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Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES
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Subject: ...or How Was It For You? From: George Papavgeris Date: 18 Oct 04 - 07:48 AM I thought I'd start a general thread on this for people to dip in as they return home (Bobert, I know you started a "personal" thread on the Getaway, leading to a more focused discussion on the madness necessary to enjoy the event...). Got home just 2 hours ago; and I knew before I left Ramblewood that it would feel very different posting in Mudcat now that I have linked faces to so many of the names. But there was so much more to the Getaway for me. Meeting Alaska Mike has to be at the top of my impressions. The guy writes some wonderful songs, some of which I will certainly steal and seed the local folk scene with; and he delivers them with such style and great voice! But best of all, he's a smashing bloke with whose approach and attitude I immediately fell in love. What a heart. More than an acquaintance, much more I hope... And Big Mick too; and Jeri, and SINSULL, and Tinker, and Kendall, and KT, and Joe Offer, and Bobert, Nancy King, Ken and Dan Schatz, Ed Trickett, Gorgeous Gary, BillD... oh, bugger it, if I start this way I'm bound to forget someone and it would be unfair. Meeting any one of you alone would have been worth the trip. And it was lovely too seeing again AllanC, Micca and JacquiM(ex-C) of course! Flashbacks, in no order: Alaska Mike singing "I am a rock" at a workshop on Sunday Elizabeth LaPrelle's voice at the singaround late Friday night The wedding reception. Kendall's rendering of a song from his early "country schmaltz" years Sunday morning, to Jacqui, Alaska Mike, KT and myself. Kendall's generosity not only in lending his Appollo 12-string but also with comments. Jacqui's happy face. Now there's a proud lady, and rightly so. KT getting up to sing at the Saturday concert Tinker singing "Bob" at 3am Saturday in cabins 11-14 Joe Offer's songs (and general behaviour!) during that same session KT crying at "By and by". Twice. And singing at the back of the Dining Hall. The "Harmony Sluts" bobbing up and down and damn near taking over the Saturday concert (but we loved it Mike, didn't we?) Those few minutes talking with Big Mick in front of our cabin Sunday morning. And a few minutes later, Ed Trickett coming to shake my hand and offer praise. Nancy King's and Bobert's helpfulness and easy manner (apologies Bobert for causing that snoring sound to emanate from the passenger seat at the last leg of the trip!) Everyone's open and smiling faces. Above all, in the middle of the song-swapping and harmonising and in between the little chats you get to glimpse at the people behind the names. And Mike, Mick, Cathy, Nancy, Robert, Kendall, Charlie, Mary, Dan, Ken, Jeri, Tinker, Ed, Dani, Leo and so many others - I liked what I saw. THANK YOU all |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Charley Noble Date: 18 Oct 04 - 08:49 AM That's more like it! Now what really happened? I note that the ad at the bottom of the page features: Kendall College, Chicago New International Hospitality Management Programs at Kendall Cheerily, Charley Noble |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: GUEST,Nancy King at work Date: 18 Oct 04 - 12:03 PM Thank YOU, George! It was great to meet you at last, and hear your beautiful songs (love the CD -- hope to obtain the others before too long...). Bobert is at least partly right, of course -- it does take a certain amount of craziness to do this, but then, all the best people are a little bit crazy! After all, who but El Greko would have a gig on Thursday night, fly across the pond for a sleep-deprived weekend, then fly back to do a Monday night gig? And yes, it WAS cold. Even Alaska Mike finally put on a jacket over his T-shirt, and (dare I reveal it?) socks with his sandals! But we survived, most of us. There were even a few moments when sitting in the sun that I peeled down to only three layers! As for not taking showers, well, I figured I hadn't sweated much anyway. I don't have much time here at work, and I'm still pretty bleary-eyed, so will probably post more later, but for now I just want to let everybody know that Kendall and Jacqui are totally fabulous together, and the wedding party was great! Tinker and SINSULL did a magnificent job, complete with champagne punch, cute little favors, and lots of love. Lots of good songs, too! The Sunday-night-stayover crowd will begin checking in before too long, I'm sure, though they're probably even more bleary than I am. More later -- Nancy |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: wysiwyg Date: 18 Oct 04 - 04:53 PM MMario here - we'll check in from "Ramblewood North" later. |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Dani Date: 18 Oct 04 - 05:15 PM Janie and I peeled off layer after layer as the miles ticked by on 95/85 South. I am now home, warm in t-shirt again, and smashing at full speed back in to real life. Shit for the birds, as my grandfather used to say. But what a(nother) magical weekend! There are so many impressions I can't even filter them through, yet. Some impressions on folks newly met: Now that