Thursday, February 19, 2009

At Long Last: Birdlips!

The third time was the charm for me to finally see Charlottesville indie duo Birdlips (thank you, Les Enfants Terrible!).

I already had plans the night they played The Triple and the night they played Rumors was the night I was diagnosed with pneumonia. As it turns out, third time's the charm.

All signs were go last night for a really terrific set at The Camel and they didn't disappoint. Birdlips has a densely layered sound and Cliff and Lindsay's voices are the perfect accompaniment to each other. Clearly, they have a real fondness for the '60s (as do I) and their lyrics come across as both insightful and intimate.

Would it be too much to hope that my own writing might be described the same way some day?

The small crowd was definitely into the performance, making it a shame more people didn't make it out to hear these extraordinary musicians. Once word gets around about how amazing Birdlips' sound is, I expect to be shoulder to shoulder with a full house at future shows.

Opening was a newcomer to Richmond, singer-songwriter Ward Combs from San Diego. His set was engaging, the kind of direct and sincere music that would appeal to Iron and Wine fans. Being a big fan of the '60s, he, too, was as impressed with the band as I was.

And while I don't have any music credibility, Ward is a musician, so my advice would be to trust him and check out Birdlips for yourself.

I can just about guarantee you'll see me there.

153 comments:

  1. Wow! I thought I'd go back to the beginning. You've been doing this almost a decade. Really something in a way. Consistent also --- Well maybe it might come to an end but....if so let me just say that for the most part it's been a pleasure to keep up with you, to read you. Actually the best part I've taken from all of this is...not the bars, music, food, events, etc. --- though you have been informative & yes turned me on to a few places, trends, etc. What I've taken away is what I think is the important stuff. The human side of you, your thoughts, observations, the person...you're a giver, just like my wife. Most people I think are takers. Find another giver & you'll be happy. But remember they are rare, like you. wish you the best.

    CW

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  2. Thanks, cw. The blog may not be ending, but I definitely needed some time to think and consider. It's been great having a regular reader I don't officially "know" who's been honest and forthright with me over the years. Your interest and comments were, for the most part, very appreciated as I kept posting away.

    I hope you don't mind, I also posted this comment on my most recent blog post. It seemed especially relevant there given our long history of correspondence. Some day we'll meet and chat.

    Don't give up on me yet, I'm just working through a difficult stage.

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  3. I'll usually do not give up on people until they expire. After that it's hard to speak to a tombstone. Until we meet again...

    cw

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  4. Hey K you're back ..maybe sporadic....thought maybe you'd be having a bit more down time? (maybe you are). I like them berries too however mine usually come from Kroger...but I understand the satisfaction of the personal touch...pick'in. With you also on the bridges & windows down...who can explain it? Never miss a yearly beach trip. You do & you'll regret it. See all the things you're doing right. Also don't give up on the observation deck atop of City Hall either. On a clear windy day it's a blast!

    cw

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  5. You're right about the observation deck, cw, and I haven't been in ages. Thanks for the reminder! Trying to avoid regrets ion general...

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  6. note:

    for some reason there's something I really dig about this postings' title --- "birdlips". Freaky sounding isn't it? OK ...since you 've posted several times that your b-day is coming up...might as well take notice & do the right thing and wish you a good one. Sure you'll be surrounded by all the usual hanger on types but hey what are friends for? (maybe that sounds negative but it's not met to be). Tomorrows' supposed to be rainy...so what. Hope you enjoy it, Happy Birthday Karen.

    whitney

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  7. They were a good band, too, if you ever get the chance to see Birdlips play. Not expecting much int eh way of hangers-on this year. Already done my celebrating Saturday night, whitney.

    And many thanks for the birthday wishes! Not sure how I'll spend it, but we'll see...

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  8. Happy Birthday to You,
    Happy Birthday to You,
    Happy Birthday dear Karen...
    HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!!

    P.S. yes... silly I know -- but at least I spared you my personal audio version. Your journal notes were fascinating, charming. As many of your friends know & as I have learned, you are quite a character, a most interesting person. hope you have many more b-days & may your wishes come true...

    Carroll Whitney

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  9. You're very sweet, Carroll! Thanks for following along on the journey with me. Hope to run into you eventually.

