Well Thanksgiving is upon us and as we all know, this holiday harkens in the start of the holiday season of shopping madness. Store after store, line after cashier line, shopping malls, online gift sites and gift certificates galore. Oh let the festivities begin! Seriously, is this what the Season of Peace has become, one big commercial extravaganza?

 

For me, this is a time for reflection and a time to be truly thankful for all the ways that we have been blessed this past year. It is also a time to remember friends and family members whom have passed on from this world of material possessions to a better and brighter place of selflessness and true peace.

 

And of course it is a time to gather with friends and family for the best part of these holidays. The food, right? Well actually I was going to say the music venues and all of the terrific live music that graces the stages at this time of year. But come to think of it, maybe it is the food. In any case, one is a strong second to the other. I’ll let you decide which is which. There are those who would argue that you couldn’t have one without the other. Alas, the perfect evening out; a great dining experience coupled with the attendance of a dynamic live music event. Now what could be better than the perfect evening out with those that you love the most? And so as usual I urge you to go out and support your local music scene. And as always I believe that the gift of music is certainly a gift worth giving and receiving, in any form.

 

Out on the lake a few days ago I was lucky enough to come across a young bald eagle sunning himself at the top of a bare hemlock tree. He had molted most of his feathers of youth and was sporting the white head and tail feathers of adult bald eagles. He was still young enough however, not to be so easily spooked by those of us whom were intruding on his quiet time. He was obviously more curious about us than he was afraid of us, so we were able to come up to just below the tree he was perched in. It was the closest I have ever gotten to a bald eagle in the wild, and it was stirring and very cool. The image of the eagle reminded me of a dear and lifelong friend of mine who recently passed away. Jack Wry was a man of impeccable integrity and dignity and it was an honor and a privilege to call him my friend. He will be sorely missed.

 

The November 6^th performance was a hoot. It was the unplugged version of the show that I did with Gary back in the summer. It was cool to hear some of my more bluegrass renditions come alive in a more acoustic setting. Some songs are just meant for that kind of arrangement. It was hot! I don’t have any performances planned for the remainder of 09, but I am hoping to get back on the stage in 010.

 

Well all of my brothers and sisters, continue your youthful pursuits of small venue music events, and let the real meaning of these blessed holidays fill your hearts and minds and souls. My prayers are for all of you, always. Peace to the world, and safety for our soldiers.