Jacqui has taken over the Hospitality Management Programs at Kendall, we are looking elsewhere for available hearthrobs. El Greko seems a likely candidate to take over the throne, but there are other strong contenders, and a thing like this is just not decided overnight. El Greko's magical songwriting is equalled only by his charming and heart-felt singing. Twice he brought me to poignant tears. And I only heard him DO two songs! Jacqui, I can report, is worthy of our Kendall. She is a real sweety, and has made him very happy. The improvement is measurable, and not just by the amount of time spent in liplock. Bobert is a trip, guys. Not one whit different from my (and perhaps your)online impression, except now I can hear his music as well! Once the devil let go of his guitar, he pulled a terrific gospel song out of it on Sunday morning. He's gettin' right... MTed was too briefly met, but I look forward to another day. Thanks for getting that jam started. It took some guts, and sounded great from THIS side of the circle! KT is lovely. Her singing, her songs, her spirit, her hugs, (don't read this, KT, I'm going to embarrass you) remind me of a wonderful bird, alighting briefly to make you smile, make you feel good, and then scoot along elsewhere. She is curious, talented, effervescent. I so enjoyed meeting her! The usual suspects were as suspect as usual, and it was so very good to see, and sing with, you all. Thank you for the hugs, and the songs. They are in my back pocket for use as needed throughout the year. Deep, deep heart-thanks to all the FSGW folks for working so hard to make this a good time for all. And thank you, Max, for creating this place that has played a part in changing so many lives for the better, including mine. When you get over yourself, pat yourself on the back again. More later... Dani |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Janie Date: 18 Oct 04 - 05:24 PM The music, the people, the voices raised in song....always magic. Incredible talent and lots of support for those of us who don't exactly belong in that category! FUN! Listening to the string section backing up singers in the Sunday night TV room song circle. Falling asleep to the sound of David's harp. Not falling asleep to the arrythmic tones of three people snoring out of sync. Walking down to the dining hall deck to find Ed Tricket singing "On a Day Like Today", listening to Max, Bobert and Roger in the Blues jam. Becoming a convert to the "Gospel of Skiffle According to Max!" He had it there in writing---it doesn't have to SOUND good, it just has to FEEL good. (At one point Micca turned and said to me, "You'd play a kazoo to ANY tune, wouldn't you!?" (blame Max, Micca) Well---there was plenty of good sound and good feeling. Finding out Bobert doesn't look at all like an old geezer, just looks like an old hippie! The wedding reception and the glow on Jackie and Kendall's faces. The sing-arounds, the choruses, the performances. The making and renewing of friendships. The absolute respect everyone has for everyone else's joy in the music. Too many remarkable songwriters, singers, instrumentalists to name-- And really way too much magic to convey--you shoulda been there! Janie |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Amos Date: 18 Oct 04 - 05:33 PM I yam coming next year for sure, goldangit!!! A |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Bill D Date: 18 Oct 04 - 05:38 PM there WILL be pictures...I took about 130, and I saw others almost as shutter happy. Right now I am unpacking & exhausted..(those of us who stay till late Monday morning get even less sleep than some others!!!) But it was good...(I even had a good place to be when the thunder & lightning and rain let loose Saturday...because when it stopped we got a full, beautiful rainbow....and there are pics of that too!) So off to get a wee bit of sleep and then download pics from the camera and get to the task of making them available... |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: SussexCarole Date: 18 Oct 04 - 05:39 PM Our very best wishes for the future to Jacqui & Kendall. Me & Crane Driver will see you all at the Getaway next year. Countdown starts..... Carole x |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Janie Date: 18 Oct 04 - 05:40 PM Gonna hold you to that, Amos! Janie |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Nancy King Date: 18 Oct 04 - 06:10 PM Janie's right, Amos -- and now we've got it in writing! We'll be expecting you! And you too, Carole! "The absolute respect everyone has for everyone else's joy in the music." Janie hit the nail on the head with that -- it's a really important part of what makes the Getaway great, though I hadn't thought of it in just those terms before. Just got home from work, and still getting re-combobulated... Nancy |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Janie Date: 18 Oct 04 - 07:18 PM Did I mention Allan C.'s masterful kazoo performance at the Sunday night concert? And this in spite of fact that he had never, EVER played one prior to 5 minutes before the concert! Is the Getaway empowering or what??!!!! Janie (running for cover) |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Micca Date: 18 Oct 04 - 07:38 PM From your