All Things Green

New year!

2012-01-01T13:46:00.000-06:00

Happy new year, everyone!!!
I am attending Irish classes again. I don't have a resolution about this as much as a desire to struggle along for as long as I can manage. I'm in an accelerated group. It is taking hours and hours of time each week to prepare and learn and try to retain as much of each lesson that I possibly can.
I am also working very hard to incorporate some of the new bouzouki skills I learned through out the year. I'm busy working on a few new songs and even some tunes. I am very very excited about this.
AND, my business Virtually Treasured is growing and has more and more to offer to help organize people and their treasures. I am hoping to be busily working in the next few months.
In other news, I rang in the new year with some of my favorite musician friends at one of my favorite homes and hosts of amazing house concerts. Thank you for another beautiful new year's party, Ros and Paul. I'm looking forward to the house concert in February!

End of 2011

2011-12-18T12:55:00.000-06:00

The year is coming to a close. I have neglected this blog so badly. With Facebook allowing for quick short bursts of updates, I just forget to write about the events after the fact. Since the last post, I have performed multiple weekends at Texas Renaissance Festival with the medieval ensemble Istanpitta, I traveled to Louisiana to perform for Culture Fest in Lake Charles, I have performed two weekends at Louisiana Renaissance Festivals and I sang in Texas Early Music Project's Yule Britannia concert.

Performing with Istanpitta at Texas Renaissance Festival is a delicious change of pace for my otherwise solo traveling. Istanpitta is made up of different musicians nearly every weekend. Some people I have made music with in the past, and there were also some new faces. It is always a different and unique sound each and every time we play something.

Culture Fest was a first year festival. They did an amazing job of putting everything together. They had amazing international food choices, a diverse musical selection, and lots of displayed organizations.

Louisiana Renaissance Festival. I may have to do a special post to cover my experience there. Between Thanksgiving celebrations, fabulous hospitality, me losing my voice, and everything else... yeah, it was an experience!

Ah, Texas Early Music Project. It is such an honor to be a part of this group. I was asked to find something in Welsh. In my travels I had met a band, Moch Pryderi, that contains an expert in Welsh. I contacted him to see if he had suggestions and had time to give me some help with pronunciation. He graciously provided me with everything I needed. I enlisted the assistance of my favorite harmonizing singer, Cayla Cardiff, and away we sang.

Now, I'm in Texas in my wee office. It is the time of year to relax and define the next steps. I am focusing on some new music. I am writing a lot. I am also trying to build another business of mine, Virtually Treasured.

Merry Christmas! Happy New Year!

Internets

2011-10-27T16:29:00.000-06:00

What did we do before the internets?!?!? I love the internet. I love the evolution of technology. I think what we can do these days is absolutely incredible.

But

Remember how great you felt to get something in the mail? A card or letter from someone you haven't seen in a while? Anything???

I just got myself an office, and I would love to see something in my mailbox besides junk. How about this: You send me something and I will send something back. Don't send something elaborate - I'm a poor musician. I will at least send you a card or several post cards or something silly! The point is something in the mail that you didn't order and that is not solicitations or bills!

Abby Green
12407 E. Hwy 290
Suite 107
Manor, TX 78653

Maryland Renaissance Festival

2011-09-19T14:35:00.000-06:00

A got to play for four weekends at Maryland. With the exception of weekend one which was rained out by Hurricane Irene, the experience was a joy as always. My friend Adam played bodhran with me at pub sings (above), the audience sang along in full roaring harmony on Wild Mountain Thyme and Bold Riley, small children danced, and joyful good-natured laughter was a constant theme.

Sunday of weekend 4 was my last day this season and they titled the pub sing "It's Not Easy Being Abby Green." Many music acts and parts of the cast participate in this daily end of the day event. I sang the next to last song, an a cappella version of Bold Riley. The Pirates Royale had sung this song in years past so the audience was extremely familiar with the sing-along part. It was glorious. I received many roses that final day. I pinned them all on and sang my heart out (above). I have to concentrate not to cry when the voices fill the pub. Singing into a space filled with harmonies is one of my absolute favorite things in life.

Hurricane Irene

2011-08-29T10:13:00.000-06:00

I made my way from Texas up to Maryland last week. For those without a map, that's a long way. A completely uneventful drive. My wonderful van had not a problem. As the hours of driving continued, the temperature descended from a blazing 110 in Texas to a lovely 70 something here in Maryland.

This last weekend was the opening weekend of Maryland Renaissance Festival. I believe it is their 30th anniversary. It is a lovely fair full of great performers and good food and unique shops. I love it here. We all knew opening day would be rainy, but so many people look forward to the opening day that we all forged ahead to do what we love doing. I don't think I saw a single frown all day. I played my noon set in a fantastic metal sculpting booth (I will insert the name of booth here when I find that info). The shop owners were spectacular, and insanely talented craftspeople. It was raining steadily, but not obnoxiously. At two, I stopped in the first shop along the board walk that offered me shelter. It was actually the first shop on the boardwalk, The Tall Toad, a hat shop. Again, lovely lovely people with beautifully crafted hats. I played my songs from their shop and watched the rain go from steady to buckets. I left their shop and headed up the lane. By the way, I cheat... I have a very large umbrella to shelter myself and my instrument. I would not be able to have my instrument out in this weather without it. I stopped in a shop for a brief time watching the rain getting more and more persistent.

By this time, people were scarce. Everyone had gotten as soaked as they could possibly stand. My next set was scheduled for the bottom of the hill. I wasted some time in the shop thinking the fair was likely to call it a day at any moment. This rain was not going to stop and everyone was wearing out. Sure enough, right at 3, fair officials started running around telling everyone to close up, the fair was closing.

I made it back to the van and tried to help my friends, The Village Idiots who were here commuting from Michigan, gather their things and find each other. Once everyone was gone, I settled into the van with my computer and internet via tethering, and waited out the LOUD pounding rain. My van, or small RV, is a big metal box. The sound of things hitting it is incredibly loud. I did manage to sleep until 5:30AM when POW, something hit the van. Turned out to be a small twig. Yeah, really. It sounds like a bomb every time something hits the metal, and you can't tell where it hit. Remember that when you come by and think about knocking on my van. Knock on a window... Thank you.

The fair was cancelled for Sunday. It turned into a gorgeous day. The area has some flooding and there is some light damage. One shop had a small 4 inch hole in the roof, one tree went down. Otherwise only branches and lots and lots of rain.

I know there was serious flooding and damage in more coastal locations. I wish those folks a speedy recovery. We here are fine and looking forward to entertaining on the next lovely weekend... a three day holiday weekend!

In Texas

2011-08-19T16:48:00.000-06:00

Silver Leaf Renaissance Festival is done. I have made a trip to Texas before heading on to my next festival in Maryland. What? You say there is a shorter route from MI to MD? Eh, you don't know!
I'm in Texas to meet up with a few of my favorite musicians who have chosen by some weird reason to work with me on a new band project. When I record my CDs, I have the opportunity to capture bagpipes, flutes, fiddles, and harmonizing singers, but my music tends to be performed by solo me. Occasionally, someone will join me, but mostly, I'm on my own. I miss the harmony and the other instruments doing their beautiful interludes. So the band has been born. "Glas" is the name. It means "green" in Irish. The website is up and running. I still hope to add things soon, but we are planning to play in the fall and on into the future! Visit us: www.GlasMusic.com

