When is it acceptable to start your planning in the event of a hurricane? Do you start at the beginning of hurricane season? Have a plan all laid out? Do you start to plan when there is a depression out in the Atlantic? Or do you wait until it is a Tropical Storm? Do you watch the path and make a decision from there? Does it have to be a hurricane before the planning starts? What if the probability of it hitting close by is still pretty wide? Or do you wait until your area is in that three day cone? Or is it just better to wait until the night before? Regardless of when you decide to prepare, you should not be ridiculed for it. Boy Scout Motto: “Be Prepared”. Works for them, it can work for me. Should I be made to feel ashamed because right now there is a storm out there brewing in the Atlantic and I am doing some planning? All forecast models shows it ending up in the Gulf this weekend. Can it change paths and fizzle down? Sure! I would love to see that happen. I am not pinning all my hopes and dreams to that however and will face reality and say, Hey, this storm could get potentially nasty maybe I better plan on where I am going to go, get in touch with friends I can stay with. Make sure my ride is going the same way. Check in with some friends here in town to find out if they are going to still go out of town as originally planned since I am to be house sitting for them and want to make sure they have a list of items they would like me to take with me. I have a shitload of merchandise for the bands I work for maybe finding an alternate spot for them just in case isn’t a bad idea. Does this mean I am panicking? No it doesn’t. It means that I have no problem taking a look at what may lie ahead and going head and doing some initial planning. Considering that life is full of twist and turns things won’t always go according to plan and being able to keep a cool head in the face of disaster is always a plus.
This is what looks to be the first big storm since Katrina, 3 years ago almost to the day. There are similarities that make it kinda eerie. It is okay to acknowledge that. Again it doesn’t mean you are panicking. I find it offensive that some people are thinking that it is. Maybe this storm needs to happen to just get it out of the way. Because there will always be a storm happening. We do live in the Gulf Coast area, in hurricane central. Do people go overboard? SURE! When don’t they? But considering what people went through three years ago, there should be some lax from these naysayers. Maybe this is how they cope. Are we to sit back and pretend nothing is going on? That is just ignoring a really big elephant in the room that happens to be standing on your toes. If it makes them feel better, well then good for them. I am going to continue on with my everyday life and include in some extra plans just in case. If you think that is panicking? Go right ahead. I am going to go and dance to some Bonerama music night and be happy. Then I am going to go home, check on the storm and go to sleep and I will be able to sleep, because I have a plan.

-Bonerama for playing Happy Birthday, ya haven't lived unless they have played that for ya. Even if some people were confused by the whole National Holiday thing. What was important is that I knew.

-Craig for the sweaty hugs.

-Greg for the inverted goatee look.

-Matt for some killer new songs.

-Steve for remembering all our conversations.

-Bert for not remember our conversations.

-Eric for drinks. And massages.

-Mark for well there really are too many things. This time? Weather updates.

For the Crew
-Danny for the old lady dance. The bow was hot.

-Bryan for taking care of us, all the Oxford history. So good for the band.

-Will for working his ass off.

-Tom for driving. So sad I didn't see you!!

*expanding to include the whole band this time because they are really too good to us and are some wonderful friends. Just what this girl needed!!

Bullets, that is the way we roll today.
• The weekend was for the most part good. Lots of football/Olympics viewings. Good times with some friends. Some sleep, some laundry, some movies viewed. (crap forgot the Netflix movies at home!!)
• Spent some time in the ER yesterday. Nothing too serious, but it was beyond tolerable anymore. The closest urgent care that took my insurance was in Kenner and their number was disconnected. I tried looking for a few others but the numbers didn’t work either. So off to the Touro ER I went. I can now hear out of my ear, the pressure is almost all gone and so is the pain. The ringing in my ear is gone as well. There is a slight sinus infection which seems to be doing better.
• Which is good because it is the start of my Birthday week. Right now there is nothing too big planned for the week. Most likely resting until the big day. I know that night my roomie is planning a dinner party with some friends of ours. I knew she was taking me to dinner, but I didn’t know that she had invited a bunch of our friends until one of them let it slip last night. OOOPS. It should be fun! I did get one birthday drink already as one friend will be out of town that day. Later this weekend there is a road trip in the works to go and see the boys play in Oxford!!!
• Work is going good. So far a lot of figuring out a new filing system and a few other things here and there. It is a totally different atmosphere from what I had been in. Much more relaxed in some ways. I am enjoying it immensely.

This weekend was pretty darn quiet. I watched movies. I read. I drove from house to house to house taking care of animals. One would wonder why I am so tired. Mainly it is because I don't sleep well when I am not at my house. I also need a bit of noise when I fall asleep. I have had neither for over a week. If I get 3 hours of solid sleep? I consider it a good night right now. Yes I did go and see some music this weekend. It was the same person both nights.

Friday night I went to Carrollton Station to see Paul Sanchez play solo. Saturday night it was d.b.a and Alex McMurray sat in. I know I have said this before, so I will sound like a broken record. If you have never EVER seen a Paul Sanchez gig you need to check him out at least once. You will either get it, or you won't. Which is fine. I have seen some of the "regulars" show up with someone new to check out Paul's music and more often than not you start seeing those people again and again, and then they start bringing people. Not everyone knows who Paul is, some do and therefore don't want to check him out thinking he is doing what he was doing before. See for a really really REALLY long time, Paul was in the band Cowboy Mouth. A rock-n-roll band. Some people often say a college band. Some people (myself included) started getting bored at the shows, with the same things being said and done over and over. (I know a lot of bands do this so it isn't a dig against CM) You are either really really in the mood for one of their shows, or not. Anyway. Over a year and a half ago Paul left the band among some disputes. I don't know the full story, I don't want to know the full story, I don't NEED to know the full story. There is no law that says I can't enjoy both. Sadly CM very rarely seems to play in town anymore (like a certain trombone band I know) ;) Paul however has taken off with his solo shows. He has played Jazz Fest (okay three and a half songs before the rain forced them to stop) French Quarter Fest, Wednesday in the Square, the upcoming Voo Doo Fest. He is playing all across the country. Sometimes like on Friday night it is a solo show. Just Paul, his guitar, his songs, his stories. (point in case, I know most of the stories by now. Sometimes he gives a bit more information, but I always laugh) Sometimes it is a different musician sitting in. Could be another guitar player, could be a horn player, could be just about anyone. In the past he has had Susan Cowsill, Matt Perrine, Craig Klein, Shamarr Allen, James Andrews, Todd Duke, Alex McMurray, David Torkanowsky, Sonia Tetlow. Sometimes it is a duo, sometimes a trio, and if you are catching a festival show chances are pretty good you are going to see the Rolling Road Show. Now the Rolling Road Show consists of the above musicians, mixed and matched. Whoever is in town. And you know it is going to be an amazing show. Not only will Paul do his own music but he makes sure to showcase who ever is playing with him. Paul is a true troubadour. His songs and his stories are like a warm hug.

Paul and I knew each other as acquaintances before the storm. After the storm I helped gut out his and his wife's home. It was one of the hardest houses to work on. Not because of the muck and the nastiness but because I knew whose items it was I was tossing out on the curb. It was a pretty emotional day for everyone both happy and sad. I rarely miss one of Paul's shows because like I said, it is a warm hug every time. You just need to let the music sweep over you and take you away. Paul knows that I was the local merch person for Bonerama so from time to time he will ask me to sell CDs for him as well. He would often make comments that if he could afford me, he would hire me full time. Paul has found a way to make us both some money, so as of this weekend, I am under his employ. No this isn't something that I can live off of, but it is a start. He gave me a bunch of CDs this weekend and I am going to get them into stores, bookstores, coffee shops, where ever I can. I will get a portion, he will get a portion and the store selling will get a portion. So it is a step in the right direction.

Seeing how the job search isn't going any where fast, it could be the only income I have coming in here. I have been sending out resumes for a month and a half and have only heard back from a Temp Company. That was legitimate anyway. So I will keep chugging along trying to find something. Only a few more weeks to go. Only as slight panic setting in.

