I’m excited for the eclipse today, and I find it curious how people are reacting to it. Some are ho-hum and some are very enthused. For me my excitement stems from being reminded that the universe is a huge and powerful thing, and our problems are small in comparison. We are part of this magnificent universe, and being able to witness its power and beauty is a realization of this. As we’ve often heard we are stardust and are literally made from the energy and the stuff of the cosmos. The eclipse is a very real way of remembering this, and I think we can feel it in our bones. So enjoy this cosmic reminder today, and don’t look directly at the sun. I have eclipse glasses, but I plan to use a pinhole in a card shining on a piece of paper as well as watching it on the NASA YouTube channel https://youtu.be/wwMDvPCGeE0
What have I been up to?
Wednesday the concert with the trio was a blast! We haven’t played together for a year, and so we were a little rough on a couple songs, but the amount of fun we had was over the moon.
Thursday night at the Yellow Pine was indeed the last barbeque of the season. We had a good night with a lot of great folks and friends, and we wrapped up the year in fine fashion. I’ll miss seeing all the folks there, and I’m looking forward to next summer already.
Friday night at PDubs was a little slower than usual with folks gearing up for school and getting ready for the eclipse, but we sure had a good time. Brad sat in on a bunch of tunes, and even though I was a little tired from several late nights there was plenty of energy for some great tunes.
Sunday the Feedstore Concert was just perfect. There was enough cloud cover and no rain so that everyone was comfortable and the music was free-flowing. Thanks to everyone who came out.
What’s up this week?
Sunday 4-7 I’m playing with the trio for the Mountain Luau at the Rec Center in Cuchara which is a fundraiser for the La Veta Fire Protection District. It’s a pig roast with beer and wine and all the trimmings and should be a lot of fun. Tickets are $35 each and are available from Paula Berg at 719-742-3565 or paulafberg@centurytel.net. It is selling out quickly so call now if you want to come.
I just have the one gig this week to report. The season is starting to slow down, and I need to take a couple days to help close our family cabins for the season.
Best,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch, Trudy Price, and Dennis Mills
What: playing for the Mountain Luau
Where: Cuchara Community Center, 16500 CO-12, La Veta.
When: Sunday, August 27, 4-7 pm
Monday, August 21, 2017
Monday, August 14, 2017
Stillness
I’m sitting here enjoying stillness. All is quiet around me currently, and though I have things on my plate I am fairly unworried. This has been an interesting week. Two of my guitars mysteriously developed big sound problems with the electronics that just as mysteriously went away, we had a monster hail storm that broke windows in a family house that was selling the very next day, a couple friends have contracted serious illnesses, and there’s the constant barrage of angst and unrest in the country and the world. But right now I am enjoying the stillness. It is enough. I have said before that I always have a sense that everything will ultimately be okay. I feel this deep in my bones. In the moment there is peace, and these moments sometimes feel like all there really is. I once heard that time is constant and we are moving through it. I feel this way when I experience stillness. I am temporarily outside of time and able to just reflect as though time has stopped. That’s when worry stops for me and I know that everything will be okay.
Why have I been up to?
Thursday at Yellow Pine was another really fun group. My sisters Jane and Carol came up from New Mexico, and friends came down from Pueblo as well as from right around Cuchara to make it a very sweet night.
Saturday morning at the Huajatolla Heritage Festival was also a very special event. Morning in the park is beautiful, and I had some really great folks come out to enjoy it with me.
What am I up to this week?
Wednesday night at 7:00 I’m playing a free concert with Trudy Price and Dennis Mills at the Community building in Cuchara. I’ve been playing a few gigs with Trudy and Dennis since last summer, and we just blended our styles and personalities in a very interesting way that is pretty entertaining. In truth, we just have a great time playing and harmonizing with each other, and that spills out to the audience. Come on out if you can!