Credit Card Security

2011-07-20T10:02:00.000-06:00

When traveling full time, issues arise that you just don't have to think about when you live in a single location year round. Today, I got an email from DiscoverCard. The email tells me that they sent a new card to me and I have not activated the card. And they will be de-activating my old card in a few days.
'Great, there is a credit card sitting in a mailbox that I can't get to until September, and they are going to deactivate the one and only credit card I use.' I call Discover immediately. I am greeted by the long and expected automated service and finally given the option to talk to a human being. My first human looked up my account and saw that my account had been compromised. She had to send me directly to the security department.
'Great, my account has been compromised, no one told me about this, AND they sent out a new card without telling me.... sounds like a great security procedure.'
Security guy in AZ who has an accent so thick I couldn't even tell what he said his name was tells me that it does show a compromise but he can't see exactly what it was. He then tells me that the card they sent has the same number on the card as the card I have in my hand.
'Are you kidding me? My account has been compromised and you send me a card with the same number to a mailbox I can't get to for 2 months? ANYBODY can open that envelope and use that card right now.'
He also informs me that they sent the new card because it has "increased security features". I asked what security features the new piece of plastic has that this one does not. My photo? Fingerprint technology? He said... and I quote, "I am not at liberty to say." I almost laughed except I was too mad by this point so I moved on.
My voice is rising, but I need to make sure I have my facts clear. I repeat the facts to him and ask him to verify these things: 1. There has been a compromise to my account. 2. No one at Discover told me there has been a compromise to my security. 3. A new card with the SAME number was sent to my address without notification or permission. 4. And this is secure to Discover?
Yes, yes, and yes, and yes, "that's how we do business". 'Great, cancel my account.'
Discover rep number 3. I repeated the facts above. She asked if I had reported the compromise (good question on her part) I told her no, that the representatives had told me this and Discover had not informed me of this at all. I explained that I am completely paperless and I travel constantly. Discover's choice to mail out a new card with the same account number IS a security compromise for me, and this needs to be taken care of.
She and another security officer investigated this. She comes back and explains that my old card seems to not be reading completely which sent an automatic mailing of new card - the card itself is physically compromised... they make no distinction in their notes. She immediately volunteered that indeed in my case this is not a very secure practice. She cancelled the card entirely, created a new account and is sending the new card (without my old awesome design) next day shipping to the fair I am at currently.
I expressed how important it is for things like this to be examined and choose new more secure ways of doing these things. She did seem to take this seriously... it seemed absurd to her. I do hope they do something about this. I realize it only affects one in a million persons, but actually, mailboxes in general are not that secure. Even a quick email or call to inform the person that their card is not reading well and they would like to send out a new card would allow people to watch more closely and protect ourselves better.

Silver Leaf wknd 1

2011-07-12T08:34:00.000-06:00

Silver Leaf Renaissance Festival almost did not open their doors this year. Tornado-like forces ripped through the festival site and took out large patches or trees. Volunteers and staff worked insanely to clear roads and paths and create a safe and enjoyable space. You can't really understand the severity of the damage unless you see it. The damage is still entirely visible and heart wrenching, but the space that we call the fair, is lovely and alive.

This scene in the lane was not planned. I found a nice shady spot to play my songs and before I knew it people found more benches and created one of the sweetest scenes I've ever seen. Thank you, guys!

ZoukFest

2011-06-11T16:48:00.000-06:00

This year I got to attend ZoukFest for the first time. Zoukfest is a world music festival for Bouzouki players and friends of the bouzouki. There are song classes, fiddle, flute, bagpipe, and lots of bouzouki classes. There were French, Americana, Irish, Balkan and other genres I'm probably forgetting. The teaching staff was fantastic in talent and desire to teach and share. I had an amazing time learning and meeting people. I learned enough to give me homework for at least a couple of years!

Sacred Grounds

2011-06-03T17:26:00.003-06:00

My parents moved to Ruidoso, NM, an adorable little town in the cool mountains and forests. Conveniently that's only a few hours south of my main June destination. So, I got to spend a beautiful week at my parents' home. While there, I checked out a few locations known to have live music. Sacred Grounds Coffee has light food, specialty beers, wine, coffee and music!

Dallas House Concert

2011-05-27T15:07:00.020-06:00

Thank you to Allison of the Celtic Music Circle DFW for hosting a wonderful evening house concert on my way across the country. This was the first concert I have done in the Dallas area. I'm thrilled that it all came together. Ben Weldy did a couple of opening tunes. I performed my full show and then we sat around playing tunes and enjoying the company of friends. Life is good!

Connecticut Renaissance Festival

2011-05-01T14:26:00.001-06:00

I enjoyed performing for two weekends at Connecticut. The first weekend it rained and rained and rained. That wasn't really a great enjoyable thing, but what was good was the people. Even in this rained out environment, the performers maintained such positive outlooks. There were a lot of wonderful performers and great people involved with this fair. Vixens En Garde, the Limeybirds, Bret Blackshear the magician, and harpist Kathleen Finnegan were only a few of the great folks that made this show something special.

Awesome pub

2011-04-14T13:59:00.001-06:00

If you're ever driving through Lake Charles, Louisiana, you should make a stop at MacFarlane's Celtic Pub. This place is locally owned and fabulous. It is not a sport's bar disguised as a pub, it actually is a pub. Lovely atmosphere and great food and live music on occasion. I was that live music on the 14 of April. I enjoyed the evening of people I've met and played for before, and met many more great people. Looking forward to the next time!

Sheppie House Concert

2011-04-09T13:33:00.014-06:00

Thank you to Ros and Paul Shepherd for hosting a ouse concert for me again! They graciously hosted a concert for Michelle Levy and myself in October 2009. This time was no less joyful and fun.

This time was a solo performance. This second photo is with Paul listening to one of his Favorite songs, Wild Mountain Thyme.

Sherwood Forest Faire

2011-04-03T11:19:00.002-06:00

The second season of this beautiful faire is now over.

I played my own song sets as well as lots of instrumental sets with bagpiper, EJ Jones testing out material for his new band, Brizeus.

A few times, our friend Al Cofrin showed up to play with us as well.

Until next year!!

April Fools' Day House Concert

2011-04-01T11:10:00.002-06:00

First, a huge thank you to the hosts of this house concert, Ceridwyn and Joe Mizera!!!! Beautiful home, lovely guests, just perfect!
Second, this show was a milestone for me. This was the first two hour show I did completely solo. I love the music I perform. I am so glad that so many people trust me and enjoy what I have to share.
Third, I am looking forward to next week's house concert in Houston. And many many shows in the future with and without other instrumentalists. A new show every time!

Arbor Antiques Wine Tasting

2011-03-29T11:35:00.014-06:00

This is the third time I have performed for this wine tasting evening hosted by Arbor Antiques. If you are an antique lover, Round Top, TX is probably a place you are familiar. Arbor Antiques hold a show there in the spring and fall. Great booths, great friendly people, especially on wine tasting night. I get to be a wandering musician and sing sweet songs to all the booths and strolling shoppers. Great evening :-)

Radio Time on KPFT

2011-03-19T19:58:00.005-06:00

Irish Aires played a track, "The Boatman," from my new CD and spoke very highly of it! I downloaded the show and saved it to my website. Click here to go listen to the show!

St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-17T11:16:00.016-06:00

It was a pleasure and honor to play at Things Celtic again. This wonderful store in Austin, TX is a central post of support for the entire Celtic community. They host musicians and groups who meet to learn the Irish language. They carry CDs of the local Celtic music groups. Great people, well worth a stop by the store in Austin or visit their booth at any number of Celtic festivals in Texas!

Review from 67 Music

2011-03-08T11:32:00.003-06:00

The new CD is out in the world and people are saying some great things!! This is what SláinteSteve of 67 Music had to say:

Abby Green’s second recording “Fig for a Kiss” is another delightful collection from this Texas Native, following her first cd, “Einini”, in 2008. “Fig for a Kiss” gives us 10 more traditional Irish songs, tastefully crafted and arranged by Abby in her own personal style. Abby sings many of the songs in Irish Gaelic which lends a beautiful authenticity, (she also teaches workshops in the language). Her clear voice compliments her own accompaniment on bouzouki and cittern while her talented entourage of backing musicians flavor the recording with various pipes, mandolin, and fiddle. Add harmonizing backing singers and clean, well-produced production values and instrument mixes and you’ve got one wonderful recording. You’ll put this one in your player often.

Sherwood Forest Faire

2011-03-01T11:27:00.002-06:00

If you are anywhere near Austin, Texas for the next few weeks, make the time to come out to this fair!! It is worth it. You can even camp if you like. The title of this post is linked to the festival's website. Come out, enjoy spring!

Happy Birthday, new CD

2011-02-25T11:29:00.014-06:00

UPS delivered my new CD at 3:05PM Friday, February 25, 2011. She goes by the name "Fig for a Kiss." The CD weighs in at under a pound, but if you feed it and listen to it, you will hear that it is alive, well and full of hope and joy. I am busily sending out pre-orders and promotional copies. As I send my new baby into the world, I hope it will be happy and brings happiness to others. That's what we're here for, right?

