Have Fun - Will Travel

Last night we took Mini Pearl out into the fields again, and when we returned to the house, she was missing her rear bumper.  We drove back out to the spot where we had heard what we thought was a branch, and sure enough, we found the bumper.  We placed it on top of the van and brought it home.  Unable to see well enough in the dark, we left it to deal with in the morning.  In the daylight, it looked like the bumper could essentially be popped back on, so we reattached it, hoping it doesn't fall off again while we're on the road.

Oops!

Let's hope that stays put!

Papaw likes watching old western movies and TV shows on DirecTV.  We watched part of the movie San Antonio, starring Errol Flynn.  I recognized one of the actors from Casablanca, and he looked familiar to Papaw, too.  We both wondered what his name was, so I used my IMDb app to identify him as Hungarian-born actor S. Z. Sakall.  Papaw said the film's leading lady also appeared in other westerns and he wondered what her name was, so I looked that up for him as well (Canadian-born Alexis Smith).

We weren't quite sure what time we were going to head out for Roanoke, so I looked up things to do.  I found some more bike trails within an hour's drive, but Brett wasn't keen on me disappearing with Mini Pearl today, so I decided to ride to the Halifax County Visitor's Center, about 45 minutes away by bike (it seemed like as good a destination as any).  The woman working there was very helpful.  I told her I was passing through town, what I had already seen, and that I was looking for ideas.  She mentioned several events coming up that perhaps I can check out when we swing back through.  When I said I had only a couple hours before we would depart for Roanoke, she suggested two nearby attractions: Bob Cage's Sculpture Farm and the Berry Hill Resort. Both sounded good to me.

Halifax County Visitor's Center

I found the sculpture farm and was struck by the size of the yard and the number of varied pieces on display.  There were several goats and a mule (or was it a donkey?) marching the grounds.  Although, I had seen the farm in a brochure at the visitor's center, it wasn't particularly visitor-friendly.  I was able to view the sculptures from the road, but when I turned into the driveway, I was told it was private property.  I was able to get a little closer on the other side, but there was a fence that definitely looked like it was meant to keep people out.  So I admired the sculptures from a distance and pedaled on.

The mule and goats are real.

The dinosaurs aren't.

The Berry Hill Resort was impressive indeed.  The long tree-lined driveway led to a large white building with tall columns.  I expected the historic house to be off-limits, but an employee taking a break outside told me the front door was unlocked and I was welcome to go inside.  I walked the many rooms and marveled at the old-fashioned decor.  After a while, Brett texted me and said we would be leaving for Roanoke soon, so I biked back to the house.

When I returned to the house, Brett's cousins from Orlando had arrived to stay with Papaw and Grammy.  I had the chance to talk with them for a while before we packed up Mini Pearl and headed out.

Shadowfax ready to explore a new town

Our friend Tara had arranged for us to stay in Roanoke with some friends of hers who had camped with her at FloydFest.  Brett had met them there, but I had not.  After a two-hour drive, we arrived at their home of Anne Marie, her husband Keel and their daughter.  They are wonderful.  During my bike ride back in Halifax, it felt like something had slipped again with Shadowfax's gear, probably as a result of the rough trail we tackled on Tuesday.  I wasn't confident enough yet to adjust the gear chain myself so I asked our hosts about a bike shop.  They suggested Underdog Bikes.  I plugged the address into my GPS, and saw it was only a ten minute bike ride away, so Shadowfax and I headed out.  I arrived and walked through the door to find a small shop with one employee working.  I told him about the gear and asked if he could check to see if everything else looked ok.  He fixed the gear issue,  added air to the tires, and otherwise gave Shadowfax a clean bill of health.  It turns out hr had seen and liked us at FloydFest!  I picked up a map of Roanoke's impressive bike trail system while I was at the shop.  It was getting late, so I didn't have time to explore the Greenway today.  I am eager to check it out tomorrow.

Chris says we're good to go!