New Jersey correspondent, What a weekend!!!,full of the most wonderful friendship and Music!!! some highlights Joe Offer dancing in Stalag 14 the conversation with KT , Alaska Mike and El Greko on the verandah that became a seminar on songwriting that you would Pay to take part in, Some of the workshops,especially Nancy Kings Good/bad songs under the Trees outside the White House Big Micks concert KT's and Alaska Mikes singing Both the evening concerts watching others being amazed and charmed by El Greko's songs other highlights include Meeting Charmion and CET Sinsulls excursions into Dentopedology (the art of opening your mouth and putting a foot in, the pulling your lipdown to insert the other one) The unfailing kindness of all the FSGW folks and Mudcatters it was my pleasure to meet and whose singing and playing I enjoyed. My sincere and heartfelt thanks to Tinker (my hostess this evening)Fortunato and Suzette, Ferrara, BillD, Nancy King Karen Kobela, Dani, Sinsull, Big Mick, MMario, and many many more, I will post more if I get a chance Micca |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Micca Date: 18 Oct 04 - 07:40 PM Oh and Mick, if you dont like what I said about your concert!! "2...3...4...." |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: SINSULL Date: 18 Oct 04 - 07:55 PM I am simply too tired to say much. That is a good sign. Blessings on Rita for making the Getaway happen and on her "elves". More after a good night's sleep. |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Tinker Date: 18 Oct 04 - 09:04 PM Okay I can't quite process this as memories yet.... I took Micca and Sinsull home with me mixed in my 3 teens and the 'tween and within minutes they had found a common level. The energy level has been amazing, but I think the crash is coming soon. More tommorrow when I can hear myself think. Tinker |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Morticia Date: 18 Oct 04 - 09:07 PM ooooh, so envious and so happy for you all......would have given just about anything to be at Jacqui and Kendall's reception! I hope all the many snogs and hugs were passed on that I requested.....I'm sure they were, you are an honourable bunch. God willing an' the creek don't rise, I will be there next year....... |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Charlie Baum Date: 18 Oct 04 - 09:12 PM GETAWAY LOST AND FOUND Speaking of memories, there are a few forgotten items: Found:
You can private message me with information if any of the above sound familiar, or if you've lost something else. Meanwhile, I'm still marginally funcational from the lack of sleep and great music and memories buzzing around in my head, and am afraid to post much in my semi-coherent state. The weather was so cold that when somebody left, you HAD to hug them--it was an excuse to share body heat. But it was quite confusing--just because somebody had a coat on didn't mean they were leaving. Next year, we're ordering warmer weather for the weekend. (and maybe a place with heat?--Stay tuned) --Charlie Baum |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Bobert Date: 18 Oct 04 - 09:14 PM Okay, folks, I'm gonna have to 'fess up to afew things here... First, I somehow had Tinker and Sinsull as gettin' married at the Getaway which, fir most everyone else but this poor ol' hillbilly, was rediculous. Then I thought that Kendall and Jacqui were going to get amrried at the Getaway which again was wrong as they were allready married. See how fun lexdexia can be? Well, okay. Let me say that fir someone who has such Mudact powers as to make entire thoughts disappear, Max is okay in my book. Yeah, he may be a youngin' but a youngin' way beyond his years. He also plays some fine acoustic blues. Nice to know ya an' I don't really give a danged about having no eraser powers 'cause 'bout the only stuff I read here in the Catbox that I'd erase is stuff that Iz postercated my ownseff... Now, I don't want to hurt no ones feelings and this ain't gonna get posted unner no " Yer Favorite Mudcatters" thread but I was so happy to meet Ebbie who on many occasions when the Bobert has climbed up the tree, climbed out on a limb and has begun tryingt to saw the limb off, has come to my rescue or at least spread out some straw in the fall zone... So nice to finally meet ya.... But, hey, it was great meetin' each and everyone of you folks. Yeah, okay, I thought that Jeri was gonna grab me and duck tape me to something nasty but we got beyond that. Oh, Joe Offer ain't like 7 feet tall. I know it's hard to believe but he ain't even 6'5"... But heck of a nice guy. And MTed? Whew! Brings new meaning to single chord jams... Something ain't right with the boy, but in a good way.... Know what I mean? And thanks BillD fir the beautiful laithed woodwork piece. Knowing it came from one of my old tree roots makes it extra special and it allready has found a spot of prominence. Man, I'm just gettin started... KT? Wow! The gal is the Emmy Lou Harris of the Mudcat. Not only does she sing beatifully but she is drop dead foxy, to boot. Thanks Chance and Suzette for attending my blues workshop and loved seeing and hearin' you all. You guys have the magic. No two ways about it. Micca is jus' a most farout person one could ever sit