Friends

I spent a couple days at a reunion in New Mexico for Philmont Scout Ranch where I worked in high school and college in the summers, and it turned out to be a larger-than-life confluence of many more people than I thought I’d ever see at one event. It was a celebration of 50 years of women rangers of whom two of my sisters were standouts in the first 5 years. Since it was such a big anniversary there were so many women and men who came back to hike and interact with each other. There were too many people to get a chance talk to everyone, and we all wished we had more time to catch up. I also got to play some good music with people I haven’t seen in years, and of course I had to go on at least one hike to get out into the backcountry. The amazing thing was that everyone has led outstanding lives. I knew that it was a group of achievers, but I had forgotten just how engaged and ambitious and yet in-the-moment these people could be. I was definitely proud and amazed that I got to be part of these folks’ lives when we were young and also now that we could get together again. So I’m writing this just to encourage you to reach out to old friends and share some uplifting times. It’s good for us!

——

What have I been up to?

My senior facilities were all very rewarding last week although I had fewer than most weeks since I went to the reunion I mentioned above for two days. I love playing for these folks, and hopefully I make their day brighter.

My Wednesday online show about name songs was so much fun that we decided to do it again this week. The best part was doing songs that surprised folks and brought out a different take on names.

Thursday’s barbecue at the Yellow Pine was a good one with lots of wonderful new and old faces. There was quite a bit of dancing crammed into the end of the evening, and we need to do more of that.

My Sunday online show was a little different since I had been gone for the better part of three days and hadn’t had time to work on requests as I usually do. But the energy I was bringing from the reunion charged the evening and made the night really special. We have such a wonderful group of friends at these concerts.

——

What am I up to this week?

I have 8 senior facilities again this week since I’m playing in Estes Park on Friday and need the day to drive. I’m looking forward to every one of them!

Tuesday my theme online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be names again. We’re switching to Tuesday this week because I have a luau for one of my senior facilities that I do annually on Wednesday. These name shows are so much fun. Tune in if you can!

Thursday I’m doing the Yellow Pine Barbecue once again. There are only three more of these barbecues this year, so if you’d like to come you won’t regret it. The food and atmosphere are great, and it’s so good to share music in the old barn. Call for reservations ASAP at 719-742-3528. 

Friday 7-8 I’m playing a concert at the Kathie Mennel Amphitheater at the YMCA Camp of the Rockies near Estes Park. This is part of their Summerfest series of concerts on Friday nights. I’m not sure of their setup for these concerts, but if you’re in the area give them a call and come on out! 970-586-3341 x1113

Sunday my online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be the favorites and requests with our great online community that I’ve grown to know and love. We do a Zoom call a half hour before that you’re welcome to be a part of as well. https://us04web.zoom.us/j/7759127796?pwd=MZ55WfXnEkOSi3_ztfvmMlbe2oCpoN.1

——

That’s it for this week. I hope your summer is going well and that you’re staying safe and healthy. One of the better things about the reunion last week was that everyone was very respectful about mask-wearing and keeping safe. That’s a refreshing state.

Best always,

Tom

——

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of name songs

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Tuesday, July 26, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing & singing at the barbeque

Where:  Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528

When:  Thursday, July 28, 6:30-8:00 pm

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing and singing a concert

Where:  Kathie Mennel Amphitheater at the YMCA Camp of the Rockies, Estes Park. 970-586-3341 x1113

When:  Friday, July 29, 7-8 pm

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites and requests

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Sunday, July 31, 7-8:30 pm mountain time

Names

My show this Wednesday is about names, and I was really surprised when I searched through my song folder to come up with 243 songs that were about names. I’m even missing quite a few songs that immediately come to mind from the '50s and '60s like “Diana” and “Sherry”, and still I have so many. Names really do have importance in our lives. Most of the people I grew up with had the standard names of America, but I’ve really found that people with unique names lead different lives. They are more noticed - sometimes for the good and sometimes not so much. But there is power in a name. We romanticize the dramatic names in stories and in life. I think that’s why so many stars take interesting names. I was going to have my professional name be something different at one point. My middle name is Paul (named for my maternal grandfather), and I toyed with the name of Paul Grey at one point. It doesn’t really fit me, and I don’t know why I picked Grey. I guess I thought it sounded dignified and mysterious. Anyway, I’m sure we all had nicknames and tried out different names at times - whether it was a married name or just a fantasy. And songs with names have really captured our collective psyche. No one likes to hear the song with their name in it, but we do like name songs. So Wednesday I’ll play a bunch of them. Maybe I’ll play yours!

