Gone With The Richmond Wind !

Its a sad time we're living in when here in the old Capital of The Confederacy, that old Southern way of life is a thing of the past. When I have great admiration of Richmond and all it stands for- it simply is not the same Richmond my parents knew, or their parents, or their parents before. Increasingly, like much of the South, it has become less and less Southern. And let's face it- we've always been on the border- a mere 180 miles South of the Mason Dixon line. Still, Richmond was a dye-in-the-wool Southern city- an "Old South" Moonlight and Magnolias city- and more akin to Charleston and Savannah , than Baltimore or Trenton. And while Richmond still maintains a much more Southern identity than say Nashville, Charlotte or Atlanta (which is a moot point because in my opinion, those cities were never really Southern to begin with), its quite of a culture shock to see it going the way it has been going in recent years.

So, I decided to a litmus test if you will, to see how Richmond passes "Southern Authenticity" Test. The results aren't too pleasing. I did it on a 1-10 scale, using most Southern vs . Northern traits, customs, and icons.

Notice, I'm not talking about Virginia as a whole- its too diverse a state. And Northern Virginia is a Lost Cause. We lost her years ago. But Richmond was always dripping with Southern hospitality for a time. Now its in dire need of Paula Deen!

On a Scale of 1-10

1. The Availability of Sweet Tea 6/10

Well, Richmond does pass the test here- but just barely! Most local restaurants do serve the sweet brew we Southrons all love and crave, but then some do not. You can also get sweet tea at local grocery stores in Richmond. However, in a truly Southern area, EVERY restaurant would have sweet tea- and you wouldn't even have to ask. They also ask you in Richmond restaurants if you would like "sweet or unsweet" when you ask for iced tea. In the Deeper South, they just give it you sweet. No questions.

2. Krisy Kreme vs. Dunkin' Donuts 5/10

Richmond is split , with an even number of Krispy Kremes and Dunkin' Donuts. You can get Krispy Kreme at the local grocery stores which is nice too. Krispy Kreme , as everyone knows is the Southern counter part to the Northern Dunkin' Donuts (or Funkin' Donuts, as I call them). Everyone knows (at least intelligent donut connoisseurs), that only Krispy Kreme will do, when you look to eat a donut. Anything else is blasphemy. Richmond passed the test on having Krispy Kremes with drive-thrus too. Something you would almost never see in the North.

3. Y'all vs. You Guys 3/10

Wow, Richmond of all places, scores right poorly on this one. The test is to go with any female companion to a service oriented facility, and see if you are greeted with "Y'all (the proper way), or "You Guys" (the Yankee version of Y'all which is incorrect because a woman is not a guy.) Unfortunately, Y'all is hardly heard in Richmond anymore- at least not in the city, and its only used by the older people of Richmond (most of the more snooty Richmonders just say "You all"..) Most young folk in Richmond will say "You Guys" -even if its a group of school girls with their mother. Most places I have been to will greet me and my sis with "You Guys". My Richmond ancestors would be rolling over in their graves!

4. Horn Honking 2/10

Richmond scores poorly on this one too. In years past, Richmond drivers were courteous , friendly, and polite. They did not drive like speed demons, they used their turn signals, and if you didn't go within 2 seconds of a green light, they would still wait patiently. These days try sitting in traffic on Carytown or W. Broad St and wait a little bit after a light changes, or slow down to make a right turn, and see what kind of luck you get.

5.Manners 7/10

Richmond still holds its own for common courtesies and manners. This includes greeting someone with a smile, waving to someone on the street, talking friendly while standing in a line, saying words like "thank you", "please", and "you're welcome", and sugar coating insults by beginning with that ever so handy phrase "Well, Bless his/her heart". Yes, Richmond still has this, and even the young folks too. But its not like it was before. Its still watered down. And if you really get down to it, you can only experience most of this at a visit to Ukrop's.


6. Good Looking Women 8/10

I'm not trying to sound shallow here or sexist in any way, but one of the tests of a truly Southern city, is a large plethora of gorgeous women. These are the women that go up to large cities like New York to become models. Usually impeccably dressed,lots of make up on, and in general pleasing to the eye. Richmond scores highly on this one- and rightly so. A study found that Richmond was one of the top 10 cities for girl watching. Where this study came from, I don't rightly remember. But if you don't believe me, hang out around Shockoe Slip one evening, or even in the trendy Carytown area, and you won't be disappointed.

7.Bible Belt Fervor 6/10

Richmond is about average for any Southern town in terms of how "Church goin' "it is.You can also find the occasional bumper stickers that say "Jesus Is Lord" or "Get Right With God". Most people do attend church here on Sundays, with the possible exception of the washed out scruffy VCU kids who usually are spending their Sunday mornings trying to get rid of a hang over from the night before. Richmond has the Southern Baptist Convention here, Seminary Schools, and many opportunities for worship. Someone from a small town in Alabama wouldn't feel totally out of place here- although they probably would be a little put off by the snootiness felt by some old time Richmond establishments who aren't that open to new comers .

8.Ancestor Worship 10/10

Okay, Richmond just surpasses about any place in the South for this. Walk into a room full of Richmonders and you're likely to hear about how someone is a direct descendant of Thomas Jefferson or the phrase "I bet we're related!" Most Richmonders have "family" names such as "Carter Burwell Chichester Page Fitzhugh Lee, III" However, this is a secret code among Richmonders, that only old school Richmonders can communicate this way. To go around telling "everyday" people that you are a descendant of the Taliferros, The Lees, or The Randolphs is considered both tacky and dull.