Thursday night 6:30-8:30 is the barbeque at Yellow Pine, and it may be the last one of the season depending on the attendance. We’ve had so many nice folks out this summer, and I’ve enjoyed it immensely. The food is always good, the ambience so warm, the fire so crackly and aromatic, and the music and friendship flowing so freely that it’s been a real treat. If we have a lot of folks out this week then we’ll do one more next week. So don’t miss it!
Friday night 6-9 I’m back at PDub Brewing Company for another fun night of brews and music. I've really taken to enjoying the folks at PDubs and seeing some of my Pueblo West friends regularly. We’re talking about continuing into the fall and winter if everyone's game for it.
Sunday 2-5 I’m returning to Westcliffe for one of my favorite annual gigs - the
Feedstore Concert Series. The Feedstore is a beautiful restaurant and park on the west end of Westcliffe that features a fantastic amphitheater and grassy space surrounded by trees that welcomes great free music and plays each summer. I have been lucky enough to be featured for several summers. Bring a chair and your listening ears to listen to music in the shadow of the tall peaks!
That’s all for this week, and it’s a lot! I hope you’re having a good summer and hope to see you soon!
Best always,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch, Trudy Price, and Dennis Mills
What: playing a concert
Where: Cuchara Rec Center, 16500 Hwy 12, Cuchara
When: Wednesday, August 16, 7:00 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where: Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528
When: Thursday, August 17, 6:30-8:30 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: singing and playing
Where: PDub Brewing Company Taproom, 181 S Purcell Blvd, Pueblo West, 719-647-8864
When: Friday, August 18, 6-9 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing a concert in the mountains
Where: The Feed Store Amphitheater, 116 North 2nd Street, Westcliffe. 719-783-2771
When: Sunday, August 20, 2-5 pm
Why have I been up to?
Thursday at Yellow Pine was another really fun group. My sisters Jane and Carol came up from New Mexico, and friends came down from Pueblo as well as from right around Cuchara to make it a very sweet night.
Saturday morning at the Huajatolla Heritage Festival was also a very special event. Morning in the park is beautiful, and I had some really great folks come out to enjoy it with me.
What am I up to this week?
Wednesday night at 7:00 I’m playing a free concert with Trudy Price and Dennis Mills at the Community building in Cuchara. I’ve been playing a few gigs with Trudy and Dennis since last summer, and we just blended our styles and personalities in a very interesting way that is pretty entertaining. In truth, we just have a great time playing and harmonizing with each other, and that spills out to the audience. Come on out if you can!
Thursday night 6:30-8:30 is the barbeque at Yellow Pine, and it may be the last one of the season depending on the attendance. We’ve had so many nice folks out this summer, and I’ve enjoyed it immensely. The food is always good, the ambience so warm, the fire so crackly and aromatic, and the music and friendship flowing so freely that it’s been a real treat. If we have a lot of folks out this week then we’ll do one more next week. So don’t miss it!
Friday night 6-9 I’m back at PDub Brewing Company for another fun night of brews and music. I've really taken to enjoying the folks at PDubs and seeing some of my Pueblo West friends regularly. We’re talking about continuing into the fall and winter if everyone's game for it.
Sunday 2-5 I’m returning to Westcliffe for one of my favorite annual gigs - the
Feedstore Concert Series. The Feedstore is a beautiful restaurant and park on the west end of Westcliffe that features a fantastic amphitheater and grassy space surrounded by trees that welcomes great free music and plays each summer. I have been lucky enough to be featured for several summers. Bring a chair and your listening ears to listen to music in the shadow of the tall peaks!
That’s all for this week, and it’s a lot! I hope you’re having a good summer and hope to see you soon!
