The Music Continues

Sat. March 6th, 2009. 7 am. Just finished watching You Tube type video interviews with Denny Zeitlin. I haven't heard his music or name in years but came across another Zeitlin while reading about musical prodigies and decided, with Googles amazing help, to checkout where and what is Denny up to. He has used modern communication tools, especially the videocam (which John is now doing with Flip, almost daily) to tell his own story. And what a story. A jazz musician, composer, psychiatrist (MD) , a wine buff, a fly fisherman, a family man, a real raconteur. I'm fascinated by his video interviews, and love which bassists he's played with over the years: Buster Williams, Charlie Haden, Dave Friesen. I think I remember years ago on the early album with Jeremy Steig the bassist was.....................I know who I mean but it will take a minute to pop out. Hah!!
So last night I played bass at a Shabbot service in Cong. Beth El in SO. Very nice band with Rich Eisenstein and Perry Fine. Barry on guitar. We hadn't seen each other in about 45 years, so that was fun. At the same time my big band was playing at The Priory in Newark with Dwight for his birthday. Steve helped me set that band up at 4 pm so the guys could just walk in and play. I hope it went well. I wish I could have done both gigs because the Wed. rehearsal with the big band was a gas.
Today Brass 5 rehearsal, then to Wellmont to see/hear Lucinda Williams with RJ and Martha. Tomorrow a new "OOm Pah" adventure and a 40th Bday party/jam for John. Fun!!
Spoke to 2 friends with new diagnosis's (diagnosies???sp??) this week, offering encouragement and faith in the new medical advances which have helped save my life. Also a firm belief in keeping as positive as possible...upbeat. John G. and I went for lunch at the diner yesterday. He had a brief bout back to the hospital but is doing good now. Carol is home from Bethesda where she was glowing with Grandchild joy. Each moment with those kids is breathtaking. I was there 2 weeks ago, fantastic joy.
Our prayers and hopes continue for dear friends needing our support. It's a tough time on several fronts so we need to love and support each other during the adjustments. For Americans, indeed the entire world, it's a different future now. There will be adjustments to make, a new economy and new realities. New opportunities??? Maybe for some. I hope so.
Last week I jumped the gun and got into the hospital for a blood test because I was feeling sluggish and got a little scared. I'm fine, numbers are good. Just gotta slow down a bit. So Monday was a snow day and I stayed in my PJs all day and read a book. Made a difference to take a day off. Had some bursitis as well. John has helped me to understand and deal with the problem. Feel much better today after a week of serious pain and worry. Soooo...keep well. Love and Thanks. Hug your partner and take time together. JIMBO