9.The Drawl 4/10
Whatever type of Southern accent it is, there is a drawl with it. Richmond like most places is losing the Southern drawl. Not the Nascar twang, it has plenty of that. But the old plantation style way of talking. And there are Lord knows how many different dialects of Southern accents in the South- but the drawl, as Michael Andrew Grissom put so eloquently in his book "Southern By The Grace Of God"- is "the brogue identifiable as Southern". This is a lingering of the diphthongs, and a slower enunciation of words, but in most cases, a simply smoother way of talking. In Richmond, the local accent was always Virginia Tidewater, and people spoke it with a rather drawling effect. It has become so foreign in Richmond these days for anyone under 70 to speak Southern, that I myself, have been asked where I am from because I have such a drawl. But my case is unusual- I grew up in Loudoun County and spent my early summers with my older relatives from Richmond and Norfolk. I was raised on stories of General Lee and what it meant to be a Gentleman. Now, of course, these days, you don't hear the Southern "drawl" in Richmond- and more particularly, the local flavor. Most young Richmonders today sound akin to Californians. Imagine how embarrassing it was, when we had friends come up from Georgia and took them to a local eating establishment to be greeted with "How arrrrrrr yow guyeeeees" (That's "How Y'all doin',for you Southerners out there)


10. Remembering The War 5/10

Richmond in most recent years seems to want to down play its tourist advantage. We were the Capital of The Confederacy from 1861-1865- and nothing will change that. However, they barely make any use of out of this, and many tourists that come here are disappointed in our lack of historical interpretations and "Civil War" stomping grounds. Sure we have The Museum Of The Confederacy. What a joke! Its surrounded by MCV, and parking there is murder. And then we have the Civil War Museum with a statue of the hideous Lincoln. That's not what people want to see. They want to see the Confederate Capital. I know its not always Politically Correct these days, but Richmond sure isn't banking on what made it famous. Nor does it play up some of its famous residents- Bill Bojangles Robinson for one. Where is his house? All they have is an obscurely placed statue in Jackson Ward that nobody can find, unless you're actually from Richmond. I sure think Richmond likes to try to bury its past. How can we move on into the future? Richmond scores mediocre here

And there you have it, folks. When Dunkin' Donuts outnumber Krispy Kremes: you have a problem. When people say You Guys to a group of females: You have a problem. When you can't get sweet tea at 100% of the restaurants: You have a problem. Richmond is slowly turning into a Northeastern Liberal Establishment city- and the recent elections don't help any either. I sure like to remember the good 'ol days, and I'm only 29 years old. But if anything is "Gone With The Wind", its Richmond

I think I'll let Scarlett O'Hara take us home on this.......

Entertaining in Carytown...

Well today was a tad confusing. I thought I was supposed to sing in Monroe Park and I got there and I just saw a group of greasy VCU kids and bums standing around. So I asked if this was the Richmond Free Market- and some guy said, no, its up near Dollar Tree . Well, that didn't seem right to me. I reckon that was it, but it was too late after I drove away, so I just gave up. I hope they won't be mad. I was a little worried because of all the bums there. They are nice, but it looked like they were wanting to run off with my keyboard. And even though its a cheap portable Casio, it does come in handy when there is no electricity. So I decided, well what the heck, I have my keyboard and my tip jar, let me mosey on over to Carytown and sing there. I was a bit relieved, as I wasn't sure about my safety in Monroe Park. They are nice, but they can be a little overbearing.

So I played in front of the Byrd Theater for about 20 minutes and made 8$ tips. Its not the greatest location since Double T's vamps their music across the street. There didn't seem like a whole lot of folks- but it was only 2 in the PM. I don't know how safe it is to sing over in Monroe Park. I just don't know yet- and I was a little confused and I don't think they organized it very well. But they are just VCU kids. My voice held up okay, even though I was battling some allergies that were tough on the throat. I didn't gain too much weight from Thanksgiving- just 2 lbs, and that's really water weight because I am retaining water something fierce! Now i know how these women feel once a month. I feel cranky, and moody, and bloated. Anyways, it was fun singing in Carytown. I think Ill do it more often. But if my old time Skelton relatives knew about it- I think they would roll in their graves.

"A member of our fine old family singing on the street corner???"
Oh, well they're dead, and I'm here, so no harm done.

Pecan Pie is Thine Enemy !

Yes, its true. I can resist a lot of things these days.. I can resist peanut butter fudge, ice cream, krispy kreme, Lemon Mi range, even delicious and moist chocolate chip cookies fresh from the oven... But I cannot, CANNOT, resist Pecan Pie. Pecan Pie, it seems - also no irony that its the most fattening slice of pie that you can put in your mouth- delivering 560 calories a slice. But something about it summons me. I had 3 slices for Thanksgiving dinner, and I could already feel that bulge in my waist line! But I saw it sitting there in our lovely Frigidaire saying "eat me, .. eat me, eat me!!" I just couldn't resist. Putting a pecan pie within 10 feet of me is like putting a Liberal within 10 feet of Barack Obama. I crumble.

So anyways, this Pecan Pie fetish of mine is really a nuisance. I just hope it doesn't become the death of my diet. All those hard 3 years for nothing. Today of course being Black Friday, but we had hardly any customers at work so they let me go home early. Now I'm gonna take a little nap and dream about eating some delicious Pecan Pie.

Who needs Turkey !??

This is the dish I want on my plate !