Best always,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch, Trudy Price, and Dennis Mills
What: playing a concert
Where: Cuchara Rec Center, 16500 Hwy 12, Cuchara
When: Wednesday, August 16, 7:00 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where: Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528
When: Thursday, August 17, 6:30-8:30 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: singing and playing
Where: PDub Brewing Company Taproom, 181 S Purcell Blvd, Pueblo West, 719-647-8864
When: Friday, August 18, 6-9 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing a concert in the mountains
Where: The Feed Store Amphitheater, 116 North 2nd Street, Westcliffe. 719-783-2771
When: Sunday, August 20, 2-5 pm
Monday, August 7, 2017
Self Doubt
I’ve been thinking about self doubt this past weekend. With all our accomplishments it’s still easy to get down on ourselves and diminish how we view our selves. I do this occasionally, and it always half surprises me and half disappoints me. I’ve been luckier than most - able to work at something I love and to be somewhat successful at it - and yet I still get down on myself when I feel I have not done my best and am therefor unworthy of the love that people share with me. My philosophy of life leads me to believe that we are each an amazing creation of the universe that is magnificent and full of the force and love of God inside of us. When I live out of that realization I don’t have self doubt, but instead am overflowing with love for others and care for the situations of my day. I just have to remind myself of this whenever I find myself drifting.
What have I been up to?
Monday at the Royal Gorge Bridge was way more fun than I should be allowed. Playing in the great outdoors for wonderful people was a hoot!
Thursday at the Yellow Pine was a fun crowd as always with old and new friends. I even got to have a brief phone conversation with the previous owner over the phone from Honduras.
Sunday my online concert was a little different with more mellow songs than I usually do. I really enjoyed it! I played old and new guitars and really had a great time.
What’s up this week?
Thursday 6:30-8:30 is the Yellow Pine Barbeque once again. There are only a few more of these for the season, so if you want great barbeque and my music, then come on down!
Saturday morning 9-10 I’m playing at the Huajatolla Heritage Festival in the La Veta Park at breakfast. This is kind of an un-advertised thing, but it should be a fun morning. Come have breakfast and listen to my music before you browse what should be a great festival.
Saturday afternoon I have a private 90th birthday party that I will love playing for. I really like playing for seniors.
That’s it for this week. The summer is winding down, but there are a few big things left. Stay tuned!
Best,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where: Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528
When: Thursday, August 10, 6:30-8:30 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing for breakfast
Where: La Veta Park on Ryus Ave, La Veta
When: Saturday, August 12, 9-10 am
What have I been up to?
Monday at the Royal Gorge Bridge was way more fun than I should be allowed. Playing in the great outdoors for wonderful people was a hoot!
Thursday at the Yellow Pine was a fun crowd as always with old and new friends. I even got to have a brief phone conversation with the previous owner over the phone from Honduras.
Sunday my online concert was a little different with more mellow songs than I usually do. I really enjoyed it! I played old and new guitars and really had a great time.
What’s up this week?
Thursday 6:30-8:30 is the Yellow Pine Barbeque once again. There are only a few more of these for the season, so if you want great barbeque and my music, then come on down!
Saturday morning 9-10 I’m playing at the Huajatolla Heritage Festival in the La Veta Park at breakfast. This is kind of an un-advertised thing, but it should be a fun morning. Come have breakfast and listen to my music before you browse what should be a great festival.
Saturday afternoon I have a private 90th birthday party that I will love playing for. I really like playing for seniors.
That’s it for this week. The summer is winding down, but there are a few big things left. Stay tuned!
Best,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where: Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528
When: Thursday, August 10, 6:30-8:30 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing for breakfast
Where: La Veta Park on Ryus Ave, La Veta
When: Saturday, August 12, 9-10 am
Monday, July 31, 2017
Quick Update
I’m running behind today already with such a busy week on the road last week and a gig at the Gorge in just a few hours, so I’ll do a very quick update. I’m loving this summer, and although it has been raining a lot and the weeds are getting ahead of me, I’m feeling good and am dancing on the strings at my gigs. I can’t ask for more.
What have I been up to?
Wednesday night's concert at Philmont was an absolute blast. I saw so many friends at the reunion dinner before I played, and then a lot of them stuck around for my concert. I dropped one of my guitars on the stage when the strap slipped off just seconds before I started so I was a little thrown off for starters (the guitar just got a “flesh wound.”) But I recovered quickly. Ellyn Washburne sat in and sounded great! Such a fun night!
