Huntsville Singing Trip

 We were asked  by some friends up north - the Strongmen's - to come sing at one of their summer evening concerts in Huntsville. We all tried to get a bunch of practicing in - gathering the siblings into the fold, :)whenever it worked out for them, and went up to sing on the 17th of July.

It was a bit like the "olden days", when singing with my family. Getting the music binders all ready, trying to get a colour combination so we all looked coordinated - kinda.... :) working on some new songs, and getting back to my banjo, mandolin and piano days. :) (even though I was rusty, it's amazing how the my fingers instinctively knew the chord formations...) 

Katelyn colouring on the way up. We four went with Rob and Mark in a borrowed mini van.

Erik, being quite adorable. He did quite well on the way up.

Once we got there, and set up, we had a long soundcheck - more like a practice. Mr. Strongmen kindly looked after us on the soundboard, and had to listen to us as we tried to make sure we had it sorta together. :) But we got it - mostly. And are thankful for the practices we got in!

Singing up front. It was an incredible hot night, and I felt for the guys in their suits, but they looked great. :)

Tim played a couple songs on the bass.

 Sarah and Laura Strongmen were such a HUGE help with the little ones. Watching them almost the entire afternoon and evening for us while we had a sound check, praciticed and later on, sang. They are so good with children.

Sarah visiting afterwards

William and a friend.

Me and my darling Katy - both tired, warm and looking the worse for wear. :)

Sarah and I in our "matchies"

Right before we left, we got a group shot, thanks to Emily and her sister- soime friends up there.

Then a few of us started the 3.5 hour trip home, and a couple others stayed up there for the night. A wonderful time, and a blessing to meet others, hopefully encourage, and also be encouraged.