By the time I returned to our new hosts' home, Brett was already a hit with their 6-year-old daughter.  Brett really is awesome with kids, and kids seem to love him.  Anne Marie had made us dinner and it was time to eat.  She said her family usually eats at the dining room table, but we didn't need to feel pressured to do so.  However, it sounded like a great way to share the meal and get to know our hosts better.  It was absolutely lovely.  Keel is a doctor, and Anne Marie owns and runs a coffee shop called Sweet Donkey Coffee.  Anne Marie brought us by her store and hooked Brett up with coffee, and me with tea before the show.

Deliciousness!

We arrived at the gig.  The venue was nice enough, the sound man was pro, and we played really well.  The crowd response, however, seemed a bit lackluster, and it began to affect our energy by the end of the evening.  We did gain a few new fans though, and several folks mentioned coming out to our gig tomorrow and bringing their friends.  The venue said it was a better turnout than they were expecting, so all in all, it wasn't bad for our first time in a new city.

I'm eager to ride the Greenway.

This journey has made it possible for me to interact with so many wonderful folks, and today was no exception.  For this I am deeply grateful.  Roanoke looks beautiful from what I've seen so far, and I'm excited to get out and explore it tomorrow.

Ciao!

- Jon

Grammy Winners

I woke up relatively early this morning, and decided to get a jog in before breakfast.  I headed to the town of Halifax, three miles east of Papaw and Grammy's.  It was a gorgeous summer's day, sunny and about 72 degrees.  Halifax has a small, quaint downtown.  The history of the region hit me when I happened upon the Halifax County War Memorial.  According to the website, the memorial is "dedicated to the memory of those brave men and women who answered their country's call to arms in wars and conflicts from the American Revolution through Desert Storm."  The names of soldiers from Halifax County who made the supreme sacrifice are engraved there. Nineteen are from the Revolutionary War, yet the majority of names are from the "War Between the States."

Halifax County War Memorial

Just before I reached the driveway on my way back, a rabbit scampered across the dirt road.  This confirmed there was still at least one on the property, but he had managed to stay hidden from Brett and his .22 rifle -- wascally wabbit!  By the time I returned to the house, Papaw had picked up more berries from the store (per Grammy's request), and Grammy had hard-boiled some eggs, largely because she knows I'm trying to be healthy.  So I was able to start another day with a delicious, healthful breakfast.

Another breakfast of champions!

Grammy and Papaw were busy preparing the house and yard for the big party tonight.  They are so proud of Brett and the band, and they don't often invite large numbers of people over.  Grammy was clearly feeling a little pressure to make the house look respectable for their guests.  We did what she asked of us to help tidy up the place.

Grammy proudly displays photos of Brett and his band!

I tried to rest a bit, and napped for maybe 30 minutes.  I decided I needed new shorts (a size smaller, hooray!), so I was able to get one more bike ride in to Walmart and back.  I'm pretty sure the good folks of Halifax County don't quite know what to make of me and Shadowfax when we ride into town and roll into a store.  By the time I returned, the house was immaculate, and the living room had been transformed into a small concert hall for tonight's festivities.  Everyone rested for a bit before the guests were scheduled to arrive, even Grammy.

Almost showtime!

A catnap before the soirée

About forty of Papaw and Grammy's friends attended.  We had met and performed for some of them when we were here three years ago, but many we hadn't met before.  All of the guests were older, several into their eighties and nineties.  I couldn't help but notice that I was the third youngest person in the room!

This really was a great group of folks.  I hope I can stay healthy enough to live happily well into my senior years.  My dad stays active and seems to be going strong in his seventies.  But my mom passed away from cancer twelve years ago in her late fifties, so I realize that no one is guaranteed their golden years.  Indeed, no one is promised tomorrow.  The best anyone can do is plan for the future and live for today.

The guests arrive

Quite a spread!  The chicken salad was irresistible!

Grammy had mentioned to me last night that they would love to hear me sing Arizona Sky, one of my original songs, at the party.  We haven't performed it since I've been having my voice issues because I haven't been able to hit the higher notes.  I've been taking care of my voice, and I remembered my teacher's breathing technique tonight; it seemed to be doing the trick.  When Papaw requested my Arizona song, I didn't want to let them down, so I gave it a shot.  Fortunately, I was able to hit the notes for the first time in quite a while.  It was great to feel my higher register coming back.  I hope my voice continues to heal.