Look at those Gams! I mean, Yams... Oh well, Thanksgiving with my crazy family went as it normally does. My Aunt Virginia thought her turkey was talking back to her and couldn't find a chair so she sat on the floor. Daddy and I had to help her up to the table. Mosby our greyhound tried to eat half of the potatos au gratin. Which I dont like anyway.... The turkey itself wasn't bad. We ordered a pre cooked dinner from Kroger's. We had sweet potatoes, turkey (of course), green bean cassarole, sweet potato pie and pecan pie respectively- and two large pitchers of sweet tea. I feel a little bit stuffed, but ya know, since I changed my eating style 3 years ago, my stomach literally has shrunk, so I just can't shovel it in like I used to. I could only eat 2 slices of pie this time. And I only had one helping of turkey, and very little stuffing- and almost no room for the gravy or cranberry sauce! What is happening?? Oh well, at least is a good thing. I feel as if Im getting a bit taller!

I took my height the other day on the scale and I was 5'11. Before I was just a little over 5'10. I did pray the Lord to increase my height. Maybe he is? I sure hope so. I currently weigh 238 lbs- but I know I have put on some muscle weight, I just don't want to get too bulky! Well, time for a little nap..

The First Thanksgiving was in Virginia !

Well, tomorrow of course is Thanksgiving, and many little kids still believe the myth about the First Thanksgiving being in Plymouth Rock, Massachusetts, or something like that- and how the "Pilgrims" ate a feast with the Indians circa 1621. Wow, I guess they had forgotten that Jamestown was settled some 14 years earlier down in Virginia, with an interesting mix of Royalists, Purtians, and Hookers! Yankees are adroit liars. They completely re-wrote "Civil War" history, to make it look as if they cared about freeing slaves- but an even more virulent fib, is the myth of the First Thanksgiving taking place in New England. Sorry, folks, the First Thanksgiving was a bit further South- Berkeley, Virginia, to be exact. And it happened in 1619.

According to The Virginia is For Lovers website:

The first Thanksgiving occurred when Captain John Woodlief led the newly-arrived English colonists to a grassy slope along the James River and instructed them to drop to their knees and pray in thanks for a safe arrival to the New World. It was December 4, 1619, and 38 men from Berkeley Parish in England vowed:

"Wee ordaine that the day of our ships arrivall at the place assigned for plantacon in the land of Virginia shall be yearly and perpetually keept holy as a day of Thanksgiving to Almighty God."

Now, Y'all know that the Yankees like to claim credit for everything. I tell you what- they can't take half the credit for some of the most influential American Icons. Elvis, Patsy, Coke- and of course- The First Thanksgiving- all happened below the Mason Dixon Line. So I certainly hope, you can tell your children the Real Story of the First Thanksgiving- how it wasn't in Plymouth Rock - and maybe someday the truth about The War Between The States will be revealed. But I don't think we'll ever live to see that day. That being said -Happy Thanksgiving to everyone !

Some little tips for lingering Hipsters....

Poor Hipsters. Their cause is dying. What was the ultimate indie hipster maybe 10 years ago, is now so mainstream its a moot point. What are they going to do next? Since Robert Lanham's book came out 5 years ago, its all dead now. Everyone owns at least one pair of Converse tennis shoes, a fixed gear bike, a few "ironic" t shirts, some argyle socks, and drinks Pabst Blue Ribbon. And now that our country has been so extremely liberal this past election (We elected a Socialist)- how does their extremely liberal political views even make them stand out anymore? They are just one of the crowd. But there's hope !

A note to hipsters: If y'all wanna be different- be a Conservative Republican. Ditch the fixed gear bike, and get a mountain bike or better yet- drive around in old beat up station wagon with a sign that says "Baby On Board". Dress like you just stepped out of Leave It To Beaver. Watch the 700 club. Practice fake snobbery and naetivity all in one swoop. Drop the pretentious attitude, and be polite: Extremely polite- to the point of nauseum. and overly friendly to everyone you meet. Rudeness is conventional and commonplace. There are more rude people than friendly ones. People are so rude today- being a rude pretentious arrogant bastard is simply conformity! If you want to be different- be nice. Believe in Jesus and go to church on Sunday (80% of Americans say they are Christians, but I guarantee you, its more like 25% really are). Stop listening to Michael Moore, and listen to Rush Limbaugh or Glen Beck. Use Old Spice. Refuse to drink or smoke. Instead insist on having a Dr Pepper. Keep your vinyl collection, but embrace compact discs as well. They are your friends. Get rid of NPR. Who needs it? Instead read about how to make pecan pie recipes, or how to decorate your house for Christmas with the inside of toilet paper rolls. Watch a little bit of Dr. Phil and Oprah for laughs. You see? Its not so hard. Just be normal, and then you can be hip. Or un-hip, so you can be hip!

My McDonald's Photo Shoot !

What do y'all think? Abercrombie material? Well, I don't reckon so, but hey- you know you're living in high cotton when your local McDonald's has its own telephone and a flat screen TV !










After a hard day of thrift store hopping and mailing off my 45s to local radio stations, I enjoyed getting a quarter pounder with cheese and a medium chocolate milk shake! You know, us starving artists still need to eat!. And how I love how the people at this McDonald's are nice and not uppity (unlike the one on Broad St). After eating there, I went to the alleway of Stuart Ave where an old beat up computer desk was just waiting for me like it was Christmas. Now off to Target I go to get a hook for my bathroom door. I sure hope they come in the extra large variety!

I'm not Religous, I'm a Christian..