Thursday at the Yellow Pine was a big family reunion group, and it was also a fine time. My good friends Ben and Cathy brought Cathy's mother and a friend out to celebrate her mom's 93rd birthday. She’s a hoot! Happy Birthday!
Friday I played a wedding and reception in Cuchara for a very nice couple. I had a moment of panic at the wedding when I forgot how one of the songs went, but I covered it okay. Got to love my aging brain some days. 😉 Congrats to Abu and Megan!
Saturday was another concert at Philmont for a mostly different group of folks. I saw some more old friends that were so good to greet and embrace. Ellyn Washburne sat in again, and Rod Taylor joined me for several tunes. It was grand!
What’s up this week?
Monday (today as I write this) I’m playing at the Royal Gorge Bridge 12:30-4:30 on the stage next to the bridge on the south side. I haven’t played solo at the bridge in a while, so I’m looking forward to it.
Thursday I’m back at the Yellow Pine Barbeque 6:30-8:30. I’ve been loving playing for folks at the old barn, and the valley is as beautiful as ever. If you want to come, call by Monday evening to make a reservation at 719-742-3528.
Sunday at 7:00 MDT I’m doing another online concert from our living room ay concertwindow.com/tommunch. It’s so great to sing for friends from all over the country, and I really enjoy the comments. I haven’t picked a theme for this month yet, but it’ll be something interesting. Please tune if you can.
That’s it for this week. Hope you are well and happy.
Best always,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing
Where: South side of the Royal Gorge at the Royal Gorge Bridge on the stage just off the bridge
When: Monday , July 31, 12:30 am-4:30 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where: Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528
When: Thursday, August 3, 6:30-8:30 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing
Where: online at https://www.concertwindow.com/
When: Sunday, August 6, 7-8ish pm MDT
What have I been up to?
Wednesday night's concert at Philmont was an absolute blast. I saw so many friends at the reunion dinner before I played, and then a lot of them stuck around for my concert. I dropped one of my guitars on the stage when the strap slipped off just seconds before I started so I was a little thrown off for starters (the guitar just got a “flesh wound.”) But I recovered quickly. Ellyn Washburne sat in and sounded great! Such a fun night!
Thursday at the Yellow Pine was a big family reunion group, and it was also a fine time. My good friends Ben and Cathy brought Cathy's mother and a friend out to celebrate her mom's 93rd birthday. She’s a hoot! Happy Birthday!
Friday I played a wedding and reception in Cuchara for a very nice couple. I had a moment of panic at the wedding when I forgot how one of the songs went, but I covered it okay. Got to love my aging brain some days. 😉 Congrats to Abu and Megan!
Saturday was another concert at Philmont for a mostly different group of folks. I saw some more old friends that were so good to greet and embrace. Ellyn Washburne sat in again, and Rod Taylor joined me for several tunes. It was grand!
What’s up this week?
Monday (today as I write this) I’m playing at the Royal Gorge Bridge 12:30-4:30 on the stage next to the bridge on the south side. I haven’t played solo at the bridge in a while, so I’m looking forward to it.
Thursday I’m back at the Yellow Pine Barbeque 6:30-8:30. I’ve been loving playing for folks at the old barn, and the valley is as beautiful as ever. If you want to come, call by Monday evening to make a reservation at 719-742-3528.
Sunday at 7:00 MDT I’m doing another online concert from our living room ay concertwindow.com/tommunch. It’s so great to sing for friends from all over the country, and I really enjoy the comments. I haven’t picked a theme for this month yet, but it’ll be something interesting. Please tune if you can.
That’s it for this week. Hope you are well and happy.
