The world as we used to know it has been closed down for a long time. Now, seemingly all of a sudden, it comes roaring back. All of a sudden, I’m thick in the world of live events!

 

The contra dance revel a few weeks back was only the beginning. This Sunday at 2 PM, I am the live event, performing as Matilda Sager Delaney at Fort Walla Walla Museum. It’s the start of Living History’s 2021 season, after the “dark” year of 2020.

https://www.fwwm.org/all-events/2021/5/16/living-history-matilda-sager-delaney

Then, a mere month later, I have a book signing! This live event happens at Book & Game in Walla Walla, Friday, June 18, 11 A-2 P. It’s also the first day of their 3-day sidewalk sale. If the weather’s nice I’ll be talking up Beyond Big-G City in the great outdoors. If not, inside the store it will be.

In July, I am thrilled to be returning to the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Museum in Baker City, Oregon, 10 shows over three days, July 9-11. It doesn’t get more “live” than that!

One live event per month for three consecutive months. Who knew life would ever again be so crowded with incident? No, I’m not being sarcastic.

 

That’s my job.

 

Right you are, Lily. And I’m counting on you and 9 to help me navigate the emotional complexities of returning to public life. Right now, thinking about these dates makes me feel like I’m about to jump out of my own skin with excitement.

 

That sounds messy.

 

I agree, 9. That’s why you and Lily need to keep me grounded.

 

But we’re just kids!

 

My point exactly. Kids are good for keeping life real. I’m counting on the two of you, as well as the cats, the help me stay sane and focused instead of plunging into a tailspin of excitement. Because live events require preparation.

 

We’re starting to get out-of-town visitors, too, and lining up road trips for ourselves.

 

Great! Where are we going?

 

Port Townsend.

And then where?

 

Uhm, Port Townsend, maybe a few times between now and Labor Day. Lots of family and friends to catch up with there, you know.

 

Probably not the best idea to get on a plane right now.

 

I feel that way, too, Lily, though lots of other people think otherwise. It’s important, I think, for each of us to move at our own pace right now, getting back into the world of live events and public transport. But I am seriously considering a trip north, to Farmington, WA. That’s where Matilda Sager Delaney is buried. Having portrayed her for two years, I’d like to stop by and say hello. Just a little day trip, maybe with a picnic lunch.

 

Different, but not my idea of excitement.

 

How you feel about attending the Walla Walla Chamber Music Festival, Lily? After last year’s hiatus they’ve scheduled a five concert series between June 22 and July 3. We can get our tickets here:

 

https://www.wwcmf.org/events

 

Hey, all the concerts are at wineries.

 

Darn the luck, 9.

 

I’m sure Lily, 9 and I are not the only ones looking forward to a summer with more options than last year, and I’ll admit it made me very happy to read about the revised CDC guidelines: fully vaccinated adults can now attend indoor and outdoor events without wearing masks.

 

In case you’ve forgotten, we’re not adults.

 

I haven’t forgotten, Lily, but since you live on the inside, I’m pretty sure you and 9 are covered.

 

Though it’s more than a month until summer officially begins, it feels to me like it’s already happening here in Walla Walla. The plants coming up in the garden reinforce my feeling that good things are on the way.

 

May we all enjoy the ride.