On this Sabbath day I have been pondering what it really means about my Christian faith- and how I am really not a religious person, but I feel that I walk in light with the Lord. I think its very confusing for some people to grasp the subject that you can be a Christian, yet not religious. How is that possible? Well its the simple fact that religion- involves a man made Theocracy and also a religious zealous spirit- which Jesus himself detested- which was demonstrated by the Pharisees in the Bible. Religious people attend church, but many do not even know the Lord. The sad thing is, they give many of us who really love Jesus and God a bad name , by going around and telling gay people they are going to hell, or screaming Biblical references in people's faces. That is no way to get people saved. It is quite the opposite. While I do hold some very Conservative political views, I never put my Christian faith into the same category, because GOD DOES NOT VOTE. I feel that I am ashamed by groups such as the so-called "Christian" right. They go way too far. Religious spirit is something that thrives in the church, and is a judgemental spirit that comes from the enemy, clothed in a very fake type Christian faith, which is a mockery of the Bible and its teachings. Many people will use the Bible to condemn others. Forgetting that Jesus said "Cast not the first stone". Its very important to tell people that eternal slavation is important- that heaven and hell are REAL, but quite another to shout at people to hell, many who don't hear about God's grace, his love , or his mercy.


To me Christianity is not religion. In fact its the opposite. Christianity is light and it is TRUTH. Jesus said "I am the truth, the way, and the life. No one come to the Father, except through me". That means, that this is not religion- this is God, our Creator speaking directly to us. In my humble opinion, I firmly believe that God, for whatever reason, chose to reveal himself through the Jewish people- over 2,000 years ago- and The Bible is in fact a History book of the Jews. Jesus, His son, was sent for our salvation, because of God's purity, we need a Savior to be cleansed of our natural born sin. Its the only way us mere mortals could grasp the concept of how PURE, GRACIOUS, AND LOVING God is. Many people will reject Jesus Christ as the son of God, as well as his teachings- many will hate Christians, many will go out of their way to stamp out Christianity- notice its Christianity, not Buddhism, Islamic Terrorism, or Muslims- why? Because Christianity is not just a religion, it is the Truth- and the Truth shall set us free. Before anyone jumps on me here- I AM FAR FROM PERFECT. I have made the mistake of chastising others, of being judgemental, and sometimes intolerant. I am trying my best to accept the different way of others for to seek better knowledge of myself in a way that I can define myself. But I do this- my identity comes from Jesus Christ- my Lord and Saviour, and through Him I find strength that I can get no place else.

Carytown Boogers and Fries

And no, that's not misspelled. We were gonna eat there last night (my hurt fingers and all), but sis and I saw an article clipping of Barack Obama on the wall, well that was enough to make us lose our appetites. Instead, we got sandwiches from Ukrop's. Now, say what you will, Ukrop's is a good store. They are closed on Sundays (The Lords day), they don't sell evil booze, and from reputation they treat their employees well. Not to mention their food is divine! I went over to Johnny Rocket's in Short Pump to apply for a waiter position. They liked me, but they said I don't have much experience. Well working at the smoothie shop, basically all I do is wait on people in between butchering off my fingers and making wraps and smoothies. Later I headed over to Starbucks on Robinson right near where I live, and put in an application there. I had an egg salad sandwich. It wasn't bad- tasted fairly fresh. The irony is that I hate coffee, but working there wouldn't be a problem for me. I worked at the one in The Barnes and Noble 2 years ago at Christmas time. I sure do need something where I won't hurt my hands. Although, I could probably easily burn myself on a latte'. Why don't people just order regular coffee instead of all that fancy stuff? There are people starving in India!

Burn Victim !

Well I scorched my fingers this morning at work, and it really hurts me something awful. I have blisters on it and the skin peeled off. The manager was nice enough to let me go home early, and gave me 5$ for some Neosporin. I just don't know if I can take this much longer. I need my fingers as a musician. I can't let them go over hot soup. I was peeling away the saran wrap after it was nuked in the microwave for 18 minutes. I guess I should have known better. Anyway, here I am at home, peeling away. I have Mama's Family on VHS tape- that is helping me some. Right now I'm watching the Thanksgiving episode where they have a tornado and get stuck in the basement. Mama is funny when she screams at everybody. Anyways, my fingers feel a little better, but I sure hope I don't have any more accidents at work. If its not better by tomorrow , I'm gonna go to Patients First. Just call me accident prone!

Hacking through C-ville

Well I drove over to Charlottesville today to put up some posters for my December 13th show there at the Mudhouse. I dropped off a 45 at 106.1 The Corner, and strolled around the UVA campus. Charlottesville is nice, but I really don't dig the vibe at UVA. Some of the kids are simply spoiled and act arrogant and like to take over the town as if they own it. I'm sure Thomas Jefferson wouldn't approve. But anyways, at least they keep the hoodlums away. I don't like how liberal the area has become, though. I was with Gretchen and we stopped at Revolutionary Soup for a quick bite to eat. I had a turkey bacon wrap- it wasn't half bad. It was the small kind. The weather was right chilly today- really I'm so glad I brought my Pea-Coat instead of my flimsy Member's Only jacket. I put up posters all around the campus area, and some on the Downtown Mall, and also at Plan 9- the one in Fountain Square Shopping Center. The Plan 9 near campus is now a CVS. I really think that's a shame. I didn't have any trouble finding parking. I do love seeing the Blue Ridge Mountains , its lovely this time of year. If only it were a tad warmer. We also stopped at Starbucks, which I hate, but I was desperate. So I got a caramel apple cider. Then we drove back to Richmond , and stopped at Short Pump Town Center on the way home. Not much going on there, but they already have the place decorated for Christmas. It sure feels like it! I hope we don't get any colder by December. When I got home, there was nothing much to eat, so I ordered a sandwich from Baker's Crust, and listened to some of my LPs on the hi fi.

Can Somebody Say COLLLLLLLLLLLLLD!?