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  10. Extrovert?? You... Who would've guessed! (BTW) I'm just the opposite...introvert. Yet since retirement I'm alone all day to & I value the thought of company later in the evening. Sometimes it's difficult being by oneself. Besides-- others bring out the best in me...sometimes. Maybe that's why I'm on your back pages now--under the radar. Not feeling very social. Thank you for indulging me. Sounds like you're doing a lot of thinking these days...soul searching, etc. Obviously something might no longer work for you...you're not satisfied? With age comes wisdom? Maybe to those lucky ones. however isn't it grand to know oneself..& that can be hard because people do change somewhat...as they age, circumstances change, situations, etc. It does sound a bit unnatural to plan ones' every evening. (not trying to be critical here). Was your youth like that? However it's your life & yours' alone so do whatever you please....however there is something as you have mentioned about spontaneity & it's value. Let's be Greek & throw in moderation to. It's not a dirty word. One day when I'm in Nick's I'll say feta or cucumber sauce. You'll say both! Sometimes too much is just enough. Maybe Gemini sometimes over-analyzes. I truly believe that most of us, (if of sound body & mind) know what is best for us, what is true --even if it's not something we like or want to believe...wishful thinking can get one into trouble & many times lead to disappointment. Soon you'll be awake. A beautiful day ahead & holiday weekend for some. Enjoy.

    carroll

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  11. I appreciate your support while I work on getting my thoughts and hopes together. Maybe a small part of me feels guilty for not being as busy and blogging about it. I am quite content to make this the summer (and perhaps Fall, Winter...) my time to work through whatever I need to and come out on the other side somehow happier...and hopefully a more thoughtful person

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  12. ...if you are truly doing what is right never ever let feelings of guilt sway you... now I'm going to be quiet for a while. bye...

    carroll

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  13. Hey K!

    I'm not the Sergeant here...& even though we don't know each other I truly desire for you to have a better June for whatever ails you..

    CW

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  14. Sorry I missed your travels thru my neighborhood yesterday, (Highland Hills), the Frank L. W. inspired homes etc. Hope you enjoyed the Art tour...it was a beautiful day to get out....

    cw

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  15. Enjoyed it a lot, both the clay tour and seeing the houses. Nice neighborhood, cw.

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  16. Well thank you Karen -- the neighborhood a bit hodgepodge. Eclectic in a nice way. Just enough character, color and rolling topography to carry interest. Every neighborhood needs these...look at all Jackson Ward has going for it. One has to be careful where one hangs their hat or lucky.

    Carroll

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  17. ....my little secret is that I actually want to call you "Birdlips" & of course not mean it as a putdown. (but then I think maybe we shouldn't call others by names). that is the proper way , the nice way to live. Besides individuals like to be addressed by their Christian name --- ok...maybe politically incorrect. Their real name. well...anyway.. It's morning in the Capital, low humidity & cool. Is this the South in summer? Am I dreaming?

    Carroll

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  18. CLICK all IMaGeS with cars, signs, cranes, herons, great blues & of course birdlips!!

    CW

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  19. I'm about to head out and walk in this cool June day air and I don't think I'm dreaming, so it must be real, Carroll! Hope you enjoy your day as well...

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  20. ...and you as well Karen.

    Carroll

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  21. Morning, cw. Off to walk before it gets too hot! Hope you're well.

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  22. Well in deed Karen! Yep a bit warm today..hope the same to you. Tried to leave a message on your current post but could not...erased message before I could reply. However that's OK...not sure if I had anything worthwhile to say...concerning your Kroger encounter witrh the 57 year old. Besides now I'm cuttin' grass. My job as a homeowner. We all have our roles don't we... Wouls say more but gotto get back outside & finish...


    carroll

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  23. K...have you heard the new Fleet Foxes' LP yet?

    carroll

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  24. Carroll, only one song but I immediately liked it. You?

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  25. no Karen not yet but will purchase on release date...I know they have released a cut or it's available on net, (probably the one you've heard)... i'm pre-occupied lately but I am lookin' forward to it...

    carroll

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  26. It was a warm summer day much like today -- I remember my mom & I sitting together side by side on the back-porch stoop of our little apartment. Off in the distance some neighbors were having a cook-out. Just a little barbeque but nevertheless a family affair. For us, and (there were just two of us), we were on the outside. My Mom was single. Dad & her had split up a few months before. This time it would be for good. Divorced five years previous, they had tried for years to reconnect. To my sorrow all in vain. However that afternoon my mom decided that she was not going to miss out on that fundamental aspect of happiness - to be apart of something, someone. Within four months she was married. It would last for thirty seven years until his death. they both had been married before but found happiness the second time around. It was not always easy, nor perfect but it was good enough. To her there was no going back, or quitting. They were both decent people who cared for one another, who would never quit. They helped each other.... I believe they both had reached a point in life where the many other non-important things in life sort of drifted away. They were ready to be together. They both had something of value to offer the other & it worked. However as a part of that family I must add that it surely was not all fun and games. They worked hard at it. Today they're buried side by side...where they belong. Good luck Sport!