Festivals & coffee

2010-12-09T11:56:00.000-06:00

I am nearing the end of 3 full months on the road. Maryland Renaissance Festival was the start on September 11 for 4 weeks. Then directly on to Texas Renaissance Festival for 5 weeks. Then Highlands and Islands Festival in Gulfport, MS, followed by a few days in New Orleans on my way to the Celtic Nations Festival in Lake Charles, LA. Made my way to Houston to record with Michelle Levy for my next CD, then finished out the season of Texas Renaissance Festival on Thanksgiving weekend. Last week, I visited family and friends throughout west Texas and New Mexico and now I'm back in Austin, TX. Last night I had a lovely time playing at a Genuine Joe Coffeehouse with my musician friends, Jonathan Milton and Michelle Hedden. Tomorrow and Saturday evenings, I am singing with Texas Early Music Project for their Christmas concert. I will look for pics and post them soon :-)

Some time later

2010-11-15T21:20:00.001-06:00

So Maryland was awesome. I hope to be able to return to that faire at least for a short time each year.
I have performed 5 weekends at Texas Renaissance Festival with Istanpitta and this last weekend I had the honor of singing for Highlands and Islands Games and Celtic Festival. Lots of really wonderful folks there. Word is they've already decided to have me back next year!

I am now sitting in my cozy van in a state park just south of New Orleans. Didn't know there was a "south of New Orleans", did you?! There's not much real estate between New Orleans and the ocean, but here I am camping in what land there is. Of course, it is raining so much that I could just be washed away by morning. Next weekend I am playing Celtic Nations Festival in Lake Charles, LA. They have a great line up planned. I'm excited to be able to hear some great tunes.

Trixie

2010-10-15T21:21:00.000-06:00

Trixie is here!!! Trixie is a five course (10 strings set up in pairs) Irish cittern or bouzouki. She sounds amazing. There is so much richness and color. Both highs and lows come through bright and clear. She has a pick-up installed that I used to record a little bit just to compare Molly (the octave mandolin that I have been playing for 3 years). The difference was stunning. I can't wait to show you all. I am recording my next CD, and Trixie is going to make it sound richer and fuller. Gonna be great!

Adventure Day

2010-09-23T17:15:00.000-06:00

Part of why I've chosen the life I live is to see the beauty in this country as I travel. Most of the time when I'm actually traveling, as in I have a destination, I don't stop to see the sites. I just want to get to the gig. However, many of my gigs are several weeks long. I camp during the week and perform at fairs during the weekend. That means there is time to see the sites as well as practice, work on new stuff, and do the never ending office type work. There are way too many weeks that I let the practicing and office work take over. I have decided, no matter what, one day a week shall be adventure day.
Last week, I went to Sandy Point State Park. I was surprised to find a real life actual factual beach. I had not planned to find a beach, but luckily my van contains everything I own, so I hopped in the back and found my swimsuit and sunscreen and practically ran to the beach. The sand was the texture and color of "sugar in the raw". I sat on the sand with my feet in the water letting the waves roll up and splash me. It was heavenly. I'm sure the place is packed during the summer, but in Sept on a Wed, there were a few dozen cars. This park was the very last exit before crossing over the water on the Bay Bridge. It's a really long bridge and I could sit on the beach watching all of those people cross it to do whatever it is people have to do on an ordinary Wednesday.
Today, I took that bridge. It was super amazing cool. It made me think of my bridge engineer friend. I could completely see why bridges are fascinating. This bridge just seemed to go on forever. So much water to cross and all those boats down there... It was an incredible view. A little after the bridge, I took a turn down to Wye Island. My first stop was at a picnic table by the water. The ground was muddy just like a lake shore. I noticed the fish jumping and then I saw something floating and kind of white. Jellyfish! Once I noticed that one, I could see that this cove was FULL of them. If their main bodies were completely round, they would have been golf ball to baseball sized plus long flowing tentacles. After I took a picture I managed to tear myself away and moved on. Some of the trails in this park were crummy, but there were a couple that led thru the woods and ended at the water. My third stop did this and as I approached the water, a Bald Eagle flew from a tree near me. It flew out over the water safely away from the crazy red-haired girl. The trail at the end of the road was also pretty cool. There was a sandy beach at the end with fine nearly white sand. I took my shoes off and waded until I saw one of those cute little jellyfish. On the way out of the park, I stopped at the first stop where the jellyfish were numerous. The tide had come up and I couldn't see them. BUT I disturbed another mighty bird. He took off from a tree across the cove, but came back to the same tree. He stayed there so long, I had time to go to the van and grab my binoculars. An Osprey. Great adventure days. Life is good.

Maryland

2010-09-15T09:37:00.002-06:00

Ah, Maryland Renaissance Festival. There are many things about this fair that make it special. I think those things over the years have created an environment where people know they can come into the fair and just enjoy things. There is no tipping, so people stay and listen in the lanes for a few minutes. They make eye contact. They stop and chat with performers. They know I don't expect a dollar. They are free to enjoy everything without the (real or suspected) look of hope or expectation in the performer's eye. Honestly, I hate the tipping thing at a festival. I feel like I'm begging. I want people to be free to stay through the last song without thinking that I expect them to save a dollar for me. Maryland saves me and the patrons from that whole ordeal and I appreciate it... and I really do think it has shaped the way the entire fair feels. Aside from that, the layout, hilly grounds with lots of shady trees make the place a simply nice place to hang out. Even with tons of entertainment, I never have a problem with other acts' sound bleeding into my assigned space. Acts are friendly and good. It's just a good place to be.

Last weekend was Scottish weekend. This next weekend is Irish weekend and I will be performing 7 times a day. There is really no way to avoid me! Weekend after that is Pirate weekend and then Celtic weekend! I'm thrilled to be here. If you are anywhere near here during the run of this festival, it is worth a stop or a drive to enjoy a day out here!!

Silver Leaf done

2010-08-13T18:35:00.002-06:00

Silver Leaf Renaissance Festival is finished. I have been "resting" in NC for the last few days filling my "spare time" with new organizing clients. Usually, I give myself a day or two to recover from a 12 hour drive and performance weekend, but two new clients needed help with deadlines. Luckily, both clients were very eager to get stuff done. Progress keeps me going and before I knew it I was forgetting how tired I was. Tomorrow, I have a day off. I have a lot to do before I drive up to Maryland Renaissance Festival at the beginning of September.

Silver Leaf Renaissance Festival

2010-07-27T16:17:00.003-06:00

I've been here for 3 weekends so far, each weekend better than the one before. I hope that trend continues!

This is a lovely little festival near Kalamazoo, MI. Lots of good entertainment, food and funny people. There are two more weekends, so come out if you are anywhere near!

Performing the first weekend....

Who would you choose... troll or knight.... ??? :-)

The May Report

2010-05-30T21:11:00.003-06:00

Hello! I have enjoyed a wonderful month of May. First, I sold my house! I am officially homeless except for the fabulous van that I built just for this traveling purpose and some wonderful friends who let me treat their house as if it was mine. I even have veggie and flower gardens at one friend's house. I love home improvement, so it sure does help to stay awhile and paint a bathroom or something!

Other than that, I am working on tons of new music. I started working on a song in Scots Gaelic. A fabulous singer Rachel Walker has recorded this traditional song, and who better to learn from? I have several jigs in Irish and many other songs in the works... and lots of new instrumental tricks up my sleeves.

On the future performance front, I have contracts for Silver Leaf, Maryland (4 weekends), and Sherwood Forest!!! I'm thrilled and honored to be returning to all of those fairs. Now to fill in some weekends with Celtic festivals and other assorted ideas.

The final news of the month: I have ordered a Trillium 5 course Cittern. I just sent off the deposit check, and I'm still in the freaking out mode of a big purchase especially one with such high expectations. I don't want to let this amazing instrument down. I will do everything in my power to make it proud!

Here are a few photos that "Photography on the Run" caught recently.

These two were from Sherwood Forest Faire.

These two were from Scarborough Faire.