——

What have I been up to?

I forgot to mention my senior facilities again last week. I think it was because I had so many other things going on. I actually had 13 facilities to play, so it was a busy week there also. A couple of them were dealing with COVID cases, so caution is always at the forefront. It was great to see them all.

The dance in Cuchara on Monday went very well although they had a super-soaker rainstorm just before I arrived, and the road was closed and then reopened just before I got there to set up. We had to deal with some mud that had flowed into the entrance of the community center, but after we got that cleaned up the evening went really well. We did miss some folks who couldn’t get out with the little bit of flooding that occurred though.

My Wednesday online show about hot and cold was really fun. We found some really clever songs about hot and cold, so it was kind of a playful night with a lot of folks coming out to participate.

The Thursday barbecue at the Yellow Pine was packed with mostly one family who books the entire ranch for a reunion every summer, so it was a really fun night spending time with them.

The Sunday Cuchara Chapel service was cancelled due to the uncertainty around COVID with so many of the chapel folks coming down with it. They have cancelled all services until August 7th. I’m scheduled to play the service on the 14th.

My Sunday online show was really sweet with great requests and interaction in our wonderful group. Some nights just end up being extra-special.

——

What am I up to this week?

I have just 8 senior facilities to play this week as I am taking off Friday and Saturday to go to a reunion at Philmont that is celebrating 50 years of women rangers, of which two of my sisters were early pioneers. It’ll be great to hike with those two sisters, Jane and Carol, on Saturday to one of the camps and to a demonstration forest where we can learn more about wildfire mitigation. This will be a great opportunity to have a little R&R and see some old friends.

My Wednesday online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be featuring names as I wrote about above. I know it’s going to be a great time already. Come on out!

Thursday will be the barbecue at the Yellow Pine Guest Ranch. I’d love to have you come out and enjoy some barbecue, music, dancing, and even roasting marshmallows around the fire. Call for reservations ASAP at 719-742-3528. 

My Sunday online show 7-8:30 mountain time will feature requests and favorites as always. We have such a supportive and ever-growing group of friends and music fans, and I’d love to have you in the audience as well. Come on out.

——

That’s it for this week. I hope your summer is going well, and that you’re staying safe. COVID continues to be something we deal with daily, and it has been hard to live with it hanging over our heads, but somehow with love and care and perseverance we are getting through.

Best always,

Tom

——

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of name songs

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Wednesday, July 20, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing & singing at the barbeque

Where:  Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528

When:  Thursday, July 21, 6:30-8:00 pm

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites and requests

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Sunday, July 24, 7-8:30 pm mountain time

Hot and Cold

I’m doing my online show about hot and cold on Wednesday, and it has me thinking of how I’ve dealt with hot days and cold days in my life. I loved the heat as a kid. In the summer I liked to sit outside in front of the air conditioner when it was blowing hot air. I liked sitting in the hot sun too as long as I wasn’t getting sunburnt. Nowadays I don’t mind the heat, but it does wear me out quickly. I seem to be okay as long as I have a breeze moving past me outside or from a fan indoors. I used to not mind the winter cold that much either, but now I live in wool long underwear all winter long and get chilled easily. Strangely it doesn’t bother me to do my early morning walks with Beau in the cold, but I think it’s because I know how to dress warmly. And we all know what hot and cold weather does to our psyche. Some get depressed, and some revel in it. So Wednesday I’ll do songs about hot and cold. It should be fun! 

—— 

What have I been up to? 

My senior facilities last week all went very well. Some had extra COVID precautions. I love playing for these folks! 

My Wednesday online show doing songs by Canadian musicians went very well. Canada has a wealth of great writers and performers, and it was so much fun doing their songs. Everyone seemed to enjoy it. 