accrosss the table from... Roger from Baltimore. Good to meet ya and better yto find that there *are* other real bluesman here. I was wonderin'... Allen C and his lady... Real nice talkin' wid ya and meetin' ya. And nice beard. Speakin of which, where'd beardedbruce go after the "muse" thing"? I don't think I say him again the e3ntire weekend. Alaska Mike is my kinda guy. He look more like I thought Big Mick would look like 'cause, well, he is *big* and tall and has a voice that can probably bust up cinder blocks. You kinda feel secure around Alaska Mike. He's the kinda guy who everyone would like as a next door neighbor for those times when the baby grand piano needed to be moved again... Back to Big Mick. Well, you ain't so big, yuor're just atll that's all... No, actually Big Mick ain't even that tall? But he plays guitar in a big way... And hes a nice guy, dangit. I thought he was gopnna jump on mw fir my Green leanings but he was nuthin' but gracious... Speakin' of green, Janie and Lynn and I had some good times talkin' gardenin'... I reckon, next to Ebbie, the person I most wanted to meet was the Captain Hiseff, Kendall, and I certainly enjoyed spending some time wid him. He is bigger than life and tells a story the way that one a very select few can do. And I really enjoyed the new Mrs Kendall. She is so sweet. (Now, Captain. You treat her right 'er she's gonna show you a new use fir that $8 harpoon you bought at the yard sale...Get my drift here?...) And Mr Greco, as in El... So nice to meet you and you even snore on key... Jus' funnin'... But look out! Now that Kendall is corralled it looks like the womenz is turning their attention in yer direction. Now I'll be back here later as more memories surface... My mind is a lot like a juke box and we;ve jus' played N-3... Yeah, Amos... Go to CheapTickets.com and you can probably lock in next years airfare for like 35 bucks roundtrip... I'll pick you up at the airport... Bobert |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: beardedbruce Date: 18 Oct 04 - 09:26 PM Bobert I had to work Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights- had to be back in Sterling, VA before 7pm. I stayed through lunch- I did not want to miss Elizabeth LaPrelle, even if it did cut out my sleeping time for the weekend. But it was good to meet those I was able to catch. Hope you enjoyed the ginger! |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Bobert Date: 18 Oct 04 - 09:37 PM Word on the block was that it was laced with halucinagenics, BB... Any truth to it? Bobert |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: GUEST,Art Thieme Date: 18 Oct 04 - 09:44 PM These days I get fatigued just from reading of your adventures. I wish I'd heard you all. Art |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: GUEST,MMario Date: 18 Oct 04 - 09:48 PM Big Mick and Alaska Mike have arrived at WYSIWYG'S - currently competing in who can tell the funniest joke. |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: beardedbruce Date: 18 Oct 04 - 09:48 PM No such luck- just ginger.... You missed the cashews, cheeses, stuffed olives, and pickled mushrooms... |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Max Date: 18 Oct 04 - 10:27 PM Man I love it. There is something really special about having such close friends that you only actually SEE once a year. I just love you guys. Every year I get to meet a few new friends too which is great. The talent at any given Getaway is always astounding. Truly intimidating. Thanks to the FSGW once again for having us. So since we've been practicing now for several years, I'll announce it now: The 2005 Getaway is going to be something special. I'm going to work all year to recruit Mudcatters to make this the biggest and best Getaway ever. We're going to create a network of helpers to give rides and raise money for travel expenses, and we may even forcibly kidnap a couple folks. If you've put it off in the past for this reason or that, 2005 is the year to get off your duff, lay down your excuses and do it, do it, do it. Actually seeing a bunch nutty Mudcatters seems to make it all make sense for a whole year. I think more of you should experience that. So everyone who reads this thread, you have a year to recruit and make happen, the best Getaway ever. |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Jeri Date: 18 Oct 04 - 10:29 PM I'm too tired to write much, and I have a nasty migraine, but I got home, and I'm pretty sure I'm still alive. I thought I was gonna enjoy El Greko because of all the stuff the UK folks said about him. I don't think their comments were all that accurate. He wasn't as good as they led me to believe. He was WAY better than that! I listened to him and Elizabeth LaPrelle all the way home. I was good to meet Bobert, and hear him sing. I got a couple of your plants, and just have to figure out where they're going. Thanks for bringing them. I finally met M. Ted, and it was a pleasure. I'd asked Mick to do a certain song at the Sunday night concert. Right before it, he said "I hope you don't mind, but I'm not gonna do that song." The reason was because M. Ted had handed him some lyrics to look at, and Mick just HAD to do it. It was certainly the right decision. GREAT