    Carroll

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  27. What a great story, Carroll! Thanks for sharing that with me.

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  28. ...sometimes I share..my thoughts, likes, dislikes, observations..my time...like you of course in your words, your writing...such as your "...eccentricities are your estate." They are of course your glory -- the romanticism, curiosity, idealism, intelligence, boundless energy but there lies the rub, the relentless, the seeking, wandering, anxieties, the loneliness of the self, surrounded on sides by joy, the masses, the indifferent, the omnipresent. Emersed engulfed, rising each day to seek .. to walk, to suck the cityscape ...to continue as you do... to go on and on. the continuance of daily affairs...the beauty of life for some, the torture of existence for others. Rise Birdlips and do your thing!

    carroll

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  29. I'm trying my best, Carroll, but as you know, I continue to question why I can't find the relationship I seek. SO much alone time does wear on a woman's soul.

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  30. As a follower , (well maybe a reader), I have gathered all of that over the years. You're persistent...that's in your favor. for some reason I always "found" people when I wasn't even looking & never when I was...

    ...as a side note I'm planning on riding over to Nick's tomorrow morning to pick up my olive oil & feta. know you arise not too early but I might be there around 10-10:30 in case you'd like to bump in to a member of your readership...though unlike you , I'm retired and as the cliché goes I have little free time. Enjoy your day -- I'm sure you know how.

    carroll

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  31. ...and I've now heard all of the Fleet Foxes new LP...still like their 1st the best!

    C

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  32. If I'm up in time, I'll saunter over to Nick's. I'm going to a show in Charlottesville tonight and the opener doesn't start until 8:30, so it may be a late night and late morning. If I can, I definitely will...

    Agreed, no FF album will touch the first, but the two songs I've heard off the new one sound lovely. Robin Pecknold has a gorgeous voice and I'm a sucker for beautiful harmonies.

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  33. understand & agree.

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  34. K....but don't kill yourself. If you're seeing the Franz Ferdinand show you might be pretty bushed in the morning...anyway I'll take my time in the morning...get your rest & if I see you great & if not it's like we've said a small town. Have fun.

    C.

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  35. Karen,

    Nick's at the top of the hour, ate, shopped, Seiko read 10:34 upon departure. Sorry I missed you. Next time Birdlips....

    CW

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  36. I was just getting up around 10:34, cw. Next time indeed!

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  37. indeed truly..........

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  38. Ah... if only the late Archduke could have foreseen his legacy. Sounds like you enjoyed the F. Ferdinand performance. something about young white men with attitudes.
    Concerning the other FF band...I've listened to their latest effort several times thru now. As usual pretty dense in spots, the quiet moments resonate best with me. Not really rock but at times a seamless symphonic style. Mass-like at times. A Pink Floyd fan might say, "head music". A proper pair of head phones in order? Almost trippy in a relaxed way...but still intense. A contradiction? Life's full of them...

    carroll

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  39. Head music, eh? There's a phrase from the past, Carroll!

    I'm off to the beach for a week, so ciao baby for now!

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  40. Off to the water myself... good luck with your searching...the beach isn't a bad past to look...don't want to end up like Mrs. Treadwell's character ala "Ship of Fools". Taking a break till Labor day. enjoy your summer!

    chow...

    CW

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  41. I really should proof read my stuff more, (past??). Back in town for business. See you've wrapped up your beach week...good weather to. Now back to the grid Sport!

    CW

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  42. Just arrived back, CW, so I'm doing laundry and errands to settle back in. Miss the sound of the ocean already!

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  43. now admit it K...if you have to come back home to River City...this weather is pretty killer!

    C.

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  44. Oh my gosh, yes, C, I couldn't ask for better weather to come back to!

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  45. K..it seems you're gettin' an extra kick in your step these days... carry on!

    C

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  46. Of course you would notice! Yep, I intend to carry on!