Facebook

2010-04-15T09:35:00.001-06:00

Since getting a facebook account, I have been writing in the blog less and less. I can just post a sentence and everybody I know knows what's going on in my day! So, if you want to know what's going on, just friend me there. I do have an email list as well. I send a note out only occasionally. Send me an email if you'd like to be on that list. :-)

Scarborough Faire

2010-04-12T09:18:00.000-06:00

Yeah, yeah... Are you going to Scarborough Faire.... YES, I did! I had a great time as the Visiting Musician. I sang a song with Queen Anne's Lace, I sang a song for Stonehenj, I sang at the pub sing on the King's Pub stage at the end of the day - which was a party on stage! And I sang two stage times each day at the Sea Hag Stage. It's an eating area, which means that at least there are people to witness my existence, but the sign for this stage, even if you knew I was performing, was difficult to find. I had a great time and made a few new friends and made a few people smile. Sunday, I did a lot of playing at each of the bridges. I love becoming a picturesque part of the ambience. Some of my favorite moments come in the form of small children's reactions to me, the instrument, or the songs. Very rarely is the moment captured by a photo and even rarer still that I would actually get to see the photo.
This sweet child stood and watched intently song after song. Her parents graciously allowed her to be in her own world absorbing the moment. When they asked if she would like to sit next to me for a photo, she reacted as if she had been asked to sit NEXT TO a mighty but dangerous animal that before had been able to watch from a safe distance. It's one thing to watch at a safe distance, but sit NEXT TO the lion?!?! After a bit of coaxing by Grandpa, she decided it would be ok, but just for a minute. I hope the next time I meet her, she is past her shy phase and will sing a song with me!

Music Video!

2010-03-26T19:39:00.006-06:00

I have a music video!!!

Here it is on YouTube: Click here Please leave comments and pass the link on :-)

And you can see a high resolution version by clicking HERE.

This video was done by Joe Mizera of Mizera Digital Video.

Sherwood Forest Faire

2010-03-23T19:43:00.002-06:00

First, if you have a chance, GO TO THIS FAIRE!!!! This is a first year fair that every person involved has really busted some keister. The faire is huge for a first year and it is very well thought out with only one corner cut that I have found so far, and that is that the programs are simple a piece of black and white paper... but there's at least a good map and proper schedule! I have one more weekend of performance and that is the first weekend of April... the last weekend of the faire. Seriously, come out and support this faire!! You won't be disappointed :-)

North Texas Irish Festival

2010-03-09T19:34:00.001-06:00

I can't begin to describe how excited I was when I was asked to play for this festival. This is a festival that draws 70,000 people over three days. Then, to top it off, I was asked to present a 45 minute workshop on Irish Gaelic song. I was super excited, but of course, a bit nervous about that one for sure. Everything went great. I had a lovely Friday evening set. EJ Jones joined me for the Saturday set which had quite a good audience. I taught my class Saturday afternoon and it was absolutely the highlight of the weekend. Everybody was enthusiastic and thrilled to find that they actually could learn two songs in Irish. I saw almost every student in my Sunday audience, so naturally I encouraged them to sing, and they did!! I love Irish traditional music and this was my chance to practice the tradition of passing it on.

Drum roll, please

2010-02-13T13:33:00.004-06:00

My empty 2004 Cargo Sprinter Van:

Seat covers and privacy curtain in the "private" position.

Now transformed to a wee house on wheels!
Complete with fold out bed up front, fridge, counter top, clothes bar.
PS... The floor is not pink. My iPhone cover got in the way. When it warms up maybe I'll take another photo and replace this one.

Still to go: wire drawers will go under the counter in this space at the back of the van, a shower space will go between the shelves and the bed, and a canvas/vinyl cover for the back with windows, door zipper and space for the A/C over this back door space, so the doors can be left open, but keep the bugs out and good air in.

Introducing

2010-02-10T23:56:00.004-06:00

Some fairs like to plant musicians, especially harpers, in a picturesque spot and let them play according to a schedule that doesn't require them to clear the stage for the next act because they are the only one playing in that spot. I have always loved this idea. Since I built my cart, I really enjoy sitting under a tree, being visible, but not intrusive. I have been encouraging fairs to utilize this idea. I have two fairs coming up in the next couple of months that are letting me do this. This A-frame sign should help me out by creating my own under-the-tree stage. The sign will post the times I plan to play. This along with the cart and maybe a rug will give me a mobile stage for any fair.

This was at Maryland in September. I had a mic stand which I disguised quite well. Now, I have a hidden microphone. A small mic hides in my costuming totally out of view. NOW, I'm ready! :-)

And now...

2010-02-07T21:53:00.002-06:00

2010 started with a nice relaxing brake. I have had the chance to rest, schedule a few things, and sell my car to buy a cargo van. Rest was badly needed after three months in Texas staying with friends or camping at the festival.

In the scheduling department, there are some very exciting things coming up. I'm playing for four out of six weekends of a brand new Medieval Faire near Austin, TX called Sherwood Forest Faire. They have done a lot of very good publicity, they have an amazing array of vendors and a fabulous list of performers. I totally encourage everyone to come out and support this fair.

One of the weekends I won't be at Sherwood, I will be performing and teaching at NORTH TEXAS IRISH FESTIVAL in Dallas, TX. The all caps are there for a reason. I am very very excited and honored to be performing at the second largest Irish festival in the states, second only to Milwaukee. Only a week ago, I was asked to present a short workshop on Irish Gaelic song. I'm teaching it from the perspective of a non-native speaker, and I'm really looking forward to it.

The other weekend of the six goes to San Antonio Highland Games. San Antonio is a smaller festival, but they bring in some really great musicians. I went as a patron last year and found plenty to entertain me.

When 2010 began, I set a goal to do more Celtic festivals. These two really help kick off that goal very well. I hope to catch a couple more this year. The year is still young, so I don't know what I will be doing the rest of the year, but I'm hopeful about a few Renaissance festivals as well.

Please check out my calendar for the specific dates... and the websites of the festivals for locations, etc.

Oh, the van! I am converting a Cargo Sprinter Van into a small RV. I will post some photos of my conversion work soon.

Happy Holidays!

2009-12-25T12:52:00.001-06:00

I hope everyone is safe, happy, well fed and loved this holiday season. 2009 was a wonderful year, and 2010 promises more of the same!!!

Christmas Revels

2009-12-22T21:21:00.001-06:00

It was an honor and absolute pleasure to play for Revels Houston. Revels is difficult to describe if you've never seen a production, but the bottom line is that this is a celebration. There is audience participation, choral numbers, a story line with some amazing characters. This year the theme or story was "The King and the Fool". With a heavy Medieval theme, I got to participate in the band and as a vocal soloist. We performed the show 7 times over two weekends.
We played many numbers on the stage as part of the action.
The band - Slobodan, Nikola, myself & Brady. 3 very funny guys each trying to have the best tights and hats.
We also played from our balcony.
Me with lauta and Brady with gamba.

Sure was fun, Revels Houston.... hint hint :-)

Texas

2009-11-12T20:13:00.004-06:00

I have not written one single thing about the Renaissance Festival here in Texas. This past weekend, Paul, the photographer, caught a few funny shots of me. I went through and found a couple of group shots as well.
This must be Sunday of weekend one... my dress is soggy on the bottom and Heather is wearing her cool leather Mexican hat.
This is me singing to Bacchus, god of wine and stuff like that.
Must be Al's solo. We seem to be waiting for him to finish already!!

Here at TX Ren Fest, I do double duty. I play with Istanpitta and I also play solo in the lanes with my wee amp in my wonderful wooden cart - the amp is in the cart, not me. This photo is quite possibly when I had a back up "singer"... He was an otherwise completely ordinary looking patron who was with a small quiet group of people. We joked around and I told him I was auditioning back up singers for my act. A couple songs later, we continued to joke and I reminded him of the audition. The next song he did little backup lines just like the Bob Wills songs... I was probably waiting for his line... and trying to keep a straight face.

Triumph

2009-11-04T11:53:00.003-06:00

So... 2009. 2009 was supposed to be my year on the road, the year that I just try to get a few fairs and see what it's like to be a traveling homeless musician. It's the beginning of November, and I'm feeling pretty triumphant about 2009. I sent out gabillions of publicity packages and CDs. I filled 29 weekends with festivals. I met so many new friends. I learned so much about performing, purchased an amplification system, and built myself a cart for the fairs. I can't imagine how many miles I've added to my car. I have performed literally from coast to coast. And, I know this one is going to be a shocker, I made a living decent enough to eat! All of these things are so much more than I expected. When I started 2009, I knew had a couple of gigs with Istanpitta and an 8 week fair in Arizona. The rest was a wait and see kind of thing. I've taken a lot of risks. I've had more than a few anxiety attacks. I've worried, but mostly, I've been very very happy. I've been so happy to be able to go out and drive around the country singing and playing and learning. I've been so happy to be able to make all of these choices. I've been very happy to feel supported. Friends have offered beds or couches, food, margaritas. Life has been so good. Between hard work and a little luck, this year has exceeded all expectations. I am so grateful to all who played a part in this... that means YOU! :-)

Houston House Concert

2009-10-29T21:16:00.000-06:00

This was a fantastic experience. I had a feeling that this format would be just the thing for me. Sharing my favorite music, feeling casual and surrounded by friends (brand new and long standing)... it was just the thing, and even though the weather turned nasty, we had a pretty full house!