Okay this picture is way better than the last one...here is a bit of who we are viewing as well as where why and what not. I realized that not everyone who reads this knows who was in the last picture. To me that is inconceivable! Well not really, but you get the drift. Today's picture once again features Mr. Mark Mullins of Bonerama (electric trombone god) as well as Mr. Eric Bolivar of Bonerama (drummer god). This shot was taken during the break of the AASECT Masquerade Ball. In simpler terms Bonerama played a sex ball. Okay it was a convention for Sex Educators but my small mind likes to call it the Sex Ball. I found it highly amusing that both of them had their iphones out and were busy doing whatever they were doing...quite possibly watching porn, watching Richard Simmons on You Tube. Checking emails...what have you. Addiction much? Like I am one to talk. This one is screaming out for captioning however and I am opening up the blog doors to allow it to happen. Hopefully I will still be the local Merch Goddess after this...

Seriously needs to have something good....

So far all I have is:
"Yeah I wore the Blazer, what about it??"

Last night I went and had some dinner at my lovely friend's house before they jet set off to another place for the summer. A lot of my friends are/will be out of town for the summer. That is just what some people do here in New Orleans. They get out of town to try to beat the heat, go where the gigs are, just get out. It really does quiet down here so the need for the musicians to leave is great. They do have to make money somehow! My housemate has been gone for all of June, she will be back in the next few weeks. My Bonerama boys are here right now, but will be on the road most of the summer, Pfister Sisters are in Ascona then Berlin, Leroy and Katja are heading to Finland, Grace is visiting family for a month, Roger and Elyse are hitting the West Coast for about a week, there is so many more going. I have realized that I have not left the city of New Orleans since last July. I haven't really had a longing to go anywhere. Yes it would have been nice to go to Phoenix for Christmas, but other than that? Pretty content where I am for now. Not to say I would pass up a free trip to Europe, or some sandy beach somewhere!! I do have a few people coming to visit. Lisa, Scott and my beautiful niece Aubrey will be here in about 3 short weeks. I can't wait to see them. Of course the Mulvey's will make their yearly summer pilgrimage. I can't wait to sit by the pool and just visit and have possibly a famous Bloody Mary!! Anyone have any big summer travel plans?

Yesterday was another normal Wednesday. After work, I walked the bike down to the coffee shop and sat outside enjoying an ice tea and a book. At the appointed hour I headed across the street to the Square and signed on in for my beer pouring duties. As I was doing so I was asked by the Volunteer Coordinator if I would mind selling merch for the opening band. I said "Sure! Why not?" I love helping out bands, I really do. Granted I had no clue who the first band was. As I was talking to my fellow beer pouring folks (pourers?) one of them asked me who the first band was. Um I remember seeing their name on the website and posted today that they will be playing however I don't remember the name. I made my way up to the stage area and secured by spot behind the barrier with an empty table in front of me. I was in the sun, directly in the sun and it was hot. I am standing there, dripping in sweat listening to this band do their sound check. And you know what? They didn't sound that bad. In fact they were kinda good. After the sound check a few of the members came over with some of the CDs and a few tshirts and told me the prices. CDs were going to be pay as you want and tshirts were $10, all money was to be donated to the YLC (the group putting on the concert series) Pretty easy. It wasn't until probably half way through their set that I realized why one of their guitar players looked so familiar. It was Edward Burns. You know, actor, director, writer, producer and now musician. (if you don't know from that, he was just recently in 27 Dresses, the boss) The band is from the East Coast, and are called The Blue Jackets. They are opening for Cold Play next week at the Madison Square Garden. I know some people are going to think/say, oh great another actor trying to be a musician. But the band? It was good. Straight out rock-n-roll. I was digging a few of their tunes. I did get a chance to talk to a couple of the guys when the evening was over, and they are all very nice. They pretty much paid for their own way down here because they wanted to help the city rebuild. No, I didn't have my camera with me yesterday. I know I should always carry it. I have one more chance tomorrow night! They are playing the Volunteer party. All the guys did sign the CD and I did manage to plug Bonerama and Porter Batiste Stoltz.

On my way home, on my bike there was a crash. nothing too serious and I was able to ride the bike home. I have scraps on the palms of my hands that don't feel pleasant but are so not life threatening. It sucks that some cars aren't courteous to bike riders, but what can you do? I survived, the bike survived it is all good. I didn't ride it today however, once again I was too tired. Some allergens in the air are kicking my ass. Tomorrow, I will ride again. 3 days this week isn't bad at all!

Remember how I said I was hoping that Bonerama played a birthday show for me this year? Well they are. In Atlanta. I would love to say I am going anyway but with the job situation, well I can't.

Both nights at Tips this weekend was so fantastic. Too short for Bonerama, played only like an hour. Won't see the boys play again...until....well I don't know. There is only a private show scheduled for later this month here in town. Other than that? They are on the road.

Paul Sanchez put on an amazing show and everyone who took in the free show left with smiles on their faces.

Tips did some rearranging of the merch area, adding a ton more for themselves. It looks good!! I always have a good time there, people just having fun and love to talk about the great music that comes off the stage.

Is it no wonder I love this town? Speaking of there is a BBQ out on Oak Street today with some music (of course) yes I will be heading down there!

* I have had sneeze building all morning long. Every once in awhile I get an awful tickle, so much it almost burns, but so far the sneeze hasn't happened. When it does? It will be colossal. (it happened, and it was)
* Don't forget that Paul Sanchez and the Rolling Road show featuring Craig Klein, Matt Perrine, Eric Bolivar (all from Bonerama) and Shamarr Allen are playing a free show at Tips tonight! If you aren't in town and want to catch it, try the webcast!
*Bonerama will be at Tips tomorrow, same deal except not free. But check out the webcast if you get the chance.
* I didn't ride my bike to work on Wednesday or Thursday but I did today. So for the first week of this? I have rode 3 times, which isn't bad. I kinda wish I had all week. But there is next week!
* I spent all last night reading this blog. Nanette had it linked on hers. Don't read it if you don't want to cry. Seriously. I started reading from the first post, and seriously cried the rest of the night away. It is such a sweet blog, Matt and his wife had a baby a few months early, and as his wife was on her way to see the baby for the first time? She passed out, and they were unable to revive her. So Matt is going through first time parenting alone and dealing with the death of his wife.

So I was thinking of ways to entertain myself here at work (seriously it is soooo slow that even the boring work is done) and I decided to count how many Bonerama shows I have been to. Both here in NOLA and out of town. As of today the grand total is 128 shows. That is a lot of times to see one band. I must like them. It helps to be able to work for them and of course live here in NOLA. It is kinda sad that I always look forward to a gig, but you just never know what you are going to hear. An old favorite you haven't heard in awhile or something brand spankin new. Not to mention the people that come out for the gigs are pretty fantastic as well. I love seeing people's reactions when they see the band for the first time. This isn't a band that you can easily explain what they sound like, you truly have to experience them. We are coming up on my 129th show this weekend and once again I can't wait. Seems like it has been forever and really it has only been a month. The summer really slows down for me as there aren't that many shows in town. Which is fantastic for the fans out across the nation. I am hoping to see at least one more show added here for this summer. I didn't get my birthday shows last year, they were scheduled and then had to be canceled. Okay...they weren't scheduled and advertised as shows for ME, but they were in my birthday month so therefore in my mind they were for me. ;) I am not going to hold my breath though, there isn't much down time for the boys and what they do have I bet they want to spend with their families...but a girl can dream right?

I did rest a lot this weekend and am feeling quite awake. It could have something to do with riding the bike to work this morning. Which means riding the bike home. I hope to make this a daily thing, so wish me luck on that!

As for the weekend, well it all started on Thursday. After work I met up with Lisa at her hotel where we sat by the pool and chatted for a bit. We then had a lovely dinner with her boss then made our way out to Frenchmen Street. Yes it was another evening of fantastic music with Paul Sanchez. This time he had Shamarr Allen sitting in with him. Paul has also offered me a small job with him, which I am going to do. I am going to hope this works out really well for the both of us! After Paul's sets ended, Lisa and I made our way over to Snug Harbor where the Pfister Sister's were celebrating their CD release. I love seeing those ladies live. They are so super talented and funny. I don't get to see them that often even though they have a weekly gig at the Spotted Cat on Wednesdays. I am usually either babysitting for Debbie and Matt or working the Wednesday in the Square. The ladies will be going overseas for most of the summer, so chances of seeing them again soon are pretty slim.

