Just got back from Fiddlefest-- and Dr. Ralph Stanley! I can't believe how great it was. I hadn't totally thought about how awesome he is, and how I've wanted to see him perform live for years... so I was totally blown out of the water by his awesomeness and the whole experience. He did so many wonderful numbers-- two a cappella including 'O death" which was AMAZING of course; a fast version of 'Pretty Polly' where I was again really thrown by the emotional power in his voice he so judiciously uses, he is really such a great artist; another case of that was the 'wildflowers' song; there were quite a few good gospel numbers as well, and when he broke out the CLAWHAMMER on BANJO I couldn't help a squeal of delight. There were three generations of Stanleys on the stage- the youngest boy only 14, although he looks much older, at least high school if not more my age. It was just great. Ralph Stanley is just an all-round gentleman and I hope *hope hope* that I can get to see him again. Just to be that close to him was really quite awesome and I will not forget-- at least I hope not.
There was also free ice cream, great weather, beautiful scenery and good company. And lots of funny/cheezy bluegrass jokes, including a great one Ralph & associate told regarding the "climate" in Florida (I bet our fiddlin' Mary knows this one. I heard she got hired by a band, actually-- One might say she's outstanding artist in her chosen field. And they'd be right-- Cause that's where we found her, out standing in the hay field.)
I'm pleased as punch. Hope you had a great Saturday too.
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merstaff,
how long has it been since we last talked? like 6 months? 2 years? i can't believe that in this day and age, when we have phones that cost $600 and "smart" robots that vacuum independently, we have managed to stay out of touch for this long. i am crushed. i think our engagement is off. i guess what i'm saying is... that i'm breaking up with you.... here... on blogspot. it's not you, it's me. and a little you. but mostly me.
i would've called but... your phone sucks.
that is all.
i still love you though... let's stay friends, ok?
formerly yours,
~K
p.s. yea i could've done this with an email... but that would've involved opening another window.
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