Michelle Levy joined in with her fabulous fiddling and improvisation skills. It is such a pleasure to provide a supporting rhythm for her tunes and I love the way she fills in my songs.

Things Celtic

2009-10-26T19:18:00.001-06:00

I've always loved Things Celtic - lovely Celtic gifts and treasures. The store also hosts Irish classes, St. Patrick's day celebrations and small concerts. I've played there several times. This time I brought Michelle Levy. We had a lovely informal sharing of songs and tunes with friends and folks who stopped for a little Monday happy hour. My friend JoAnn Grant took lots of photos.

Live on the radio!

2009-10-26T19:03:00.003-06:00

Michelle Levy and I performed on KOOP 91.7 in Austin on the show What's a Girl To Do hosted by Lisa Schneider. Part of the broadcast can be found here on the show's MySpace page.
It was exciting and fun and a total honor... and it was scary!!! She took these photos of us. Thank you, Lisa, for everything!!

Recording

2009-10-12T17:44:00.000-06:00

My friend and singing buddy, Ceridwyn, and I sang on a CD project for John Ross a few years ago. He loves us so much he invited us back to harmonize a couple tracks on his upcoming CD. He is an eclectic song writer musician who puts his heart into music for all the right reasons. He is awesome to work with and an inspiration... for sure!
Abby & Ceridwyn.... Awwwwww.
Serious Abby.
Glorious Ceridwyn!

Boxes

2009-10-05T23:46:00.000-06:00

I've been making stuff again - boxes. They are made to be instrument cases, but I suppose you could use them for other things. These are the very first wooden boxes I made. I have another one almost done. I am hoping to be able to sell them in coordination with an instrument maker friend of mine. The boxes are 24 X 6 X 9.

Green leather, copper rivets. Experimental style. Cool, but it was pretty hard to get this look. This may be a one of a kind.
Black leather, copper rivets. Future cases will likely use a heavy green leather, silver rivets/snaps, and fasteners like this box. Price tag: $150.

Irish weekend at MD Ren Fest

2009-09-22T19:38:00.003-06:00

My second weekend at Maryland was Irish weekend and it could not have been more perfect in every way. The high for both days was about 72. People were friendly and in the Irish mood. This photo comes from Hilton. I liked it because most of my mic stand blends into the trees in the background! Using the amplifier was wonderful, by the way. It gave just enough that I could relax and offer the music rather than push the music. I think people noticed the difference.

Maryland weekend one

2009-09-15T09:34:00.003-06:00

Maryland is beautiful! The fair is adorable and packed with music and entertainment for all ages. This is the first major event for the amplifier and cart. I think they did pretty well. I still need to learn how to sing into a microphone more consistently, but lots more people could hear me. I entertained a herd of little girls who danced and danced. My friend, Russell, took this photo and dragged my cart for me a few times. I am eternally grateful for Russell's help!

Next weekend is IRISH weekend! I just checked the weather and it looks like it will be positively perfect!!!!

New cart

2009-08-31T14:46:00.003-06:00

I have needed some sort of CD cart for a while. I've had a couple of different bags and bags or baskets seem to work for a lot of solo musician types. I have felt like I need to get things up off of the ground and have a way to move things around a fair without tons of set up involved. I also need to be able to eventually pack it down small for car travel. During Silver Leaf, I decided to experiment. I bought this little plastic fold up cart at the local big mart store. It turned out to be a whole lot sturdier than I expected. I did cover it with fabric, and there were things that worked, but a LOT of things that did not. The fabric would shift and fall off when rolling around. Setting up the tray on top for CDs and then getting into the cart for the capo I forgot was all a big hassle. Also during Silver Leaf, I made the decision to purchase an amplifier. If / when I made this purchase, I knew I would definitely need something to make moving the amp and my CDs around a fair easier, and I would prefer to make the amp as invisible as possible. Still, I would like to pack everything down small for travel.

The wooden cart was born. I used the plastic version as my model. The sides fold in and make the whole thing flat. The shelves push the sides out to keep everything expanded and strong. The bottom portion with the curtain is big enough for the amp. If I am at a fair where the CD sales need to be in one place and the amp in another nearer to me, I can take the amp out of the cart... hence the curtain. I considered making it more of a carved wooden face but that would mean the amp would have to stay in the cart and with fairs, you never know what the set up will be. Flexibility is crucial to survival. I am very happy with the results. It's sturdy, the wheels roll very well, and there is lots of space for CDs and supplies... and there is room on the front for a sign. I get to try it out for two weekends in Maryland starting Sept. 12!

On the Radio!!

2009-07-20T14:13:00.003-06:00

Ceridwyn called me this afternoon to tell me I was on the radio! KOOP 91.7 in Austin has a show on Mondays 11-12 called "What's a Girl to Do?" Lisa, the host, focuses on female musicians. Today's show featured a cappella artists and so she played my Bheir Mi O track. I wish there was a podcast to share with you, but alas. You'll have to start tuning in just in case she plays me again! By the way, you don't have to be in Austin to listen. You can listen to the radio on the internet... fancy, huh? For future reference this was show number 38.

Silver Leaf Renaissance Festival

2009-07-19T14:04:00.000-06:00

Two weeks done here in Michigan with three more to go. The setting is beautiful, the weather has been amazing. Everybody has been wonderful. I have an insanely fantastic camping area. There are a few mosquitoes to keep you on your toes and the berry tree above my car is going to make the car polka dotted before I leave here, but I suppose it's time for a new look.

My stage is by the beer. I am sharing my stage with the Limeybirds. I've shared a stage with them before when Istanpitta played at Greater St. Louis Renaissance Festival. They are a hoot and make the day go by with a few extra laughs.

Asheville

2009-07-05T10:04:00.002-06:00

My resting place for the week is beautiful Asheville. After a few weeks in Austin and 9 days in California, one week of relaxing in Asheville doesn't quite seem to be enough. I have unloaded from the past trip and sorted it all.... now I'm packing for Silver Leaf Renaissance Festival in Michigan. I need to open the pop-up and take out some things I won't need for this trip, but overall, the packing doesn't look like it will be that tough.

My other project of the week has been to learn a couple of tunes on the "bombard" or "sopranino shawm". It's really a bombard (traditonal Breton double reed instrument - really loud), but it basically qualifies as a shawm. The only difference is that the bombard has a key for the low F. A high shawm would not. And the shawm would probably be made of a lighter brown wood. Whatever... I'm practicing on this because I need to gain and maintain the power to blow that hard, and I need to learn fingerings for an F shawm because I have a real F Alto shawm on order from Joel Robinson. I am very excited. My fingers become less retarded each day.

New video

2009-06-29T01:28:00.001-06:00

Please visit my youtube page and check out the new video Michelle and I made... a comment and a nice rating would be nice too!!!

www.youtube.com/abigailgreen

Berkeley, CA

2009-06-24T20:57:00.002-06:00

I'm staying with Michelle at her place in Berkeley while we rehearse and do two performances of "The Love Show". This is the view of the bay and the mountains from her back porch.

This is the same view today. And it's COLD!

Dog

2009-06-23T22:02:00.000-06:00

This is "Flash" of Berkeley, CA.

Dog snugglin' in. Main objective: to look as cute as possible. Objective achieved.

Reason for objective: the REAL objective... lure human into thinking dog is harmless.... then maul human.

Today

2009-06-21T14:34:00.002-06:00

Today I'm flying from Austin to San Francisco!! I am performing with Michelle Levy, Shira Kammen, and Tish Berlin for her vielle recital extravaganza. "The Love Show" will be Thursday evening and then we get to do a shortened version on Sunday night for the San Francisco Early Music Society's Med-Ren workshop. Michelle and I started the idea of "The Love Show" in 2007 when we were left to our own decisions one weekend at Texas Renaissance Festival. Our audience showered us with roses as we played songs of love and proclaimed our love for the world. There will be pictures, audio and video if everything works as planned!

June so far

2009-06-20T13:54:00.000-06:00

I've been in Austin for a few weeks now. My fabulous host has been, well, fabulous. Ceridwyn and Joe have let me stay in their home, set up my mobile office, use their kitchen and Joe has made the most awesome meals... THANK you!!!!

