Thought I'd tell you all about something wonderful that happened to me last week. As many of you know I just moved to State College, Pennsylvania. I had been in town just a few days, but was already missing home, family and friends. I'm staying temporarily over an hour away from my job, so even the comforts on my temporary home were at a reach.

Well, I stumbled upon a web site that had just a few words written about a Bluegrass Jam. It said:

Tuesday Night Bluegrass, Old Time and Gospel Jam. Every Tuesday night at the Pine Hall Lutheran Church, 1760 West College Avenue, State College, 7-10 p.m. Open to the public. Everyone is welcome to join in--or just to listen.

Well that's all I needed to hear.

So I went. I entered right on time, and noticed a bunch of folks kind of eyeing me up, wondering what I was doing there. It was clear that they all knew eachother very well, so as a stranger, I stuck out a bit. One fella even asked my what kind of music I expected to hear. I told him that I was sure I'm here for exactly the kind of music they are all about to play.

Well, long story short, I met about 30 of the finest folks around. They welcomed me with open arms and made me feel right at home. When I explained my situation of being new in town, new job, long commute and so on, they offered me comfort and any help they could give.

I told them about mudcat, and I know for a fact they'd all fit in. For I have seen this song circle before. Not these people, mind you, but the ritual of a sing or a jam or whatever folks want to call it, and the friendship and kindness.

So I just wanted to post a big thank you to the fine gentlemen and ladies at the Tuesday Night Bluegrass, Old Time and Gospel Jam at Pine Hall Lutheran Church. They may never know how much they helped my spirit and how grateful I am to them.

So once again, the love of old time music has made me some fine friends.