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  47. Keep Writing....C

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  48. Yes by all means continue, keep writing -- if it means something to you. I to have had a moleskin & others' for dates, bills, weather, thoughts, feelings, relationships, even a previous marriage & yes... bands -- Love Tractor in the Slip at the former Goin' Bananas, (somewhere in a basement), Patti' Smith at the former Much More, Yo La Tengo & Washington Squares at the whatever Strange Matter used to be..& on & on. Reflections or whatever...they're apart of your life, what you've made it...and I have respect for anyone who can live life on their terms, (or sort of) by the written word. You should be proud...BTW concerning what you have to "bring to the table"...in a pinch I've sometimes brought - (if all else fails), a knife & fork. It has always served me well.... good day to you Ms. K.

    C

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  49. OK...time for me to get of town again...back to the water. Besides too much praise for the blogger might be bad for your head... wouldn't want it to swell.

    C

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  50. on second thought I might agree with Pru's last comment. it's no sin to stay in town on a holiday & have nothing planned, nothing to do... true the holiday blues might sat in but it doesn't have to...

    carroll

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  51. I'll take your kind words with a grain of salt, Carroll, so my head won't swell! I'll be fine at home I'm sure. Always plenty of fun to find in the RVA!

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  52. my apologies to you...in no way am I entitled to remarks on your cranium. I should not be so forward or casual. sorry...

    c.whitney

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  53. actually sometimes my cranium gets so tired...

    carroll

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  54. dearest K,

    Just saw your Facebook shot. Great photo Karen! You look so happy....& if so I am happy for you. How could I ever think of callin' you "Birdlips" ?

    CW/C/C. Whitney or just plain Carroll

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  55. Thanks, Carroll! You're sweet to say that. You've been a great supporter of my happiness every step of the way!

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  56. Note:

    I always love coming back to the beginning. ..Birdlips you have to be the most proliferate blogger I have ever tried to keep up with!!

    Carroll W.

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  57. I guess that's my claim to lo-level fame, Carroll! Proliferate!

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  58. Karen,

    Well we can not all be famous here however your blog is a deep well of Richmond's treasures. Anyone who has kept up with it has seen that your work is a champion of what good this city has to offer. From reviews, profiles, tidbits, history, locations, people , places & just the everyday -- you have consistently thrown a spotlight on what is real, fun, exciting or just routine about this city. In addition & also I may add as a big plus -- your humanity comes shinning thru your endeavors. Hey & it's all free. Your friends are lucky, the rest of us are just in the right place, right time.. Stay as you are kid -- you're looking good...

    ..and by the way -- thanks!.

    Carroll

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  59. am I writing too much ?

    cw

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  60. Thanks for the kind words, Carroll. As for too much writing, no such thing...

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  61. 'cause I realize I'm repeating myself here...said it all before. your regular readers already know it anyway... & I'm sure you don't need revalidation anyway.

    cw

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  62. don't like the weather? Ok, fair enough, but is was dry & sunny. OK ..some days are like that. the 70's.. honestly I can't picture Jim Morrison or Janis living today. Believe that they really weren't "set-up" to live beyond their "time." Jimi H. maybe...Believe he was a true talent who could have transcended that moment. Would've been a great jazz / rock / new world player. However not meant to be. Mst of us probably have our moment, some exceed it, some move on. It' a tough one...

    Love...talk about it all you want...just words.

    Carroll

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  63. Just not a cool weather person, Carroll. Never have been.

    You're right about those '70s icons not being right for these times. Yep, Hendrix would've found a place no matter when he landed, but the others, not so much.

    Stay warm today!

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  64. got my swim trunks on & wool sweater...hey it's suburbia where I'm at...the leaves, the leaves...but I'm outside, I like that. Besides in ten days it's my big 65. The dreaded MED-I-CaRE begins. Hate it! Words can not express the feeling...but of course I'm grateful & all that. Your time will come...keep walking Sport. It'll keep you young..& you're already young at heart or else you're faking us all out...

    Carroll

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  65. Sounds like you're making the best of this weather! I'm heading out now to walk and will probably run into the marathoners along the way. I'm not that ambitious, but I do enjoy my daily walks.

    And thanks for calling me "young at heart." That's a fine compliment to start my day, Carroll!

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  66. You're welcome Karen...and hope you enjoyed that stroll. It was at times today a bit brisk for Fall!!

    carroll

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  67. OK, Ok, I also am waiting for Fall to come back!

    Carroll

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  68. One final blurb before I step out into a somewhat undecided day..(sunny, cloudy, cool or just plain dreary), well at least it's Sunday. Good paper reading day, big, fat, better by the pound. No not talking about the TD. Maybe all the mess on Brown's Isle clearing out. The proper end & beginning of another week. Soon down to the bay for a few more visits before winter closes in. To the boat a time or two more. This chill seems a precursor of things to come. Gold & brown, red leaves still lie..waiting for me.

