Getting Ready to Hit the Road!

"WHICH SIDE ARE YOU ON"

The Paradox Circus is coming to town

That ought to give you Happy Feet!

SENIOR MOMENTS

Quick ALTZHEIMERS Test
The following was developed as a mental age assessment by the School of Psychiatry at Harvard University . Take your time and see if you can read each line aloud without a mistake. The average person over 40 years of age cannot do it!
1. This is this cat.
2. This is is cat.
3. This is how cat.
4. This is to cat.
5. This is keep cat.
6. This is an cat.
7. This is old cat.
8. This is fart cat.
9. This is busy cat.
10. This is for cat.
11. This is forty cat.
12. This is seconds cat.
Now go back and read the third word in each line from the top down.

So, tonight I had a real Senior Moment. I'm in my local Starbucks. I stop off at the counter with the cream & sugar.I put cream & sugar in my cup and I set the lid on the counter ( as always), so I can come back and adjust my coffee. I proceed to the counter. The girl at the counter says we are just ready to brew a fresh pot. While I'm waiting I go out to my truck to continue listening to an NPR program they are doing on the aging population and senior memory. Five minutes later I go back to the counter and with about six people behind me I hand the girl my cup. She fills it with coffee and hands it back to me. I pay her and everything is going well up to this point. I then take the two quarters I'm clutching for the tip jar and without giving a second thought I drop them in my now full cup of coffee, which proceeds to splash all over the counter. She is now looking at me in utter disbelief, and the 6 people behind that watched this transpire are doing their best not to bust out laughing. She then asks with polite smile if I'd like her to rinse out the cup so I can start over . At this point it sinks in what I had just done and I am now laughing so hard at myself I can barely manage "That would be nice"

"Who were them fellers?"

Imagine my surprise, when viewing the "American Idol" finale, and Steve Martin showed up on my screen. He was accompanied by some nefarious hillbilly types, including one white haired feller with a white goatee playing mandolin. He looked kinda familiar, sorta like somebody I 'members playing banjo with Steve by reaching over to fret the strings of his while still fingering his own instrument (usually a banjo). This legerdemain was occasionally interspersed with the sudden appearance of "Flash Paper" and jokes by that dynamic duo. That was back at the Mecca. Great job, Johnny. I heard the disbelief in Ryan Seacrest's voice when he spoke to Steve at the end of the performance. It never ceases to amaze me how TV types are perpetually surprised that an actor, comedian or musician can actually be multi-talented. Go figure.

SDS

For you information, knowing that many of you many readers are quite confused at what the below picture could possibly be, let us explain. This is a SDS (Solar Dehydration System), held to the LS (Linear Supports) with the use of quite a few MR's (Modular Retainers).
Feel free to ask question's, we here at the ranch will be happy to share our solar technique's with you.
Bob h/s

Getting Ready!

This just in from Bob:




As you can see, we are getting ready for the reunion.

The Greening of the Paradox

This year, we plan to green our get together, and want to encourage everyone to do their part. We are going to buy more things in bulk (e.g., large water jugs, a keg for the beer, etc.), and will only have a minimal amount of disposable items available. This will not only help the planet, but will also help Bob and Helen with clean-up after the event.

We are encouraging everyone to bring their own plates, cups, utensils, etc. for meals. We'll provide areas where you can wash up afterward.

We'll also be selling reusable, commemorative "We are the Paradox" travel cups and plates as part of our porta-potty fundraiser for those who want to contribute that way and have something to take home with them. I'm also collecting utensils that can be washed and reused so that we can stay away from plastics.

It's getting close. It's getting exciting!

I hope you made a wish

Happy Birthday Uncle Bob Hope It's a Good One

From the Paradox Family

The Paradox Fund

Just wanted to throw this up for discussion. Am I reaching to high in thinking about setting up a non-profit Paradox Fund in support the arts or maybe a medical fund for struggling or aging artists. I know most of us are not wealthy in anything but Karma and ideas, but I think it's worth talking about. It would be a great way to keep The Paradox legacy alive when we are gone. That is definitely a worthwhile endeavor. Feedback appreciated.

Besharian speaks.....

Diane,

Ok. I got the invite. So ... I take it this is not the same site as "We are the Paradox"? Um, in that case why does it look so similar?

By the way, you all can find mine at myronjpoltroonian.blogspot.com. O.k.?

Nondiscombobulettum Selfrightus, indeed.

"J. B."

John Prine Concert

Bob and Helen left their little mountain home to go to the hussle and bussle of the big city, Sacramento, but it was worth it. We went to a John Prine Concert, one of Americas greatest songwriters. That guy sure can put words together in a magical way. We had great seats, wonderful evening. A very mature audience, like our age. His brother Doug lives in Sacramento so he did a lot of requests from Doug without his band, he did many of out favorites, great concert

Besharian found...!

He was just down the road from Bob and Helen's all along. So hopefully we'll see him at the reunion.

We're still looking for Suzi Thompson, Milt Weber, and Dan Winchester if anyone has any leads.

And we also haven't been able to find Cass Conway.

In the meantime, here's a short video from around the world to brighten your day (with thanks to Sherry Miller):

http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=2539741

Huh?

HERE BE A NICER PICTURE, THIS ONE
BEING THE COVER OF THE SELF MADE CD.
Hey....Color co-ordinated. We match!
(Below being the leftovers of the mess I made.
uh...well....just never mind. doh!!!)
I got hung up.
Do not adjust your set.
Due to technical difficulties,
the real post is not available.
Thank you.

OK....Here's the deal. I was trying to post
to another blog and got here by mistake.
So...
Here's the link to that song
and a few more.
http://mandrandband.blogspot.com/

The Power of Song

PBS is airing an American Masters program on Pete Seeger that really brings back the good old days. Try to see it if you can.

Van Morrison Astral Weeks Live

Van live at The Hollywood Bowl just hit the streets. DVD to follow soon. Check out the link below for a video clip Of Sweet Thing.
http://www.amazon.com/Astral-Weeks-Live-Hollywood-Bowl/dp/B001O0EHXG
Susan and I were at the show that night and it was a night to remember...enjoy!

More insider's info from John McEuen

Producer's notes..
Steve Martin * The Crow

new songs for the 5-string banjo

It has been 45 years or thereabouts that I have been listening to Steve play the banjo. We both started about the same week, in the mid-'60's music haze found in Garden Grove, California, during our years working in the Disneyland Magic shop. One day at my house, my brother Bill had a friend of his over playing music. (Dave Simpson) Dave was playing his RB 150 banjo.. He kind of knew Jesse James, Jed Clampett, Hard Ain't it Hard.. and Cripple Creek. It was the best sound we'd ever heard. I remember Steve asking this music store owner (Dave owned the Long Beach McCabe's Guitar Shop) “just how much is a good. used.. cheap banjo, anyway?” Well, Steve ended up buying that banjo from him, and I think you'll agree, when you hear the Clawhammer Medley on the album, it was a smart move. It records GREAT.

