The storm cycle stopped for a night. Stars came out and so did the tribe - totally celebratory! We gathered last night in the hills above Sebastopol. It was a private party, but somehow "everybody" was there - beautiful people, beautiful food offerings, lovely decorations, and the Thugz. We took over the living room and proceeded to do our thing - no holding back. The folks loved it - no comments about "it's too loud," or "don't play THAT song." We played lots of Dead tunes and all the up-tempo party music we could muster. The crowd danced, sang along, got involved in some of our really spacey jams, and generally pumped lots of energy our way. It was a genuine two-way love fest. Chris was so solid, Ian was jazzy and creative, Stephanie was inspirational, and Mike held it all together, and our Drew provided the support we all needed. Mike even hit some switches on his pedal board that resulted in crescendos of creative chaos - I was blown away. Andre missed the scene - too bad for him - it was a night to remember. I worried about getting home before the next storm to rest a while before going to my Sunday job. Like the party, the drive home was great - no traffic (not one single car from Jenner to my Seaview home) - a clear night with a huge waxing moon over the ocean - and great music ringing in my head. I was still humming along when I finally hit the pillows. What a fantastic party - what a fantastic tribe - what a great band - it really is a Happy Christmas. Take care. Love, Sylvia