I haven’t written a note to you guys here in quick some time.  Life moves pretty fast, doesn’t it Bueller?

Ashley Marston Photo.

I have been so lucky this summer; I’ve been playing some local & semi-local shows with my band, and it’s been a real rollicking good time, playing electric guitar and seeing some of my louder songs come to life, particularly at the ends of the sets.

I’ve been doing my best to balance work with play; the garden is a beast – mixed with actual edibles, flowers and weeds – somewhere in there is a full meal I’m certain. The corn is higher than us all now, and that’s something I’ve never attempted before. Kudos to Shari for that suggestion.

She might hate this picture, but I love it.  We’re enjoying time spent together, and I count myself lucky on the daily for this life affording me the opportunity to spend it with my friend.

A few nights ago, I received word that our dear friends Craig & Deb of “An Evening in the Valley” lost everything in the Summerland BC wildfires.  ‘AeiTV’ has long served as a sanctuary for local & traveling musicians across Canada & beyond, and seeing this happen to quite literally two of the nicest people you’d ever want to meet devastates me.  Some of my very favourite concerts of my career have taken place on their hallowed stages.  It’s going to take some time, but the plan is, of course, to rebuild.
We have an army of musicians & friends to help out, and it all starts with this GoFundMe page right here:  https://www.gofundme.com/f/an-evening-in-the-valley-fire-recovery-fund

If you can help, big or small, please, please do.  These people are so deserving, given the kindness that they’ve shared with so many throughout the years.

Lastly, for now, I’ve been nominated for an Intercontinental Music Award. Well, two really.  “There She Is” has been nominated in Country & Folk categories for song of the year, which is pretty cool!  I don’t get awards very often, so if I win one, I can give to Mom.  She’d be absolutely jazzer’s about that.  We’ll know if I won soon.

I gotta eat tacos now.
I love you guys.  talk soon.
~R

Sean Lyons Photo.

Ryan McMahon