Dec. 19 that year, my 18th birthday, a begged for gift from my father appeared. I had my first banjo, a Ludwig, and started my career as a groupie for the Dillards… well, I did average seeing at least 6 -7 of their shows a month, watching Doug like a hawk. I remember showing Steve during that following year Dillard, Keith, and Scruggs licks I was picking up from slowing down records and watching Douglas… about half way through he would go his own way. Soon, a couple years later, his own way led to his own tunes, and the ones he came up with often made me jealous. That was then.

Over the ensuing years every now and then he would say, “hey, listen to this new tune”, and once more he had come up with a new statement for the banjo. Now, “only 45 years later”, there are enough for a whole album. Instead of jealous, I am the proud producer of what I think is the best album of new music for the 5-string banjo in years.

I went to several different musical worlds to frame his notes and found, that like his film and book works, there were many different frames that seemed appropriate. I was able to use almost every recording technique I have picked up from doing film scoring - from arranging to recording in advance for something to go along with something else that hasn't been done yet. . . and it all worked out.

The Calico Train, starting as an instrumental, just sounded Irish to me. I told Steve to get the coming lyrics to reflect those influences. He did. As Mary Black is one of Steve's favorite singers, I emailed Joe in Dublin (her husband/manager) about our hope to have her sing Steve's song. On the way back from Dublin three weeks later I felt like that dream had come true. I hope you like it as much as we do, and find lots of ear cookies in it. It is one of my favorite recordings I have ever made.

Since the decision to make Calico longer came in after it was recorded, and because the slow rubato part was led by Steve's banjo.. I had a lot of doctoring to do on the front.. I had Stuart play along with Steve's performance on the basic, the first slow part. Then took out all the basic track instruments from this slow part.. I made drone sounds with hammering on open tuned guitar and mandolin, bowing my guitar in G tuning, and then adding bagpipe drone D in Ireland, and overdubbed electric bass. Since there was SO MUCH leakage on all the mics, I had to get rid of the basic tracks instruments for this part of the song. I had to do this because Mary's voice just did not sound good in the slow part with the banjo plinking away, and the original track parts did not fit the vocal no one knew was going to be there when we cut the basic.. but it worked against the mournful fiddle of Stuart. Then .. when the tempo picks up.. it is all skate and everything is fine. Overall, I feel like this is one of my of recording, arranging, playing and producing.

Pitkin Co. Turnaround is one Steve and I had played for years, even once in the '70's on 'the Tonight Show starring Johnny Carson', and it got knocked out quick as a double banjo tune. Again, one I wish I had written. The great Chris Caswell and I had so much fun with his three overdubs it made it sound like some of these songs were written for his keyboard talents. Chris's accordian hides in there nicely. Brittany played a solo on this, as did Russ and Matt, that just like with their other solos on the album, showed they are masters at their craft.

A great team had been assembled with hot licks waiting, thanks to Tony and Pete for getting things together for the basic sessions to start in Englewood, New Jersey, at Bennett Studios last July. We didn't have to wait long, as we cut 15 tracks in 4 busy days. I then did overdubs in Nashville and Dublin.. and a little in my studio in Hollywood.. mixed a lot at my place and then at Nick Sevilla's. I had previously worked with Nick many times, and thought he would be the perfect engineer for this. I was right.

Tony and Steve 'killed the Crow', and 16 year old Jourdan jumped right on top of Banana Banjo. You can find out about the incredible Jourdan Urbach on his website.. just google him. I saw Jourdan at a Carnegie Hall concert last November and went backstage to meet him. He was performing some classical pieces with the symphony, the field his music is in, featuring that night a three-part piece Chris Caswell had written for him. I asked him if he would like to play on this cut, and a couple days later we got it done. I wanted to orchestrate Banana Banjo since first hearing it, because I think some of this type of music can reach a broader audience if it has these kinds of sounds, and it lent itself to that 'bigger' treatment. And that is again where the genius of Chris came in. He caught it good with his orchestra, then I plugged in Jourdan, stretched the song from 1:02 to 2:06.. and am shocked about how it worked.

Stuart Duncan filled any missing spaces, Jerry Douglas fluxed his way in and put his icing on the Steve cake, Kenny Malone kept it moving in the way only he can. Dolly and Vince came to the table and left us with a classic old country song, weaving a duet that shows Steve can write 'country'. (I tested this on several astute old-country ears, and they were shocked they had not heard this 'old song', which lyric was finished about an hour before they sang, and surprised to find out the author).

My great friend in music, David Amram, gave many of these songs his im-pick-able worldview, and Tim O'Brien made it sound like his Daddy Played the Banjo. It made my son Andrew cry when he heard this sad song. Tim had a cold the first day, but came in a second time without a fever but hot, and killed it right off.

As we recorded, things would happen. As when Steve wanted to write lyrics for a cool frailing instrumental - Late For School (frailing, like 'nother', is not in the dictionary, but that is a whole nother thing). That 2 _ min song became 3:50 or so, and will set a new mark for most words in one bluegrassy song. Thanks to my protools working well, and a couple years of practice with it for my XM radio show, several things were sewn together.

Going to Capitol Records (the famous round building in Hollywood) for their echo was exciting. They have the best chambers in the world, and as Steve allowed me to work with his actor budget instead of a banjo budget, we went there and got it done. Listen for that sound when Dolly sings 'you' at he end of a sentence. or the last word of any lyric. I used the studio where we (ngdb) did our first Hollywood audition in (1966.. they passed on us. . . but we ended up on Liberty, which years later was bought by UA, then Capitol bought UA) to get that magic echo. Nick also used up everything he had learned, and kept all this in line.

It has been great getting some of my favorite pickers together and laying in to music that I think will stand the test of time. I truly feel that if I was starting now to play, I would spend time slowing down this record to figure out Wally on the Run and just what are those cool chords climbing up the neck a la Don Reno, as well as several of the other tunes. Don't have to now! Tony is writing a book of all the tunes tabbed out! Did I mention that Tony's banjo harmonies on Wally on the Run? oh, never mind.. he is always good, and this is a high mark for him.

Pete played a solo that was so good on Words Unspoken I wanted him to sell it to me so I could call it mine. His Pretty Flowers backup was great too.. he takes it after the Steve opening, then bows out of the way for Earl to come in. Overall, we came.. we picked.. We conquered .. and as we attacked all these songs written by Steve it became apparent that he is a musician disguised as an actor.

