September 1

Have enjoyed a number of walks the last month, except when the smoke got too bad from wildfires! We were lucky that Galway Days had favorable weather, though I was disappointed that the event was moved indoors. I still enjoyed playing a few tunes outside with Mike Richardson and his family. They have started an Irish session in the Mat-Su Valley that I'm hoping to drop in on occasionally -- that is, whenever I finish the day job I was supposed to be finished with this month, but is dragging on into October. We were sorry to hear that fiddler Mark Ward has broken his arm and won't be playing for awhile. But we are glad to have Sky Kelsey back in town and coming to McGinley's again -- so great he can add fiddle, flute and banjo!

August 1

It's been a very busy summer with lots of warm weather. This has caused an abundance of raspberries to pick, and Martin enjoys helping me when he visits. Jim and I enjoyed having Ben in town for about a week, and he joined us for one the McGinley sessions. We haven't been playing the 12-100 Coffee House as often, since babysitting duties have taken priority. But the Fall promises more gigs (I hope) once I'm finished with my office job at AUUF. Jubilee will have its usual gig at the State Fair on the 25th.

July 1

Well, we were not able to play in June for the Alaska Run for Women with the Empty Nesters as we traditionally do, because Amanda went into labor that weekend! Baby Hannah was welcomed into the world on June 9th. I continue my part time office work at Anchorage Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, and try to juggle housework, gigs and babysitting too. Jim has been very helpful with yard work, and we have both been pitching in to help Amanda and Danny move into their new house. We are looking forward to visits this month from our Dutch friend Peter Hoovenars, and Ben Saylor. If not for our McGinley's session being cancelled for 4th of July, Ben would be there, so we might have to schedule a house session!

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