We received a lot of compliments, and Grammy beamed with pride throughout the evening.  There were some musicians among the old timers who really appreciated the entertainment.  After the guests had all gone home, Grammy said to us, "That was a success if anything ever was, and we thank you to pieces."  I enjoy talking with Papaw, Grammy, and their friends.  My own grandparents have passed away, but Grammy and Mikey's grandma are both very supportive of the band and have adopted me as a kind of honorary grandson.  That's just fine by me.

Three pickers

Papaw and Grammy after the ball

I'm glad the party went well, and happy we could say thanks to Papaw and Grammy with our music.  Tonight also served as a good way for the band to get back in the swing of playing together after a great few days off.  Tomorrow we get back to it with two gigs in Roanoke and two in Blacksburg, VA.  I'm excited to play new venues and explore new cities.

Be well!

- Jon

Lone Murph and Shadowfax

After I had been divorced (for the second time) for a while, I grew tired of using my email address, 2murphys, which I had originally chosen for both my ex-wife and me to use.  Wanting something new that I would never need to change due to the end of a relationship, I decided on LoneMurph72@gmail.com.  Since then, I've used some version of "Lone Murph" as my user name for various apps and online accounts.  It's become a kind of nickname I've adopted for myself.  I like the way it combines my last name and "lone wolf."  I think it's cool and funny at the same time.  Today was a day of adventure for Lone Murph and Shadowfax.

We're still here at Brett's grandparents' house in Virginia.  They had prepared a delicious-looking breakfast of blueberry pancakes and bacon, but I opted for a slightly healthier route and had a bowl of strawberries and almonds.  My decision was partially based on the fact that I knew we were probably going to be eating the fish Brett and Mikey had caught yesterday for dinner, and I knew I would want to indulge.

Breakfast of Champions

I looked up Staunton River State Park and decided to check it out.  It was two hours away by bike and 30 minutes by car.  I asked Brett if I could take Mini Pearl.  I wanted to save my energy for the park itself; I'm glad I did.  I placed Shadowfax (folded up) in the back of the van and let Google Maps guide me to the park.  The drive there was pleasant, through many rural areas and green fields with farmhouses.  I arrived at the park and checked in at the visitor center.  I picked up a map of the multi-use trails.  A woman informed me that some segments were a bit difficult for bikes due to horses and tornado damage (the park had been hit by a tornado a few years ago).  I parked Mini Pearl and set off on Shadowfax to find the trailhead.  Soon after we had started the River Bank Trail, I could tell it was probably better suited for horses, hikers, and heavy duty mountain bikers.  At this point, I should mention that the Brompton owner's manual clearly states their bike is "designed for use on roads and well-made paths," and "not intended for stunts, cross-country riding or extreme sports."  For some reason, although well-aware of these warnings, I decided to press on with Shadowfax.  I had strapped a small bag containing two bottles of water, a can of beans and a banana to Shadowfax's rear luggage rack with the attached bungee cords.  The trail was rough enough to repeatedly knock the bag loose.  I kept trying to reposition the load, but the problem persisted.  Seeing the banana was being pummeled into purée, I ate it and resecured the remaining items.  Again and again, the bag came loose.  I realized I had to let go of the extra weight, along with my own stubbornness.  I had already come too far to return to the van.  I became aware of my reluctance to lose the water and beans because I had spent money on them and had intended to save them for later.  But the trail was challenging enough without the bag falling too, so I ate the beans (earlier than I had planned), took a drink of water and poured out the rest of one of the bottles.  I was using the cloth sack that came with my helmet.  I had meant to keep it, but I had to let that go too, as I now needed it for my empty trash.  I dropped the bag it in a garbage can and strapped the remaining bottle of water down.  Now all I had to worry about was the trail itself, and that was plenty.