song! Lotsa other stuff, but I have to check a couple of threads and e-mail and then pass out. By the way, y'all notice how not one person has mentioned me? I figure the stump got me my 15 minutes of fame. Maybe next year, I can drive into the swimming pool. |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Bobert Date: 18 Oct 04 - 10:30 PM My money is on Alaska Mike in the joke tellin' contest, tho ya' might have to be 6'6" an' from Alaska to get 'um.... Who says size don't count fir nuthin'? But give him a good run, Mick... Bobert |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Annie Date: 18 Oct 04 - 11:06 PM Regrets and deep sympathy to myself for missing the event this year. I called my sister balling my eyes out on Friday morning because I had worked myself into a corner and had to stay painted in it all weekend. I wish I could have been there......best wishes to Kendall and Jacqui. Missed seein' ya ....sis, Joe, Mary, Tinker, Dani, Jim, Mick, Allan (Allan have a lady per Greko?), Jeri, who else?, Carol, missed Mick's jokes, and Allan's snores, gospel workshop, dance, concert, eating, drinking, and carousing...and the rainbow and the river and the dam. I'll be comin' round next year, I will. If Amos will, I will. Annie |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: George Papavgeris Date: 18 Oct 04 - 11:42 PM I did mention you, Jeri - read the first post of the thread. George - up at 4:30am...must go to bed...must go to bed... |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: GUEST,Mick at WYSIWIG'S Date: 19 Oct 04 - 12:22 AM Max, I love ya, but you are a Johnny, or Maxie, come lately. I have been tellin' these layabouts for 5 years that they need to start saving there pennies, and making plans now for the following year. So I am right there with you. You have not lived until you attended one of these events. And I hear that some Shellbacks may come back next year. Great, just what I need. A bunch of Brits tellin' a poor Irish lad how to get cars off stumps and such. Some shit never changes!! and BTW, I gave that big lad a down home, Yankee doodle, going to Jaysus, buttwhuppin' in the joke contest. The "Duck Hunting Dog" put the coup de grace on his unwrinkled ass, as opposed to Kendall's wrinkled old ass. This event is a must do, my friends. The spirit of community is woven throughout the event. The FSGW, and its members, are hosts of the first order. I don't mind telling you that many of these folks have become beloved friends. M. Ted, your song is a masterpiece and reveals your soul. It takes a great deal of courage to show this side of oneself. I am so honored that you allowed me to be the first to perform. This years new 'Catters were KT and Ebbie, and they were stunning in what they added to the event. Rather than mention all the others who were there (you know who you are), I am going to just say that the rest of you need to make this event. You will never forget it or regret. All the best, Mick |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Amergin Date: 19 Oct 04 - 12:46 AM I have always wanted to make this and everything...and it doesn't look like I'll make it next year as hopefully I'll be on the other side of the world by that time. |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: GUEST Date: 19 Oct 04 - 12:47 AM Wotta bunch of lazy bums! They all went to bed already! :~) ~S~ |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Ferrara Date: 19 Oct 04 - 12:52 AM Bruce & MMario, the candied ginger was MUCH enjoyed! Sandy LaPrelle says it's great for sore throats if you add hot water. Of course, ANYTHING in hot water was welcome this weekend, given how cold it was. MTed, lines from your song (the one Mick sang in the concert) echoed in my mind all the way home. A fine song. Every year I think "Suppose this year it's a flop?" This year I was especially paranoid because so many people were coming huge distances to check out the Getaway for the first time. Well I walked in the door Friday night, there were Alaska Mike, Big Mick, and I think MMario and Dick Rodgers, just standing and talking, and my heart gave a leap of joy. Really, it did, I had to net it & put it back where it belongs. Anyway I felt a great surge of happiness at seeing those people again and realizing how far they had come to be here (except Dick, who lives here and ALWAYS comes to the Getaway), and how much it meant to see them, and how magical this event and this bunch of people are. And then Joe Offer -- and also someone else later, Mick maybe? -- said to me, "I feel like I'm home." Yes. Of all the late night music, the thing that stands out in my mind was not a huge jam or any such thing. It was Pauline Lerner and Susan A-R playing fiddle tunes together in the dining room Friday night. Sweet lovely music, played just for their own enjoyment. Kind of the essence of the Getaway atmosphere for me. Other memories: Saul Broudy's harmonica playing in the Sunday concert. Ed Trickett's version of the Golden Vanity in the Saturday ballads, with a fine chorus that filled the room. Dani, Janie and Allan C singing a rousing gospel song in the Sunday concert. (My brain is so fried that I can't remember the name of the song they sang! Somebody help me?) Big Mick singing MTed's