Best always,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing
Where: South side of the Royal Gorge at the Royal Gorge Bridge on the stage just off the bridge
When: Monday , July 31, 12:30 am-4:30 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where: Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528
When: Thursday, August 3, 6:30-8:30 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing
Where: online at https://www.concertwindow.com/
When: Sunday, August 6, 7-8ish pm MDT
Monday, July 24, 2017
Exhaustion
I’ve been burning the candle at both ends, and it has me thinking of what kind of balance is desirable in life. I’ve always been the type of person that pushes myself as hard as I can no matter what the consequences. When I was young I got an adrenaline rush out of pushing myself beyond what I thought I could do. I think I was trying to prove something to myself. You know, that I could do anything I set my mind to. It’s part of our culture, it seems, to do this sort of thing. I once met a couple from out of state who were staying at the Pueblo West Inn where I was performing. They said they were in the funeral business, and that the man they bought the business from told them that the way to stay happy and engaged in life was to travel somewhere every weekend they could. They had taken this to heart and were picking random places to travel to almost every weekend. It seemed to be working for them. They weren’t getting bogged down in their work, and they seemed to be full of joy and happiness. Me, on the other hand, I haven’t been fishing in years, and I haven’t had a good long hike in the wild lands in quite some time. Of course, I do enjoy what I do immensely, so even when I am working every day I really find joy and happiness in what I do, but I can see where a little downtime without the pressure of looking at my to-do list is very important. And exercising and eating healthy always makes me feel better and less exhausted. Isn’t it interesting how we have to reflect occasionally to see if we have balance in our lives?
What have I been up to?
Thursday at the Yellow Pine barbeque was fun as always. Lots of great folks and a beautiful night!
Friday at PDubs was also a fine night. There were a bunch of folks I hadn’t seen in quite a while, and everything was clicking.
Saturday the concert at Lucy's started out in the rain, but it cleared off and was a wonderful evening. I went way overtime because we were all having a good time and we didn’t want it to stop.
It was a great week!
What’s up this week?
Wednesday and Saturday I’m doing concerts at Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico. I look forward to playing there every year and reconnecting with old friends and meeting new folks with a passion for the outdoors.
Thursday is the Yellow Pine barbeque 6:30-8:30, and I can’t say enough how much I enjoy playing for these weekly get-togethers. If you want to be a part of it please call 719-742-3528 by Monday night to make a reservation.
Friday I’m playing another wedding in Cuchara that I’m sure will be beautiful. I really enjoy these mountain weddings.
Next Monday I’m playing at the Royal Gorge solo in the afternoon 12:30-4:30 on the stage on the south side next to the bridge. I’m writing about it this week so you have a little lead time if you’d like to come up.
That’s it for this week. I hope your summer is going well and that you're staying cool in the summer heat.
Best always,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing at concert at Philmont Scout Ranch
Where: Philmont Scout Ranch, Cimarron, NM
When: Wednesday, July 26 and Saturday, July 29, 8:00-10:00 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where: Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528
When: Thursday, July 27, 6:30-8:30 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing
Where: South side of the Royal Gorge at the Royal Gorge Bridge on the stage just off the bridge
When: Monday , July 31, 12:30 am-4:30 pm
What have I been up to?
Thursday at the Yellow Pine barbeque was fun as always. Lots of great folks and a beautiful night!
Friday at PDubs was also a fine night. There were a bunch of folks I hadn’t seen in quite a while, and everything was clicking.
Saturday the concert at Lucy's started out in the rain, but it cleared off and was a wonderful evening. I went way overtime because we were all having a good time and we didn’t want it to stop.
It was a great week!
What’s up this week?
Wednesday and Saturday I’m doing concerts at Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico. I look forward to playing there every year and reconnecting with old friends and meeting new folks with a passion for the outdoors.
Thursday is the Yellow Pine barbeque 6:30-8:30, and I can’t say enough how much I enjoy playing for these weekly get-togethers. If you want to be a part of it please call 719-742-3528 by Monday night to make a reservation.