Ok, well Saturday we were in the mid 70s, and then Sunday it felt right chilly, but these past three days has been downright freezing! We're in the low 40s- which is at least 20 degrees below average this time of year. I really hate it! Yesterday we even had some snow flurries. I have never seen snow that early before- not even up in Loudoun County. I think this is just plumb crazy. But anyways, they say we should warm up again soon. I had a long day at work today. We had 4 catering orders. I had to make 50 wraps and 20 smoothies and then 18 cheese quesadillas. Why don't we just order from Taco Bell and be done with it?? Anyways, I just hate working these long shifts. Today I had to work from 9 AM to 5 PM. That is too long. And I'm on my feet the entire time. I really hope I can get a job as a waiter instead. They don't have to work as hard and they get tips! This washing dishes then getting tomato juice all over my slacks is just killing me.

Some kids at the store are interested in buying some of my vinyl. I said I had CDs too, but they all agree that they would prefer the 45s. They said they sound clearer. Smart kids! From my personal exerpience, it seems most people I talk to under 30 (like myself), prefer the sound of records. People in their 30s and 40s are somwhere in between, and most people over 45 just don't want anything to do with records because they grew up with them. They think the CDs are better. And then people over 70 tend to agree with people under 30 about the superiority of the vinyl. So its quite ironic! I just hope I can sell them all be it CD, record, cassette tape or whatever. This is the first recording I have done where I don't cringe at the sound of it. I think its because I had The Meadow Street Band behind me- they helped make me sound better. I am sending them off for some reviews, to college radio stations, and anywhere else. Some stations will play both vinyl and CD formats. I hope that they don't throw them in the trash though.

They're Here !

My 45s came today from Nashville. I waltzed myself right into PLAN 9 today and got them on stock. So far, I will have about 4 records in each store, and about 10 CDs in each store all at their locations. I think they will be available to order through online as well. The employees at PLAN 9 can be friendly when they want to be ! I had no trouble with them at all. Then I mailed a package for an ebay order, and checked out this big Antique shop on Staples Mill Rd where I saw this nifty upright piano for sale. I tested it out, and its way out of tune, though. It does look neat. Its a Story and Clark. It was so blustery cold today!!! I had on a sweater and my warm Pea Coat, and I still felt as if I were freezing my butt-ons off!


Well, anyways, the single is officially now on the market, and on both cd and vinyl formats. When my Album comes out a year from now, I can add cassette tape to the list! I don't think I'll have 8 tracks though. That might be pushing it... They will be for sale at CD BABY, PLAN 9, and through my management at Red Barn Entertainment. Below is a little Promo we have for it:

Pardon Me, Deer?

Well after church I was riding my trusty new Schwinn down Grove Ave (going back towards my house headed East), when I saw on the left a crazy Buck running up and down the sidewalk and around people's lawns. No one else saw it really except one lady pushing a baby cart. I followed the dear down Davis and through the alleyway, then it jumped a 7 ft fence into somebody's yard. When I got home I tried calling the Game Warden, but they aren't open Sundays, so I called the Police. They said they would keep an eye out for it. I think a deer running around the city is kinda dangerous. Not that this part of town is even all that busy , but we do have cars and pedestrians and people out walking their dogs along here. I hope it doesn't hurt anybody. Those people didn't appear to be home, and are sure in for a surprise!

I had to go into work today, but we closed early. I was glad. Later I went to Kroger's where I bought some Lime Away, Keebler's Elves cookies, after shave lotion, Q tips, pineapple juice, and a bag of Halls cough drops. I just love to eat Halls- even when I don't have a cold. When I was a kid I would go to the store and buy them and eat them like candy. Right now I'm stuffy. I seem to have constant allergies. The weather is typical for Virginia this time of year. It can't make up its mind. One day we're near 80 degrees, the next day we're barely 50! I just hope we dont have a cold winter this year. I hate the cold and snow. I don't know, but I could never live north of Virginia. The climate anywhere north of here is simply unbearable.

Harrisonburg Night

I drove out to Harrisonburg last night to play at The Little Grill. It was sort of a little mini "release party" for my single. I have a few fans out that way, and was glad to see the area again. Billy Brett was there, but to my chagrin, he didn't perform. He's part of that dynamic noise rock duo "Buck Gooter". I was hoping they could play, but anyways, two other mighty fine bands were on the bill- "Book Of Kills" and "PantherBurn". They both did some very fine playing- and I was impressed. However, I did feel that The Little Grill works better for acoustic music or solo acts such as myself. They played just a tad loud for such a small place. I couldn't hear the vocals too well. Book Of Kills is pretty much Hard Rock and they have a good driving beat behind them. Pantherburn hails from Charlottesville and calls themselves "Americana", but I wasn't sure how they could be classified. They had a pretty gal on accordion, and some banjo player too, and seemed to have unusual chord progressions . It added an interesting mix. The crowd wasn't all that big- maybe 20 people maximum. I got there late because of the fog. I did have a good time. I did a few of my newer selections- and my delight The Little Grill does have sweet tea!
Its hard to believe that it all started about 4 years ago when I played an open mic there one night. To my surprise, they seemed receptive to my music. And I usually play with bands that are totally opposite in style, yet it seems to fit. I get good vibes from the place. I hope that I can gain more fans out that way. The Shenandoah Valley seems more my kinda people- and they sure do like some good 'ol Country Music.

The trip back was something fierce. The fog was thick as molasses going down the side of the Blue Ridge . I had to go about 35 mph part of the way. They had to put lanterns on the side of the highway. After I got past Charlottesville the fog let up, but then came down a heavy rain. It was so hard and heavy, that I almost felt like pulling over. I had driven up and down Highway 64 many times , but this weather was the worst I had been in.