This is an album I think you will want to stick in your ears many times. It will take you back to a place you've never been . . . it has me, and I was there.

This just in from Steve Noonan Music

Here's the link to my web site

Some current news & other interesting stuff

http://www.stevenoonan.com/

Draft Dodgers

Michael Ray.....
I don't know where this pic was taken.
I think Tony Duque and Steve and I had all been
at a campfire maybe, talking about our futures
as concerned the WAR, the DRAFT and where
we were headed. We all scattered in different
directions after that night. The Paradox brought
us together on one thing was certain.
A understanding of how our families and
heritage led us in our lives.
An awareness of how our far different choices did not make
us different friends. It was a very hard night about
5 minutes before we became men.

Inside the Paradox

Yep, Steve Noonan in the kitchen.

Jackson in the Paradox on New Years Eve

before almost everything.

Not quite everything but almost. Dirtband

days when he made the girls faint with

"Sit right down and write myself a letter"

My favorite NGDB and JB song which

I never heard them do again.

Gary picks up the art for the Paradox poster.

He drove all the way to Fullerton and

it wern't such great art.

Sorry Gary.

late '66

Noonan had this motorcycle.

Honda Superhawk 305 bored out to 350

with scrambler pipes.

Very dark and un-Honda looking, more like

a biker bike. I rode it up the coast to Santa

Cruz once. Oh my. Big Sur.

I pickup-trucked it home though.

This is another time where Steve amazed me.

He taught me to give away things.

When he went to NY he gave me the bike.

One of the many

surprises he gave me for my understanding of life.

Here's Jackson riding that Stevo-cycle behind

his house in....hmmmm...Garden Grove or

something like that? 65 or 66. Me and Jackson

rode around on the vacant land behind the house

playing at dirt biking.

First Star

The first Rock and Roll star I ever knew is Steve Noonan.
Steve is the one who started it up for me.
Steve Noonan opened the Book Of The Real Thing for me.
He showed me the real folk and blues
musicians and traditions and how we could play a part in
that world.
Steve is the one who opened the world of the PARADOX to me.
His insights, his knowledge, his poetic musical nature and deep
kindness solidified my pathways into this world of poets.

This picture is a little after my PARADOX days.
Steve at my house in Santa Cruz about 1968 I think,
right after he got back from New York City.

The Crow

Rush out and buy Steve Martins' "The Crow"
It'll Give You Happy Feet...'Nuff Said!

And for those of you in the Bay Area.....

Also just in from John:


John McEuen, Chris Hillman, Herb Pederson
IN SAN FRANCISCO
Feb. 2 & 3
Yoshi's
8 pm
1330 Fillmore Street 94115
415 655 5600

Chris Hillman and Herb Pederson!... Two guys I watched a lot in those 'early years'.. and I mean when I was working in Disneyland with Steve Martin, pre NGDB.. Chris hails from Byrds, Burrito Bros, Desert Rose Band and has always been a leader in pushing music ahead. Herb's track record includes singing 'with everybody'.. check them out on google. I first saw Herb playing Salt Creek during a break when I was working at the Magic Shop in Disneyland, and followed him over the years .. and finally got to know them both.

Our shows involve a lot of mixing it up from NGDB songs to Circle album music to their background... and their vocals are the best..

This just in from Johnny McEuen

John McEuen recently finished producing an album of his lifelong friend, actor Steve Martin. With all original music and lyrics written by Martin- released date Jan. 27, 2009 - John says, "The Steve album is great! People will be shocked at how vast and varied is music is, and how great he plays… this album will show Steve as a composer of unique melodies, hot licks and soulful lyrics. He is definitely a songwriter with an unusual twist for notes and lyrics; in the 45 years I've known him, I've never heard him playing better. I am working with the Chaplin of our era.”

Titled Steve Martin - The Crow new songs for the 5-string banjo (11 instrumentals and four vocals), the album features such diverse musician talents as Earl Scruggs, Jerry Douglas, Stuart Duncan, Tony Trishka, Pete Wernick, McEuen, David Amram, Craig Eastman. Vince Gill duets with Dolly Parton on Pretty Flowers, Ireland's Mary Black sings Calico Train, Tim O'Brien sings Daddy Played the Banjo), and Steve sings Late for School. John brings together traditional folk instruments to Steve's world of notes where you hear influences from their mutual past - Disneyland, The Music Man, Aaron Copland's Appalachian Spring, and bluegrass - in way that “will take the music world by surprise,” says producer McEuen.

PART OF HISTORY

In 1962 I had occasion to drive across across the country, in the deep south we saw "White only" sign's at restaurants and bathrooms. I remember being quite shocked then, being a California gal. Today, January 20, 2009 history has been made, their is hope for us after all. Obama is the 12 president in my life time, starting FDR. I'm feeling older than dirt!
Helen

O.K. All together now.... Here we go

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6ymb_hamster-dance_animals

Happy New Year To All and To All A Goodnight...Susan & Gary
(click on picture)

Happy Holidays

Best wishes to all for a happy and healthy holiday season.

Susan and I spent Christmas Eve with Ralph at his church. Lots of Christmas Carols, Ralph played some great guitar with the band. Finished off the evening doing burgers and way too much coffee at Hoff's Hut. Thought I'd throw this up as a teaser to Ralph's Demo CD that we hope to finish up soon. Here's the rough draft of the CD cover.

Peace to all,

Gary & Susan

Happy Hoiday's

We wish you a Merry Christmas, We Wish You a Merry Christmas, We Wish You a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!!!!!
Hello our Paradox family, so looking forward to seeing you in June. We have exciting news, our daughter Virginia is going to be a Grandmother in July!!!! This of course means we are expecting to be Great Grandparents for the first time. Move over Tony and Leigh! Virginia is up here for the holiday's , back from India, getting used to the idea, just too cool!
Have a good one.
Bob and Helen

By any chance did any of you catch on KVIE or what ever public TV is in your area "The Censorship Struggles of the Smothers Brothers"? It's really fabulous, another trip down memory lane. Some great Pat Paulson, Mason Williams, Steve Martin. Watch it if possible.
Helen

Damn flies

Here's one to mess with your head!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MbaQWYXiazE&feature=related

Diane's Wallet c. 1967

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving.

As many of you know, I moved two years ago. What you may not know, and I'm not anxious to admit, is that I'm still not 100% moved in. Over the long weekend, I thought I'd make an attempt to empty a few more boxes and ..... voila! I found the old wallet I have packed around with me since 1967 -- literally falling apart at the seams.