    ..and you, some brunch awaits, afternoon tasting, trip outta town, folks back home, an unexpected date, cultural way-stop. Tibbits here & there, new observations, people watching, music, arts, culture, your world then back in the Ward briefly to cocoon. Hey don't forget that deadline! Should be second nature now but still... Pru's outside, Mac & cheese on the line...what's a poor girl to do but keep moving on!!

    Carroll

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  69. It's what I do, isn't it, keep moving on...? Would be nice to have more of a personal life, but maybe that will come.

    Enjoy the bay and the boat before it's too cold, Carroll!

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  70. Wll I'm sure there's more to it than..."just movin' on". that personal life will most likely catch up to you sooner or later. Until then or at least all I know is (the Blog). ..and that continuing, revolving story of events that you continually churn out,day after day, something new, something old, hit replay or reset...offering yourself to the world, (or what you want us to see). Really in essence what else is a writer to do? Besides you're a blast because to a great extent your work is you. You make a connection. Every writer wants to be read, to be liked in some form or fashion. You're no exception. on this end I like to give you feedback. Hey, it's nothing personal but it is real & honest. not bad in today's world. hey we've got three more years to kick Trump around. keep the jokes coming. Enjoy your Post. I can't get it on the bay..too isolated...

    gotta leave now..

    Carroll

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  71. Have a good trip, Carroll! I always enjoy your commentary when you're in town. Until then...

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  72. "With or Without...." Birdlips you are quite something -- and I say this with affirmation...in a most positive way.

    It's going to be a hard day on the Chesapeake -- with or without clothes.

    carroll

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  73. Note:

    Sorry not meant to be rhetorical.

    Damp & cold at New Port. Going to be a chilly-willy night. For some reason I have a burning desire for a big bowl of hot flan. Gotta shake that one. Not going to happen at the marina.

    Carroll

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  74. How about that? If it's as chilly there as her, you may want to opt for with clothes, Carroll!

    All quiet on the pipeline today. I was the only one there...

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  75. You're funny...

    Clothes are a requirement, wool turtleneck & cap. No Great Northern Divers, (Loons) here. Wind off the water, from the north. Bites U.

    Carroll

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  76. Yep, I felt that wind this morning. Wind always makes a chill worse. Enjoy your stay at the bay...

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  77. back from the bay & down to Carolina, (Chocowinity) for BBQ....but god do I love mac & cheese...

    Carroll

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  78. As do most people, Carroll! Mac's the weird one here!

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  79. Well Karen, (concerning Mac), as my dear late great Aunt Katherine used to say, "there's one in every crowd".

    My stay on the water was brief. With the winter cold most birds departed. No osprey, eagles, cormorants are few, a few tired old great blues still hanging around. Surprisingly a good many pelicans huddling on the bar. The sky - that marine blue color of fall early winter. It was plain cold.

    You know if I see you on the pipeline one day I'm going to say hi. Hope you don't mind. Guess I should have done that years ago since I have been tunin' in a while...and we have crossed paths a handful of times...though not recently. However I have my limits to visiting the river in the winter. Pretty but cold. Like the pureness of it. When few are around, it's solitude. However that wind on the water a bit much.

    Carroll

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  80. I hope you would say hello if you saw me on the pipeline, Carroll. Stay warm and enjoy your solitude.

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  81. For a good antidote to the winter chill, Yo La Tengo's " Summer Sun " is hard to beat.

    carroll

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  82. One of my faves. I have it on CD.

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  83. never tire of it...reach for it often..

    sweet dreams..

    Carroll

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  84. Also the soundtrack to the movie, "Old Joy"...by YL Tengo also. A good film to boot!

    Carroll

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  85. ..and whatever on Brown's Island...have a great Thanksgiving!

    CW

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  86. K...water level keeps getting lower & lower.....

    CW

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  87. I noticed that on my walk today, cw, and it made me wish for a few days of rain! It was mighty quiet on the pipeline today, guess everyone was at the Christmas parade or shopping.

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  88. ha! no shopping for me or parade....raking leaves!!

    cw

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  89. 'Tis the season for that, too! Whatever people were doing, it wasn't walking the pipeline on a cold Saturday morning!