The Yellow Pine barbecue on Tuesday was a packed house. The barbecue was tasty (I love the beans especially), and Steve told me his technique for barbecue which is steeped in his family traditions and uses aspen for smoking because it’s less carcinogenic. Fascinating and yummy! 

The chapel service Sunday in Cuchara was a little different than we expected. The minister tested positive for COVID that morning, so we had a short online service where I sang three songs, and they awarded scholarships to four worthy students. 

My Sunday online show that night was wonderful - with lots of great friends and music. 

—— 

What am I up to this week? 

Monday (tonight) 7-9 I’ll be playing a dance at the Cuchara Community Center with my friend Dennis Mills on bass for whoever would like to come and do some dancing in the mountains. These evenings are usually a great time. The admission is free, but donations are accepted. Come on out! 

Wednesday my online show 7-8:30 mountain time will feature songs about hot and cold as I wrote above. This should be a fun exploration of hot and cold with a few surprises. 

Thursday 6:30-8 I’ll be back at the Yellow Pine barbecue. I always say how much fun this is and how good the food is, and I ain’t lyin’! I’d love to have you in the audience. Call for reservations ASAP at 719-742-3528.  

Sunday 11-12 I’ll be playing for the Cuchara Chapel again to fill in for my friend Peggy Hoobler. I’m pretty sure we’re doing a virtual show on Facebook again, but the details aren’t nailed down yet. Go to the Cuchara Chapel Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/cucharachapel or the website cucharachapel.org for details as they decide. 

Sunday my online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be favorites and requests as always. I love these evening even when I can’t keep up with the requests. We have such a giving and caring group! Please join us! 

—— 

That’s all for this week. I hope you are staying healthy. COVID is rising in some places, and I’m sure at least I’m not being as careful as I could. 

Best always, 

Tom 

—— 

Who:  Tom Munch and Dennis Mills 

What:  playing for a free dance put on by the Cuchara Valley Recreation Program 

Where:  Cuchara Community Center, Cuchara 

When:  Monday, July 11, 7-9 pm 

Who:  Tom Munch  

What:  playing and singing an online concert of hot and cold songs 

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts   

When:  Wednesday, July 13, 7-8:30 pm mountain time  

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing & singing at the barbeque 

Where:  Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528 

When:  Thursday, July 14, 6:30-8:00 pm 

Who:  Tom Munch  

What:  playing and singing for the Cuchara Chapel virtual service 

Where:  Cuchara Chapel, Cuchara 

When:  Sunday, July 17, 11 am - 12 pm 

Who:  Tom Munch  

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites and requests 

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts   

When:  Sunday, July 17, 7-8:30 pm mountain time

Independence Day

It’s Independence Day morning as I write this, and that has me thinking of how I’ve spent this holiday over the years. When I was a kid I couldn’t wait to get my hands on some firecrackers and bottle rockets - the bigger the better. I would spend all day with my friends blowing things up in creative ways - ant hills, milkweed pods, old toys, or anything we could fit a firecracker into. Kids are pretty destructive and unaware like that. I think I grew out of that phase by my teenage years although I’m sure I still enjoyed lighting off a few pretty fireworks at night with my family. Of course we were usually at a lake or camping somewhere. My dad liked to sail his sailboat, and so as kids we accompanied him to several sailboat races around the area that frequently were held around Independence Day. One of my favorite Independence Day memories was driving back from one of these races along Interstate 80 in Nebraska as the night was setting in and seeing all the fireworks displays from each of the little towns positioned just north of the interstate as we passed them. It was a movable feast for the eyes. That’s was also around 1976 when the US celebrated our bicentennial, and I got to go on a school trip to Washington, DC in a red, white, and blue plane. When I left home I didn’t really celebrate Independence Day as much except to maybe go to a professional fireworks show somewhere. When I got my first dog when I was on my own he was deathly afraid of the noise, and he even ran away one year out of fright - digging out of the backyard and disappearing for three weeks. I also started listening to a radio show around that time called the Thomas Jefferson Hour. The host portrayed the third president on the air and answered questions and told stories and insights about early America and how our government was formed. That gave me a deeper appreciation for the serious thought that went into our independence and into the struggles it took to make our nation. I now spend Independence Day contemplating our country and it’s issues - some that our founders contemplated and that we are still dealing with more than 200 years later. I still appreciate the deep work our founders did to create something special that I benefit from every day. From the preamble - “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” Happy Independence Day!