I wish there were snapshots taken at the Paradox -- there aren't -- however I have found Bob, Helen, Ginny, Linda, and Blooming Kid photos from that time. A photo of Norman Greenbaumn et al. in full face paint. And many other surprises (like a drawing I'm pretty sure Bruce Kunkel did). There's even an Elswit Thomas business card and a much coveted invitation to Beethoven's birthday party, which will soon be upon us.

Alas, this computer doesn't have the software to run my scanner (another tale of woe.... spilled coffee on my old one) but will try to scan some photos soon.

In the meantime, does anyone else have a stash of old photos to share?

Happy Thanksgivng

Wishing all of you a Happy Thanksgiving! Overeating is a given, and we always say (I always say) I souldn't of had that piece of pie, Only comes once a year, so go for it!
Steve Scaff called me last week and wants to make the stuffing and the yams, is that sweet or what, He's such a dear man and he's doing very well.
All of you tell me your plans for big day of overeating. I'm having 9, wish all of you could come, my Paradox family.
Helen

A trip Down Memory Lane

Blog has been way too quiet so here is something to make a little noise.
http://concerts.wolfgangsvault.com/
You'll have to register to listen but it's worth it Bigtime!..............ENJOY

Gary, Ralph, Steve....

How was the show last night? I can hardly wait to hear.

Van Morrison Astral Weeks Live Hollywood Bowl

Here is a small sampling of what we were privileged to be a part of Saturday 11/08.
Van and the band were amazing! A transcendent journey of the spirit and the soul.
More to be revealed when they release the finished product. http://www.vanmorrison.com/

This just in from John McEuen

In another busy year, John has just finished the music scores for three documentary films (“Sizzle - A Global Warming Comedy;” “Maynard Dixon - Art and Spirit”; “Howard's Trail”), and has been seen on the road either solo (about 48 cities) or in his 42nd year with the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band (42 cities). Capitol Records just released a remake of Mr. Bojangles by NGDB with Keith Urban and Dierks Bentley!). McEuen's XM radio show (Acoustic Traveller - channel 15) begins its 4th year.

This summer McEuen also started producing an album for his lifelong friend, actor Steve Martin. All Martin's original music - for release in 2009 - John says "the Steve album is coming along great! People will be shocked at how vast and varied is music is, and how great he plays… this album will show Steve as a composer of unique hot licks and soulful lyrics. He is definitely a songwriter with an unusual twist for lyrics, and, in the 44 years I've known him, I've never heard him playing better."

Martin's yet to be titled album (a dozen instrumentals and three vocals) features such diverse talents as Earl Scruggs, McEuen, Jerry Douglas, Stuart Duncan, Tony Trishka, Pete Wernick, David Amram, Craig Eastman, (Vince Gill duets with Dolly Parton on Pretty Flowers and Tim O'Brien sings Daddy Played the Banjo) … and Steve even sings one. ard to pigeonhole as to 'style', John brings together Americana folk traditional instruments to Steve's world of notes where you will hear strains that combine influences from their mutual past - Disneyland, Knott's Berry Farm, The Music Man, Aaron Copland's Appalachian Spring, and bluegrass - in way that “will take the music world by surprise”, says producer McEuen.

This fall you can catch John McEuen on the road (with banjo, guitar, fiddle, and mandolin) for his highly acclaimed solo performances. He brings to his stage songs from years on the road and recording, including many NGDB tunes from the early years and the historic Will the Circle Be Unbroken album (you can see some of his early wardrobe and the banjo used on that historic recording in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame exhibit) and from his own CDs on Rural Rhythm Records and Vanguard Records.

For those of you in the L.A. area:

He'll also be at the Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena, November 11 at 8:00.
For reservations call 626-398-7917

The Times They Are A Changin'

Come gather 'round people
Wherever you roam
And admit that the waters
Around you have grown
And accept it that soon
You'll be drenched to the bone
If your time to you
Is worth savin'
Then you better start swimmin'
Or you'll sink like a stone
For the times they are a-changin'

Come writers and critics
Who prophesize with your pen
And keep your eyes wide
The chance won't come again
And don't speak too soon
For the wheel's still in spin
And there's no tellin' who
That it's namin'
For the loser now
Will be later to win
For the times they are a-changin'

Come senators, congressmen
Please heed the call
Don't stand in the doorway
Don't block up the hall
For he that gets hurt
Will be he who has stalled
There's a battle outside
And it is ragin
It'll soon shake your windows
And rattle your walls
For the times they are a-changin'

Come mothers and fathers
Throughout the land
And don't criticize
What you can't understand
Your sons and your daughters
Are beyond your command
Your old road is
Rapidly agin'
Please get out of the new one
If you can't lend your hand
For the times they are a-changin'

Vote Early * Vote Often

An old classic to get you in the mood!

http://www.jibjab.com/originals/time_for_some_campaignin

Pre Election Thoughts

At the risk of going out on a limb or preachin' to the choir, here are my thoughts in a nut shell!

Vote Obama! Keep Palin's finger away from the trigger!

So if that makes me a left wing radical, socialist, terrorist, elitist, Marxist, communist, anti-American whack job, well, I guess I'll just have to live with that.
I welcome any and all opposing views, while we still have some semblance of a Democracy in the good ol' U.S.A!

*** Vote Early * Vote Often ***

From Rob and Sara:

This just in from Sara, thanks to Helen:
(If you can make it to the open house or moving sale, I'm sure Rob and Sara would love to see you before they head south!)


We have big news to share. Rob and I have decided after much thought to move to Abiquiu, New Mexico where my folks live. We know this comes as a shock to many of you and you were in our thoughts when we made this decision. We have been considering retiring to New Mexico in five or six years from now, however events in our personal lives and the needs of family has made us realize that now is the best time for us to make this move. Rob is planning to pursue his studio art and pottery and will be selling the tile business and molds. I will be developing the Fashion Dell'Arte with Arnel into an education, show, and product based company.

My last day of work will be October 31 and our last day in town will be Nov 28. Below is an invitation to our open house where we hope you can all come.

Rob and Sara's House Cooling and Open House Week

When: Friday 11/7/08 thru Thursday 11/13/08
Fri, Sat, Sunday 10am-9pm Mon, Tue, Wed 10am-4pm
Thur. 10am-9pm

Come chill out with us. Have you picture taken so Sara can make her scrap book, and let us share with you on a map where we will be moving (so you can know how to visit us). Also the next week we will be having a moving sale. Feel free to come and visit and shop also.

Rob and Sara's Everything Must Go Moving Sale.