I took Friday off, mainly for a mental health break. As some of you know my job is relocating in the next few months. I am however, not relocating with them. In between training a new person and worrying about finding a new job for myself, I needed a day. I met up with Lisa, had a small lunch then I said goodbye to her and went on over to Canal Place to catch a viewing of Sex and the City. I loved it. I cried. I laughed. I did both at the same time. The only weak part in the whole movie? Jennifer Hudson. Which I found gratifying since she was so mean when I worked with her. No that didn't color my opinion, it was a very weak performance, I went in giving her the benefit of the doubt. After the movie was over I made my way home. Perused the job boards a bit, and took a nap and watched the Lost season finale. OH MY WORD. I did make my way to the Maple Leaf. Of course. I wanted to see Johnny Sketch and the Dirty Notes. They always put on a good show. They didn't disappoint this weekend. I got to hang out with some new friends and we all danced our butts off.

Saturday I caught up on some Tivo, a movie and cleaned up the house a bit. I then made my way downtown and met up with my friend Katja. We had grand plans to go either to Preservation Hall or to Palm Court, possibly both. We made it to neither. We sat outside in their backyard and ate food, drank wine and just talked. It was the most enjoyable relaxing evening and I was so glad to get caught up with Katja. Since she is on the road so much, we don't get to do that that often.

Yesterday was more job searching, another movie, a few errands and trying to cheer up a friend. I don't think I did that so well but will keep trying. I also have a potential great job lead that I hope comes to be. We will see.

This week looks to be pretty quiet as well. Other than some amazing shows happening this weekend. Paul Sanchez and the Rolling Road show will be playing a FREE show at Tipitina's this Friday. That is right. FREE! He is having sit in with him Shamarr Allen, and three of my boys from Bonerama: Craig, Eric and Matt. It is looking to be a great show. Again, if you haven't experienced a Paul show yet, this should be the one!! If you don't live here, there is the potential of a webcast at www.tipitinas.com. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. The next night Bonerama is playing at Tipitina's. It is a benefit show for Sweet Home New Orleans and Pot Luck Con I believe. Tickets are only $15.

The following images are of part of the Streetcar Art that is being placed throughout town. For a more detailed background and fantastic shots, visit this lovely blog done by Nola and Pete. They have tracked down a few that have been placed. The other night while at Greek Fest I told Pete about the one in Lafayette Square. I had spied it with my little eye from were I was selling merch last week. I didn't go over to investigate it, as by the time I could it was dark, and I honestly forgot. Today he informed me that the musicians on the streetcar were in fact a few of the boys in Bonerama. Ya know I had to go and really check it out! So before the music started tonight I did get a chance to see it. Here are the shots I took!!

This long weekend that we just had, well it was packed full of non-stop fun. It was a great way to kick off the summer. I had a friend come to visit the city, and we just had so much that we had to do and see, and to be seen. Like I said in my last post, we spent most of Thursday dodging rain and storms but managed to have a lovely afternoon that included a few bars, live music and friends. On Friday I went back to work, having enjoyed a half day off. When Sophia was ready to go for the day, I ran to the house, and dropped her off in the Quarter and said "have fun!!" After my day at work I met up with her in the Quarter, introduced her to the wonder of the many daquari shops then we wandered a bit more. We found ourselves in Jackson Square, enjoying the band playing when I happened to notice a familiar looking fellow. It was Terrance Higgins, drummer for Dirty Dozen Brass Band and had at one point sat in with Bonerama. He was showing friends around as well. About that time as well I got a call from Pete, saying he had made it into town and was out at the Greek Fest, so away we went out to the fest. It was a nice relaxing evening there in which I tried my first shot of Ouzo, watche the dancers and listened to the music. Of course food and conversation was had as well. Check out Pete's blog for pictures! We were not done for the evening however, once leaving there, it was time for my weekly check in at the Maple Leaf. Sophia finally got to see my home away from home and hear some music, meet even more people and soak up some of the orange lighting.

After some sleep, we were up and ready to go again on Saturday. This was a HOT and very muggy day. It was my kind of day. First stop of the day was out to Bayou Bogaloo and to see Paul Sanchez and the Rolling Road show. It was a short but amazing set. I was glad that Sophia got to see Shamarr play and had a chance to meet him, as he is an amazing musician and person. We then did the tour of the devasted areas, you know the 9th Ward, Lakeview, any part of the city that isn't the Garden District and French Quarter. To me there seemed to be a lot more activity down in the 9th Ward and that made me glad. More businesses are open. We then made it down to Port O Call for some drinks and burgers. We eventually made our way over to d.b.a for a night of John Boutte. It was once again packed for him in there, everyone seems to enjoy John, whether he remembers the words or not. A few of us were reminising about the days when you didn't have to get there so early to make sure you had a seat, while it is GREAT for John, the rest of us were bummed. A bit anyway. When his sets were done, we made the trek around the Quarter to Donna's to take in a few sets by New Orleans Helsinki Connection. It was a small crowd, and it was some really nice music happening. I hadn't been to Donna's in quite a while so it was nice to get back in there.

Sunday we did a tour of the Garden District, more walking in the Quarter so some more shopping could be had then a stop at Palm Court where Lucien was playing. Sophia was tired when we left there so I took her back to my house so she could pack a bit and get some rest. I, knowing I had the next day off decided to head on down to the Maple Leaf for some Sunday fun. Which was had....Yesterday after a mad dash to the airport, a missed flight, Sophia made it home in one piece. While maybe not quite rested, she did have fun!! And so did I. It is always a good time to see the city through a new person's eyes.

As I had previously mentioned this Jazz Fest was just a bit different for myself. Traditions that had been set in the past, well didn't happen. I did start the first day of Jazz Fest and the last day of the Fest out on my own. What I mean by that is that I made my way to the Fest on my own and for a majority of the days would go to the stages that I wanted to go to, see who I wanted, when I wanted, eat when I wanted and what not. It was nice. I did run into people I did know on those days and did spend time with them as well. The mud factor this year made it a bit more challenging to get around from stage to stage. Some fake crocs bought at the local drugstore made it almost bearable. The rain was pretty miserable on the first weekend. It wasn't so bad at the beginning, it was as it got colder and colder out did we get more miserable. I did try out a few more food dishes this year, and I think climbing up to the top of my favorites is the softshell crawfish poboy. Yes, softshell crawfish. Pretty darn delish. The music was top notch as always. I didn't catch many of the bigger acts, I rarely do. The only one I did in fact was Allison Krause and Robert Plant. The crowds get to much for me at the bigger stages. The only day it was durable was on Thursday. Of course that was the "locals" day. It was one of the best days at the fest. The weather was outstanding and the crowds were lighter. Of course Bonerama and PBS played and both of their sets were amazing. I wasn't all gung-ho with the Burlesque dancers, I do know I wasn't the only one. But it did get people talking about the band. I would rather see it be more about the music myself that got the people talking. Don't get me wrong, people did pay attention to the music and were talking about it, could have been more if it weren't for the dancers. PBS laid it straight out and had the people groovin to the tunes. I didn't make my way up front for either band, again because of the aforementioned crowds. My favorite sets other than my two bands were, Storyville Stompers, New Orleans Nightcrawlers, Leroy Jones, and the Bingo Show.

Again it was a lot of running around for me during the Fest. I do feel like I am still in recovery mode. In addition to going to the fest everyday, I was helping out at night shows. My least favorite shows were not because of the music, oh no. The crowds were out of control which were awesome for the bands. I only had to endure being stepped on, drinks poured on me, shoved, slipping on the floor (in front of the owner of the establishment who did nothing to help me get off my ass) (no I wasn't drunk, the floor was so slick from the rain and spilled drinks). I would totally do it all over again however. I love being able to help the bands out and Jazz Fest brings out some of the coolest and best fans that they have. Both new and old, the fans were out in full force. There were a couple of times that as soon as we walked in the venue, people were surrounding the merch table wanting to buy something. I wouldn't even have time to set up anything yet! This happened with BOTH bands. Ya can't help but be happy for the bands when that happens.

All in all it was a pretty successful Jazz Fest. If we weren't enjoying music, it was hanging out with my awesome new and old friends, finding great food, or getting a cold beer.

I did find myself thinking about next year already so it must mean that I am pretty much almost recovered.

I made it through Jazz Fest. It may not be in one piece. It could be said that I may have killed more than a few brain cells over the past two weeks. I haven't slept much and right now I have been up for 24 hours. I will do my big lowdown on Jazz Fest in a few days, accompanied with some pictures.