This is my mobile office. The blue, clear and white bins are from the current organizing job. The last few weeks I scanned all the copies of music in these bins and created a database that tells which disc the pdf of the piece is located. Organizing Abby comes with all you see here: scanner, printer, computer, toolbox o' stuff and even a chair! Just add junk :-)

Middlefaire Fantasy Festival

2009-06-09T14:15:00.000-06:00

This was a first year fair that will be fun to watch grow into a real live event. I and two other musical acts were scheduled for the pub stage. This is a good thing if for nothing else, the pub is a building and therefore not out in the sun! This is Texas in June after all. We all played and had a good time. Many fair fans and friends came out to partake in year one. As I began writing this, I realized I did not have one single picture, and I'm not remembering any being taken either.

A Guest Room fit for a Guest

2009-05-27T14:28:00.002-06:00

I was asked to make curtains and a bed cover for this cozy guest room. The front with the long celtic knot work design and the top which you can see in the second photo are hand quilted. It took me a while, but I think it was worth it.

Shawm workshop

2009-05-21T14:02:00.000-06:00

If you have any interest in Medieval/Renaissance wind instruments, look into this workshop. I am a total beginner. Bob Weimken and Joan Kimball of Piffaro lead the lessons and playing. They were amazing and inspiring. Each morning we had technique lessons that I'm pretty sure we each got something out of even though we were players of all levels. The group was small enough that we all got very individualized attention. I brought to the workshop a Cronin alto shawm in G. I was also able to play a Joel Robinson alto shawm in F. Everyone was willing to share and encourage.

Quiet month

2009-04-27T13:15:00.003-06:00

It's been sort of a quiet month. I left Arizona and drove as fast as my car and trailer would allow to get to Austin to pick up Michelle from the airport on Monday... Yes, that's right. Phoenix, AZ at 7PM Sunday night, Austin, TX 7PM Monday. I was beyond exhausted, but Michelle, EJ, Ceridwyn and I went for Mexican food and margaritas. Tuesday Michelle, EJ and I played a wine tasting evening in Round Top, TX. That was fun and good to be with my bestest friends and favorite musicians.

For the next two weeks, I organized for people in Austin. It was great. I scanned, I shredded, I even crawled into an oven-like attic and pulled down stuff that clearly did not need to be saved. Then I stopped for a weekend of organizing in Houston and then made my way to the beautiful springtime Asheville, NC.

Asheville is such a glorious place to rest between works. The mountains and river and greenness really help me recharge my energy. Plus I get to play tunes every evening and experiment on new accompaniment patterns... I love it!

Next is a trip to Indiana for a SHAWM workshop. I'm really excited!

Arizona wrap up

2009-03-30T12:24:00.007-06:00

Arizona Renaissance Festival is over. It was exactly the experience I wanted. The fair itself and the people involved exceeded my expectations in just about every way I could have imagined. I found a few photos of my performing.

Jason Parker of the Yellow Pages took this cute stage photo.

Raven took these two performance photos.

Thank you to everyone who made me feel so at home and made me laugh and fed me and everything else. I hope to see you all again next year!!

Look what I found

2009-03-15T08:36:00.000-06:00

I almost stepped on this little guy. He held still long enough for a picture and away he went.

Experimentation

2009-03-09T10:08:00.001-06:00

Life is a journey for learning. That's one of the reasons I love music so much. The journey will never be over. There's always something to learn, either within music itself or with the act of performing and/or seemingly unrelated things like fixing a flat tire on the way to a gig.
The last five weeks here at Arizona Ren Fest, I have had a safety set of songs ready to be performed especially for those times when I have a full audience. Even with my safe set of songs (songs that I know so well that even a screaming child covered in bells hanging from the rafters of my stage couldn't mess me up) I still experiment. Performance is more than just singing a song. It would be a pretty boring show if I stood on the stage, sang eight songs carefully and then went away. Many of my songs are not in English. I translate them with some liberty and lots of energy. It's actually the songs in English that I have a harder time finding something funny or at least interesting to say. Over these five weeks I have been slowly collecting the lines and jokes that work. I have also introduced a few new songs to my stage performing. This has been such a great time.
I realized this morning that I could summarize all if this as my goal for how I want to perform. I want to present real music with an entertaining sense of humor. I don't want to do the same ol' stuff. I don't want to talk down to peoples' intelligence. I just want to be able to be entertaining enough to give people something real and let them enjoy it.

Top of the World

2009-03-06T14:18:00.000-06:00

Some friends and I climbed the Peralta Trail. It is a pretty well established path, but it's not a piece of cake. The path is very rocky, some spots are very steep and it's about two miles to the destination.
The great part about this trail is that at every rest spot (which seem to make themselves known without signs or benches) we would turn around toward where we had been and a new layer to the view had been added. It was really spectacular.

The destination: Weaver's Needle.

A story

2009-03-03T14:21:00.000-06:00

I wish that I had a photograph to go with this story, but all I have is an amazing moment that I hope I can describe to you.

Saturday at the fair went well in spite of my runny nose and watery eyes. I ate fantastic barbeque at a friend's place and made it back to my bed just after 10. One dog WAILED in a shrill barky howly way until about 11:30. After that, my sinuses and weird dreams kept me from sleeping much. I decided that I would give myself a break and promised to take it easy on Sunday. I prepared myself for a crummy day.

I sang a couple of songs at my first set when a dad carrying his three year old red haired daughter came in to take a seat. I always take a second to say hi to the young kids. Dad said she saw me and wanted to come listen. I told her we must be sisters because of our matching hair. I sang another song and at the end I heard the dad chuckle and tell the little girl "I don't know, you'll have to ask her." I looked at her and asked what her question was. Dad answered that she wondered if I would sing Twinkle Twinkle Little Star. I told her that I would if she would come sing it with me. She ran up and stepped onto the stage as if I was someone she had always known. I knelt down to her level and she latched onto my right arm. I asked her how the song starts. She shyly mumbled that she didn't know so I suggested that I would start it. She remained glued to my arm while I sang to her. When I finished I told her that that was great. I love that song. She was delighted and went back to her dad and they listened some more.

Those are the moments that make a clogged head and howling dog worth it.

Trying again

2009-02-25T20:20:00.000-06:00

When a blog entry is lost to technology failures, Abby gets just a tiny bit fussy. Seven hours later, I'm willing to give it another try.

I got to go hiking for birds the last couple of days. The weather was amazing and the birds have been singing.

This is a view from Lost Dutchman State Park. The desert is green. Can you believe it?

Three weeks are done. Nine performing days are over. We have five more weekends left. I'm sure it will get hotter and hotter, but hopefully that will bring out many happy people.

Arizona

2009-02-17T15:34:00.003-06:00

This is my stage.... the best smelling stage at the fair with the coffee and cinnamon rolls scenting the air all day long. Much better than the stage near the elephants.
Looking down an otherwise boring street I could see the sun set with the distant mountains.

Happiness

2009-02-13T11:30:00.001-06:00

I have a fabulous bed. I have a roof over my head. I have a shower and food and a place to cook it. And my small space is pretty and comfortable.

What's even better is that everyone out here on this first big adventure has been so nice. I went to book club on Tuesday. We were having so much fun that we all went to see Coraline in 3D and out to eat and out for laundry. It was a great day. I miss people and I miss having a fridge, but I look around at what I have and I feel so happy and lucky to be able to be doing this.

AZ Ren Fest

2009-02-09T13:39:00.002-06:00

Weekend one was perfect and disgusting packed into 48 hours. Saturday was a perfect first day on the job. The weather was sunny and 65. The gate count wasn't huge, but good enough to give me a friendly audience on every set. I'm assigned to the tiny stage near the front gate. The stage catches people as they come in - sort of. People are looking at the schedule deciding where to go next, but often people would stop to get their coffee and pastry which is right next to me, and then stay to listen. I felt good about my playing and singing and people were very happy and receptive to my silly translations and songs.

Sunday was wet... Multiple downpours with some hail thrown in for fun. It was cold enough that after 8 hours, I was pretty much frozen. I managed to have fun despite the fact that I made exactly $4 in tips - bless those sweet people :-) One of my "set" times, I chose to visit the court who is set up in the lane in front of my stage. They have a large covered space. They were super friendly and one woman was learning a few of the songs I sing from the McLaughlin book. She enjoyed singing along and I enjoyed the company. By my last set at 4:30 the fair was clearing out but it finally stopped raining so I played at the lane for the folks that were left or were leaving.