When: Friday 11/14/08 thru Wed 11/18/08
Friday Sat Sun 9am-7pm Mon Tue Wed 9am-3pm

Van Morrison Hollywood Bowl

Thought I'd throw this up in case anyone is interested. Van Morrison is recording a live version of the Astral Weeks album Nov. 7 & Nov. 8 at the Hollywood Bowl. It is the season closer for the Bowl and the 40th anniversary of the original Astral Weeks release. It should be a an incredible evening and I highly recommend it to anyone that can make it. Susan and I have Terrace Box Seats for Saturday night and tickets are still available on eBay.Check out this link for further details. http://www.vanmorrison.co.uk/

Wherefore art thou.....

This just in from Joe Romeo, thanks to Helen!

Susan and I are now settled in Amsterdam and loving it. I'm doing research at the Academic Medical Center of the University of Amsterdam and we plan to be staying here until the end of next summer, so I'm afraid we won't be making it to the next Paradox reunion. I really wish we could have found the time to visit you before we left the country but getting everything together for this trip proved to be an overwhelming set of tasks and there just wasn't time.

Living in Amsterdam has been even better than I had hoped. I think the Dutch are an under-appreciated people (or at least the Dutch in and around Amsterdam - we haven't had much opportunity yet to travel in the more rural parts of Holland). I've been very pleasantly surprised at how warm and kind most of the people I've encountered here have been. Our daughter Annie is doing her junior year in college at the University of Paris so we've been getting to know that city as well and, while I can certainly understand why everyone raves so much about what a fantastic place it is, I have to say that I'm happy that Susan and I decided spend my sabbatical year in Amsterdam rather than in Paris as we had originally planned.

There has, however, been one major drawback during the trip... While we were in Paris six weeks ago, Susan broke her ankle. I can tell you that dealing with the French medical system would be daunting enough if you spoke the language but it is certainly no picnic if you don't. So after 2 stressful days in Paris we hobbled back to Amsterdam where we could at least understand what the doctors were saying, since most of them speak such excellent English (which, of course makes us feel like idiots for being so linguistically challenged). But Susan is out of her cast now and learning to walk like a biped again, so we hope things will be back to normal soon.

Anyway - enough of all the travelogue stuff. We are having a wonderful time here but we do miss the beautiful people at home, which is why I'm thinking of you. I hope everything is well with you and would love to hear from you. Please take good care of yourselves and give my best to all.

Losing Rob and Sara!

Bad news for us, good news for Sara's parents. Sara's mother has breast
cancer, her father is well into his 80's, they live in New Mexico. Both
Sara and Rob feel they need to go help out, soooo they are moving back to NM
in November. Sure hope they come back for our upcoming reunion. If it
wasn't for them, our last reunion would have been a disaster, they were
such a tremendous help to us. We will miss them so, but I would do the same under the circumstance.
Good luck to you Rob and Sara.

Ukulele Ladies (and Gents)

I just received my latest installment from Mr. Fretkillr (thanks Gary) and am off to find a ukulele for the reunion.











http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k0KxtvFsTzE

I think we should put together a little ukulele band. We have eight months to prepare!

Fielder Family Hurricane Ike update

Just wanted to share last emails with the Fielder's:

HI,
We wanted to make sure you got through the storm OK. Let us know how you're safe and sound. Everyone is looking forward to the next reunion and hope you can all be a part of it....
Peace,
Gary

Hi Gary,
The Fielders are all right. Did you and Jim get to talk for a while?
Alyse
On Sep 13, 2008, at 5:28 AM, Gary wrote:

On Sep 13, 2008, at 7:00 PM, Gary wrote:
Hi Alyse,
Glad to hear all is well in Texas we were all concerned for your safety. That was a whopper of a storm!
No, I haven't spoken with Jim in a while. Is he on the road again? When you talk to him tell him the Paradox crew say hey. We're hoping you can both make the next reunion.
Stay Safe,
Gary

Hi Gary,
Yes, he is in Chicago for two days and then off to Canada.
He was home for all of August, so we had a tight budget, but we were glad to have him home with us.
Thanks for your concern.
Alyse

Looking back... looking ahead!

Howdy-hey, one and all! I'd have tacked this on to your "Remembering when..." post, Dianne, but the POOP/POOF sidebar just took command of the ship! Over the Labor Day weekend I found myself doing a lot of remembering when, and found myself grinning again and again and again. Like the Paradox experience, itself, the reunion was just so enriching... such a grand and glorious time. One thing has become very clear to me: I'd have played a lot less if I knew how much I'd look back and wish I'd talked a lot more. That's reason enough to look ahead to next summer and the next reunion.

I'm glad to hear you've spoken to Hanna and Fadden, Dianne, and that McEuen is already in the loop. That's really great! Hopefully, with this much lead time, they'll be able to carve out the dates and join us. Others will also benefit from the lead time, but working/touring musicians perhaps more than most. I say let's all communicate with those we'd like to see attend... and do so early and maybe often (just this side of bugging 'em). It's hard to imagine that the next reunion could actually be any better, but if even more of the old guard can make it... quien sabes?

Yes, terrific pic choices, Dianne. One of my favorites is the shot above of our willing, able, and gracious co-hosts. My hat's still off to you two, Bob and Helen. - Tony

Remembering when....

I've been reliving the reunion, pulling a couple photos for Jimmie Fadden.

Here's one of my favorites:





I also sent him this one:



Thanks to Tony for helping preserve these great memories!

going green

Norma and I, Helen, have come up with this wonderful, never thought of
before plan. Watch for our upcoming book "Drying Solar" . I'll share
with all of you many, many Paradox Lives blog readers. You first
stretch wire or a rope (small rope) across two points, trees, poles,
buildings etc. You then attach your freshly washed clothes onto this
line. At this time, Rik and Bob are working on adevise to hold the clothes onto this rope or wire so a wind won't blow them off. Now this is not recommended to use in the rain or snow, so it's kind of a summer only modern invention. After a few hours, in warm weather, you remove these said garments from the said wire or line, fold and put away.
What do you many, many readers think? Think it will wash????

How far can you run with something this ridiculous?

C, E-flat and G go into a bar. The bartender says, "Sorry, we don't serve minors," and E-flat leaves. C and G have an open fifth between them and after a few drinks, G is out flat. F comes in and tries to augment the situation, but is not sharp enough. D comes into the bar and heads straight for the bathroom saying, "Excuse me, I'll just be a second."

A comes into the bar, but the bartender is not convinced that this relative of C is not a minor and sends him out. Then the bartender notices a B-flat hiding at the end of the bar and shouts, "Get out now. You're the seventh minor I've found in this bar tonight."