——

What have I been up to?

I forgot to mention my senior homes last week. I had nine scheduled, and one had to cancel for COVID, and another had to change the setting so that it kept their residents safer.

My Wednesday online show was doing the songs of James Taylor, and it was a wonderful if mellow night. James’ songs have always been favorites of mine to listen to and perform.

The Thursday night barbecue at the Yellow Pine was cancelled due to COVID in the Cuchara community. This is usually the biggest barbecue of the summer before the 4th, so it was a tough decision to make, but it was for the best. Hopefully we can do this week. I’m going to promote it and hope we can.

Saturday was the SPACe Art in the Park event in La Veta, and it was really fun and busy. It was so good to see so many friends, and being outdoors it was a safe way to see folks. The weather was really nice, and it held off raining for the whole time. 

My Sunday online show had some great requests, and it was just as good as ever with sweet friends and music. I’m blessed.

——

What am I up to this week?

I have seven senior facilities this week. I’m not doing any today with Independence Day, and I think I had one cancellation, so it’s fewer than I usually have. I’m hoping COVID doesn’t get any worse for them since many have active cases currently in their facilities.

My Wednesday online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be doing music by Canadian musicians. Canada has a rich tradition of great writers and singers, and I’m really looking forward to celebrating their music, especially since one of our favorite Munch Bunch Group members, Bob Deskin, is from Canada.

Thursday will be the Yellow Pine Barbecue 6:30-8. It’s great barbecue in the old and rustic barn with my music and a lot of atmosphere. Call for reservations ASAP at 719-742-3528. I’m hoping they don’t have to cancel this week for COVID.

Sunday I’ll be singing at the Cuchara Chapel 11-12 mountain time for a virtual chapel service that you can watch if you like at cucharachapel.org if everything works out. We were up in the air about this service until just a day or so ago, so hopefully it will go off without a hitch.

Sunday night my online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be favorites and requests as always. We have such a fine group of folks who join together for this weekly celebration of friendship and music, and I’d love to have you join in if you can.

——

That’s it for this week. Life continues to be a rollicking time of music and adventures, and I’m happy to be with you to share them.

Best always,

Tom

——

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of Canadian musician songs

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Wednesday, July 6, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing & singing at the barbeque

Where:  Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528

When:  Thursday, July 7, 6:30-8:00 pm

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing for the Cuchara Chapel virtual service

Where:  Cuchara Chapel, Cuchara

When:  Sunday, July 10, 11 am - 12 pm

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites and requests

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Sunday, July 10, 7-8:30 pm mountain time

Writing

I’m getting the urge to write songs again, and I’m always curious what motivates me to write. I know that others feel that writing helps them work through issues that they’re dealing with. Some writers say they have a responsibility to put ideas out into the world to try and make a difference. Some just like to tell stories about interesting people or occurrences. I think I’ve had all those motivations before. Each listener interprets a song differently though, so sometimes the intention put into a song is not what the listener gets from it anyway. Some writers are intentionally vague in their lyrics so that their listeners can read more meaning into the song. I’m reminded of an interview with Paul Simon and Bob Costas. Bob liked the phrase in one of Paul’s songs, “The cross is in the ballpark” and envisioned several different meanings from it. Paul just said he liked the way the words fit together, and it didn’t have any specific meaning. I think I’m being motivated now to spread some sort of peaceful message of hope and love. It seems we could all use a little of that today. We’ll see if I get any completed songs from it this go round. Writing is not always easy or quick.

——

What have I been up to?

I had 10 senior facilities last week, and one had to cancel due to a COVID outbreak. A couple others were in active outbreak status, but they were still allowing outside visitors and vendors. This COVID thing is definitely not over. Even Philmont Scout Ranch has had to tighten their restrictions due to a number of cases.

