Party Packed

How was your weekend? Mine was party packed. It was Graham's birthday on Sunday, but we celebrated with a small barbecue on Saturday, then I played a show at my friend Don P.'s party on Saturday night. Then it was Sunday and it really was Graham's birthday, so I spent the entire day throwing roses at his feet and confetti in his air.

Don P. and his wife Stacey really know how to throw a party. There was literally spreads of food in every room, a full bar out back, and live music (me)! Although the atmosphere was warm and friendly, it was one of the toughest gigs I ever played. First of all, the way the light was set up, was perfect for the outside revellers, but terrible for me because I couldn't see a single thing beyond my arms and guitar. I'd hear cheering at the end of the song, but beyond that it was like I was in a very well lit box. Also, during the songs all I could hear were the sounds of people who didn't give a hoot about the rockn' and heartfelt songs of a girl. They just wanted to hang out and TALK and drink margaritas. Then a string broke. I persevered for half the set, until--the unthinkable--ANOTHER string broke. This has never happened to me and it ended the show abruptly.

Graham came over and hugged me and said, "That must have been the toughest gig ever." It was tough, but it wasn't the worst show I ever had. The worst show was being hissed at in a all woman club in Provincetown because I sang about boys. The worst show was playing a lunchtime music series at what turned out to be a dental college in Maine. They kept the TVs blaring MTV, while the lethargic student body looked at me like I was a bug on a rock. OR the worst show might have been playing a Starbucks in Brookline, Massachusetts during a BLIZZARD. The 'greenroom', where I warmed up, was actually the basement, and I had to share it with the teenage employees who were getting stoned on whippets and smoking pot.

No, this show was a delight. Don P. introduced me and said the sweetest things. I met a great couple after the set, who told me "New York is going to LOVE you." Also, did I mention the food? Bite size cream puffs and bowls of chunky, fresh guacamole. No sir, not so bad at all.