Tomorrow I will be out at Wednesday in the Square. I won't be pouring beer this week, but selling some merch for PBS. Come say hi if you are out there!

So I am shooting for Thursday. I will also be putting this post up at my new blog. So look out for it. The site is pretty much ready, I just haven't transferred the old posts from here over to there. I was going to wait until that was all done, but I feel like a good Jazz Fest post at the new site is fitting.

One more item of semi-importance for those of you not Jazz Fested out and are here in town. Bonerama is playing this Friday at the Maple Leaf. You know where to find me.

A day of rest and now we are back at it. But WAIT! some of you may be saying. Jazz Fest isn't starting back up until Thursday. Very true, but that doesn't mean that there isn't fun still happening!! Obviously today I am at work. If all goes according to schedule, Lisa should be arriving here around 2. We are going to meet up at the New Orleans arena around 4. No we aren't lucky enough to have tickets to the Hornets game. However Bonerama is going to be playing the pre-game festivities outside the arena, so might as well go soak up some of the playoff atmosphere!! Tomorrow it will be work again then I will bop on over to Wednesday in the Square where I will be pouring beer for a few hours. Hopefully this week someone will actually give me a break....I killed 5 kegs on my own last week and well...this week is going to be SO much more busy.

Thursday, well Thursday is a special day. I am hoping to see lots of people at the Acura Stage that day. Not just the bands, but the actual people. Bonerama AND PBS on one stage, back to back??? I mean how frickin lucky can one girl get??

Just to mention again if you will be in town, either visiting or living here, don't forget on Friday night that Bonerama will be doing another signing at the Jamie Hayes Gallery from 8-9! Come see the print for yourself and have the guys sign it! :) :)

My Jazz Fest has been so different this year. It has thrown me off a bit. I haven't taken many pictures so far, mainly because of the rain. Two days of rain hasn't made it real pleasant at times. For the sake of music we endure it.

Friday I got out the fest later than planned. I grabbed the only thing that has been customary for starting out the fest, crawfish bread and a Miller Light and headed over to the Fais Do Do stage. Caught a part of the Zydepunks before going over to Congo Square to browse the wares for sale. I kept running into people I know, so before I knew it, it was time to head on over to see Bonerama being interviewed by David Fricke (of Rolling Stone). It was a great interview laced with some music. Hearing the bones blast away the paddock area at the Fairgrounds was just amazing. The sound bounced of the walls and just filled the space up with the brassy ballsy music that is the Bone. Best quote of the whole interview was when Craig said that Mark learned how to dress and do his hair from Harry Connick Jr. Oh and of course when David kinda forgot that Bonerama DID have a guitar player. After the interview I had to check out Robert Plant and Alison Krause. She has the most beautiful voice. Someone said to me later that it reminded them of a mother singing lullabies. Robert? Well come on now. He is Robert Plant.

After that I bid the fest a fond farewell for the evening. I had to head on over the hotel where the manager was staying and count out some merch and get it organized for the evening. First up for the Boneramas was an artist/musician reception in the Quarter. Jamie Hayes is a local artist who has done up a rather funky and fun print for Bonerama. It is being sold at Jamie's gallery and also at the shows. The boys and Jamie signed a bunch of posters and mingled with fans. I sold a few cds and the new t-shirts that have the print on them. The best moment had to have been the one captured in the below pic:

I think George Porter Jr was happy to have one of the prints in his hands. I won't be surprised to see a George one soon. There will be another reception this Friday, May 2nd at the gallery as well. After that it was time to get everyone to Chickie Wah Wah, and blow the joint down. I was designated to sell merch in the little patio area that has just been finished.

I was quite glad the rain held off that evening.

Saturday I started out helping out WWOZ with will call, then made it into the fest just as the rain came down. We stuck it out though. Saw some Jon Cleary, Dr. John, Cowboy Mouth, Robert "Wolfman" Washington and then to the very shortened set for Paul Sanchez.

The picture turned out dark because, well it was DARK out already!! It was pouring and there was thunder and lightning. Paul only played 3 and a half songs. And let me tell you, it was the best 3 and a half songs that I heard all day. Everyone on that stage wanted to play for those fans that stayed and they gave it everything they had. Matt Perrine set the mood, as he came from the dressing room area you could hear him coming down the corridor playing "Singing in the Rain" by the time he got to the stage the crowd was cheering. It was one of the most fantastic musical moments for me. Something so simple. Craig saved us from having to stay out longer at the fest waiting for another ride, he just rocked the world last night. I was able to squeeze in a short nap before heading to the Maple Leaf. Not my most fun night there. I was selling merch out in the back bar area. It as so crowded, I got stepped on, hit in the face (it was an accident) drink poured down my back, and stepped on some more. It kinda sucked. Not the music just the whole atmosphere. It was too crowded for my liking. I didn't end up getting home until after 4:30 this morning. I stayed for about 5 songs of George's set at the end of the night and it was still packed when I left. Not as packed but enough.

This morning I was at the fest again to help out WWOZ, made it in before the rain hit again. I only caught two acts today. Leroy Jones and Gregg Stafford. It was dry in the Economy tent, just the way I liked it. The music was killin and had people second lining through the crowd. You make the best of what you can do. Like Mr. Phluffy did.

I mean no other man I know can pull off that much pink and still be straight. Seriously. I left shortly after Gregg's set to get merch ready for this evening's festivities. Nope no Bonerama tonight. Tonight it is PBS' turn and let me tell you...I am ready to hear some of their funky music. Almost craving it. But not until I catch a nap.

I was talking to someone yesterday when I realized that the craziness kicks off tomorrow. Not that I don't mind, but this time of year seems to go by in such a lighting pace. Really time goes by when you are having fun. So much happens that I am amazed year after year that I can manage to pack in so much to one day. This year will be no exception. I have once again realized how lucky I am to be here in this city and experience this time of year with all the joy that I can handle. I also realize that there is going to be very minimal sleep for the next few weeks. Let me give you a quick run down on what will be happening.

Tomorrow is the Wednesday in the Square fun. If you can make it out, you should!! Big Sam's Funky Nation is starting the evening out following will be the Dirty Dozen Brass Band. I will be pouring the Abita and dancing. Thursday evening I will be taking in the musical styling of Paul Sanchez and who ever is sitting in with him that night. Now here is where it twists a little on me. Normally on the eve of the fest, George Porter Jr. plays at Southport Hall with the Runnin' Pardners. I don't believe that is going to happen, in fact I believe he is playing with the Trio at the Maple Leaf. Which is fine. Just a bit closer to home and I will still get the dose of George I need before the fest begins. Friday, well Friday is of course the fest. I am not sure what time I will be there, but I will be there and I will be taking in what I can when I can. Most definitely with crawfish bread in one hand and a beer in the other. There are a certain amount of acts I want to see but it always changes right. I will be at the interview that Bonerama is doing with David Fricke, cuz that is just too cool. Friday night Bonerama is kicking it off at Chickie Wah-Wah. Yes it is back. Yes it is awesome, yes Dale rules. Saturday I will be helping out WWOZ at the will call booth for the morning then into the fest I go. Again I will go where the fest takes me. Saturday night Bonerama is at the Maple Leaf. Sunday will repeat the same way, ending with PBS at the Howlin Wolf. Monday will either be a day of rest (work happens also this day) but Instruments Acomin is at Tips and that is always a fun night. Tuesday I do believe will be a rest. Wednesday it is back to Wednesday in the Square and beer pouring. Thursday is of course the big fun day for me. Bonerama AND PBS at the fest. Both are playing that evening as well. PBS is at the Howlin Wolf, Bonerama is at French Quarter Tips. Friday I will be working the Hospitality tent for WWOZ for a few hours at the fest then enjoying my time there. Friday night Bonerama is at Rock-n-Bowl. Saturday more fest, then Bonerama at d.b.a, Sunday is of course the last day of the fest, which I am usually catching my 500th wind at. Sunday night ends it all with PBS at the Howlin Wolf. Then I will collapse. Not to mention friends in town, people at the house, it is so the best time of the year. Hopefully I will see some people out there, please come find me. I will either be dancing or lying on the grass taking a nap, come say hi.