Shadowfax is very photogenic!

Ah, the open road!

I had to dismount the bike several times either because the incline was too steep, or because the trail conditions were too hazardous to proceed.  One advantage of the Brompton design is that it's relatively easy to bail out and put your feet down without injuring yourself thanks to the low top tube.  Soon enough, I found a balance between riding Shadowfax when possible, and carrying him when necessary.  I actually began to appreciate the opportunity to see what Shadowfax and I are capable of together as well as what our limitations are.  Over the course of the next few hours, we explored the majority of the interconnected system of trails.  Eager to not get lost, I stopped at most of the trail signs to consult my map and stay on track.  When I first received my bike and started researching trails, I wasn't sure if we could handle "crushed stone" paths.  After today, I have no doubt we can.

One of many fallen trees in the road

Keep left!

Views worth the effort!

After Shadowfax and I had completed our intended loop, plus multiple side trails, we rewarded ourselves with a quick ride up and down the last section of the park's paved roads we hadn't yet seen.  We discovered several cabins for rent overlooking the river.

Nice way to spend a week or two!

By the time I returned to the house, I had missed supper, but they had saved some for me.  Brett had fried up the fish, and there was Grammy's salad with homegrown peppers, and cheese grits.  I passed on the grits, but finished off the rest of the fish and salad.  Along with some Tabasco and a biscuit, it was the perfect meal after a day out on the trails.

I caught up with the boys and asked them about their day as we built a fire.  We took Mini Pearl out on the property to help spot a rabbit for Brett.  As we drove the minivan through the brush and brambles it occurred to me that it was my second ride of the day with a vehicle being used in a way for which it wasn't intended.  Although I had seen three deer earlier on the trails (or maybe the same deer more than once), we didn't spot a single rabbit.  Disappointed he didn't get to shoot anything, Brett told us to stand back and discharged a round into the fire.

Burn, baby, burn!

Life "on the road" and off-road!

Ready, aim, FIRE!

I'll probably find something fairly simple to get into tomorrow, like exploring nearby downtown Halifax because we play for Papaw and Grammy's friends in the evening.  I'm looking forward to it.  Papaw and Grammy are awesome, and it's the least we can do to show our gratitude for the hospitality they've extended.

Peace, y'all!

- Jon

Bass Fishing and Getting Skunked

Last night, I had the best night's sleep since we started the tour (and probably since I quit drinking). Waking up at Brett's grandparents' house, I felt like Frodo Baggins waking up in Rivendale.  I was a bit sore from Saturday's hike, but I felt well-rested and relaxed.  Papaw made scrambled eggs, sausage patties and toast for everyone.  Eating together at the dining table with Mikey and the Basses was a great way to start the day and a pleasant reminder of meals shared with my own family years ago.

Souvenirs from Saturday's hike

Get a load of these turkeys!

Oh, what a beautiful morning!

Papaw fired up the tractor and lawn mower to clean up the yard for Wednesday's houseguests.  Brett and Mikey used the kaiser blade and machete, respectively, to clean up the brush surrounding the house.

Billy Bass, taking names and kicking ass!

The directions to the Tobacco Heritage Trail on my TrailLink app were from downtown South Boston, Virginia (not to be confused with that other Boston), so I used Google Maps to get biking directions downtown.  It took me about a half hour to reach Main Street in the small town.  From there, I followed the directions to the trailhead, and found it to be very clearly marked (a welcome contrast from Saturday's hiking trail).  This particular disconnected segment of the larger trail was short and sweet.  I reached the end of the trail (again, clearly marked), and sat on a picnic bench by the river.  I stayed there, soaking up the solitude and silence, for about a half an hour.  I laid back flat on the bench and enjoyed the sound and sight of the wind through the treetops and the sun peeking through the passing clouds. I felt totally relaxed, especially knowing I was in no real danger compared to Saturday's ordeal.  Jen texted me and said she was off work and would like to hear my voice, so I talked with her for a while.  It occurred to me that the trail was stress-free enough to talk and ride at the same time, so I headed back while Jen and I wrapped up our conversation (using my ear buds).  It was fun having her along with me, as I tried my best to describe the view.  We said our goodbyes, and I followed a sign to the Crossing of the Dan River, the site of an important turning point in the Revolutionary War (www.crossingofthedan.org).

