Magical Redwood Forest

After Oregon, I made my way down to the redwoods in northern California, which are, of course, stunning. I hiked a bit through the forests and felt like a little, teeny creature. I get why people are obsessed with hobbits, fairies, etc. I want to live in perfect harmony with all beings in the forest forever and ever!

Bay Area fans showing some love.

I eventually tore myself away and drove to Oakland. The Giants were in the World Series, so the first night was spent watching a game. Then on Thursday, 10/25, I played at Amnesia in San Francisco with Brooke D., Brendan Thomas, and Hip Hatchet. The bar was packed with Giants fans who got louder and rowdier as the night went on. I wasn’t sure anyone could even hear me, but I was assured later that they could. Some family members and old friends showed up to show their support. The owner of Amnesia is a super nice guy, and the other musicians were great. Good night overall.

Whiskey Richards in Santa Barbara

The next day I drove down to sunny Santa Barbara. I played at a bar called Whiskey Richards on Sunday, 10/28. The bar had a real metal kind of vibe, but luckily there was a good-sized crew of folk-loving folks at the show, thanks to my brother, sister-in-law, and their friends. The lovely and talented Kat Devlin started the evening, then I played and was joined by my oldest and dearest friend, Beth. We relived some past glory with a cover we used to sing in our high school garage band. It ended up being one of my favorite shows–so much fun.

“Crude Reflections” crew

I hung out in Santa Barbara for a few days, then drove to L.A. on Thursday, 11/1. My uncle, John Quigley, had asked me to play at a photography exhibition opening, called “Crude Reflections,” featuring the photography of his friend, Lou Dematteis. Lou, John, and others participated in a panel discussion, and then I played some accompanying music for the reception. It was a great event, and I was happy to be a part of it.

L.A. swan song

I spent a few fun, lazy days catching up with old friends in L.A., then played my final tour show on Monday, 11/5, at Bar Lubitsch in West Hollywood. The venue is beautiful, and the booker is a nice guy (and a friend of Iowa City friend Colin Ritchie, who recorded my latest album). I was a little sad but not surprised at the turnout in L.A.–I never had much luck when I lived there. But a handful of good friends showed up and we had a good time. Then one of my friends got a flat tire on the way home, and then I had a slashed tire the next morning. Thanks, L.A.! See ya!

Santa Barbara beach friends

I went back to Santa Barbara and rested up for about a week, then started the long journey back to Iowa. Along the way, I stopped at the Grand Canyon and Arches National Park, then stayed a few more days in Fort Collins, CO, with my friends The Lonelyhearts. I arrived back in Iowa the day before Thanksgiving.

Now I’m trying to figure out what to do next with my life and how to get back on the road as soon as possible. I had an incredible time on this tour. I don’t know how to begin to thank all of the friends (old and new) and family members who made it possible. I am so grateful and so inspired to keep creating music. Thanks, everyone. xo

Grand ol’ time.