Next night, E-flat, not easily deflated, comes into the bar in a 3-piece suit with nicely shined shoes. The bartender (who used to have a nice corporate job until his company downsized) says: "You're looking pretty sharp tonight. Come on in. This could be a major development." And in fact, E-flat takes off his suit and everything else and stands there au naturel. Eventually, C, who had passed out under the bar the night before, begins to sober up and realizes in horror that he's under a rest.

So, C goes to trial, is convicted of contributing to the diminution of a minor and sentenced to 10 years of DS without Coda at an up scale correctional facility. The conviction is overturned on appeal, however, and C is found innocent of any wrongdoing, even accidental, and that all accusations to the contrary are bassless.

The bartender decides, however, that since he's only had tenor so patrons, the soprano out in the bathroom and everything has become alto much treble, he needs a rest and closes the bar.

Week in Paradise

False dawn seeps in over little Walden Pond. It is quiet now. It will be hours before the peanut competition begins. Blue Jays vs. Squirrels, with the Blue Jays holding a slight edge, but for now they are sleeping and dreaming their little creature dreams.
It's a reflective time and a chance for Ralph and I to drink up the peace and tranquility before the journey home. The week has gone by much too fast, and we're not looking forward to the smog down south, but our hearts are torn between two worlds. I miss my Susan and Ralph misses Buddy the Cat , so perhaps it is time to go.
It was a week of tranquil chaos if such a thing exists. So much to do and so little time to get it done.
Kudos to Bob and Helen for opening hearts and home to a bunch of aging Hippies, Again. For them it's always been about the musician and the music. You have to wonder if it would have turned out the same without their over the top nurturing. Shout out to Dave for rising to the occasion and delivering his best sound and recording. Thanks to Floyd and Joy for the House Concert and the use of the beautiful studio and extraordinary piano. Ralph was a happy camper. Stand by for the Ralph's Barr CD, soon to come. Bob, Harmonius Combustion, Michael Ray,Ralph, Steve,Cat, John thanks for the great music. A nod to Mothers Beach on theYuba River, for reviving our hot dusty bones.
Thanks to Daisy and the kitties for keeping it all in perspective.
For all who couldn't make it, well.....maybe next time!
We are going too miss everyone and can't wait 'till the 2009 Paradox Reunion.....PEACE Gary

news from the ranch

Wow! what a fun week we had.

On Sunday our daughter Virginia came, and on Wednesday Steve Noonan and Michaelray arrived in Michaelray's roady van, traveling around doing gigs, here being one of them. Thursday Gary and Ralph came.

The gig in Rough and Ready was so much fun. Not a whole lot of people, but those there were a great audience. It's an old school house, really a cute place.

Dave Hall did the sound, great job as usual. Bob, Ralph, Harmonious Combustion, Cat Girton, Michaelray, Steve all performed. Other Paradoxers in the audience included Rob and Steve Scaff.

Next night, Ralph, Michael Ray and Steve did a house concert at Floyd and Joy's house. Some of you may remember them from last year's reunion. That was really fun I'm told. I didn't go, but Bob and Ginny did.

Monday we all, including Dave and Tara Hall, piled into 2 cars and had lunch in the town of Washington at a old hotel that has a deck overlooking the Yuba River, awesome place! Then we spent the rest of the day IN the Yuba River, what a ball! We all turned into little kids again, splishin and a splashin'.

The very most wonderful music we ever heard, however, came from our very own deck. What a wonderful group of guests we had.

Gary is a wonderful cook by the way. Neither Gary or Ralph ever sleep! We would all go to bed, and when we got up in the morning there would always be donuts or rolls or something magically appearing. We just had way too much fun!

OK, I rickrolled you. So sue me.

Here's a column from a friend of mine, and one of my favorite writers, Jon Carroll, of the SF Chronicle. You never know what he's going to go on about, whether it's his kids, the government, philosophy, music, his grandkids.... Sometimes I'll finish the column and have no idea what it was about, but it was a fun read.

Here he goes on about old friends of ours and music I like. This one's titled "Gritty Great Bird". If you're reading this after 8/6, you'll have to click on the title in the archives column on the right.

Without further ado, my friend Jon Carroll (applause)

http://www.sfgate.com/columnists/carroll/

Every once and a while...

... a piece of music is released that is truly iconic. That recalls those halcyon days when music mattered, and when the world was ours to change, and before the kids changed it back with whatever it is that they listen to now. Jungle music. I mean, it's all just noise. I mean, where did the melodies go?

Return with me now to the 80s, when music was still music. An era of superb sequencing and amazing hair care products, and when the idiot in the White House may have been a moron, but at least he was...... Well, a moron.

I love this band. It just killed me when they broke up.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3AdFA6WWJ7E&feature=related

Gary Does The Elevator Boogie

Well we just had one of those infamous So. Cal tumblers. This one was a 5.8 centered in the Whittier Narrows.
Susan and I were at her doctors office and she was at the counter finishing up and I had just entered the small elevator alone for the trip down. I pushed the button, the doors closed and as soon as it started moving, the quake hit.
I thought the elevator had failed as it rocked back and forth. I was waiting for the big drop to come but it just slammed it's way to the bottom and then the doors opened. When I walked out of the elevator people were all over the lobby on cell phones. I thought, Wow!they must have heard the elevator slamming and were calling 911.
It never even dawned on me that it was an earth quake. It was one of those jolting quakes and I can assure you a down elevator is not the place to be!

All work and no play

Did my damnedest to clear the decks and come up for the Rough and Ready dealie, but work won't let go of me. Y'all would be finished and headed home by the time we got there. Say hi to Steve, Ralph, and Michaelray for me, and book another one soon.

I hit a milestone of sorts last week, and now have as many banjo students as guitar students. I've dressed Tex's banjo up with a calfskin head, took off the resonator and flange, raised the action, and now have the killer clawhammer axe. It sounds great for the old timey stuff, and now I have to really woodshed that stuff. It's more difficult for me than the three-finger. I only get to teach one day a week (Thursdays), so I don't have much trouble filling the roster. But I'm looking forward to the day when I can give up sales and teach full time. It's much more enjoyable, and pays better, too.

Finally got the Gayle Lynn CD in the can. As always with these things, I listen to it and all I hear is what I should have played. But it does sound pretty good for a bunch of middle-aged white people. We've put the release party off until September since everybody's off on various vacations and business trips. Norma and I are being homebodies.

That's the news from Fogtown, folks. Remember, live music is best, so go out and see some, or go out and be some.

ABSOLUTE MUST SEE

TOOOOOOO MUCH FUN!
http://www.jibjab.com/originals/time_for_some_campaignin

These Days

Over the weekend I treated myself to volumes 1 and 2 of Jackson's acoustic albums:





Listening to him sing "These Days" on Vol. I took me right back to one early evening when he took me and someone else -- one of you? -- outside, under a freeway, to listen to his new song.

