In my mind I'm going to California...

See this map

Gosh.

What a time I had. Here is a list of highly-deserved thank yous:

Firstly, to Michael Foulkes, whose invitation to stay with him and rekindle our friendship sparked all this. And to his wife Gail who was a lovely hostess to this itinerant musician she hardly knew.

Aqus Cafe, Petaluma

Then, regarding a great full-room gig at Aqus Cafe in Petaluma on Friday 3rd July, the same to John Crowley (founder and co-owner of said establishment) and Lesley McCullaugh its impressively efficient supremo.

Redwood Cafe, Cotati

And more thanks to Michael#2 (McCullaugh - husband to Lesley above), owner and manger of Redwood Cafe in Cotati who hosted my second gig on the Wednesday of the following week - another fine gig. (Michael also brokered my radio interview with Andre de Channes at KRuSH radio - see below.)

Then there's Donny Mederos, the finest bass-player in California. Donny is a real pro, a great player with an even better attitude. It was a pleasure to share the stage with him and I look forward to doing it again. (Donny has the largest tip-jar in the northern hemisphere, which accounted for our generous takings from the gigs we did together. And it was fun to sit in with Donny's bands at the Twin Oaks Tavern at Penngrove*.)

Andre (see above) was a great host and interviewer on my visit to KRuSH radio in Santa Rosa prior to the Redwood Cafe gig. Thanks, Andre, it was fun. Andre let me have a recording of the interview - I'll try to make it available soon.

Apart from the above, I'd also like to thank the good people of Sonoma and Marin counties who made me welcome and came to support my concerts. Proper listeners, they were. Lovely.

Finally, to the Santa Rosa motorcycle guys 'n' gals who took me riding in the Napa Valley on Sunday. It was fast and extremey bracing - and hugely life-affirming. (And thanks again, too, to Michael and Gail F, who suggested the heavenly ride from Bodego Bay to San Francisco along Highway 1 on Sunday.)

Music takes you places. This was a particularly good place with particularly good people. Thanks, all.


(* Even though I proved the truth of the muso's joke: 'Q. How do you know there's a singer at the door? A. Because he can't find the key and doesn't know when to come in.')