LEAF

I've been lucky enough to play several world class festivals including the Chicago Blues Festival and Floyd Fest. However, earlier this month I got to practice two of my deepest passions, teaching and performing, while at a new addition to my list -- the Lake Eden Arts Festival in Black Mountain, North Carolina .

LEAF's outreach program, LEAF in the Schools and on the Streets, placed me at the Jones School in Asheville, NC. Music teacher, Michelle Bynum, graciously loaned me her bright and energetic primary school students and over the course of three days I taught them the sounds and significance of blues music. There was lots of singing, dancing and clapping as well as a little bit of ukulele craziness culminating in an all school assembly where Mrs. Bynum and a few students joined me on stage as a kazoo orchestra on Rabbit Muse's "Rabbit Stomp."

LEAF also gave me an opportunity to visit with some old friends. Elizabeth Teague and her family had me over for dinner at their home and her brother, my old running mate, Doug, joined the fun during the festival. Elizabeth and Doug's mom, Betsy also joined in the fun.

My youngest son, Emerson, joined me for the week and was a big help. He also had a blast hanging out with Elizabeth's son, Tanner. My wife, Lisa, and older son, Spencer, joined us for the weekend's festivities which included three performances by me at various stages. There was dozens of other great acts to catch, healing arts demonstrations and activities, swimming and zip line fun and lots of great people. Thanks to Jennifer, Steve and Kerri for making my LEAF adventure possible!