My Wednesday online show of Motown songs was great fun. It is so refreshing to do songs with infectious rhythms in them. I was dancing as I played.

Thursday at the Yellow Pine barbecue was a little slower than last week, but I still got to see some old friends and play some great songs. I even brought out a couple more guitars for a little variety.

My Sunday online show was a huge variety of songs from all over the spectrum. We have such a great group of folks, and the respect and care they show for each other is astounding.

——

What am I up to this week?

My Wednesday online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be the songs of James Taylor. I first starting learning James’ songs in high school, and I instantly connected with his acoustic guitar riffs and easy style snd writing. This will be a sweet night, and I encourage you to tune in.

Thursday will be the Yellow Pine barbecue again 6:30-8. There are seats open most weeks, so if good Texas barbecue in a historic western barn with my music in the mountains sounds good to you, then come on out. Reservations should be made ASAP at 719-742-3528.

Saturday 11-2 I’ll be at the SPACe Art in the Park in La Veta, Colorado. This is a great annual event that I’ve missed with the pandemic, and this year will be the first time back in a couple years. Expect some wonderful food and art while you hear my music filling the park. It’s right there at the park on Ryus Avenue - the first right after the tracks on the north end of town.

Sunday my online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be favorites and requests as always. I can’t say enough about how special these evenings are with friends and music. Come on out if you can.

——

That’s it for this week. Wish me well as I write. I hope you are enjoying your summer and that you are safe and healthy.

Best always,

Tom

——

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of James Taylor songs

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Wednesday, June 29, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing & singing at the barbeque

Where:  Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara.  719-742-3528

When:  Thursday, June 30, 6:30-8:00 pm

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing and singing for SPACe Art in the Park

Where:  Ryus Ave as you enter on the right - just across the tracks in La Veta 

When:  Saturday, July 2, 11 am - 2 pm

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites and requests

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Sunday, July 3, 7-8:30 pm mountain time

What's Right

I’m reading a novel that is stirring my sense of right and wrong - which is one of the things that good stories should do. They actually say that good fiction helps our empathy for each other. It always fuels my curiosity for why people don’t do what’s right. In my life it has always been obvious why it’s best to do what’s right - it benefits everyone, and it makes life more worthwhile. But some people are driven toward contrariness either from abuse they’ve suffered or a general unhappiness with life, I guess. I know that some folks see people like me as idealistic and naive, but I believe you get out of life what you put into it for the most part. Life can beat you down, but if you continue to give out of a spirit of love you will eventually find a smoother path. When you give in to fear and begin to hate and doubt others, then your life becomes a misery. You just have to believe. 

——

What have I been up to?

My senior facilities went very well last week. There seem to be less COVID cases, and I’m hoping we’re maybe in an easier period for a while. 

My Wednesday theme show was doing the music of Michael Martin Murphey, and it was sweet reconnecting with his tunes. He was one to the first musicians whose music I learned when I first started playing.

The Thursday barbecue at the Yellow Pine was fun and crazy - especially for the first one of the season. Everyone is really ready to get out and have a good time. It was great to see so many folks whom I haven’t seen since last summer.

Friday night I played at the Pueblo Riverwalk as part of their summer music series, and although it was a little warm it was great playing outdoors for some of the Pueblo friends I haven’t seen in quite a while. I need to play in Pueblo more often.

Saturday was a retirement party for a friend whom I have been playing for since my days at the Pueblo West Inn 30 years ago. It was a wonderful evening. Congratulations again, Debbie! It was a wonderful party.

Sunday was my online favorites show, and after a full week of gigs and fun it was good to be surrounded by my online Munch Bunch. We had such a good time!

——

What am I up to this week?

I have 10 senior facilities this week, and I’m looking forward to all of them. You just have to see the faces and hear the stories.

My Wednesday online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be Motown songs again. We haven’t done Motown songs since a year ago in March, and they are so fun and danceable. This will be a blast. Come on out!

