, and I can't wait to record a couple of his songs. The lad sings, writes, and plays. Don't get better'n that.

Steve, Joy, Rosalie, I am so very glad to be a part of your fine organization. I hope you know that if there is something you need from me, it is but an email or a call.

I sang "Voices of Struggle" because I wanted Rick to be there. His fine song resonates more today than when he wrote it all those years ago. It has become an anthem for me. I sing it at every opportunity, and every single time folks come to me and want to know about the song. I am determined that the wisdom encapsulated in it will be heard everywhere I can make it heard. In addition to other songs, I also sang Bill Gallaher's fine song "The Ballad of Ginger Goodwin".

What a joy to meet Rabbi Sol. It is always a pleasure to attach a face to the name. We will be seeing more of each other.

By the way, if Deb Cowan is performing anywhere close to you, get to the concert. What a voice! Another old friend, just met.

I want to encourage all to join your local folk society. If you are in the Greater NYC area, this one is a no brainer. The modest dues get you free concerts, this picnic, the knowledge of folks like Steve and Joy, and Jean. We simply must support the organizations that keep our music alive.

I am missing some, and I aplogize but I am just back from Dan Milner's mom's wake and tired.

Jean and George, you are very special. And you deserve all the love you get. BTW, the library in Port Washington is doing a special concert series in honor of Jean and her music. Steve Suffet, a wonderful singer, and one of the active members of FSNY is performing. Also NeXTradition (Ken Schatz and Alison Kelley-Kraan). This is a local event, but it promises to be wonderful. If folks want to travel to this, they should check with kytrad first to make sure space is available.

Ramble off.

All the best,

Mick