A Song?

'But I'll be okay 'cause I'm going away to Binalong Bay.'

Slack.

I've been particularly slack for a time but there have even very good reasons, the main one being a forced trip to Tasmania ( actually, I'll go to Tazzy for any reason; I love the place! ). Sue's mother had taken very, very ill, and unfortunately died on Monday 1st July. She was surrounded by people she loved and people who loved her. 

Jack.

I have just read an article about a boy named Jack,who, from a very young age to use his mothers words, decided to be 'fabulous'. She tells of how, on Jack's first day at 'big school', she wanted to remove the glittery fingernail polish that he was wearing; that he loves to wear. He was, of course, devastated. He wanted to show his new teacher how 'fabulous' they were. His favourite clothes are usually a ballerina tutu and all the trimmings. 

I've often wondered what I would have done if I had a son who was 'different'. In my time in this world of ours, I have been blessed with two amazing and beautiful daughters. But, because of medical problems I cannot sire any more kids. Still I've always, like most blokes, harboured a wish for a son. Jack's parents have decided to not only accept, but revel in his outlook. I wonder, would I? There was a time when I was such a selfish, nasty, evil person that the thought of a 'queer' son would send me into a bottomless rage; and I'd have attempted to 'beat' his 'problem' out of him.  But, several surprising and extremely life changing moments later, my view is different. 

The fact is, my hypothetical son, right or wrong, is my son. I would love him because he is my son, and I would support him as well as I could because he is my son. And I would be proud of him. There are things that arise in human nature that are indeed repugnant and should be dealt with, but being 'gay' isn't one of them. 

I am very fortunate that Sue and I have 'adopted' a couple of boys (their parents very kindly 'lend' them to us occasionally). They see me more like their 'mad-but-gifted uncle', than anything else because they do have an excellent father. I am taking the opportunity to pass on all my musical knowledge and industry insight to them. (My daughters flirted with music, but are not serious,,,,,) I have no-one else to pass it to, and they are fine lads. If they had been anything like Jack, nothing would have changed except maybe the colour of the odd gift we give them. 

Love makes us better humans. Love makes us better parents, and because of that love, also generally makes better kids. 

Joynd Forcez

Can't believe that it's been over a week and I haven't blogged this here. Sue and I are collaborating with Roseglen Country and have formed a band. Joynd Forcez has surprised all of us; the sound 

we have is amazing! It's like we've been doing it for years, not just a couple of months. Still a few kinks but not in the vocals!!

http://youtu.be/VzWIpI6Uw-4

Another One....

I have recently acquired another guitar. It was built by Dave Larkin of Dave's Bassment fame. He calls it the 'Reverend Rosewood'; I call it wonderful! Maple Tele neck, rosewood front, solid no-name bridge and P90 pups. It plays well and to my ears, sounds brilliant. My opinion of Gibson's P90's and Leo's Telecaster are well-known (so much so in fact that my friends avoid mentioning either to me for fear of being bored to death.....); so when the two are put together it's a real West Virginia moment for me.

So Dave, can I say I'm endorsed by Larkin?

Family Day

Yesterday we had our second 'Family Get-Together'. So Eden and Sarah, Naomi, Sue and myself boogied on down to Fasta Pasta and had dinner and dessert. Greg time was had by all. Photos included......

Another Guitar...

This is a Maton T-Byrd. I have patiently waited years for Maton to produce a single coil guitar, and eventually produce one that I like. They seem to have done it all in one go. However, I thought they had done a good job with the MS500 until I played one...... I can hardly wait to try one of these.

Hoya, There!

My Mum loves Hoya's. She had quite a few growing beautifully at her home before she got so ill. Now she cannot look after her garden until she gets better, so, Sue and I have taken and transplanted some of these fascinating plants here so that when Mum is better, we can bring her Hoya's back all healthy, happy and loved. That's the plan anyway.

Band Name.

The Pine Rivers Country Music Club Band is arguably one of the best in-house country bands in South East Queensland. However....it's name is long and dull. It sounds like a clause in an insurance contract.

So, as leader of said band, I put it to the members that they should pick a name for their band. Something interesting and fun.

We haven't received many suggestions yet, but our esteemed bass-player, luthier, genealogist and newsletter editor has come up with this. Now all we have to do is convince the majority of the others!!!

Gaylene.

Our new bus. She's a diesel and gets about a million klicks per tank! She also behaves very well for a van. Room enough inside for a game of cricket too. Sue has christened her 'Gaylene'.

did I mention the aircon?

Happy New Year!

May 2013 be all you hope it to be! We enjoyed our celebrations at the Bennedicks with most of our friends.