Thursday I’m back at the Yellow Pine barbecue 6:30-8, and I’m expecting it to be just as good as last week if not better. I’d love to have you if you are in the area. As always it’s held in an 1890s barn in Cuchara, CO, with Texas barbecue and my music, and it’s best to call in a reservation ASAP - 719-742-3528.

My Sunday online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be favorites and requests as always. I’m having a harder time finding the time to learn a lot of new requests, but I’m doing my darnedest during this busy season. We always have a great time, and you’re always welcome.

——

That’s it for this week. I hope you’ll take a deep breath and consider what’s right in every situation - keeping love and respect in your heart.

Best always,

Tom

——

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of Motown songs

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Wednesday, June 22, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing & singing at the barbeque

Where:  Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara.  719-742-3528

When:  Thursday, June 23, 6:30-8:00 pm

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites and requests

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Sunday, June 26, 7-8:30 pm mountain time

Busy

It’s that time of year when things get very busy in a hurry. I honestly thought things would still be slower this year with virus cases on the rise. I like riding the bucking bronc of busyness, but it’s amazing how quickly your priorities change daily. All the little moments of stolen joy get replaced by big swaths of going and going with many detailed moments of fragmented thoughts. It’s pretty wild. I don’t mind, but I still need to sneak into some peaceful slow times for at least a few minutes. Luckily the busyness takes me to some beautiful summer places where I can drink in a lot of natural relief in just a brief glance. Getting lost in some peaceful spaces in our minds always helps too. I’ll keep this short since today is busy too. I hope you are well and happy. 

——

What have I been up to?

I forgot to mention my senior shows last week. I had eight of them, and they all went very well including a new one in Colorado Springs that I enjoyed. Unfortunately two of them were in outbreak status. This virus is still very much a concern. I’m seeing it every week. 

My Thursday online show doing state songs again went very well. There were some really special songs in there. The audience was up for a great time too!

My concert Saturday with Ellyn Washburn at Philmont went a little different than planned. Ellyn got called away to help at one of the camps, so I played the show solo. It went really well all the same, and it was great to get to meet the current staff and spend time with them. I’m always inspired to see younger folks with so much gumption and life!

The Sunday private party was blast with several Munch Bunch folks. 

My Sunday online show doing favorites was actually comical at one point. I’d had very little sleep, and so I was a little goofy. At one point I swiped the screen and dragged my image off the green-screen background so that all the audience could see was the top of my hat in one corner. It took me a minute to figure out what I had done and drag my image back up and centered. I’ll have to try that in the future for a special effect.

——

What am I up to this week?

I have 11 senior facilities this week. I’m looking forward to all of them! I’m hoping for less COVID cases for all.

We go to Wednesdays for my online theme shows until the middle of September, and this Wednesday 8-10 mountain time we will be back to one of our early theme shows - Michael Martin Murphey. I’ve loved his music ever since the first time I heard “Wildfire” and “Carolina in the Pines”. I learned many tunes in his early career and have played them often. I guess my timing is good since he just announced that he has a new jazz album out with his son Ryan. Come on out and enjoy his music!

Thursday 6:30-8 I’m starting the season at the Yellow Pine Barbecue. This is something I look forward to every year. I’ve talked about it often. It’s a Texas-style barbecue in an 1890s barn with my music and lots of family fun. I’d love to have you in the audience, so make your reservations early at 719-742-3528 and come on up to Cuchara for a swell evening.

Friday 6-7:30 I’m playing at the Pueblo Riverwalk on the Flood Wall Stage. That’s the area by the boathouse between Union and Victoria. It should be a nice time, and I hope to see some Pueblo folks out. This is not where I thought I would be on the north end of the riverwalk, so take note if you plan to come.

Saturday I have a private party that I’m looking forward to. 

My Sunday online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be the favorites and requests that we always enjoy. I have such a stellar group of folks who come out to join in the camaraderie. Join us!

——

That’s it for this week. Today is a s busy as ever. Take care, and I hope to see you soon.

All the best,

Tom

——

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of Michael Martin Murphey songs

Where:  Tom Munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Wednesday, June 15, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing & singing at the barbeque

Where:  Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara.  719-742-3528

When:  Thursday, June 16, 6:30-8:00 pm

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing

Where:  Flood Wall Stage at the Pueblo Riverwalk, Pueblo.

