So last night, I got my motivated self together and rambled out to Harpersfield Winery. The motivator was getting to listen to Kristine Jackson’s last Fireside Set.
I’m so glad I did!
On two occasions, before my accident, I thought I would get a chance to hear her play. But that didn't happen. Once at the Urban Winery, when we were both invited to do a songwriter in the round, and the other at Driftwood Point when she was scheduled to play after my Shorty’s Diner brunch show.
Long story short, neither happened, but I did cover half of the afternoon show with her uncle Jack at the Driftwood. Several KJ fans were there, and as I was leaving, one fellow said, “Dude, I don't know why you aren’t working with Kristine? I think you two would sound great together.”
After hearing her last night, I appreciate what a great compliment that was.
So many people have told me how wonderful she is as a person, musician, and creative force, and they were right.
Last night was the first time in seven months that I went out just to listen to some live music. While it wasn’t quite as structured as a house concert, Harpersfield has a pretty good listening vibe. I mean, it is a winery after all, but no one in the audience was obnoxiously loud, and there were several occasions where everyone was listening to the music. Kristine mixed it up nicely, floating back and forth between guitar and ukulele, mixing cover and original songs. The lady can whistle, too. Of particular delight for me was when she debuted her wooden flute. This reminded me of an old friend and many encounters I have had with native people over the years.
It may be a bit premature, but I am thinking about future performances. Experiences like last night surely help with the motivation. It also helps when I get emails asking about my availability for shows months in advance.
I honestly don't know what my recovery will look like and when it will “plateau,” but experiences like last night surely help by fueling hope and motivation.