song in the Sunday concert. Karen Kobela's voice in the Saturday concert. Going back to my room & sleeping through the first half of the Saturday concert. :-) The look on Kendall's face while Jacqui sang "Love Me Tender" for him. The dazed look on his face while friend after friend sang their love and good wishes for him and Jacqui. Spending time chatting with Jacqui. Likewise with KT and Ebbie. Barry Schlesinger's hilarious "French Canadian" song in the Frozen North workshop. Barry, what's the name of that song? It's wicked. I love it! Micca's wonderful, funny song about how his grandfather survived WWI. There were a lot of non-Mudcatters whose presence was special to me this year because we don't get to see them every year. Like Dick and Corinne, who live in Oregon City when they're not on sabbatical in Galway, Ireland. They have been commuting to the Getaway about every second year, since they moved to Oregon i-dont-know-howmany-years ago. (They pleaded jet lag as their excuse for not leading any workshops this year.) I think Dick is the man who taught Bill "The Key of R." I forgive him though. And Dick Greenhaus' son Charlie who came just for a day, with his fiancee' Jeannette. Years ago Charlie was a Getaway regular and I have so many memories and images of our conversations of yesteryear. At one time Charlie was a professional juggler, and he did a show for us one night at Camp Letts, juggling fire batons. Incredible. The Getaway is just magical. I don't know why or how it happens that way. We work hard, but we don't bring the magic. You do. Hugs to EVERYBODY, including anybody I maybe forgot to hug at least once this weekend unlikely as that seems.... Rita |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Ferrara Date: 19 Oct 04 - 12:58 AM Oh and by the way the reason I'm posting at this hour of the night is that after I got home I pretty much fell into bed and slept for four hours straight. Woke up about 9:30, just as Bill was winding down and hoping to get some sleep. Then we spent another hour talking about the Getaway. :-) |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Catherine Jayne Date: 19 Oct 04 - 03:16 AM Does anyone know where Micca is heading next and can they PM me a phone number so I can contact him....I have to go away on business again and I won't be here when he returns from his adventures...... Khatt |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Roger the Skiffler Date: 19 Oct 04 - 04:18 AM Thanks for all these stories, guys. I always knew Max was a soulmate (or should that be bluesmate)but the Skiffle Gospel quote proves it:"It don't have to sound good, only feel good" is my motto and only excuse! RtS (more power to your kazoos) |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: GUEST,Big Mick at WYSIWIG'S Date: 19 Oct 04 - 05:55 AM Khatt, he headed for Tinker's. I will try and PM the number later when I get it. You were spoken of often and with great affection by the grand wee man. Mick |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Bat Goddess Date: 19 Oct 04 - 07:10 AM So . . . does this mean Jacqui is seducing Kendall away from curmudgeonhood? (Well, prolly not -- since I'm married to Curmudgeon, I KNOW curmudgeons can be happily married . . .) Congratulations, you two! Hope we get to congratulate you in person one of these days! Linn |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Willie-O Date: 19 Oct 04 - 07:56 AM Ah, I gotta make it next year...as I explained to one or two, I am downright phobic about hangin around Stateside in the crazy election season...if Shrub loses I'll feel a lot better to show up next year. If he wins (god forbid), well, I'll have a year to get used to the idea. Or we could have it in Canada where there is heat in most resorts... Sorry I missed seein you folks. Bill |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Dani Date: 19 Oct 04 - 07:57 AM Oh, that skiffle workshop was definitely the best musical fun I've had in years and years. Thanks Max, and Jim! Jim (JAB/Gutbucketeer) has been uncovering his musical soul over the past few years, and it gets better all the time. He's bringing this wonderful music back to life for people, and his spirit of fun is so infectious. And the tune he did on the washtub bass in the blues workshop was just right. I would have spent a whole weekend on the porch with you, Max, Pene Azul and Janie finding tunes that fit all those wonderful weirdo instruments. Could we add a skiffle porch jam next year? Seems the right place for it. How could I forget Ebbie! I missed you to say goodbye, and to tell you how much I enjoyed your smile this weekend. Folks, she sat on the edges a bit, but clearly enjoyed the music, and was seen playing along in the tv room Sunday, lost in the music. Come back! MTed, I didn't know that was your song. It is a heart-stopper, and very important for people to hear. Will you share it? Mick, I thought your delivery was right on. Another favorite moment: At a certain point I felt so overwhelmed, I told someone it's like drinking from a firehose for someone who doesn't have much music in 'real' life. I walked up the big quiet hill for some silence, and heard waltz strains from the gym. Now, not being a dancer or the player of anything BUT