This is a good sign!

Clearly marked trailhead = good

End of the road

Crossing of the Dan, much easier with a train and a bridge!

Shadowfax reenacting the Crossing of the Dan

I returned to the house about three hours later to discover Brett and Mikey had caught several bass and a couple brim.  Brett gutted them, and saved the meat for Papaw to cook tomorrow.  I'm sure it'll be delicious!  I decided to do some push-ups and plank exercises; it felt good to feel the burn.

Catch from Mikey and Brett (B)ass fishing

Bass gutting bass

We made a band run to Wal-mart.  I've been trying to give my progressive glasses a chance, but the fit of the frames left much to be desired.  I brought all three pairs to the vision center at Wal-mart and had them properly adjusted.  I'm still not sure how I feel about these progressive lenses.  I also bought a portable phone battery charger since my iPhone has become so invaluable on this trip, as my way of communicating, getting directions on my bike rides, and writing this blog.

Brett wanted to check out the games at Game Stop, so we stopped in.  As I've mentioned, I've been out of the video game loop for years; this was my first time in such a gaming store.  Brett bought Red Dead Redemption even though he has it at home because he wanted to show it to Papaw (a big fan of old western movies and tv shows).  Papaw and Grammy both seemed impressed by the movie-like graphics.

Perhaps I COULD get into gaming!

Brett, Mikey and I took the farm utility van out to the bigger pond on the property to try and catch more fish.  When it comes to fishing, I am definitely the novice of the band.  My hook got stuck on some lily pads, and Mikey shared with me a useful technique of alternating between reeling in and pulling the rod straight back in order to free it up.   Indeed, lily pads seemed to be all we could catch this time out.  Brett decided the smaller pond, at which they had been successful earlier, was the better bet since we were resigned to fishing from the shore due to the boat being damaged.  We then drove around the property seeking rabbits for Brett to shoot.  After a while, we spotted something moving, Brett got out of the van with his .22, and slowly walked right up behind the critter.  He had a clear shot, but it turned out to be a skunk!  We also saw several deer, but it ain't deer season.  We returned empty-handed, but I enjoyed off-roading around the property with the boys.

Roads?  Where we're going, we don't need roads.

Brett feeling right at home

Dinner consisted of Grammy's amazing pot roast stew over rice and her unparalleled potato salad.  I ate some foods that I often avoid today, but it felt like the right decision.  Later, the boys called for me to come outside with my Sky Guide app.  I confirmed they had spotted Mars, and I showed them where to find Saturn.  Tonight was a clear and moonless night.  That fact, combined with the low light pollution out here, made the stars much easier to see than we're used to.  Mikey and I started talking about times we had each seen the band of the Milky Way.  Suddenly, we realized it was visible overhead as we spoke.  Brett got a fire going, and he and Mikey discussed myths and unexplained mysteries while I confirmed we were, in fact, looking at the Milky Way (I'm about 98% sure now) and worked on this blog entry.

At one point earlier today, Mikey said it was too bad that I can't have a drink.  I told him I CAN have a drink, but I just don't want an ALCOHOLIC drink right now.  His response was something to the effect of, "I know.  I just miss you drinking beer."  I told him I knew exactly what he meant.  I miss it too, not just the getting drunk part, but the whole social aspect of drinking beer and the actual act of drinking beer, especially out here with the boys.  At one point tonight, Brett lit up a cigarette and, for the first time in a long time, it smelled appealing to me.  I quit  smoking years ago, and usually the smell of cigarette smoke disgusts me, but suddenly I found it almost tempting again.  I don't know if this unexpected craving is related to my abstinence from alcohol or not.  I wasn't worried about it; I know I'm not going to smoke again, but it made me realize how relentless addictions can be.  I just need to remind myself how alive and at peace I felt all day today.  Why wouldn't I want to feel that?  I figure, if I can't make it another forty days without a drink, then I really do have a problem.  One day at a time.