When:  Friday, June 17, 6-7:30

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites and requests

Where:  Tom Munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Sunday, June 19, 7-8:30 pm mountain time

Helping

I’m thinking today about those who help and what prods us to help. Helping is usually a selfless act, and as such it is good for the giver and the receiver. There is no doubt that, even when the helping is hard work, there is a satisfaction in being there for someone else. It is also gratifying for the person being helped if they can accept the giving without feeling any obligation. Two examples happened this weekend and one coming up. First, on Friday I noticed a nail in my tire while driving through Kansas. I didn’t dare pull it out and have it go flat on the spot, so I googled a tire shop and drove a short distance where I explained my problem. A minute later a guy pulled out the nail and said it didn’t cause a leak. I offered to pay him, but he wouldn’t take it. It occurred to me as a drove off that I probably insulted him by offering to pay him, and then the lesson hit me that a grateful thank-you is sometimes better than money. Second, I spent the weekend in Nebraska playing a couple gigs and staying with my sister and niece. It was great to see them, and I usually try to be handy and fix things around the house for them if I can. (My granddad used to do this when he and grandma used to visit back in the day.) There were some frustrations in fixing some of the things (as there often is), but it felt so good to help. I know that it meant a lot to them as well. Lastly, this week is the birthday of Bob Deskin, one of my most-valued Munch-Bunch supporters and friends. Bob helps every chance he gets, and it is such a pleasure having his help and working with him. He started the map of the Munch Bunch and also made the playlist spreadsheet of all of the shows since the fall of 2019 including weekly updates. So I encourage you to help when you can. It’s good for you and them! Just put some good energy into the world!

——

What have I been up to?

I had seven senior facilities last week. They all went very well even though one of them was on outbreak status, and I could only sing for them “unplugged” in the halls. 

My Thursday show was doing songs about states and was loads of fun! We actually didn’t end up doing songs just about states, and there are so many songs out there that we’ll do another show. 

On Saturday I did a short and a long show for the Good Sam’s RV Nebraska State Rally in Hastings, Nebraska, and it couldn’t have been better. The theme for the rally was “Camping at Christmas”, and it really felt surreal seeing Christmas decorations and costumes although my shows were a mixture of all kinds of music including Christmas songs. So much fun! Great group of folks!

My Sunday show was done live from my sister’s house, and I did the show on my iPad to simplify the connection and the setup. It looked and sounded quite different, but everyone really enjoyed it. Maybe I should simplify more often!

——

What am I up to this week?

My Thursday online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be doing songs about states again. We only scratched the surface last week, and everyone really enjoyed it. So this week we’ll do some more great songs about different states.

Saturday 8-10 I’m playing a concert at Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico for staff and visitors. I always look forward to playing at Philmont, and Ellyn Washburn will be there and will sit in and be featured as well. It should be a great time!

Sunday 12-3 I’m playing a private party for a good friend and Munch Buncher that should be wonderful. I’m really looking forward to it.

Sunday my online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be favorites and requests as always. I’ll be rolling in from my earlier party, so there should be some great energy in the air.

——

That’s it again for this week. There’s so much going on every week this summer, and I hope you have as fine a time as I hope to have. 

Best always,

Tom

——

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of songs about states

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Thursday, June 9, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites and requests

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Sunday, June 12, 7-8:30 pm mountain time

States

This time of year puts me in the mind of traveling, and I’ll probably do a theme show about traveling again, but this week has me thinking about the states we traveled through. I think I’ve been to all the states in the lower 48 except maybe a couple in the Northeast. Like many of you, we always played the state license plate game where you try to see as many plates as you can. I didn’t know the historical origins or differences in the states other than people having different accents and the land and foliage looking different. We did go to museums as we traveled though, and I gradually learned who established the states, the tribes who lived there before the settlers, and what made each state unique. I don’t travel now to other states as much as I used to, but I’m fascinated with the histories and the directions each state has taken - whether for sectarian or ethnic backgrounds. Of course that is all constantly changing as people migrate around the country. I’ve now lived in four states - Nebraska, New Mexico, Texas, and Colorado. How about you? Join me Thursday for songs about a bunch of these states!