the kazoo, I hadn't paid attention to that on the schedule, but when I went in and heard the music, I just melted. Laid down on a bench in the corner, and drifted along with the most beautiful music I think I've ever heard. Fiddles, bass, harp, piano, concertina, and dancing feet gliding in, out and around. Just lovely... Dani |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: GUEST,Big Mick at WYSIWIG'S Date: 19 Oct 04 - 10:43 AM Yeah, Dani. David, harpist extraordinaire, is the most amazing musician. The harp is simply an extension of this man's soul. Because Ed Trickett was there I sang the song that caused him to give me "Along the Famine Road". The title is "Far From There Home". I was accompanied by the Viol, a fiddle, and the harp. I was lost in the beauty of those instruments. So many musical moments that it is hard to focus on one or two. Surely the trio of Dani, Janie, and Allan had to be one of the highlights of the night. Dani mislead you all when she said she doesn't have an instrument. Hers is her voice, and the charm she exudes when she sings. Dani, my dear, you bring joy when you sing. People smile and feel good. And when it is with Janie, the love of friendship just fills the air. I wish you could see it from where I sit. Janie .... man, I just love hearing her sing. Janie has a rich voice that just warms you. And when she is in a room when the music is jumping, she "clogs" all over the place. The music grabs her, and the joy in her just makes her move. Another joyous thing, that I wish she could sit where I sit and see. My friend KT was no surprise to me. We have corresponded for a while, and I have a tape of her songs. I have been after her for several years to come down to Getaway, and I am overjoyed she did. The beauty of her lyrics, and her voice should be experienced by everyone. I am so proud of our friendship, and it was only deepened by our time together. Ebbie .... is so damn cute, and so funny .... that one almost could miss the depth of her talent if they aren't looking. She charms you, and you are drawn irresistably to her. And the friendship between her and KT is palpable. She was one of the highlights for me, and is a welcome addition to the circle of "old friends just met". Surely Kendall and Jacqui were the highlight of the weekend. Our English Rose is a charmer, and cute as can be. The love she feels for Kendall is potent and infectious. And his for her is the same. Kendall and Jacqui, your spirit and love was felt by everyone at the gathering. It made us joyous and happy, and we are in your debt for sharing it with us. May you have such joy all the days of your lives. Thanks a million to the FSGW for making me an invited Guest. It is a high honor for me to have been so. I so appreciate the amount of planning, and execution, that go into this thing. By the way, if you haven't got every CD that Ed Trickett has made, you do not have a complete library. His is "must own" music. One last thing. I have spent most of my folk singing life being in love with the music of Jean Ritchie. When I read her book, I then also loved her spirit. And when she corresponds with me, I love the friendship. I have always said that when her work here is done, we will not see another like her. This weekend I was privileged to hear Elisabeth LaPrelle sing again. And it comes to me that the tradition, to the standards set by our beloved Jean, is safe in this young woman's hands. She is a gift from the Creator, and our job is too encourage her, and help her along the way. Folks, one day you will say that you heard her sing when she was young and just starting out. She is a talent of major proportions, and I am privileged to have been able to hear her. More later, Mick |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Jeri Date: 19 Oct 04 - 11:43 AM Sorry, Monsieur Greko. My brain was cold oatmeal (dried around the edges with the spoon still in) last night. I'm slightly better today. You're braver than I with names. I KNOW I'll miss people! If I met you for the first time or met you again, I enjoyed our time together. (This is the proper wimp-out route.) Aw, hell...KT should have brought some of her CDs to sell. Her songs and herself were sunlight on a cloudy day or a warm fire in the deep, dark winter. I enjoyed meeting Ebbie, and I wish I'd heard her sing. Rumor has it that she did sing on Saturday night, after I'd wandered off to the cabin jam. Bobert and I didn't beat each other up, and I enjoyed meeting him. I wish I could have stayed for his blues guitar workshop, and I wish I could have jammed with him at some point. (Aside to Bobert: Saturday night when I wandered home to the cabin and said I didn't think anyone was playing up there, there was a full blown jam/song circle/insanity session going on that lasted until 4 AM. They were singing doo-wop when I walked in. Your sleeping bag was calling you though.) As it happened, I only got the guitar out once, and it was to go play by myself on a bench. Annie, I missed you. I kept wanting to ask Janie if you were coming, then I wanted to ask "what happened to Annie?" but I kept being distracted. I missed some other folks who usually come to the Getaway too: Annamill and hubby Glenn who probably didn't freeze the whole