The Midnight BBQ Show

Well, I drove over to Charlottesville to do a taping for The Midnight BBQ. It was a swell time, and the interviewers were really nice. I was a tad nervous, though. They taped in a very small little studio inside an apartment at The Grand Marc. It sure looked bigger on the video segments. My keyboard fit snug in the back, but I did have space to do a little bit of talking behind the microphone. I think that it worked out alright. I just did about 4 or 5 songs and they played my latest single. I feel that I am getting better at interviews because I can get more natural at it, but I still get a little bit vexed. The show probably won't be online for a few months, but they will have me in video format. I think its nice, too. They had me sign the wall before I left. I dressed in my suede "Loan Ranger" jacket, and my old cowboy shirt and boots.

Today was also Gretchen's birthday, and we took her to Sam Miller's for lunch. I had a seafood grill salad- it had shrimp and scallops in it with some eagg. I was very pleased with it- but Sam Miller's doesnt have sweet tea. So a big points lost for that. Then we got her a cake from Ukrop's. I also gave her a card with 25$ and Glamour Magazine. It has a full spread on Nicole Kidman (you know, Ill be reading that myself!). So it was a nice day. It did rain all day though. When I got back home from Charlottesville, I saw a terrible accident right here on Floyd Ave at the corner of Shields- right outside out house. Looked like the car was all smashed up and pushed on the sidewalk. Several specatators were looking outside . I just walked on by. I sure hope whoever was in that car is okay and alive and well. Thats why I never drink. I think that people do that , and then lose control behind the wheel. The trip back and forth from Charlottesville was a foggy one.

Women's Magazines have more eye candy!

I was at Barnes and Noble the other night, and they have all the racks of magazines there. Now, frankly, I'm not a real magazine person. I purchase Y'all magazine or Horse Illustrated when I get the chance, or some music magazines, but nothing much really. But one thing I do notice the magazines that are supposed to be for men, just have some guy with his shirt off showing off his "washboard" abdominal area, or whatever its called. Who wants that? But head over to "Women's Interest" and some beautiful gal on the cover- like Miss Amy Adams on Vanity Fair. I go through Glamour , Elle, and all kinds of "Women's Interest" magazines, and find much more pleasing pictures to the eye. And they have their clothes on (well mostly), so you don't feel as dirty as if you read something such as Maxim (which I NEVER read), or Playboy, etc. Because I'm against pornography, personally. But its okay to have a picture of a lovely figured woman just for inspiration (thats where most of my songs come from). So, I don't care if its a woman's magazine, there's just more in it for me. I bought a copy of Glamour , because there's a full page spread of the lovely Nicole Kidman. Now does Men's Health have that? I think, not! I dont want to read silly articles about how to 'succeed with women", because thats just stupid stuff. Just be yourself, I say. The men's magazines really insult my intelligence. Do men really read this stuff? Then all they talk about is how to get a woman into bed, or how to get the best exericse routine. I can't believe anyone would have such narrow interests.

But hey, the women's magazines have more of everything. Beautiful women, then pecan pie recipes! What more could a guy ask for?? Oh, well.

Here's really neat clip of Jim Reeves and Patsy Cline with The Jordinairres on The Pet Milk version of the Grand 'Ol Opry:



Part II is in there too. Those shows are timeless. They also have Tommy Jackson on the fiddle. Isn't that nifty?? Hes one of the best fiddle players who ever lived! I wish we could go back to the good 'ol days.

Oh, and here's Miss Amy Adams. Doesn't she look a little bit like you-know-who?

Some people may consider me a failure at life already...

I'm in my late 20s, I've never had a hit record, I only have but a smattering of fans, I live at home with my ageing father, and I don't even support myself! But I really don't care, because I'm leaving my dream. All I ever wanted to to do was be a singer and a songwriter, and thats what I do all the time now. And I do get paid for it. I'm just not a famous person. I guess in some ways, I really did want to be a Star- and at this point, I'm still not saying it will never happen. But in reality, it doesn't matter to me as much, because happiness is not about being a world wide famous celebrity. Before I wanted to get back at all the people who treated me badly growing up, and told me I was a clown. I just wanted to show them I could do it. But now, I really don't think its important. Now , I just want to to do what I like to do. I can support myself somehow, but it doesn't matter if I don't become a big Super Star.

A lot of people would consider me young in real life, but to some according to music industry standards, I would be older, and not a young pup anymore. Its all relative, but thats their opinion. I look young and feel young, and I think young. My heart is young. I am not an old soul. So, I'm just dusting off my cowboy boots, and will continue to go on doing what I do. What is success anyway? How many people say that want to sing, and never even do it? How many people have never even put out an album? How many have never written any songs, or played any instruments, or got to sing at the Bluebird Cafe in Nashville, or America's Cup Of Polo, in front of thousands of people? I guess I can say, I have done all of that. So I think, yeah, maybe a failure because I'm not a Big Star, but not a failure because I didn't do what I set my mind to do.

WRIR radio played my song on the radio on their Activate Show . This is their podcast. I think they accidently cut my song in half- when I heard it live they didn't do that. But anyways, it was awfully a big treat to get to hear myself on the radio! Hopefully I'll get some more interviews coming up. I'm listening to Jim Reeves on my turntable now. What a voice! And he died in a plane crash too- just about one year after Patsy Cline. They had so much chemistry together on stage. All the great ones seem to die in plane crashes or on the toilet.

My Record Release Party...

