Thursday at the Merlefest felt like one of those days you like to sing about.

Packing our beach chairs and a picnic cooler we found a place to set up camp on the lawn for the day. Between the Watson and Cabin stages there was a continuation of fine music from Junior Sisk and Ramblers Choice (not to be missed!) to The Carolina Chocolate Drops. With music to stroll by we checked out the Instrument tent, the Artist CD sales tent, rows of merchant booths and the hand craft tent where talented crafters from wood spoon and leather carvers to wool / yarn spinners demonstrated there gifts. While my hubby took a siesta, I kicked off the shoes and felt the sun on my toes. Across the grass children played tag, young folk danced with ribbons and us old folks downed ice creams cones. As the sun started to set we found a big round table of Merlefest veterans in the food tent and set to eating BBQ chicken, beans and slaw while laughing to tales of Wilkesboro and past Merlefests! As the tall trees glowed behind the Watson stage Alan took the stage with Long Hard Road. By the third verse we could hear those behind us on the lawn singing along with the chorus. Yes, Alan is welcomed! With his respectful and humble words Alan gave tribute to Bluegrass music and the many gifted artist and wished to honor them with his 3rd Bluegrass performance. All of Alan's band shared such amazing talent in harmonizing and instrumental solo's with each song! Sierra Hull was amazing! By the ninth song I found myself looking up to the stars and giving thanks for all God's blessings on this beautiful day. You know Alan's songs have always had a way of warming your heart but his Gospel and now Bluegrass songs go way beyond to moving our souls. Well Alan continued to play his Bluegrass songs from his album and returned to the stage for an encore. But he pulled out with a fast one and took us on the Dixie Hwy to send us back on home!

Do you know that old song by "Chicago" "Saturday in the park"?

People dancing, people laughing

A man selling ice cream.

.........

People talking, really smiling.

A man playing guitar.

And singing for us all.

Yes.....It felt like one of those days you like to sing about!

Bluegrass festival vs a concert venue?

We be making plans for the festivals!