weekend because they were in sunny California; Gail, of the English Music Hall songs and reading of the lyrics by finger-tip; the whole Missing Person Soup Kitchen Gospel Quartet (am I close with the name?). About M. Ted's song: I knew he was going somewhere from the beginning, but I had to think all the way through to see where. In the final verse, everything came together and his point was clear to me, but he never told folks what they should be thinking and feeling. (Something I'm frequently guilty of. People can figure stuff out without being told.) Finesse and subtlety. It made me cry, because of the combination of what it said, how Mick performed it, and because of how well it was written. If someone had asked why I had tears in my eyes, I might not have known how to explain. |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Janie Date: 19 Oct 04 - 12:18 PM Chills and tears as MMario sang his song about the wolfhound (somebody supply the name?) I still have so much music and so many memories going through my brain that I can't concentrate here at work. If I burst into one more chorus (or fit of laughter at a memory) as I walk down the hall, the other therapists here are going to start throwing coffe mugs at me! Janie |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Ellenpoly Date: 19 Oct 04 - 12:40 PM Wow! Mudcat at it's best. Thank you so much for sharing your stories. Now waiting to see the piccies. ..xx..e |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: John MacKenzie Date: 19 Oct 04 - 02:27 PM Just so you can all make alternative plans, I shall be there next year God willing. Giok |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Tinker Date: 19 Oct 04 - 03:03 PM SINSULL and Micca just backed down the drive and the house is palpably silent. I find my self pausing at the keyboard as it faintlly begins to sink in that the weekend has truely ended. The memory circling strongest is of Max in the Blues circle. I had handed him a chord progression to accompany me to one of those wonderful old off color blues and when it was over he looked across the circle and asked about the progression after explaining how it was built and naming a couple of other songs it was found in... explaining it's connection to a classical piece... and he was eagerly waiting for more information than he already had.... when it was clear that the answer was not in the circle there was a silent moment before we moved on.... I know I wasn't the only one wondering what Fielding would have said.... But then there is the video footage of Joe Offer doing high kicks to Alaska Mike's questionably traditional presentation in the Mudcat Cabin on Saturday Nite. I just may need to put a copy up for auction Joe. Kendall and Jacqui thank you so much for letting Mary and I put on the reception for you. And to everyone who responded so well to my cries for help, thank you, thank you, thank you. It was a wonderful time. Hopefully more later as the moments drift and settle. Tinker Let me be the first to volunteer as a way station for anyone traveling to next year's Getaway. If a night's stop before or after in Northern NJ makes since in anyone's travel plans just let me know. For UK fliers who find discount tickets to one of Metro NY's airports, we can finish the ride from here. We've got plenty of room. |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Marion Date: 19 Oct 04 - 05:45 PM It sounds wonderful. When I met M.Ted he gave me lyrics to a song about a little girl shot by a classmate - was that the one that Mick sang? How I wish I had been there. (But having said that, in the past week I've lost a job and developed a tooth problem, so I'm also very glad that I did the responsible thing and stayed home). Never mind. Next year in Maryland! Marion |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Dani Date: 19 Oct 04 - 05:55 PM Amen! You would really love it, Marion. The question is, how could the place hold so many incredibly talented songwriters? The planet would start to tilt in another direction. Hmmmm....... Dani |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: GUEST,Joe Offer at the Front Royal Library, Virgin Date: 19 Oct 04 - 06:13 PM Yeah, it was like being home. It's so nice to see the old friends, and very nice to meet some new ones. I second all the good stuff that everybody says above. There were two things that really moved me - the wedding reception for Kendall and Jacqui, and the hour we spent remembering Rick Fielding. It felt like he was there with us. I'm hoping to do the Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park tomorrow. The weather was bad today, so I explored Frederick, Maryland; Harper's Ferry, West Virginia; and Winchester Virginia. There are so many wonderful little towns in this area, where the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers come together. See y'all later. -Joe Offer, on the road- |
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Subject: RE: Getaway 2004 - MEMORIES From: Bobert Date: 19 Oct 04 - 06:14 PM After yer visit with me this past year I was lookin' forward to seein' you, Marion. Hope the tooth is better and hope you find a new and better job soon. Bobert |
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