It went alright. In some ways it was better than I envisioned. In other ways, it wasn't quite as big as I had hoped. I was basically at church all day yesterday. We did rehearsal in the afternoon, then Ron and Larry and I stopped at Arby's before a quick sound check. The people that decorated did a fantastic job- with all kinds of table arrangements and great food, and I brought a large cake from Ukrop's that was decorated with cowboy boots and musical notes. We didn't quite have the amount of people we were hoping for. I was hoping at least 50 people would come. We had about 30. I think as a band we sounded a lot tighter than before, although I had a bad cable on my microphone, and at times I couldn't hear myself through the monitors. When we played back our show on tape, there was some distortion there. Dennis Elliott joined us on fiddle, banjo, mandolin, and guitar. He is a really swell player, and has a lot of versatility with what he does. Also to my disappointment, I didn't have the 45s ready from Nashville. They made a glitch in the pressing and put the same label on both sides. So all I had were the CDs. Now, granted, that's something, but they don't sound as good as the test press they sent me. I brought my Aiwa stereo to play records on, and someone was trying to demonstrate the difference in sound between my 45 test press and the CDs. Trying to convince me the CD sounded fuller. But to my ears, the CD actually sounded more compressed, and less in the mid range, and just not at all natural. But I suppose since so many people these days don't even have record players, they all seemed to favor the CDs. I only got 3 people who ordered a 45. I think that's just a plumb shame. This was a RECORD release, not a CD release- and that was basically the whole point of the show was that this was my first release on vinyl . I only brought the CDs along for show, in my opinion they are cheesy, and just not really good sound quality. They are toy discs.



Anyways, I was so glad people stayed for the show and the refreshments. It was a very happy party atmosphere. They had a slide show going on of pictures of my youth and of Loudoun County- all kinds of pictures from the area. They made it like a coffee house style arrangement. The group of gals that heard me at The Great Big Flea Market came also. I was so glad they came, because those were the only "fans" that showed up. I didn't have anyone from work come, and several other people who told me they were coming didn't show either. I guess I'm just a nobody- but I had such a great band playing on my songs last night- surely they'd come for The Meadow Street Band! Oh, well. At least I had enough people for a good time.

Today I sang "Crossroads" in church and was backed by Ron and Larry. After I ate at The Can Can for brunch. They get points up for me, because they now have sweet tea. They didn't before. I refuse to eat at any establishment that does not serve sweet tea, and anyone reading this should too! As for the CD sales (if you can even say that counts as music), I got about 100$ in sales, so that was pretty good. But I spent quite a bit on this production, and the food, and had to pay our guest musician as well.

My New Bike !

Ain't She a beauty? Its a Schwinn. I got it from some scruffy hipster from a Craigslists ad- for just 90$ . I think its from the 1980s, I'm not sure. At first I thought- this is a fixed gear bike won't it be hard to ride? But actually its easier to ride than my other Mountain Bike, and it rides like a dream! Its the perfect road bike. It does look a bit small though for someone of my height, but all of those bikes are built that way. They are very low to the ground. The seat is pushed up high, so when you ride you are kind of pitched forward. Easier for going up hills that way. I sold my Diamondback Mountain Bike to some couple. This bike is very lightweight, so I reckon its an aluminum frame. The other one weighed a lot more. I just hope it can hold my fat fanny!

Today at work was so tiring. We had all these people come in. We had 2 rushes today. I was so tired making wraps and then cleaning up after smoothies. I asked my manager how she could stand working there all those hours. I think she is used to it. But I am not! I just hate it when customers get all uppity too. They should show us some respect. Some times they don't even say "thank you" when I bring out their order. I was raised to always say, please, thank you, and you're welcome. Of course my parents were born in the 1930s. Back when folks had manners. Now I guess with all those 60's Generation people, their children , and their children's children, simply don't really have that understanding. Oh, anyway, we can't all be perfect!

I have the weekend off. I just hope the show goes well tomorrow night. Its my big record single release party with The Meadow Street Band. I hope we have enough people- but then again not too many. I can only afford to buy so much sweet tea.

Prayin' For Obama

I got to thinking, I really don't hate Obama. At all. I just can't stand him!
But I'm going to pray for him. He shall need all our prayers. He has a lot to handle right now. Our country is in heap big trouble. I have a feeling he will make it all the worse , but with prayer, maybe God will lead him to do some right things for us, and not the socialist whacko things he has planned from the start. I will pray for him to see the light! I think he can, he just needs to get over himself and his massive Ego. But then again, maybe when he really messes up our country, folks will see just how wrong they were to put him in office. I will pray for him to meet more in the middle. Its not hard for him to at least compromise a little. I think that he needs all the prayers he can get. Obama is not a man of God. I can tell this, because I see it in him. But I think he can change and get right with the Lord, if he gets rid of his extremely racist views and hatred.

A lot of people today are simply blinded. They hate the War and they hate George Bush. And they think this is the answer. It does worry me some, but I think its okay to pray for your enemies. We need to help each other, not hate each other. Our country is torn apart right now. Its like another War Between The States. Only this time, Virginia is on the wrong side. But still, I love her, and I love my home, and I can't give that up. I think that I shall prevail in these troubled times we live in.

Unthinkable Trajedy

No, I'm not talking about the elections. More of a serious matter...

I learned this week that a young girl who is the granddaughter of a lady who goes to my church was brutally murdered. I can't fathom such an ordeal, and it must really be breakin' her heart. I played at a party she had this summer. She is a nice lady and gives a lot of time to church. The incident was in the Richmond paper. Her jerk of a boyfriend mutilated her beyond recognition, and fled in his car covered in blood towards Charlottesville. He was stopped naturally by a suspicious patrol officer, and then he confessed to the crime. I don't know but not only did he take a life, he shattered other lives, and really he took his own life. For now, his life is pretty much over. Even if he gets life in prison, he still may be murdered himself in prison, or he may get out and then have no life at all because of his past. They say drugs were involved, but of course, that does not excuse such a hideous thing to do. I really hope he gets justice served, but I also hope the families can learn to forgive him in the process, because if they don't the bitterness will be as a dagger is in the heart.