At the end of the day, there is a group sing-along to my favorite song in the history of the world. In case you are new to sarcasm, you might not notice the sarcastic tone of that last sentence. And for anyone in the group here at AZ Ren Fest, please don't take offense, I will be happy to tell you the story... and in the meantime, torture me each and every end of fair day with this adorable song that I will forever love to HATE! :-) And, NO, I won't tell anyone what song it is... I can just imagine receiving every known recording out there... urf and ouch.

Patrons were great as I said, but I was even luckier to find that there are some seriously talented people out here who are supportive and friendly. It is really the experience I hoped it would be.

Photos to be posted later... one friend got many really good shots. I'll post some of my own pics, but they are without the action of the fair because I can't take pictures during fair hours.

done for now - inside

2009-01-29T20:01:00.003-06:00

Before... note the moldy canvas and nasty curtains.

After... note the shower, clothes rod, new mattress and curtains.
Before... note more moldy canvas and one original built in thingy that was barely standing
After.... aaaaaahhhhhhh.....

done for now - outside

2009-01-29T18:12:00.005-06:00

Before:

After:

Before:

After:

Frozen Iowa

2009-01-25T19:56:00.000-06:00

We went outside to go to rehearsal and found snow everywhere.

Arkansas

2009-01-23T13:12:00.000-06:00

Arkansas was very dark. It was probably a lovely place, but this was all I could see for six hours.

I was very grateful to be able to follow those trucks ahead of me.

McNeese Banners Series

2009-01-22T11:23:00.000-06:00

We played for four schools in the Lake Charles, LA area. Strangely, the acoustics were pretty good in this gym :-) we had a great time and so did the kids and teachers.

Driving

2009-01-20T15:41:00.001-06:00

Leaving Asheville this morning, there was snow on the car and some frost on the windows. This is 8:01 AM.
Driving directly west at sunset is painful but kinda pretty. This is 6 ish PM. I finally arrived at the casino at 10 PM.
We are performing the next couple of days at several elementary schools.

Can't visit Louisiana without petting the gator statue.
This is in front of the wallpaper. Nightmares, anyone?

Coming together

2009-01-19T15:52:00.004-06:00

This first photo is supposed to show SNOW. There were BIG flakes falling. I think the iPhone camera doesn't care to capture snow, I suppose.

Here is the pop-up. Clean, ceiling painted, all new canvas, that IS green vinyl above the beds, incredible Roman style shades, and new fabulous beds!

I am leaving town tomorrow morning for Louisiana. When I come back, I have some interior projects planned for my last 5 days in Asheville before I drag this trailer out to Phoenix. I am so excited and proud of this trailer. It is so amazing to step inside and turn 360 degrees around and see this amazingly hard work actually up and performing real life duties.

5 Minute Mug Cake

2009-01-17T10:55:00.003-06:00

My friend Stacie sent this to me. I immediately scanned the kitchen for the ingredients... no chocolate of any sort and no oil. Well, you know me, I decided to make it anyway. Mine would be vanilla and I would use butter instead of oil. Here's the recipe followed by my personal results....

5 MINUTE CHOCOLATE MUG CAKE

4 tablespoons flour
4 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons cocoa
1 egg
3 tablespoons milk
3 tablespoons oil
3 tablespoons chocolate chips (optional)
a small splash of vanilla extract
1 large coffee mug

Add dry ingredients to mug, and mix well. Add the egg and mix thoroughly.
Pour in the milk and oil and mix well. Add the chocolate chips (if using)
and vanilla extract, and mix again.
Put your mug in the microwave and cook for 3 minutes at 1000 watts (high).
The cake will rise over the top of the mug, but don't be alarmed!

Allow to cool a little, and tip out onto a plate if desired.
EAT! (this can serve 2 if you want to feel slightly more virtuous).

Anticipation....

It ain't purty, and it's bouncy, but strangely... well, OK, it's not very good, but that's probably because of my substitution. I WILL try again.

The kids on "Stuff on my Cat dot com"

2009-01-16T21:47:00.002-06:00

Featured January 13, 2009

www.stuffonmycat.com/Misc.-On-My-Cat/20090113-lilly-liam.html

Fabulous Michelle Levy painted Liam there... Lilly is trying to take credit. Michelle can be found HERE!

One end done!

2009-01-16T10:49:00.003-06:00

I completed one of the ends just now! One end is basically like making a whole tent with vinyl and heavy canvas. It was an athletic event just to keep the materials under the needle. I broke a total of 5 needles and countless pins on this end... 4 of those were needles I bought that said they were good for vinyl, canvas and leather.

Here it is draped in place. It's SEVEN degrees Fahrenheit today and draping was as good as my fingers would do. You get the idea.

And now for the other end.

Broken Needles

2009-01-11T19:32:00.002-06:00

No cool pictures to show today. I'm almost done with the roof. Now it looks like it did when I started, so a before and after picture would be pretty boring. The wet, rotting, moldy wood in the top has been replaced, so far all the pieces are fitting back together. Hopefully, the sun will come out tomorrow and I can finish things and we can re-attach the roof to the pop-up. Cross your fingers that it closes and latches properly!!!

So, what I really wanted to talk to you about today is needles. My sewing machine is your typical everyday machine and it's 10 years old. The machine seems to be chuggin' right along... but the needles, well, the needles are bending and/or breaking pretty frequently. I'm actually surprised that it's even attempting some of the stitching I'm passing under the needle. When the pieces are folded and joined there can be up to 7 layers of vinyl with 6 layers of canvas AND a zipper. Sometimes that's just too much. The needle skews off to to left and snaps. Sometimes if it just bends, I grab the pliers, bend it back and make the next stitch. This makes for slow sewing, but it's coming along.

Crazy

2009-01-09T19:10:00.001-06:00

I now know the definition of crazy. Someone who rebuilds something with no previous experience or knowledge - pretty much crazy. Yesterday, I spent the day remaking the second easiest canvas panel. I get really nervous about midway through construction. The seams have all been ripped. I can't decide NOT to rebuild. What if my pieces don't match?!?! So the first few stitches are high stress. Then there comes a point when I say oh who cares, it'll be good enough. And then to the finish line. To see the brand new completed panel is really wonderful. This is one of the most rewarding projects ever.

Today, it was sunny. There was ice on the tarp from an old rain puddle, but that made it easy to get rid of the water. That piece of ice did not melt all day long. I rebuilt the wood parts of the roof. The ceiling really wasn't too bad, but the sides along the ceiling were wet, rotted and moldy. I ripped fabulous new ends. Then, luckily one of the side boards was fairly intact. I laid it on the wood and traced it. I set my saw rip measure thingy and then noticed that my measure thingy wasn't correct for the end of my cut... Oh for heavens sake... The side boards have a slight curve. All this time literally ripping things up and I didn't notice the sides weren't just straight rectangles. Weird. I stopped working when my back hurt so much and I was loosing the ability to drill in a screw. I went in, took some ibuprofen, and took a nap. Much better now.

Yup, day 3

2009-01-06T19:12:00.002-06:00

It rained all day. After the matresses, I thought I would be done for the day, but I decided to go ahead and just see how difficult it would be to remove and copy the canvas parts of the pop up. I chose the smallest easiest piece. An hour later I am eased to present the first of the canvas chunks. In case you are wondering if replacing the canvas is really necessary, I included a photo of the original piece as well. Yuck... yes, that's mold, and yes, I am being very careful.

Day 3, I think

2009-01-06T14:52:00.001-06:00

I just started and already I don't know what day it is. Yesterday, I needed to remove 8 bolts to get the top off. 5 came off with some special spells and curses. 2 came off with some serious cursing, WD40, and some manly strength. The last one, we tried one of those "grip-it" bits... Didn't work. So, we just drilled into the screw until the head of the screw came off. Way easier solution. I plan on remembering that one. In the end, we did get the top off, and then it was too dark to do any more.
Today, there is rain. Rain. Rain. So, I went to the foam and fabric store. I got new foam for the matresses and canvas to begin work on the sides of the pop up.
Oh the rain, it rains. At least the top is off!!! Hooray!!
Sewing day.
Completed matresses along with the wood and styrofoam for the top when it decides to stop raining.