——

What have I been up to?

My senior facilities went very well, and we didn’t have any cancellations although there were definitely cases at a couple facilities, and I had to take a rapid test at one facility.

My Thursday online show was definitely a blast with a bunch of really fun summer songs to kick off the season. In fact I was up for more lively songs than the group was requesting - that almost never happens!

My Sunday online show was also a great time although a little more somber with some Memorial Day songs and thoughts. Again we have such a wonderful and supportive group of folks who gather for these rewarding shows.

——

What am I up to this week?

I have just 7 senior facilities this week as I’ll be traveling to Nebraska for a show this weekend. I’m looking forward to seeing all the folks at my facilities.

My Thursday online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be about states as I mentioned above. Martha Yarusso had this theme idea, and at first I didn’t think I would have enough songs to fill a night with music. Boy, was I wrong! There are a ton of songs about states I already know, and this promises to be a really enjoyable show. Come on out!

Saturday I have two shows for the Good Sam’s RV rally in Hastings, Nebraska. These are technically private shows, but if you’re in the area I may be able to get you in. I’m really looking forward to seeing these folks, and I get to spend a weekend with my sister and niece which I haven’t gotten to do in quite some time!

My Sunday online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be recorded from my sister’s house in Nebraska, and I’m looking forward to it. I did an online show from Nebraska several years ago, and it was really fun. Please tune in if you can. We have such and engaging and caring group that will really make your day.

——

That’s it for this week. I hope you have a good Memorial Day, and I hope to see you soon.

Best always, 

Tom

——

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of songs about states

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Thursday, June 2, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites and requests

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Sunday, June 6, 7-8:30 pm mountain time

Summer Excitement

I always get a little bit excited at this time of the year with summer approaching, and I always write about it. There’s just something engaging about seeing the world wake up to a new growing season and the promise of being outdoors in great spaces. It also means a lot more work with yards and property, but somehow the enthusiasm that the earth puts forth sweeps me up and carries me to new heights of energy and awareness. It’s intoxicating! Of course the pandemic is still an issue in many parts of the world and to an extent here. We have to take the good with the bad, and there’s nothing wrong with having a reminder to be vigilant and cautious and caring for others and ourselves. But it’s summer! Let yourself feel the rhythms of the earth, and let yourself rejoice in the new growth and new life. That will be the spirit for my Thursday online show this week.

——

What have I been up to?

I had 11 senior facilities last week, and I enjoyed every one! It’s so good to finally be fully back at these places although we are still taking great precautions.

My Thursday online show was doing songs that shaped my audience again, and there were some great tunes. I created a new way for people to make requests independent of the comment thread, and this has really helped people to be able to make requests and for me to not lose them in the comments.

My Sunday online show of favorites and requests went really well too even though I was busy for most of the weekend opening cabins and cleaning up downed branches around our property here after the huge wet snowstorm that blew through and dumped so much snow. Next week I’ll hopefully have more time to learn new requests.

——

What am I up to this week?

I have 10 senior facilities this week, and I’m actually getting new facilities calling me so I’m busier than ever. 

My Thursday online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be a summer kickoff of fun songs to capture the enthusiasm I wrote about above. Music has always been a big part of this season for me - especially listening while driving to great destinations - sometimes to hear music played! I hope you’ll tune in if you’re free.

My Sunday online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be favorites and requests as always. We have such a wonderful group of folks who attend and support each other and the music. We’ve been having a Zoom conversation 6:30 to 7:00 ahead of the show too which has been a lot of fun. Here’s the link if you’d like to join the Zoom - https://us04web.zoom.us/j/7759127796?pwd=MZ55WfXnEkOSi3_ztfvmMlbe2oCpoN.1

——

That’s it for this week. I hope you’re just as excited about the summer.

Best always,

Tom

——

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of songs to kick off summer

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Thursday, May 26, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites and requests

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Sunday, May 29, 7-8:30 pm mountain time