They are having a visitation tonight, but I'm just not up to going. I think I will at least send a note , though, to the lady about it. I feel awkward with these types of things. I think most people just want to know that they have the support around them during times like these. It also reminds us how life can just be snatched away from us at any moment. This girl was only 22 years old, and just starting to turn her life around. Then this bozo comes and takes it away from her. It makes me so mad, and I didn't even know her personally. I really hope they will be okay.


Also, to make things even more depressing, I found out that I will not get to be on the radio tommorrow. Its okay, things, happen, but I was looking forward to it. Its a show in Charlottesville. But they will hopefully reschedule me.

I just hate Politics...

I voted today after work, but I just hate this whole election business. I know I made a rant earlier about Barack Obama and how evil he is, which I stand by, but I really am soooo sick and tired of the mud slinging and people calling my house 10 times a day with political ads. It makes me want to scream and claw my face! Anyways, I voted today for McCain, of course, and Jim Gilmore . The rest I didn't know anything about . I was tempted to vote for Ron Paul- but I figure McCain would have more of a chance, and voting for Ron Paul might actually help Obama. So anyhow, with all this election stuff, I sure will be glad when this day is over. I don't care who wins, so just as long as Virginia doesn't turn blue. If we turn blue, I will have to move some place where the good 'ol Southern attitude still prevails. Because we are more and more slipping away from the South. For it seems the whole country is turning whacko liberal, and I'm so sick of it. I'm sick of politics. I'm sick of the signs all over the place.

Today was awful at work. They have some silly policies, like if you show up even just 10 minutes late 3 or more times in one month you get terminated. And the bosses are just getting bossier. I don't care if they read this either. I am sick of being treated like a field hand! I am a Skelton. We are not use to this kind of work. We come from a long line of having people to do things for us. Oh well, I guess I'll have to deal with this for now. I sure don't understand how people work these jobs or in factories. Its miserable. And when people treat me like I'm a stupid clown, for only 7$ an hour, then forget it! Now, if they were paying me 12$ an hour, they could dress me up in drag, and I wouldn't care.

Frankly, My Dear....

I saw "Gone With The Wind" at The Byrd Theater this afternoon. It was a benefit for The Museum Of The Confederacy. What an experience! Again after 10 years since I saw it last on the big screen, I figured why not shell out the 25 bucks for a good cause? Well, it was great , of course, there was one small glitch in the whole film (after the little girl dies the screen went white for just a few seconds)-some of the audio was fading and muffled in just a few places. But I think it needs to be lovingly restored again. Still, it did look great , after nearly 70 years. The Byrd has great acoustics and you can come into the movie more. The seats, aren't too comfy though.

So how could a guy my age like a movie as Mela-Dramatic as "Gone With The Wind"? Well, I think this should answer the question:



Seriously, she is one of the most incredibly beautiful women I think I have ever seen on screen. Audrey Hepburn? No freakin' way! Looked like a boy in drag, in my opinion. Vivien Leigh was the most beautiful Actress of all time- even more beautiful than Nicole Kidman if you could imagine that! All that aside of course, my love for Gone With The Wind is probably because of my fascination with The War Between The States, my Southern upbringing, and the fact that the movie was just so brilliantly delivered- not only a compelling story line and great acting, but the cinematography alone is just even unmatched even today. The film was years ahead of its time and it has a bit of everything: comedy, romance, action, drama, and plenty of gratuitous scenes of Mammy telling Scarlett to cover up her bosom! I know the book is great, as I have only read parts of it, but the film is really an epic. Soap Opera my aunt Fanny! I know, because I hate Soap Operas- although I will admit the film has elements of a Soap Opera, it simply is not, more like an Epic of major proportions! And I am sure that any film lover would agree with me.

My mother was a lot like Scarlett. It was really funny how much they were alike. But then again, my dad was kinda like Rhett Butler too! I guess my parents were characters out of a movie. One of my favorite parts in the whole film is when Scarlett shoots the Yankee. The audience clapped during that scene.

After the flick, Gretchen and I went to Bakers Crust for supper, where I had a sweet tea and a chicken grinder sandwich along with apple pie for dessert. We then took Mosby out for a walk. It was a very good day.

Wheelin' And Dealin'

Today I did a lot of Craigslist stuff. I sold my old mountain bike (got 80$ for it), bought a single speed Blue Schwinn (rides like a dream), and purchased a small hi fi 1950s stereo cabinet tonight for 50$. Everything went down smooth. The bike I got from some silly hipster who likes to fix "fixies" in his apartment- and its a fixed gear of course. Its so light weight, and I wasn't sure it could hold my fat fanny, but it does the trick. The wheels are thin. But it actually is a nicer ride than my Diamondback Mountain bike I had. And its a beautiful baby blue color. The phonograph is nice and lovingly restored as the lady told me, but I think the turntable needs a new belt (it plays 2% slow), and a new needle. It has a lovely tone though . But Frank Sinatra sounds like he had too much to drink the way it is now!

I am so glad I did this. I will use the Aiwa Stereo at the Release Party since its dependable, but its simply not vintage or attractive looking. Still, it works. Today, though, most things don't seem to last. Those old players did last a long time, and with the right hands can be fixed up too! The new players just seem to break because they are cheap, plastic throw-away technologies. I can't stand any modern CD player because it lasts about 2 years . So much for "advanced" in technology, while my Fisher Stereo is over 45 years old and plays splendidly.
I stopped at Smoothie King in Carytown tonight to get a smoothie. It was a Celestial Cherry. Those are really good. i normally don't like smoothies.

I have to get early tomorrow for a meeting at work- 9 in the AM! But at least its daylight savings time so I will be able to sleep an extra hour. Then off to church. And later "Gone With The Wind"- at the Byrd! I'm right excited about that.