Great first day to see and hear Sean. This time so special because Elijah gets to back him on drums. Fun to see Colin and day started off with lunch with Libby. Oh, and walked past a classroom and couldn't help snapping a picture as they were listening to Pops! 

First BWK gig of the year. 

Anat always brings so much authenticity and passion and musicality. So great to see and hear her again! 

So thankful for those in my life that I do life with. Craig has been a longtime support in my life! 

Always great to see and hear Branford. Some pictures of Branford from past!

Feb. 22 this one turned 16. Thankful for Miss Esther and all the love she brings to us all! 

Super fun hike at Piestewa Peak today!

Having such a good time hearing great music, catching up with friends, and enjoying God's creation! The Phillips, Mr. Lewis Nash, Therese Kirby, and Bria Skonberg.

Part of the reason for the trip out was to see this family! I have so much love for these "kids". They took time out of their hectic schedule to meet up with the old man! They were amazing musically and couldn't be more happy for all the success they have. Such a beautiful night of fellowship and music! Thank you! Love you madly! Liany, Luther, and Markus!

Left Talia's family, got my haircut, lol, went to Papago Park for my normal hike, however didn't go to my prayer rock, too many people, so circled around and had fun. I did see a coyote. 

Cooking and more cooking! Had fun cooking for Talia's family for the Super Bowl today. Good to be back and with family! A good time had by all and full stomach's! 

Sitting in Detroit airpot waiting to leave for sun and heat! Trying to beat the storm. it will be close but God's got it! Of course anyone that knows me, knows my relationship with birds. Sure enough, sitting minding my own business and this one stares at me and then flies away! More updates to come! 

I'm always honored to be asked back to adjudicate the jazz festival at CMU. I've written before about my memories so I will refrain here but always good to be back and see so many loved ones! 

I've posted in the past about the Grammys so I will save you from my soapbox once again lol. I will say however, anytime they do decide to award actual excellence, I will try and celebrate with them and especially when they are friends that are recognized. 

My friend Ricky Riccardi earned his 2nd grammy tonight and I could not be more happy for him. He should win an award for comedy also! Hilarious! Love ya my brother, and so cool to have your wife with you. Thank you for the chance of a lifetime and for all you do! 

When talent is as Duke would say, "in the beyond category", you have no choice but to recognize it, even if it doesn't fit the agenda for your ceremony. Once again, Miss Samara Joy went home with a couple more Grammys.  

I also saw that 3 former Western Michigan Jazz Students won Grammys this evening! Congrats to Christian, Johnaye, and Sam!

Yesterday was proof that sometimes you can dream bigger. At this point, most everyone knows about the folklore of Marc and I dreaming about the program at Byron over wings at BWW. What seemed like truly a dream has become a reality over and over being chosen to participate in the Essentially Ellington Festival created by Wynton Marsalis and Jazz at Lincoln Center. On this particular tour by the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, some high school bands that have participated in the festival, were invited to open for JLCO, if they were stopping in the area on their tour. This was such an exciting honor for the kids and was so proud of Marc and the kids for their professionalism  yet feeling like kids in a candy store. I'm living vicariously through them! LOL Also, thank you Todd Stoll for all that you do and all your staff!  Congratulations My Byron Family, thank you for letting this old man still tag along, and show me so much love!  Let's keep dreaming! 

I also have to again thank the JLCO that are always so gracious to me even when I'm being awkward! LOL They are truly my family and love them all and staff that travels with them dearly! 

Brother Soulhorn... Thank you for doing life with me! 

Wynton.. Thank you! Going on over 40 years! 

Lastly, I have to say a thank you to the UMS. Even when I was working for MSU, they have always been so kind and welcoming to me and that was again afforded me yesterday, so thank you always for that!