Day one: Destruction

2009-01-04T15:54:00.002-06:00

We set the pop-up up with a large carport tent over it.

Then I proceeded to destroy it. The top has to come off completely so that I can seal and basically rebuild it. The canvas pieces are going to be replaced as well. The parts that are vinyl and the screens will be re-usable.

Time for a trip to Home Depot or Lowe's.

Packed

2008-12-30T10:09:00.001-06:00

Empty.

Full. VERY full.

-- Post From My iPhone

Time to pack

2008-12-29T22:26:00.001-06:00

This is the pile of stuff that I need to cram into my VW Beetle. Not shown are the two suitcases, two boxes of CDs, my sewing machine, and my instruments. Good thing I've been playing a lot of Tetris lately.

-- Post From My iPhone

6 days to go

2008-12-24T21:44:00.000-06:00

I have been working like crazy to get the house and myself ready for the road. The following may sound like I am making huge sacrifices, but keep in mind that I have wanted to do this for so long that this month has been strangely one of the lowest stress times I've felt in a long time (well except for the Lilly search, but now even that is perfect).
I have sold or given away almost everything I own. My philosophy is this: what goes around comes around. I don't expect those exact items to come back, of course, but hopefully, when I want to settle back into the world, things I need will present themselves.
I have worked very hard on finishing details for the house. Carpet, paint touch-ups, bathtub work... It looks really great.
I have scanned ALL of my documents. I no longer have any paper files. By the way, I offer that service in my organizing bizness!
Through all of this work, I feel very at peace. No matter what happens this was the right thing to do in this moment.
Merry Christmas!

-- Post From My iPhone

House for sale

2008-12-18T20:48:00.000-06:00

Deciding to go on the road was a pretty big decision. Along with it came even bigger decisions and processes. I decided that in order to really put things in motion, my actions should reflect the acceptance of every possibility. I decided to put the house on the market. If it sells, there will be completely new options when I choose to settle back into a world with ceilings and plumbing. The other huge and difficult decision was to give up my furry partner of almost nine years. That blob on the floor is my cat, Lilly. She has been with me through so much and she has always truly been MY cat. The last couple of weeks, I went through watching two possible options for Lilly fall through. The second one, quite honestly, nearly ended the idea of going on the road. Then three friends pulled me back up. I sent out another plea via email... This time with time running out. I got a response from a wonderful loving person who after meeting Lilly this afternoon, called to say she would like to adopt Lilly.

-- Post From My iPhone

Gadgets for the road

2008-12-09T11:49:00.001-06:00

Yesterday I got an iPhone. I can take pics and do email anywhere and I can post blogs!!! This morning I took Lilly to the vet. She was nervous, but she was calm and SOOO good. I took her pic with my phone and now I'm posting. This is so cool!

-- Post From My iPhone

Trailer Hitch

2008-12-03T11:59:00.002-06:00

I went to the trailer hitch store today. I have a VW Beetle. When I called around to ask about towing with it, I got a couple of chuckles, a couple of people got online on my behalf to look up some things, and this custom hitch place that has treated the whole idea with an attitude of "why the hell not?" Even at that, there has been some issue as to whether it would even be possible to attach a hitch and then to actually tow with this car. After much debate and a trip to the custom place, it has been decided. Tomorrow a hitch will be installed. I am so thrilled. This is a puzzle piece that has been uncertain. I want to go on the road. I could go on the road without a pop-up trailer, and just sleep in a tent, but the pop-up would be so much more comfortable and weatherable. I love to camp, but this year at TRF sleeping on the ground was a little rough.

I hope I don't tear up at the custom hitch place tomorrow. I'm really that excited.

Arizona!

2008-12-02T12:02:00.002-06:00

I just got word that I will be at the Arizona Renaissance Festival for all eight weekends!!!! I am so thrilled, excited, etc.... So many things are about to change in my life in big big ways. I have to get prepared to be on the road for three months, possibly (hopefully) more. I better finish this blog entry so I can get to work! :-)

On the Radio!

2008-12-01T17:05:00.002-06:00

Bill & Emily of "Constant Billy" host the radio show, Irish Aires, on KPFT in Houston, TX. I tuned in on Saturday and heard myself!! You can listen to the show HERE! Wyndnwyre, Clandestine, and Teribus are also on this episode. Enjoy the show!

Things Celtic

2008-11-26T07:48:00.003-06:00

It was a really wonderful afternoon filled with friends and family and some good music, if I do say so myself!
Singing Bheir Mi O with the pipes droning.
Looks like a happy song.
EJ played beautifully. I hope there are many opportunities to play music with him in the future.

Friday, Nov. 21

2008-11-18T18:25:00.002-06:00

Just a reminder that if you are in the Austin area, leave work early and come to Things Celtic at 4:30. My CD release party will be lighthearted and informal. The store closes at 6, but the party just might move to a nearby Mexican food place. EJ Jones will be there to add pipes and flutes. This is free and I promise, it will be fun!

Weekends one & two

2008-10-20T22:08:00.003-06:00

Weekend one was great. The first weekend is always exhausting just trying to get used to the whole routine again. The first day was my birthday. I managed to turn every song we played into a song celebrating my birthday. Since all the songs are in foreign languages and I get to translate them all for our audiences, it wasn't very hard.

My friend Cayla came out for the first weekend to see what it is like to do what we do. She is one of the funniest people I know. It was great to have her there to laugh with.

I did a few of my own sets - my own music, not Istanpitta. I had a great time, and scoped out a few good places to sit in the shade and play some music.

Second weekend.... We had the same 'Pitta crew, but this time, Joachim and I were preparing to play for weekend three without Al. I played saz most of the weekend. Joachim and I came up with a list that both of us could live with and we let Al play his Citole (aka medieval ukulele).

I did more of my own sets in new places. There is a long path with a "creek" (it's probably some nasty ditch) near Sherwood Forest. It is totally shaded and peaceful. I really liked playing back there. Not as much traffic, but more people got to stop and chat without feeling rushed through the hustle and bustle of the regular fair setting.

I got to hang out with my friend Pinocchio who brought by the pictures he took from Middlefaire. Yay, pictures!

TRF definitions

2008-10-17T12:15:00.003-06:00

Before I get started with the Istanpitta news for TRF 2008... here are a few definitions so you aren't totally lost.

"TRF" abbreviation for Texas Renaissance Festival

Istanpitta Personnel in order of appearance:

"Al" 1. director of Istanpitta, 2. owner of more instruments than should be legally allowed on one insurance policy, 3. NASA engineer nerd (he actually works there)

"Joachim" 1. funny guy, 2. fiddle player (and other stuff that I have not witnessed)

"EJ" 1. player of all things that blow, 2. other definitions exist but they are classified

"Heather" 1. known mostly for her Irish fiddling, also a fine vielle-ist, 2. another engineer

"Alesha" 1. an amazing dancer, 2. flutist, 3. strangely, another engineer... just less obvious!

Instruments

"shawm" really really loud double reed instrument

"krumhorn" think kazoo for the sound, and giant candy cane for the shape

"vielle" medieval fiddle

"saz" Turkish, very round body, very long neck, 9 strings set in three sets or courses, strummed like a guitar or mandolin

"Molly" 1. my octave mandolin, of the Irish bouzouki family, 2. cross between a tenor banjo and a guitar, 3. very large mandolin

Pre Texas Renaissance Festival

2008-10-09T18:53:00.002-06:00

Because this fair is eight weekends long, we, Istanpitta, sets up a pretty nice little camp. We have electricity, light, a small fridge, camp stoves. I cook breakfast for whoever the Istanpitta players are for the weekend. I have spent the afternoon chopping food, organizing pots and pans, and making sure I don't forget an instrument or article of clothing. I will load up my little Volkswagen and get on the road in the afternoon tomorrow. I can't wait to tell you how everything goes!

Post Middlefaire Report

2008-10-05T20:04:00.003-06:00

As weather at a fair goes, this one could not have asked for better out of either of the weekends. I had a great time, met a lot of great people, and I sang in any patch of shade I could find.

First picture, here I am in the shade.

Playing some tunes with Scott Boswell.

Taking fashion advice from Misty.

My friend, Pinocchio could have taken this photo BEFORE the last second of the fair. (All of these pictures are courtesy of Pinocchio himself)

Next? Texas Renaissance Festival! I am really glad that I will have the chance to share some of my music and still be a part of Istanpitta all at the same festival. This is going to be an amazing year!!