So as luck would have it, not only is Vday this week, but so is FQF. The only day I will be attending will be of course Sunday. I plan on taking in the Pfister Sisters (NEW cd out NOW go grab it!!) Paul Sanchez and the Rolling Road Show, Leroy Jones, and hell...I don't know who else. I will be wandering trying to get as much in as I can. Or passed out in a puddle of drool.

If I were going Friday and Saturday, I would of course be checking out well just about the entire fest. Some of my favs will be playing. Original Hurricane Brass Band, Storyville Stompers, Rick Trolsen, Bonerama (that is a no brainer for anyone who knows me), Soul Rebels, Tin Men, Billy Iuso and the Restless Natives, Johnny Sketch, Susan Cowsill, Lionel Ferbos, Lars Edegran, Shamarr Allen, Big Sam, Bob French, Gal Holiday, Zydepunks, New Orleans Nightcrawlers.

So if you are going, check out some of these bands. You won't walk away disappointed!!

Last night was my final on air slot for the WWOZ spring membership drive. It was an amazing night. First I thought it was kinda funny that the DJ from the previous show was a lady that I had sold a Bonerama shirt to at the last Rock-n-Bowl gig. Second I found out right before our show started that Deacon John was coming in. Are you kidding me?? That man is an incredible musician. He came in about 20 mins into the show and stayed the whole time. He is so so so sweet. I can't explain what it was like to be sitting in the studio with him, and have him play live. There were only 2 other people in the room at the time. I do realize that there were a ton of people listening online and on their radios but it was like a private concert. To hear him talk about his life and everything he does was so interesting. He gave me a HUGE hug at the end and said that there need to be more young people out there like me to keep the New Orleans music and heritage alive. I am going to do my best.

It has been an whirlwind so far. It started on Friday with going to Rivertown's production of "Flea in Her Ear". My friend was in the show and she had been trying to get myself and Ms. Kelly to a production of hers. We both finally made it to one, I had been determined to make it to this one as I had seen a production of it in Ashland, OR at the Shakespeare festival. It is such a funny show, an this company did a great translation of it.

I then headed over to the Maple Leaf to see Anders play. Mr. Mark and Mr. Eric were sitting in with him, so it was fun to see them outside of the Bonerama environment. It ended up being an extremely long night, but it was a good one.

After a short snooze it was time to head to the Quarter to see Leroy and Katja play, then it was out to have a few drinks and catch up. I had just enough time to get home and grab the merch before heading out to the Bonerama gig. It was an interesting one, and it took awhile for the crowd to get into the music. The boys were doing their best. At one point there was some pole dancing...by a band member. It was blink and you missed it moment. Steam was literally coming off of at least Greg and Mark's trombones. Yes the event was outside, and it was COLD. At least it wasn't as cold as it had been the night before.

The weekend will be wrapped up with cleaning and heading to OZ for another stint. 6-8 today. Tune in if you get a chance. I hope the time change doesn't hurt too bad!

Yesterday I was on WWOZ helping out with the membership drive. It was an honor bestowed upon me last fall. I had been volunteering helping out with the studio music library, and someone asked me to help out by co-producing a few shows for the fall membership drive. It was a lot of fun once I got past my nerves. So here we are at the spring membership drive and I knew that I wanted to get to at least once to co-produce my favorite show. Which I did yesterday. I had the best time. Sherwood Collins does the New Orleans Music Show every Thursday from 11-2. I wanted to steal his music collection by the end of the show. See the DJs are all volunteers as well, and most of them bring in their own music. I do want to state to those that did listen? I had nothing to do with the three Bonerama songs that were played on-air yesterday. Seriously. Sherwood always seems to play a Bonerama song during his set. He was getting ready to play one and I said, "Oh you are playing my boys!" I preceded to tell him that I sold merch for them. I think he said something like "I knew I recognized you" or something like that. Later Matt, Craig and Eric all popped in and said hi off-air. They were up the street filming a commercial with a bunch of other musicians. So Sherwood played another song. He finished the whole set up with another one. The other songs that he played? They were perfect. A lot of people called in that I knew and renewed memberships. I do believe that overall there were a lot of memberships happening that day. I will be back on this coming Sunday!! It is a short shift, but that is okay. 6-8.

Last night the boys of Bonerama played at Rock-n-Bowl for a VERY packed crowd. They kicked it off just right. It was funny because there was about an area right in front of the band that no one wanted to enter into right at first. I tried to get a few people out there, and finally Eddie showed up and took charge. That and Mark told people to move on up.

I got to meet some other NOLA bloggers, which happened to be a first for myself. Lisa even made it out!! She just missed meeting Nola, Pete and Leigh. (and I mean JUST missed, ya'll probably passed either in the parking lot or on the stairs) It was great to get to chat for even just a few brief moments with all of them. I also saw L out again. Last week we met/chatted at the Maple Leaf. Met her boyfriend who knew Mark way back in the day. I was also standing at the bar when this lady asked me if I was Stacey. Turns out she knows Lisa via her blog and was hoping to meet her. Which she did!! There were a ton of people that I have met via working for the Bones hanging out last night having a grand ole time. That atmosphere was a party.

Someone needs to remind me that, it is never a good idea to skip dinner. Well actually I didn't intend to skip dinner. I wasn't hungry when we left the house to go and see Paul Sanchez at d.b.a. I was figuring I could pick something up at Mona's or 13 at some point, or eat when I got home. I had a few drinks. Can you tell where this is heading? (I didn't get sick no) I ended up not eating. But instead of going home when Paul was done I thought it was a great idea to go with a few friends to Donna's. It had been ages since I last went there. What was the harm in one more drink? Really? That STILL would have been okay. If I went home right after that. But I didn't. I went to the Maple Leaf. Suprised a bunch of people that aren't used to seeing me there on a Thursday. I got a suprise myself when I heard some familiar tones wafting towards me from the stage. I looked around the corner and there was Mr. Craig Klein. Let it be known that I stayed for both sets. I am too old to do this sometimes. I did have a great time. A lot of people I knew were out and about, the music was fantastic, conversations were had.

Bonerama at Rock and Bowl tomorrow night. Come meet some really cool people and hear some great music. I may be awake

After all the fun and excitement of yesterday's semi announcement, all I can say is keep em crossed. I should hopefully be getting a phone call today, probably just to chat about what I can do. I am nervous that I have forgotten everything, however I know it will come flooding back once I start talking about it.

So last night I spent cleaning my room. Yes you read that right. Spent the night cleaning my room. I am a slob. I can admit it. I don't pick up after myself in my own room. The common areas? Yes...my room? No. It isn't that big of a space either, but right now it is looking good. Including the tower 'o merch from Bonerama and PBS. It is pretty impressive. There really is no where else to put it in the house but where it is. I took a picture that I didn't upload last night. I got too caught up in the "Biggest Loser" to do much else.

Hotmail has been down pretty much all morning so I can not get the email I need to send the theatre resume to. It is driving me batty. I guess in the long run it is okay since I have to go home and work on it still.

There is only one downside, and really I can get over it. It runs the same weekend as French Quarter Fest. If I can get this? Kristen will have to be the merch girl for the Bones at their FQF set. Which isn't a problem, she can totally handle it.

Come on hotmail!!

Last night I was standing at the door to the Maple Leaf chatting with Pete. A bunch people were leaving and one of them stops and asks if I wrote the blog Randomness. That was a first time that some one I didn't know brought up my blog and recognized me because of it. So hello L! (I know not everyone wants their name on blogs) and come and say hi at the next Bonerama gig. Speaking of, next Saturday there will be one. Rock-n-Bowl. Come out and bring lots of people. It is going to be a lot of fun. The boys will be going on the road just about to festival time so come and see them.

The sun is shining and I feel the need to go out and pull some weeds. Hopefully everyone is enjoying their day off!!

After a slightly hectic start to the day, which involved a frantic run around the house to get ready and to an almost keystone cop scene for a car ride, I made it to out to the new baseball stadium for the block party. There was a huge stage set up right outside the entrance. At first there were not a whole lot of people there. The air was filled with the scent of burgers, beer and crawfish. The sun was shining with just a hint of a breeze. By the end of the set, there was a much much bigger crowd. I witnessed all ages out there dancing to and enjoying the sounds of Bonerama. It was a wonderful afternoon.

