Two years ago, I went to see The Local Strangers at their CD Release show. I was absolutely blown away by their musical talent. And I still feel those same feelings when I see them perform today. I still get swept up in Matt’s enthusiasm. My heart still breaks when Aubrey hits that perfect note. I think I might be able to say I have seen them perform more than anyone else and I still, still, feel ALL THE FEELINGS.
For me, that night, that night of music and feelings and happiness was enough. More, even. More than one can generally hope for on a Friday night. More than I ever did hope for on a Friday night.
But what I didn’t know then-what I do know now-is that night was the beginning of my new life. So many people who mean so much to me now, are people I met that night. That was really my first “local” show and I haven’t looked back since. Those people, this music and, I think, happiness found me that night. Happiness, guys!
On Wednesday, Joe, Dawn and my nephews fly into Seattle. Virtually everyone and everything I love will be here. In Seattle. Needless to say, I have been counting the minutes. Everyone will be here because, well, guys, Froggy is graduating. Yup. I guess that’s happening. I swear, we just moved him into the dorms yesterday . . . My feelings on that, well, that is a whole other story.
Before the graduation and before parents and grandparents and uncles and cousins get into town, before all that, I get 2 nights with just my siblings. And in one of the best instances of stars aligning, I get to take them to a The Local Strangers show.
I could dance around in this full circle all day.
To have all my siblings here is treat enough, but to be able to take them into my world . . . well there are no words. My favorite band, my boss and his wife, Sizzle, Kristen, Quinton, Julia, Deb, Natalie, Katrina, Carrie, Daniela, Annalisa, Sharon, Jon, Richard and every other person in Seattle I adore. All under one roof. And my siblings will be there. With me. It’s almost more happiness than I can bear.
Happiness. Two years ago, I never thought I could feel the sort of happiness I have felt lately. Luckily, I believed Kris when he told me it was waiting. He was right.
There are things, just over the horizon. Things that may rain on my happiness parade. But today? Right now? As I celebrate the night where things started to change, I’m going to lean into it. I’m going to let it envelop me. I’m going to turn my music up really loud and dance around my kitchen.
Because my siblings get here in a mere 40 hours.
What more is there?


