Big choice: blog about the birthday bash in Occidental or blog about the wild ride to and from - the bash wins. However, I do have to say that last night was truly a crazy ride in the rain, especially for Mike since Fort Ross Road washed away - we were all lucky to get to the gig and get home - but even luckier to finally have some rain. So - the bash - we were hired to do a birthday party in Occidental at the Union Hotel. It was quite a scene - huge plates of food and even candelabras on every table. Who knows where Deadheads might be lurking? It was a traditional crowd until the music started and faces lit up as soon as we did "Bertha." Many of the party goers were Food For Thought people - an enthusiastic bunch! It was a lot of fun to keep them on their feet. I had been listening to the KPFA annual "Dead To The World" fundraising show in the car coming into town, and I felt privileged to be a part of keeping the music going. Mike was at his best - especially playing his trumpet - outstanding musicianship. Since our Drew was away, Ian offered to help set up sound and sat in on guitar. It was great to have him with us. Boy, can he play! Andre did a great "Truckin'" - and I could really hear Chris pounding out the rolling riffs on that one. Bradley was rock solid and never flinches - even as we throw new stuff his way. He says he can handle it all because Mike offers such clear direction and help - of course, our "Fearless Leader" is the absolute best! When it was time to go, Mike kindly offered to follow me, and Ian followed him. We went through huge puddles and patches of road debris - but no trees down. The Dead Marathon was still on the radio, so we all got home with tunes from the '70's ringing in our ears. What a night. Take care. Love, Sylvia