Several things to say. None of huge importance, so its comin' atcha bullet style

* For those of you who have asked to see the pics of Taylor Hicks onstage with Papa Grows Funk, don't hold your breath to see them anytime soon. See my housemate who took the pictures? She has an old school camera. With film. We will be lucky to see the pictures before next Christmas. It is just the way it is.
* French Quarter Fest will be announcing its lineup for musicians and food vendors today. I don't know honestly which one is more exciting. FOOD! MUSIC! 3 days, and it is all free! Okay the music is free. The food isn't. April 11-13th get your dancing shoes ready.
* I hit my head last night. Actually the car door slammed into my head. It still hurts. I wouldn't be suprised if I had a slight concussion. At least I didn't have a swearing fit when in happened.
* Bonerama is playing a really fun gig this weekend so if you are in town and want to check them out for yourself? This is a good one. The new field for Tulane baseball is opening up this weekend and they are having a weekend long celebration, as well as some games. Saturday at 12 noon they are having a block party in which Bonerama will perform and then they are playing the National Anthem. Feb. 29th they will be playing the National Anthem for the Hornets game.

Last night I had to really drag myself down to the Leaf. I was really wanting to stay curled up in bed and snuggle with the kitties. However I did want to see some of my friends so I made the 2 block walk. As I am approaching, I see a limo parked at the corner. I knew there was a slight possibility of some celeb showing up, apparently it happens, however never when I am there (and I am there A LOT). If you are not aware it is the NBA All Star weekend down here in the Big Easy, which is why I knew it was possible. Of course I was thinking more along the line of basketball players. I gut up to the door at the Leaf and Allen says "we have an American Idol in the house tonight, that Taylor guy" We proceeded to chat a few minutes and then I wandered away. I went up to the bar to say hi to Jeff and casually glance around. Nope, didn't see Taylor any where. The band is already playing and they were alright, I have seen them before and I usually don't pay attention to them. They aren't bad, just not that great. I get my drink, and have a small chat with Jeff. Then it was time to go towards the back to say hi to Rick ,who works sound. As I am walking down the hallway I can see through to the back bar and leaning up against the pool table was Taylor talking on his phone. I stop and say hi to Rick when Taylor comes wandering by. I stop him with something totally un-music related. See last time he played here in town, I bought the book he wrote. In the book he talks about this family that he was really close to. I know them. They work with my company and I talk with several of them on a daily basis. So as he was walking by I said "I know Robert" he started laughing and said "how do you know him? how do you know about that??" I told him the connection, and that I read his book. He then says "hi I am Taylor, and shakes my hand" He proceeds to talk to Rick and I for like ten minutes. We talked about him playing with George Porter Jr, Bonerama on Letterman and the massive bass sound that was coming off the stage. He then went back to his friends and they all stuck around for a long time. Enjoying the atmosphere and the night. He seemed to be having a really nice time and he was very sweet. So there was a brush with another celeb.

So this morning I am in the shower thinking the usual, "I don't want to get up, I don't want to be showering, and I don't WANT to go to my stupid job." Then it hit me. It is February 11th, 2008. It is a Monday. Hmmmm what could be going on that would perk me up in .05 seconds and then make me a nervous mess in .02 seconds? Yes that is right. My boys of Bonerama are making their primetime debute tonight on David Letterman. Excuse me a moment while I have a small panic attack for them. Actually, I am more excited than anything. I thought I would cry this weekend if one more person asked me one of the following variations "Are you going to New York? " "How come you aren't selling merch at Letterman? sell it outside?" "You going to Letterman?" I got this picture this morning from one of my boys and know that if I was there I would have been dancing under the marquee. It could be better that I am not there. ;) Don't forget to watch!!

I walked so much yesterday it isn't even funny. We left the car by my place of work in the Warehouse district then proceeded to walk down St. Charles to just past Lousiana where we caught the 4 day parades. (Sorry NOLA and Pete that I didn't make it down....my feet are failing me). After the parades rolled, we walked up past Jackson on Magazine before we finally caught the bus to bring us back down by the car. We then hightailed it to our friend's hotel so we could (read Kristen) watch the Super Bowl. We usually watch Bacchus down by Mulates, but we stuck with Po's crazy family, it was a TON of fun hanging out with them.

Right now I am at work, crazy no? I am doing a half day today then it is off for the final leg of Carnival season. Tonight immediatly following Orpheus, we will be at the Howlin Wolf where Bonerama is playing with Jon Cleary. Then it is a short nap followed by St. Anne's.

See ya on the flip side.

Damn it. I am sick again. I am going to blame Lisa since she has been fighting it for the past few days and well...she must have spread it through the computer. I woke up at 1:30 this morning with the chills, aches, fever and later the sweats. I didn't get back to sleep until after 3 and the alarm goes off at 5. So....I am one tired puppy today. I am at work....I do feel a bit better, but I am damn tired of being sick. I have been taking vitamins, having acupuncture done, eating better, getting more sleep and it still came back to get me. Oh well, I have my things ready for this evening and Dr. Jack Daniels is on standby.

Did I mention that Bonerama will be on David Letterman???? Yeah? Okay.

kid you not!! Monday Feb 11th. With Damian Kulash of OK Go.

OH MY FUCKING GOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I may faint.

There are pictures of yesterday. However I am running short on time, so they will have to be put up later tonight. I am getting ready for a day of 2-3 parades.

Yesterday's parades were a LOT of fun, being with friends it was awesome as well. We all had a GREAT time. The floats for Orpheus are fun as well. Bonerama had a SMOKING set at Rock-n-Bowl.

Now it is time to shower and get out there for this evenings parades.

Since there are a fair amount of people reading this blog that may or may not know what this fixation I have with a certain band called Bonerama is, I thought I would regal you all with a tale of where it all began.

It all began with a certain musician named Harry Connick Jr. I had really enjoyed his music ever since college. I picked up a few of his cds and would have them on constant rotation. In July 1999 I saw Harry and his big band perform out in Seattle. I realized after finally seeing him live, that I appreciated his music more. Not just his music but the members of his big band. I ended up buying all of the CDs that he had out at that time and was now more than ever listening to his music.

In August 2001 I joined an online community of Harry Connick Jr fans. There I "met" people who also appreciated the music that was coming out of Harry Connick Jr and his band. I actually became really good friends with several people on that board. One in particular. We used to talk on the phone ALL the time. She often talked about a couple of Harry's big band members and this band that they were in and how I should check them out. I finally ordered their CD from Louisiana Music Factory to see what all this fuss was about. Of course the members were Mark Mullins and Craig Klein. The band was of course Bonerama. I can't properly relay what it was like to hear Bonerama for the very first time. Some of the most amazing music I had ever heard was pouring forth from my CD player. I couldn't believe the sounds that the trombones were producing. The CD that I had purchased was of course "Live at Old Point" the first and only CD that they had recorded at that time. Some of the other people on that board also started to listen to the band as well and loved them as much as I did. And still do.

November 2002 rolls around and I am planning a trip to see Harry Connick Jr in concert in DC. It just so happens that Bonerama has a gig booked in NYC, so several of us decide to meet up, face to face for the first time. That trip will live on in my mind forever. Not only was I meeting some of my really good friends in person for the first time, but I was going to get to see Harry Connick Jr and for the first time I was going to see Bonerama. To this day, I remember when the the first few notes were played at Tobacco Road, the stupid giddy feeling I had. I had a big smile the whole time. The music just infects you, and you have to dance. That entire weekend ended up with one more extra Bonerama gig at the Cutting Room, which officially sealed my fate as life long fan.

Not only was the music some of the most insanely brillant music I had ever heard, but the guys behind the music were and are some the nicest, sweetest guys I had ever met. They took time to talk with us on several occasions, would pretty much put up with our inane fandom.

Not long after I moved here in August 04, Mark asked me to help out at a show selling merchandise and the rest they say is history. I have the pleasure and honor of helping out the band when ever they are in town. I have seen them play in little clubs, to now recently playing in front of millions as they played the National Anthem. I know that all the people that have been on the fandom journey with me are just as pleased and excited at the growing amount of fans. The music continues to grow and be brilliant. The band will continue to grow by leaps and bounds and I hope that I will continue to help out.

