I saw Happy Feet with my brother and his family. I loved it! Then we watched the OSU-Michigan game at my brother's house. I was going to see it in Columbus, but my friend in CBus had to work until 5 pm. I also decided it would be better to not have my van tipped over and/or set on fire in a riot after the game.
After my favorite college team won, I drove home, four and a half hours. I actually stopped by a rest area to shave in my van. I had my electric shaver the whole time, but didn't shave until then for two reasons. First, I have to shave for work, so when I don't work, I tend not to shave. Second, I thought it would be more artistic for you to see the beard progression along the 16 days. I shaved because my neck itched, though, and I wanted to be refreshed when I got back to Oxford. I got back at midnight, went to Brodie's to talk about booking a show there, and then I went to Brick Street to dance. I was highly disappointed after paying $3 to get in because there was no DJ as the UFC fight was on, and I didn't recognize anyone in the club. I went to Balcony, and thankfully Soundscape was playing.
Starting mileage for the trip: 206,661
Ending mileage for the trip: 209,995
total mileage for the 16 days in my minivan: 3,334 for an average of 208.375 per day
Summary of trip:
What an amazing experience. It was worth every penny of overdraft, and every moment of worrying about whether or not I'd get home. It was worth the 6 or so nights of sleeping in my van, and even the days without showering. It was worth the days of possibly only having applesauce and raisins. It made me happier to be in Oxford; it made my home feel more like home, and more importantly, it reminded me of why I do what I do. I love it. I love music; I love performing, and I love life. I get to start over with a very negative account balance (about -$300), but I'll be ok. Money is just money. I want to book a bigger tour for May-August, and will start on that soon. I will also apply to grad school. If music isn't my career, I need something to be, and I love teaching and helping people, so I'll be a math professor, and make music on the side, and probably donate all sorts of money to charity and start some philanthropies. That's who I am, and I love being me.
Thank you to everyone who helped make the trip possible, from the booking agents at the clubs, to the clubs with open mics, to the 5 people who bought my CD, Cassandra, my brother, David Tratta (for videotaping in Philly), and every single person along the way.
I love you all
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