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  90. Did you hear that Amici is closing? Dined there just once three winters ago. It was a cold night. Sat up front overlooking Cary. What I remember -- it was warm & cozy. Plus we had a surly waitress, who was funny. Food & wine were good. The conversation never-ending. And -- never went back.

    Cold on the river

    going to need a real hat to keep the noggin warm - CW

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  91. Hadn't heard. It's been a few years since I've eaten there, but it was always a little too old school Italian for my taste. Nothing wrong with it, just not my thing.

    It's hat weather for sure, but then I wear one in summer, too, for shade, so it's always hat season for me. Stay warm, cw.

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  92. Tyler Bridge over the river was mobbed today...so many people. Beautiful day though.

    CW

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  93. Not surprised! Yep, it was lovely to be outside, cw.

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  94. Karen- thanks for indulging me here..(in this little tucked away hidden space). True be told I enjoy our little moments of conversation or wordplay. Whatever it may be. Your thoughts, ideas & observations are interesting, lovely at times. Am I saying too much here? Was also at the VHS & the VMFA late yesterday. Places that might not fit together but for you a natural.


    carroll

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  95. Is there such a thing as too many little moments of conversation? You've been reading my blog as long and probably longer than anyone, Carroll, and it's like we're old friends who've never met at this point.

    The river, VMFA, the VHS, yep, those are all places I frequent and enjoy. Sounds like you have similar taste!

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  96. I'm interested in things, ideas. Still love movies, the arts, the unconventional. If we ever meet, bump into one another I may actually be speechless. Might pause & reflect upon the moment. It's always been by keyboard. Nevertheless I suspect I would enjoy the moment...if it ever happens.

    Well have to get outside & do some things. You know what I mean...get on with life. Still until then...maybe two old friends will meet for lunch one day...and converse.

    carroll

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  97. I'm headed out, too. Hope your day is productive and enjoyable, Carroll. Until we run into each other, have a good one!

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  98. Good morning K. Before I set out on my morning stroll..(yes I realize this might be considered by some -- an ungodly hour).... sorry must have been an old habit formed long ago in the Zinc mines of Siberia. Since year's end is near -- have you given any thought to putting out a best of years list? I do remember a few years back...your top ten recommendations in music, etc. Maybe expand to include must see cinema, lectures, presentations, etc. & a brief synopsis of those of special interest. Not to forget dining experiences, etc. or a good Mac recipe: grated sharp Cheddar cheese, Grated Monterey jack, crumbled Gruyere, etc. Don't want to forget Mac do we? Just suggestions of course.. Naturally the readership is not-trying to be pushy. However you know how the mob can be...sometimes. Usually we're rather docile, attentive...however we do have our wild side. Ok ..enough asking....

    I'll be heading out soon to catch a foggy river I presume. Sure our paths will not cross. Different trains, different schedules.. however watch your step. Pipeline can get slippery in spots ...as you know. Tis the season you know. Can't wait for those winter rains, snow west & an increase in flow. Nothing more exciting than standing/walking inches about the river. Good day to you Sport.

    Carroll

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  99. Funny you mention the pipeline being slipper, cw, because I almost lost my footing today and that never happens. Coincidence or premonition? Yep, it was definitely a foggy morning.

    Thanks for the year-end list suggestion. I'll consider it because it does have merit. Sort of a wrap-up of the year gone by.

    Good day to you, too!

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  100. As a precaution I carried my hiking stick this morning....seems it grounds me better. A lot of the usual gulls today & a ton of crows. Even some hanger-on cormorants. You can tell as they usually always stick to themselves. (Not going to mingle with those other feathers). Was foggy & I got a late start. Got back around Eleven AM. I have this bad habit of gettin' off the pipeline and venturing onto the outcrops of river rocks...further & further...and sadly as I was leaving I did get a glimpse of, "you know who on the metal catwalk" as I was existing the concrete section. Who else on this date in River City is wearing a purple skirt & black leggings? Too far away for me to yell out, "hey BiRdLiPs" !!! Because that's kinda rude...and if that was Mac leading the way, I guess I should've finished the recipe : Parmesan cheese & crumbed Vermont goat cheese. There -- feel better now. Yes it felt good to stroll by the water. Watch your step Karen.

    Maybe one day our train will meet. As you'd say -- 'til then.

    Carroll

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  101. Who else indeed! How about that, we almost met! And, yep, that was Mac leading the way.

    "Til then...