Thank you for delurking and say hi!! I knew some people were reading but didn't know who. So stick around and I hope you enjoy. :)

So far the weekend has been busy. Friday night of course was the big Bonerama/OK Go show. I was surprised to hear that OK Go was starting the show out. I thought it was going to be the other way around, but it made me damn happy regardless. There was a really nice crowd and everyone seemed to be having a good time. Mark and Craig came out for the last song of OK Go and played with them. Then the Bones took the stage and totally rocked it out. At one point Damian of OK Go was totally rocking out to Bonerama off to the side of the stage. He looked like a happy little boy. He took the stage and did a few songs with them. He also wouldn't let Bonerama finish until they played War Pigs. By then him and few other members were out in the middle of the audience having fun. It was a pretty sweet night.

Yesterday I hung out having a relaxing day. We headed down the street to see Paul Sanchez play at Carrollton Station. It was a killer set from him. He started right after 10 and played for four hours STRAIGHT. He played a ton of his older stuff and he told a lot of stories that I hadn't heard before or longer versions. He had me cracking up. I have noticed that as he has been doing more of these solo shows that his singing voice has improved so much and he is so much more happy and enjoying life so much more. It has been really nice.

After he was done I headed on down to the Maple Leaf and caught the last 45 mins or so of Johnny Sketch. The place was packed and dancing their asses off. It was quite a different atmosphere than I had just been in. Apparently Drew Barrymore and Justin Long were there last night. Either they left before I got there or I just didn't see them. It is quite possible that I just didn't see them.

Later on this afternoon I am going down to the Quarter to see Leroy Jones play and then some more of Paul Sanchez. It is a good thing that I love this town. So far this weekend I have clocked in about 8-1/2 hours of live music and I am ready for some more!

Let me start by saying that, well I am beat. I know a lot of people here who are worn out from the constant flow of fun. I think I counted how many parades I went to. I lost count after ten. Some people may ask what are you doing going to so many parades? What are you going to do with all those beads, cups and stuffed animals and other trinkets? I have no IDEA!! They are all piled up around the house. My niece Aubrey will get a nice little package, other than that I am not sure. Of course there are a few special ones that I will be keeping, the rest could be up for grabs.
However it just isn't about the parades, it is about spending time with friends. Eating lots of food, drinking a lot, laughing and dancing. I got to hang out with some of my good friends on an almost daily basis for 2 weeks, I got to meet some really cool new people as well.
I am totally and officially Mardi Gras'd out. I was actually quite happy to see Fat Tuesday come to a close so I could finally rest my weary body. Which I will be doing on Saturday. All day. With the phone off. Maybe this 3 month illness will finally go away.

Only 3 more days until Bonerama is on Letterman!! Oh to have a way to get to NYC......anyone have miles? I will sleep on the street. ;)

As recovery is still in motion down here in NOLA, the benefits will keep on happening. This Thursday is the 3rd benefit for "Musicians bringing Musicians Home" the first two were hits and the musicians that have participated has been amazing. The second one included the Indigo Girls and some of the members from OK GO! Here is a little info on the upcoming concert on Thursday taken from the Bonerama website:

On Thursday, January 10th, Craig, Matt, Eric and Bert will join members of bands that include My Morning Jacket, The Mekons, The Wrens, Mendoza Line and Freakwater for "Musicians Bringing Musicians Home III", a benefit for musicians displaced by Hurricane Katrina. That show will take place in the Parish Room of NOLA's House of Blues at 9pm and is sponsored by Air Traffic Control (ATC) and Future of Music Coalition (FMC). Participants in FMC and ATC's annual Artist Activism Camp discuss best practices for artist advocacy, during the two-day meeting, and tour New Orleans, visiting the Ninth Ward and hearing from some of the city's musicians about the efforts to revitalize their music community

Bonerama has been very active in these benefits, mainly due to the organization Craig used to be a part of called Arabi Wrecking Krewe. Some of you may remember that I also used to participate in that organization, were we went to musicians homes and gutted them. Things got a little out of control there unfortuntelty and due some poor leadership (not Craig) the group has pretty much disappeared. However, there are so many other groups out there doing good and Sweet Home New Orleans is one of them.

Speaking of Sweet Home New Orleans, this has me tingling:

On Friday, January11th, OK Go and Bonerama play a show to aid New Orleans music legend Al "Carnival Time" Johnson (who gave Mardi Gras its unofficial anthem and lost everything when Katrina destroyed his residence), and Sweet Home New Orleans - a coalition of non-profit organizations that helps find affordable housing and provides rental assistance for the city's cultural ambassadors. That show will take place at Tipitina's at 10:00pm. OK Go and Bonerama have also collaborated on "You're Not Alone", an EP for the same cause, to be released on February 5th - Mardi Gras 2008.

People! This is exciting. Ya'll know OK GO right?? You have seen the infamous treadmill video right? If not I will post it later in the day. I am so excited to hear more of OK Go and the Bones together I almost can't stand it. I will be there selling Merch for the Bones, so if you are in the area, come say HI!

It has been a nice start to the new year so far. I don't even know where to start. I actually had New Years Eve off so I enjoyed that day fully. Reading a bit, watching some TV, a little gardening, a trip to the grocery store, a visit with some friends. It was a rather full day. I wasn't really sure if I was going to make it to midnight however, but I did. And beyond. Of course the New Year was rung in at the place where everyone knows my name...the Maple Leaf. It wasn't a crazy big crowd, and overall the evening was quite mellow. I drank WAY more than normal and apparently was amusing to quite a few people.

Yesterday consisted of sleeping, and preparing some veggie chili for the evenings festivities. We had a few friends over to watch the Sugar Bowl. In reality it was for us to just watch the National Anthem, performed by my Boys. They did so well and I am so proud of them.

I am so ready for 2008, I know it will be a great year. I can feel it in my bones. Speaking of bones...don't forget to watch the Sugar Bowl tomorrow. Even if you are not a football fan, watch the beginning of the show as my boys Bonerama are playing the National Anthem!! The game airs on FOX, and I do believe it starts at around 7:30 EST. Granted it will just be a small taste of what they do, but you will be able to see how wonderfully talented the boys just are.

I am not making any resolutions.....just to be healthier and happier and be a better person overall.

Have a safe and wonderful ringing in to the New Year!!

I am back at work today. Other than the cough, the stuffy nose and the spins I am feeling better. I think the spins are on account of I kept waking myself up coughing last night. While I got a lot of sleep yesterday, it was an interuppted sleep. I will take it however. I will embrace it, because at least I got it. The following is pics of the awesomeness of the birthday bash.

The boys on stage at the Howlin Wolf. I cut part of Steve out so I could get Bert in. Some sacrifices have to be made.

Two of my most favorite musicians in town. Birthday Boy Mark Mullins and Mr. Leroy Jones. I am proud to call them both friends.

The other birthday boy of the night, musicial Icon George Porter Jr. Seriously, the man is 60, and is still going strong. Everyone loves him.

Phil, the man behind the scene for Bonerama. Is he an angel??? Is Katja the devil on his shoulder??

One of my most favorite people in the world. Tom. He has somehow been convinced he needs to help out Phil and drives Bonerama from town to town. I was so happy to see him the other night. He rocks. Even if he is a bit confused. I mean a Yankee fan?? He lives in Boston!!!

I am sitting here at my desk. At work. On Christmas Eve. When I should be in Phoenix, enjoying my family. There had been a small chance that I was going to get to go home, however my boss decided that someone had to be here and he already has taken today off. So there you go. Instead of seeing my niece enjoy her first Christmas this evening I will sit here and count the times the phone has rang ( 2 times in the last hour ) and stare at the empty IN box. Who knows...maybe it will pick up....maybe they will let us leave early. Oh and to top off all this joy? I have a cold. Spent all day yesterday with a sore throat, fever and aches. Today throat isn't as bad, but the aches are still there, no fever.

As for the weekend it ended up being quiet. Bonerama played Friday night and it was nice to see a decent size crowd come out for that. We got a sneak peek, rather listen to how the boys will be playing the National Anthem at the Sugar Bowl. They proceeded to rock everyone's socks off. It was a nice night that hasn't happened that often. It is kinda sad how few times they have played in NOLA this year. Someone even asked me if they were from Florida as they play there a lot. Nope, they are NOLA boys.

Saturday I spent doing laundry and the rest of my shopping. That evening I had Christmas with Kristen and her man. We had planned on going out that night, but I was starting to feel nasty and Kristen's flight was early yesterday morning.

