This was my fourth Rally and (so far) the "Most fun that one person can have in a weekend Rally"
As I sit on my deck and reflect on the weekend, here's my dozen of take aways:
1. Meeting Keith, Bryan, Adonis, Taeko, Matthew, and the ever effervesant little paisano Tino.
2. Spending even more time with last year's new friends Suz, CK, Jeanna, Tracey and Vance, Vince, Theresa and Jeff, and Cisco (Watch it now!!)
3. Meeting a bunch of guitarists at our little deal on Sunday. A session that could possibly take on a life of it's own.
4. Conducting my first Driver's Ed session, having 60 or so people who all stayed past the end time, AND realizing about an hour into it, I knew most of the folks on a first name basis. (I was humbled by all my friends showing up, and hopefully not just for the door prizes
)5. Great dinner and lunch companions at every meal. (and great service from Kesha, Jennifer, Brittany, Lyndsey, Oscar and Richard in the lounge and restaurant.)
6. Of course, seeing all my old buddies Mazz, Matt, Dave, Dean, Casey, Vicki, Nomi, Anne, Big Blue Barry, Lydia, Jacqueline, Bob, Jeff and Kurt.
7. Having a few cocktails
8. Making connections for collaborations over the next few months
9. This was the first year I actually played an instrument at the Rally. It was great to jam with Al, Mazz, Adonis, Madeline, Humberto, Suz and Cisco. I've never played "One Note Samba" on the ukelele before.
10. Feeling the pride of hearing about and seeing the success of my friends. We are not alone in our journey, nor are we competitors. (amazing in itself!!!)
11. Learning tips and tricks, both large and small.
12. The laughter, the laughter, the laughter, the laughter.
I'm sure there is a name or two I've left out, not due my appreciation of the time spent, more from being overwhelmed by all the interaction with so many great people.
Chuck