Cheers, y'all!

- Jon

Floyd Where Prohibited

I didn't get much sleep last night, but was grateful for the two to three hours I did get.  It was an overcast Sunday morning at FloydFest.  Surprisingly, I wasn't too terribly sore from yesterday's hike.  Maybe my body is starting to adapt.  I rode Shadowfax around the festival grounds for a bit, nothing too taxing, just a stroll with my new friend.  I enjoyed people watching and the pleasant weather.  The boys and I broke down camp and loaded up Mini Pearl.  We took advantage of the free lunch for artists.  I must say, the hospitality food here at FloydFest is pretty darn good.  I loaded up on more vegan deliciousness.

Me and my Shadowfax

I think those girls are high!

I could see myself and Shadowfax in one of these someday!

Our 1pm set at the VIP stage went well.  We had a good mix on stage, which always makes it easier for us to play with more energy and have fun.  The crowd seemed to dig us.  Two of our friends from Springfest and Magnolia Fest in Live Oak, FL were here this weekend.  It's been nice to see their familiar faces in the audience and spend some time with them and their kids.  I remembered a singing technique I learned from my former voice teacher, Marilyn Poppino, in Tucson, AZ; when singing in my upper register, I consciously drop my larynx on the inhalation between phrases.  This allows my voice to get a quick rest and not tire out so quickly.  I don't know why I keep forgetting to do this!  It seemed to help, and I felt like I was better able to work around my voice issues.  I was grateful for the Luden licorice honey throat drops Jen had sent, too.

I was wondering how Brett would handle the matter of being asked to "tone down" his lyrics after our set yesterday.  When I heard him begin to introduce our song Blood & Justice with "So yesterday I was called to a meeting with a production manager here at FloydFest," I smiled to myself.  We didn't play the song that had received the bulk of the complaints, but we addressed the issue head on and proceeded to play our brand of bluegrass.  The way I see it, if somebody is offended by what they hear, they can go to another stage (there are five at FloydFest); there's no need for them to impose their opinions about us on others.  We personally received more compliments regarding our performance than the few complaints the production manager reported hearing.  There's always a few people trying to ruin it for everybody else.  Censorship sucks.

We had a couple hours to chill, and then we headed to the Speakeasy stage for our 4:30pm set, our final performance of the festival.  The set went great.  I continued to heed Marilyn's advice, and my voice held up alright.  The crowd called for an encore, and we delivered the goods.  The three of us were pleased with how both of today's sets had gone.

We enjoyed one last free meal and listened to some of the other musicians.  Then we settled up at the merch tent.  We sold a decent amount of our wares, but the festival and the state of Virginia took roughly a third of the total profit.  I get it; everyone has to make money.  We found out that the results of the Rising Artist competition will be posted on the festival website sometime in the next week or so.  Win or lose, I had a good time.  We left FloydFest behind us and headed towards Brett's grandparents' place in South Boston, VA.

Last set at FloydFest

Last supper

Carolina Chocolate Drops playing to a packed tent

Two hours later we arrived at Papaw and Grammy's house on their large open piece of land.  Grammy had a pot roast waiting for us.  Somehow I managed to resist.  I certainly won't be roughing it here; rather than sharing a tent with the boys, I'll have a bedroom to myself for the next few days.  Grammy has invited some friends and neighbors over for a house concert we'll play on Wednesday.  I believe we may help Papaw with some work that needs to be done on the property.  We watched the end of an Hercule Poirot show with Brett's grandparents, and then they retired for the evening.  Brett hooked his Xbox up to the TV, and the gaming began.  According to my TrailLink app, there is a segment of the developing Tobacco Heritage Trail within biking distance from where we are.  I hope to check it out while we're here.  I suspect I'll hit the sack fairly early tonight and hopefully catch up on some needed sleep.

Grammy's pot roast is hard to resist!

Bonne nuit!

- Jon