After getting Kristen to the airport I spent the day cleaning and watching the Saints game. I am having fun trying to coordinate getting over to my friend's house to make sure Dart gets his pill (he was put on another weeks worth on Friday) and staying at my house to feed the cats. Kristen's cat is on a diet so you can't just leave a bowl full of food for him out. Made for an exeptionally early morning today. Oh well...it has to be done. :_)

I know for many of you that this weekend will be one of two things. A nice relaxing weekend with friends and family or a mad dash with you running around like a chicken with your head cut off. If things go the way I am planning (sshhh it could work) I will be frantic today and relaxing the weekend away.

Who really wants to be at work today? I know I don't. However I am and can make it till that 3:00 go home bell rings. I then have to race across town, wrangle a cat into his carrier and get him to the vet. I then have to get the rest of my christmas presents bought. I have to then race home and get merch together and then it will be off to the Bonerama gig at the Maple Leaf. Saturday will consist of sleeping, washing laundry and having "Christmas" with my housemate.

Kristen takes off early on Sunday, I will be watching the Saints Game. (Marisa you want to bet on it???) and more relaxing.

I am one of the poor souls NOT in retail who has to work on Christmas eve. Oh well.....I may be bored out of my skull or busy busy busy.

This came from the fan email that was sent around.

Bonerama has proudly accepted an invitation to perform the Star Spangled Banner prior to the kickoff of January 1st's Sugar Bowl Football Classic, which pits the University of Hawaii Warriors against the University of Georgia Bulldogs. The Fox Network's nationally televised broadcast begins at 7:30pm (EST), live from the New Orleans Superdome. Many of you may recall some highly regarded live performances of our national anthem, including Marvin Gaye's funky version prior to the 1983 NBA All Star Game, Whitney Houston's stirring rendition before Super Bowl XXV in 1991, and, of course, Hendrix's 1968 Woodstock incendiary interpretation. Many would like to forget Roseanne Barr's disastrous performance prior to a 1990 San Diego Padres baseball game. The pressure is surely on for the boys, but the honor is grand. Be sure to tune in early to show your pride for Bonerama, for New Orleans and for your country.

I can not express how happy I am for the guys. I will hope that the entire anthem is shown. There is someone at FOX that loves them. Last year during the playoffs (and I think a few games before) as they would go to a commercial break, I would hear Bonerama. I think I may have jumped up and down and squealed. May or may not have called both Mark and Craig. Now they are playing the National Anthem at one of the biggest bowl games, airing on FOX. I can't wait to hear their version, I know it will be good. I am so proud and excited. These boys are going to go beyond their wildest dreams.

Yes I feel like a proud mama hen. So who has tickets for me?

* I only went out on Friday night people. I think hell is defrosting as I type.
* Our mailperson must have decided that our neighborhood was too much of a hassle to deliver on Saturday because they never came. How do I know? I was waiting anxiously all day for them, there is something that should have been delivered on Saturday that I really kinda need. That and our next door neighbors put some mail out to be picked up early Saturday and it is still there.
* Since Craig let the cat out of the bag on myspace, I guess it is okay to say here finally. Bonerama will be playing the Star Spangle Banner at the Sugar Bowl!
* It is going to be a very busy week....most exciting thing is happening tomorrow night. Stay tuned!

It has been a crazy busy week. I think I am still going from this weekend. See whenever Bonerama goes out of town, I seem to get busier. I end up babysitting for a certain Sousaphone player and his lovely wife. Since she is also a musician she needs a bit of help when her husband is out on the road. I have been over there Friday night, Sunday night, last night and this coming Saturday night. And I have so much fun. They have a 4 year old and a 8 month old, both are just so sweet. I had the hardest time last night however. The things that were popping out of the 4 yo's mouth was just hysterical. He has just watched the Charlie Brown Christmas special and what did he take away from that? "Good Grief" He was saying that a lot last night. What really got to me however was when we were talking about something, I asked him why a superhero would do something and he looks at me and says "what the hell?" I froze for a second and trying not to laugh I said "what did you say?" He of course could hear the laughter in my voice and grins and says "what the hell?" I tried to explain that wasn't something you say that it wasn't very nice and he just looks at me and says "Good Grief" and walked away. It was all I could not to double over in laughter.

A few pictures from this past Friday night at the Bonerama gig. This was all obviously from the end of the night. John the owner of R-n-B sometimes has a little bit of fun...he was talking about the band then decided to sing and strip a little.

Steve wasn't playin along and this is what he had to say during that "number"

Then it got crazy during my song "Funky Liza" as Matt decided to give the trombone a try.

And Craig took over Sousaphone duties.

Matt did the vocals as well.

I love the spontaneous things that happen at the gigs. You just never know what is going to happen!

As I was showering this morning I was amazed thinking that the Bonerama gig was just this past Friday night....and not 2 weeks ago. That is what it felt like. Yes a lot went on this weekend, however I have done more and not been so disoriented. Must be the fact that my parents are in town.

Friday night after work I took the streetcar down to the Columns Hotel. The Columns is a beautiful old house right in the Garden District. There we were able to enjoy the sounds of New Orleans Helsinki Connection in the front room. If you have never been to the Colums, they have this HUGE front porch in which they have a ton of tables out there, there is a front room with tables as well and music nightly. They have a very nice bar with a loungy feel to it. Apparently this is the place to have "cocktails". Someone I was with called it a meatmarket and I have to agree. After the gig was done, I had to run home as I only had an hour before my ride came to pick me up for I quickly organized the merch and changed clothes then was out the door for some Bonerama fun. As I said on Saturday there were several new songs. I am waiting to get the names of them all. I know one of them is "Bite Your Bitch" I must confess when I saw that title on the set list it was abbreviated and all it said was "Bitch" I thought it was about me. ;) The set included more instrument swapping and hula hooping. There was also a small strip tease. My pictures are sitting at Walgreens as I type. I will do my best to pick them up tonight. A nightcap at the Maple Leaf was had, then it was home to sleep.

I woke up early on Saturday unable to convince my body to go back to sleep. I had only 5 hours of sleep in me. After a yummy breakfast at Oak Street Cafe, I caught a few shows on Tivo then decided to tackle the house. I finally got my pictures hung up in my room and the house sparkling just in time to listen to the Grizzlies beat the Bobcats. About an hour after they were suppose to arrive, my parents finally made it to my house. We got them settled in and then out the door we went. We had dinner down on Frenchmen Street at the Praline Connection, then walked down to see John Boutte, Todd Duke and Leroy Jones playing at d.b.a. It was of course PACKED on the stage side of the bar, so we sat on the side. Ran into a few friends and had nice conversations. We were eventually able to snag a window seat on the stage side for the second set. It wasn't long after that set ended that we had to leave, as I was again selling merchandise that night, this time it was for 101 Runners. My parents did make it through the first band and the first set of 101 before they decided to call it a night. At that point they were up for close to 24 hours. After they left, I found a hard time staying awake, so I was sent out to do some dancing, that really woke me up. At one point in the front bar area it was just myself, Jason and Travis the two bartenders. Everyone else was squeezed in front of the stage dancing. I have never seen that before.

Yesterday after snoozing in a bit, we went out to the Po'Boy fest. Let me tell you that the organizers and myself didn't expect as many people as there was. It was PACKED!! It took us forever to make it from my house down to the the Maple Leaf. It is only 2 blocks away! I do think that they really needed to break up the food stalls just a bit. They put all of them on one block, along with the beer garden with the Saints game playing. It was a huge bottle neck. We did enjoy the sounds coming from both stages, a duck po'boy with slaw and ran into a lot of people. Ashley and I decided to tell my parents that this happened every Sunday in our neighborhood. It was close to the truth! The night ended fairly early, in fact I do believe I was in bed by 9 last night! Crazy but true.

I am looking forward to my parents getting to meet even more of my friends as the week goes on.

Last night included like 5 new songs by Bonerama. As I was perusing the set list before the gig started I may have yelled out "I don't know these songs!! Mark, I don't KNOW these songs" He smiled and said "Neither do I"

They are amazing new songs. Those boys are getting ready for a new CD I think. :)

Looking back on the week, it seems like it as and endless one. We have in fact made it to Friday. I am feeling about 100 better than I was at the beganning of the week and just in time because the insanity is going to start up again.

I am going to see one of my favorite groups this evening for a cocktail hour, New Orleans Helsinki Connection is playing for the first time in awhile. The group is a combination