I must be getting old because I felt very sentimental listening to him sing that song again.

His song "Lives in the Balance" is also eerily relevant today.

The music continues...

This just in from Helen:





























Sorry I can't make this any bigger (you can click on it to make the flyer bigger) but just in case the dates and time are Saturday, August 2, at 7:00 p.m., at the Rough and Ready Grange Hall in Nevada City, California, $10.00 at the door.

A very talented family.....

And this just in from Helen and Cat Girton:



For more information, contact cathgirt (at) pacbell (dot) net.

John Besharian anyone?

Mary McCaslin has been in touch with Bob Lesher, who was a friend of Steve and Jackson, and who is looking for John Besharian, with some round about ties to Ted Staak in Fullerton and Santa Cruz.

Does anyone have any leads on Besharian? I wonder if Rand might know?

(If any of you do have his contact info, please send it to me privately and I'll add him to my reunion list. Speaking of which, there is a "Plan B" for reunion dates because of a conflict with a city-wide race. I'll be sending out new dates to everyone soon.)

Happy 4th of July

Follow the link! http://www.jacquielawson.com/viewcard.asp?code=1540404134712&source=jl999

Hello from Mary McCaslin

From Mary:

"I have the dates you sent for the 2009 events and hope to be able to attend at least one of them. I know there's a Blog, but I've never written one and am not sure what I'd say that hadn't already been said by any of the other wonderful Paradox folks. Keep in touch and give my best to everyone. Take care."

The Ranch News

Greetings from Willow Creek Ranch.

It's maybe a good thing we aren't having a 2008 reunion this time around. Last Saturday we had an electric storm, no rain but many lightning strikes Boom, Boom, Boom, right on top of us, knocked out our power for 3 hours.

It set off 800 fires in N. California. Our air quality is yucky, thick with smoke. In the Mideast they have too much water, here we have to little. I think Mother Nature has her little jokes!

Dave Hall just had to have emergency surgery, he suddenly had his retina detach on one of his eyes. He went to the Dr. here in our area, and that Dr. sent him right down to Sacramento. He isn't allowed to come back here yet because of the elevation. He has to keep his head lowered for a few days, not fun.

On August 3rd, Steve Noonan, Michael Ray Cox, Harmonious Combustion, and Bob Sheffer are doing a gig together in the town of Rough and Ready's Grange Hall together. Should be fun.

Next reunion planned for June, 2009.

Jim Fielder Hello from Texas

Jim Fielder called tonight so I got to play a little catch-up with him. Sedaka seems to be keeping him busy these days and unfortunately keeping him away from the Left Coast. Jim was in his usual great spirits and said to say Hi to all. Sedaka will be playing at The Orleans Hotel in Las Vegas in November and I plan on going. Join us if you can. Jim is about to do some recording with his local Jazz group, so maybe we'll have some new music before long. I put a bug in his ear about Paradox Summer 2009, and we'll have to wait and see how his schedule goes. I know he'll be with us if he can. I've taken the liberty to post this because Jim doesn't do the computer thing much
(kinda like Uncle Bob)!

I found a neat website that covers a lot of Jim's history, give it a look see if you can.
http://www.united-mutations.com/f/jim_fielder.htm

Misc. stuff

No ones been blogging lately, so I guess I'll throw something up.
Steve and I went to see Ralph play at DiPiazzas in Long Beach sat. Kind of a countryish lounge band with a Nancy Sinatra-ish kind of lead singer. She was actually one of the June Taylor dancers back in the day. She actually has a pretty husky voice kind of like Judy Henske. Ralph was great as always, especially doing some vocal duet stuff with her. Good to see Ralph out playing music. Sun. I took Ralph to see Steve a friend of mine that was playing guitar in Neil Morrows Country Band at the Starting Gate, across from Los Alamitos race track. The drummer turns out to be Rhys Clark (New Zealand drummer for Billy Joel, Freddy Fender,Hoyt Axton) Jimmy Harris was playing bass (Orig. New Riders of the Purple Sage)and we got to talking about the Reunion and the old Paradox days. Some how the conversation got around to our House Bass player and it turns out Rhys Clark and Jim Fielder are good friends and have even done sessions together. He also knows and has played with Steve Gillette.
"It's a small world after all"

No Reunion Blues

• O.K. So here's the plan.
• Lets write a collective Blues...But first the rules.

NOTICE: RULE CHANGE 6/17/08

1. IF IN DOUBT SEE RULE NUMBER TWO
2. STILL IN DOUBT SEE RULE NUMBER ONE

Submit verses with add a comment

1-2-3 GO!

Anyone remember this man?

Listen to my bass man, he is lavender
His woman is his bass and he is loving her, loving her
Listen to the sounds he's giving
As he is living
True to lavender

Listen to the things my friend is saying now
A poetry of notes as he is playing now, playing now
Listen to the tales he's telling
Magic bass compelling
Lavender

Listen to my bass man, he is lavender
His fingerboard's a highway, he's a traveler, traveler
Listen to his fingers making music
Hear his soul embarking
Lavender

Listen to my bass man, he is lavender

Will the real Doctor please stand up?

We had Dr. West and his Medicine Show, but somehow we missed another famous Doctor and his motley crew of medicine men.

I think there is another paradoxer hidden therein?

And on a sadder note.....

Last week, the nation and world lost one of its greatest patriots and citizens, Utah Phillips.




For those in Bob and Helen's neck of the woods, the tentative date for the funeral is Thursday May 29 with a memorial service on the following Sunday.

Greetings from Austin, Minnesota....

... home of the world-famous SPAM museum....









....but where the big news in town is that the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band will be playing on July 17 (missing "SPAM Days" by just a week or two).











My family will be there, remembering the time that Ralph, Jimmie, and maybe Jeff and/or Bruce were all sleeping on our living room floor in Tustin, and Tiger Jim would visit with his tiger.

And I'm sure my Aunt, who was also staying there at the time, will want to remind Jimmie of the time he warned everyone to "watch their socks" because there was a crazy woman (my grandmother) who would steal them in the morning to throw them in the wash. As I recall, we had quite the house full that summer.

Happy Memorial Day weekend everyone.

This just in from Helen:

As Helen writes:

"You all remember Daisy from the reunion last Labor Day, the one that helped out on many of the songs being preformed. She and Brian, year old kitty, sleep all cuddled up.

If this can happen, why can't the world get along?"

Been to Winslow, AZ lately?

