My Dad 1927-2014...

My dad passed away on July 7th, 2014.

One day as we were discussing death and funerals he said, "When I die I want to be at home, on my couch, watching T.V, and just go to sleep." That appears to be exactly how he went. He was almost 87, still living by himself, and as sharp as a tack. My nephew who found him said his hands were folded in his lap just like he always kept them.

 

It's been a hard month. It doesn't seem possible that he's gone. It feels like I can pick up the phone and call him, or drive up and get him for breakfast, but I can't. I realize that death is part of life and it is all part of God's plan. God is good.
 

 

The last song played at the funeral was his favorite fiddle tune.

His two sons, four grandsons, and two granddaughters were among the 20 plus musicians that played  

"Florida Blues"

 Just for him.

He will forever be missed. 

 

 

Thanksgiving Has Come And Gone...

Thanksgiving has come and gone. We had a truly wonderful holiday with much to be thankful for. Twenty-two family members gathered at my dad's house on Thursday for turkey, dressing, ham, potatoes, baked beans, corn, yams, deviled eggs, banana pudding, apple pie and a host of other goodies.
We come from a family of musicians that love to play "Texas 42", so after feasting comes great music and then games of "42" that last into the wee hours of the morning with champions that have bragging rights until our next family get-together. Here is a clip of my oldest brother playing an old fiddle tune called "Billy in the Lowground" and across from him is my youngest brother playing guitar.

On Friday we gathered again. This time at my daughter's house for a feast that rivaled the one from the day before. We took the annual photos of the grandkids.

This will be my last post until Dec. 5th. I will not have internet access until then.

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving and survived Black Friday.   

Chicken & Bread Days...

We left our house Saturday morning for the annual Chicken and Bread Days in Bowie, Texas and returned at midnight. I don't know why it's called Chicken & Bread Days, but for a price you can eat all the fried chicken & bread you can hold. We left at 7am and arrived in Jackboro an hour an 45 minutes later for breakfast at the famous Green Frog Cafe. It was delicious as always. Next it was on to Bowie.

 Vendors were plentiful.

Of course, my favorite was the Old-Time Fiddler's Contest

(94 years young) 

and music jam afterwards.

  There was plenty of food

and music

 both inside and out

 for all ages.

 If you're ever near Bowie, Texas the first Saturday in October be sure and stop in.

You'll be glad you did.

Have a great week!!!