Alex, I see in your Mudcat Profile that you are in Sumner. I'm in Seattle -- where and when are you playing? I don't get down that way very often, but who knows? Have you ever been in the Wit's End in Fremont? It's my favorite bookstore/tea shop/eatery. They love having music in there too. If things go well and you want to come up to the big city, give them a call.

Some practical matters: obviously we all love playing music or we wouldn't do it, but if we get to where we are playing a lot there are times that we would rather be doing somethng else and it is nice to get paid. You may want to talk to the owner of the bookshop about eventually starting to get some regular money if the place starts making more money because of your presence, even if you only get $25 or $50 a night. If you put out a tip jar, be sure to spike it with a couple of ones and a five. People almost never put money in an empty jar.

If you make a mistake on stage, laugh it off and keep playing, even if you have to start the song over. Never apologize to the audience for screwing up. Make sure you have a set list so you don't stand around trying to remember what you know how to play. Always have a good time on stage and try to communicate the fun you are having to the audience. Practice your song introductions on your wife before you spring them on an audience. Smile.

Good luck, John