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  102. ...and what a spectacular day, (weather wise) it turned out to be! Talk 'bout the many moods of autumn. Truly beautiful afternoon to be outside. Carry on Trooper!

    carroll

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  103. A week & no postings....well this time I'm not going to worry...it's OK.

    Event at the Byrd tonight could be interesting if done right, creatively, etc. for all those history geeks out there. I even gave it a thought however I've another commitment. Breeze from the west this morning. A steady chill on the river.

    Carroll

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  104. I saw that, but I had other plans, although you're right, it sounds interesting.

    That was one stiff breeze out there today and I'm not looking forward to the much colder temps we have coming at us the next week and a half. Not my time of year, cw. Way too cold for me...

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  105. no not skirt weather...at all

    cw

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  106. very cold on the river today.

    cw

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  107. the pipeline was empty today...M7M wrapper still on the trail...Arizona Tea can still being kicked along by someone....few geese on the water....still the rocks & the flow beautiful, but true getting a bit cold for me...I'll be walking in my favorite park soon, which is over here SS off Huguenot Rd. Wooded & usually empty.

    Carroll

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  108. Didn't make it down there today, but I'll check it out tomorrow, Carroll. And you're right, I won't be wearing my skirt for a while! The snow is lovely, but the temps are too cold for this girl!

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  109. Karen,

    I've just gotten back in from outside. If you haven't made it out yet -- this is a heavy, heavy, wet snow. While the river area will be a Winter Wonderland today the access path from Brown's Isle to the Pipeline could be pretty slushy, icy -- not counting the top of the concrete section of pipe. I thought about going down there myself to take photos but decided ..nope not today. Not to come across as overtly familiar with you, (I wouldn't want you to bring improper allegation charges against this Blogger fan), Just be careful -- wouldn't want you to fall & hurt your booty. [Aren't all guys juz alike]? Have a good one & stay warm.

    Carroll

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  110. Thanks for the warning, Carroll. Haven't decided where I'll walk today, but anywhere I go, I'll be mindful. Sirens all night long in the Ward, so I know accidents have been plentiful.

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  111. Seeking a suggestion/recommendation. I'm in need of an occasional lunch spot that's of course good but not too crowded. Like during off hours...after the noon crowd. Someplace where I could melt away in to a booth & read the paper, dine without distractions. In all your wanderings...any place like that lodged back in your memory file?

    no hurry, & I've been out back trying to clear the snow away from my power lines, (used to be a power lineman trainee), however if you never hear from me again, you'll have the scope on my demise.

    carroll

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  112. Appreciated...& as to your recently posted poem...well you're a clever writer. Naturally it's a heartbreaker..as it was meant to be. I'm hoping your Mom does indeed live long enough to see that day...and even though I have only seen you thru the filtered lenses of a blogger's page...I & those actually around you realize you're a gifted, talented & sensitive person. Actually a lot more. Of course how you deal with your personal matters maybe something else. Habits, lifestyle, etc. To simplify I'd say you just haven't met the right person. Years ago before Plan 9 moved to their latest spot I saw you alone standing by yourself watching a band. You were without your sunglasses. Recognized you from the Listening Room days. (I've mentioned this before)...Moe was playing a short acoustic set. I loved the way you looked...should have said something but didn't. Anyway this all will pass. I know that none of us are gettin' younger but the hell with that. Your mom & you will see the day come. You have to believe & as always be true to yourself. Men may be crazy & some plenty stupid but you day will come.

    (just tell me to shut-up if you'd heard enough)

    Carroll

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  113. I do have to believe, Carroll, so I choose to. Thank you for such a sweet post.

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  114. you have to eat also...cold weather eats up a lot of calories. My last post for a few days...gotta go the bay...tend to boat.
    Stay warm

    carroll

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  115. I read it as "wailing in a Winter Wonderland", which I thought as most effective.

    cwa

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  116. Too funny, cw, that occurred to me when he wrote that comment, too. But I wasn't so much wailing as trying to be funny despite my blue mood. Bet it was frigid at the bay!

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  117. Frigid..? Yes but sometimes I like extremes1

    Besides I accomplished everything I set out to do.

    U doing better..a little bit?

    carroll

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  118. Better? Nah, but I've sort of settled into this as where I am right now. Sometimes life sucks.

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  119. True & unfortunately this is supposed to be the time of year to count one's blessings. However I've had lousy Christmas season's to, & ones where I was truly physically sick that I had to be alone away from my family & loved ones. You could be worse. Besides if someone doesn't want to be with you they're not really worth having around away.