Norma and I took one of our ruin-crawls through the Four Corners area on our vacation last October. We're deeply into the ancestral Pueblan culture and have made a number of trips through Mesa Verde, Chaco Canyon, Hovenweep and a bunch of the outliers. It's another one of those academic areas where most of what we know we learned in the last 25 years.

It's lovely country, but getting there and back eats up two days either way, Nevada is in the way, and there's no route we haven't taken a few times too many. And you've seen our little red roller skate. Not much of a highway cruiser.

It's usually my responsibility to find decent food on the road, which is a skill I picked up touring, and I'm the one who's usually saying, "I wonder where that road goes", or "I've never been to X. Let's have a look." Which is exactly what I said when we were tearing up I-40 headed towards Winslow, AZ.

When we got to the "Historic Downtown" area, it was apparent that Winslow used to be a lot bigger and a lot more prosperous. I mean, they were doing their best, but as with most of the other towns of the area, the interstate bypassed it, killing off the hotel and restaurant trade. "Downtown Winslow" is two blocks with a couple of gift shops, a couple of hotels and the civic buildings. So I mialed off some postcards and made friends with one of the postal clerks wo tipped me to a great Mexican restaurant a couple of blocks from there, we enjoyed a little bit of heaven topped with chile verde. And it meant walking through the two blocks of town.

The whole point of this post is that, right in the middle of town, there's a statue of a hitchhiker right on the corner, with a mural behind him of a blonde in a flatbed Ford, and across both streets, on each corner, is a gift shop selling souvenirs, with PA speakers outside playing the Eagles version of "Take it Easy" (over and over). Both shops obviously share the same playback system.

It's the "Standing on a corner" corner, and they have a Standing on the Corner Festival every year, with bands, rides, a parade, and everything. This is what it's come to in Winslow. I wonder if Jack knows.

Lest you think I'm kidding....

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Standin%27_on_the_Corner_Park

Just thought I'd check in and see what folks have been up to. It's been a blur here in SF.

My countryesque band, Gayle Lynn and the Hired Hands, just got a two gig tour of San Francisco, including sneaking my electric guitar into what was supposed to be an all-acoustic show at the Bazaar Cafe, in Seacliff, and a nice little set at the El Rio in the Mission District, which was a benefit for the Avon walk for breast cancer. I got away with the stealth electric thing because Les, the owner, a man of taste and sensitivity, was impressed by the minisculitiy (is that a word, Diane?) of my little 5-watt tube amp.

My jazzesque operation, Annie Z and the Best She Could Do, played the same club last week in a completely acoustic fashion, with our bassist playing his new Tacoma bass guitar unamplified. It went surprisingly well, although the recording didn't come out quite like we'd hoped. Bad balance. TOO acoustic. I figure that we need 7 inputs to the board. to make it work. Two vocals, all three instruments, and a stereo pair in the house for ambience. We need to hire our own geek.

Both of these are what I call Bowling Night Bands. We don't do it for the money. We do it because not doing it leaves a hole in our lives. Annie is a schoolteacher and mother of two, Scott, the bassist, works for Ideo, a design firm, and I supply culture-hungry Marinites with fine musical instruments.

The other regular musical outlet in my life is a monthly get-together in Berkeley, called the Singthing, where about 20 or 30 of us have a potluck and sing everything we can remember. It usually takes about 5 hours. There's a core group of 3 guitars - David Gans, who hosts "Dead to the World" on PRI, and a Grateful Dead channel on Sirius, Eric Rawlins, an Appalachian music fan and singer/songwriter, and me. Eric is the meat and potatoes, David adds the spicing, and I'm... well, I guess I'm sort of a vegetable. And then there's a rotating pool of fiddles mandolins, banjos and other guitarists. A lot of pros and semi-pros show up, like Mike Stadler, Henry Kaiser, Tom Rozzum and Laurie Lewis. We've been doing this for over ten years and it's the social center of a lot of our lives. Some beautiful stuff happens at these things.

Life isn't entirely sunny. I came home from a rehearsal the other night, moved one load of equipment upstairs, and got a phone call. After dealing with the call, I went senior and forgot that I hadn't finished bringing in all my stuff. The next morning, I found that someone had broken into my car and run with my beautiful old '73 Gibson RB250 banjo. You know how these things go. It's in another state by now, and I'm going to need to buy a banjo, since I use it to teach. But I'll never be able to afford a sweetie like the one that got away. I'm being pretty buddhist about it, but I can't help feeling stupid.

Just so as not to end on a downer, here's a peppy little earworm that was sent to me by my friend Ed Ward, in Berlin. There's a kid's show on TV over there, called "Schnappi, das Kleine Krokodil", and the theme to the show was one of those out of nowhere hits that went straight to the top of the charts and drove people nuts for a month or two. It was HUGE over there. If you listen to the production, it's ludicrously low-budget, and may even have been a bedroom deal. Coupla synth tracks and a kid's voice. Don't blame me if you find yourself singing in German when you're out walking. Well, go ahead. Blame me. I'm still trying to figure out how to get even with Ed.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oe3FG4EOgyU

Can't get the damned thing out of your head, can you?

back to our world

B&H just got back from visiting with Ed and Bette. Bob who has picked and grinned Ed almost all of his life, went to visit our good friend Dory and her now husband Ted in Green Valley, AZ. Going down hwy 10 is nuts! Towns and lakes in the desert all the way. Also meeting us were Hank and Connie, great fun!

Swinging by the OC on the way home we had a super great pickin', pizza party with Steve Noonan, Ralph Barr, Jan Hampson and her guy Randy, and of course Gary, who organized it, last Thursday.

Saturday, May 3, Bob's 6 dozen Birthday, we went to the Claremont Folk Festival. What a birthday he had! The same group that came on Thursday, plus Pam and Henry, Susan, Eugenia and Pete. It was wonderful! Like stepping back into the 60's.

J.B. is so young and healthy and talented of course. We had a nice little "howdy" with him.

On the program with J.B. (this was an all day event), were great bands all day, which I won't mention, but should because they were all great. Not just bands, but dancing, and cultural groups....great!

Headlining along with J.B. was Ben Harper, too cool, and the very great and still going strong Taj Mahal, that guy Rocks! The first time we ever saw him was the Topaga Cannyon Banjo and Fiddle contest, sitting on a log pickin'. Few years ago, try 43 or so.

So glad to be away from traffic, population freeways etc. Daisy (hound dog) was waiting for us on the driveway, on the pond, a family of just hatched baby ducks, 10 of them. "ain't no place like home."

Fact: By the time we think of it, Diane Smith has already done it

Bob and Helen and Pam and Henry.....

.... attended the Folk Fest and found one of our missing Paradoxers.