Today is my birthday but I celebrated one day early. When Celebrate Brooklyn posted their schedule there was one show that excited me, I’m with Her and Darlingside. When I saw it was the day before my birthday, my birthday plan was laid. My party started on the line waiting to go in and continued inside once doors opened. As it was a party we didn’t take my usual seats down front but grabbed prime real estate on the grassy hill at the back. We laid out blankets. Some people stayed on the hill with me and some took seats up front. The celebrants were, Erika, Katherine, Gidge, Abby, Bri, Felix, Carolann, Mark, Richard, and Viki, Chris, Kevin, and David. By pure chance, a little in front of us were Liam and Andrew, and for a bit, Stephanie. Making a late appearance were Dottie and Jean. I think I named everyone that wished me a happy birthday.
The weather was threatening all day but I assured people that I had a deal with the Weather Gods. Human sacrifices aren’t easy but they deliver a great payoff. Chris doubted my Weather God clout, we showed him. It never rained while I was out there were a few tiny drops but that’s it.
Do I need to say that the music was great? These are two of my favorite bands. I’m with Her is near the pinnacle. Their singing gives me chills; they have great musicianship, and they do just about everything right. I wish I knew enough to break it down. It’s little things like the balance of the voices, the timing of the harmonies, the order they play songs. Despite being super professional it’s not how they carry themselves on stage. They are three friends having fun with themselves and their friends in the audience.
I didn’t do a picnic dinner, as they always have good food at Celebrate Brooklyn. My birthday dinner was Nashville hot chicken and spicy waffle fries. Desserts were red velvet cupcakes that Katherine bought. They spelled out Happy Birthday. Should that be spelt out? Carolann weigh in on this. Her son says that her business card should say “English Major” even above singer and songwriter.
Every time I hang with my friends like this I am in awe have how smart and talented they are. The level of discourse is like the Algonquin Round Table, only easier to spell. Erika and Kevin were the only musical civilians of my friends at the show. Everyone else was a musician, presenter, writer, or visual artist. I am resisting calling myself a no-talent-clump, even I have to accept that I’m not a folk music civilian. Maybe I can be the court jester.
Today, my actual birthday I have no celebration plans. I have therapy and will come straight home to my AC. I took out what I think is a boneless rim but frankly I’m not sure. I will spend minimal time in the kitchen while it cooks as today will be a sweatbox. I also have ice cream and cupcakes and can watch Agents of Shields tonight.
Now to make myself a breakfast of French toast made with chocolate chip brioche, scrambled eggs, and sausages. I know how to celebrate.
Wise Madness 