    Carroll

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  120. not really worth having around anyway...

    maybe you should edit my stuff..

    carroll

    P. S. but I remember I never wanted any
    pep talk from strangers either...

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  121. It's true, Carroll, we all have lousy holidays now and then. Here's to brighter days!

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  122. yes...& you haven't forgotten my request have you?

    C

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  123. For a lunch spot to longer? Nope, still mulling it over.

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  124. or your top lists?

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  125. linger..you need an editor to...

    go to the river today? Slightly warmer...less breeze.

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  126. K.-

    "Baby it's cold outside"

    - Carroll

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  127. To linger longer, perhaps? Didn't do river today, but did it yesterday with Mac. Yep, today is far too cold for me!

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  128. hot alcoholic drinks are good on nights like this....

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  129. As cold as it was last night... maybe I should have taken my own advice.... & not too balmy out there today though understand the big warm-up will be 48 degrees. A good time to see a movie weather-wise however the air is fresh outside...which I like. River keeps gettin' lower, year keeps gettin' shorter. A good time to bake & warm up the house...but hey the rumour is you don't have an oven...can that be? On Cary St. earlier I noticed someone had kicked in a window at the recently closed Amici Ristorante. Ah that's the juvenile Richmond I remember. Always something...sure you've heard from your listeners concerning your absence. Gotta get their fix from somewhere else. I bet it's hard being Karen sometimes....Keep your winter hat on girl, it's not over yet.

    Carroll

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  130. K- i'm at a loss for words....

    cw

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  131. Carroll. I've baked cookies already twice this week, so my oven is working fine. Went down to the river yesterday with my hat on and you're right, it just keeps getting lower. Looks like Tuesday we'll be back in the '60s...can't wait.

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  132. Yes... 60's--Purple skirt weather again...bring on the fashion!

    Funny about that oven thing...must have read something between the lines on one of your posts or someone's responses.

    Note: For the cold weather afflicted. I was over at Stoney Point Mall for the second time this year...and sat down outside on one of their heated loveseats. Have to say it was-- OMG! you could sit there in a snow storm & be cozy. It's like toast -- your buns are in the oven or grilling on a George Foreman... did not want to leave. Set a half hour people watching in extreme comfort. Still it's a mall...gotta go.

    Carroll

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  133. Never heard that the mall had heated loveseats. I love the friends who have heated seats in their cars, though. A warm backside makes the cold air tolerable!

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  134. Well can't say it's a reason to dip Southside but what a novelty. It's the killer...love to have one on my backyard deck....something that everyone would luv!!!!!

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  135. Karen -- gotta go but as always stay warm , have a good one!

    Carroll

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  136. K -- you might not even need a hat today!!

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  137. Oh!! that's right ... you're outta the country. Down in Montevideo for the holidays & the warmth of the sun. Cheers!!

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  138. Nope, Carroll, down at my parents' house all day and no hat was required in this balmy weather! I wish I was in the warmth of the sun somewhere!

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  139. Also, let's find another blog post to chat on. This one requires too much scrolling down at this point...

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  140. pick your favorite one --

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  141. "For Ace, Wherever you are"...5/31/17

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  142. OK....meets your needs?

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  143. Like a good movie or especially a good book -- one that the reader wishes could go on & on, we the spectator fall in love or identifies with the characters. Realizing of course that all things must end does not ease the pain, or lessen the sense that what was present has been lost or has moved on. As someone who like you was also a resident of Jackson Ward I've identified with many of your feelings about that area. I left about a year after "Comfort" opened. (A restaurant that served mashed potatoes at a premium price). Ha! I laughed but it worked. One day we may meet & chat. If so I will be glad it happened. I've enjoyed following your blog, your adventures, your character. Knowing that it is but one aspect of you & that you the person, the individual will go on about your daily business as always gives me encouragement. I can not say exactly why but it does.

    Honestly I will miss all of this. and that tiny part of you that comes thru my little 20 " monitor one day may be gone. A person should never dismiss their impact on others. It exists whether we are aware of it or not. Thanks Karen Newton. Have a Happy New Year!

    Carroll Whitney Aldridge II

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  144. Carroll, I understand what you are saying and you may be interested to know that I miss sharing with my devoted readers such as you. I am still debating how I want to go forward and it may be with the blog, but I'm not sure yet.

    Thank you for your kind words about my effect on those on who read my words. Perhaps when I'm feeling more right with the world, I will pick it up daily again. Until then, I, too, am glad for our many conversations. Karen

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