Life of Wry

That title’s the sort of call and response that Joe opens the annual holiday show with.. as he jingles his bells and descends the theater stairs on his way to the Vet’s Memorial stage.

I’m glad for this concert each year. This year was the 20th. Jim and I (and in some early years Peter) have attended at least 15 of them, maybe more. Coming up with the exact number, if anyone were to ever ask me, would take some research.

I look forward to most of the musicians, and definitely the show. Incredible talents. Great community feel.

Joe Craven and Bill Edwards.

Bill, Chris Webster, Tracy Walton.

Tracy, Sam Misner (of Misner and Smith), Rita Hosking, Alaina Rose (who plays the harp), Joe, Boot Juice singer, Tracy’s sister (who played a beautiful flute in a flute/guitar rendition of Amazing Grace), the Boot Juice guy.

Founder Bill Fairfield.

The Rita Hosking Trio: Sean Feder, Rita, Bill Dakin.

Hattie Craven and her dad Joe.

Boot Juice.

There was one other group that I didn’t get a picture of… the opening act — always comprising students from some DJUSD music program. This year, it was a Jazz combo from Davis High that was terrific, the Alexander McClintock Quartet. Tears actually formed when they started play. I love seeing kids on their paths… motivated, passionate, earnest.

I’ll go to bed tonight singing, “Eating my way through the holidays, bite by beautiful bite,” a Bill Edwards original.

Also, happy Solstice.