Friday I’m playing another wedding in Cuchara that I’m sure will be beautiful. I really enjoy these mountain weddings.
Next Monday I’m playing at the Royal Gorge solo in the afternoon 12:30-4:30 on the stage on the south side next to the bridge. I’m writing about it this week so you have a little lead time if you’d like to come up.
That’s it for this week. I hope your summer is going well and that you're staying cool in the summer heat.
Best always,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing at concert at Philmont Scout Ranch
Where: Philmont Scout Ranch, Cimarron, NM
When: Wednesday, July 26 and Saturday, July 29, 8:00-10:00 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where: Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528
When: Thursday, July 27, 6:30-8:30 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing
Where: South side of the Royal Gorge at the Royal Gorge Bridge on the stage just off the bridge
When: Monday , July 31, 12:30 am-4:30 pm
Monday, July 17, 2017
Compulsions
I’m writing about something that’s related to other ideas I’ve written about, but with a twist. I've had compulsion as a constant companion throughout my life. When I was young I’m convinced that I had OCD to some extent. I was obsessed with things that many kids are - not stepping on cracks, mirroring my right and left movements, etc. I was able to break these compulsive habits as most kids do, but I’ve always maintained a healthy dose of compulsion, I think. Compulsion can be a good motivator - giving the impetus to finish a project that is becoming tedious. It can also be a detriment - having to finish something when another more important task is pressing. It can also lead to excellence - I’m convinced that what musical ability I have is partly because of a compulsion to polish musical techniques to perfection. So it is an interesting part of my overall makeup that has become a tool to be used when I need it. The hard part is when it interferes with living a peaceful life and experiencing spontaneity, and yet I wouldn’t trade it for no compulsion at all. How about you? Do you fell the drive of compulsion?
What have I been up to?
I played twice for rafting Scout groups - Tuesday and Saturday, and each experience was different. Tuesday they were kind of preoccupied, and Saturday they were right with me until they had to leave. They keep me on my toes!
Thursday was another packed house at the Yellow Pine Barbeque. Everything was clicking, and I had a great group again.
Saturday was the Bull Moose in Guffey for friends I hadn’t seen in years as well as regulars who were kind enough to make the beautiful mountain drive. I had forgotten my laptop, so I had to play from memory or from my iPad, which was a stretch, but everything worked out just fine. It was great to see so many old friends in such a storied venue.
What am I up to this week?
Thursday is the Yellow Pine Barbeque 6:30-8:30, and I’m sure the fun will continue unabated. I'm enjoying the summer up there so much, although I miss some of the regulars from years past and of course JoAnn Van Lue who put on the barbeque for so many years. Come on out if you can, but come early, as seats are filling up soon after 6:00 if not sooner.
Friday I’m back at PDubs 6:00-9:00 for another night of good beer, good food, and music. I so enjoy seeing old Pueblo West friends and those who enjoy a brew with their music!
Saturday I’m playing an outdoor concert at Lucy's RV Park in La Veta 6:30-8:00. They have a wonderful stage in a relaxing park that really feels nice. I love playing this venue. Bring a lawn chair and something to drink, and Lucy's will provide popcorn and camaraderie.
That’s it for this week. I hope you’re enjoying the beautiful summer weather, and that you haven’t had wildfires disrupt your lives wherever life finds you.
Best always,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where: Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528
When: Thursday, July 20, 6:30-8:30 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: singing and playing
Where: PDub Brewing Company Taproom, 181 S Purcell Blvd, Pueblo West, 719-647-8864
When: Friday, July 21, 6:00-9:00 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing an outdoor concert
Where: I Love Lucy's Place RV Park, 226 W. Grand Avenue, La Veta. 719-742-3252
When: Saturday, July 22, 6:30-8:00 pm
What have I been up to?
I played twice for rafting Scout groups - Tuesday and Saturday, and each experience was different. Tuesday they were kind of preoccupied, and Saturday they were right with me until they had to leave. They keep me on my toes!
Thursday was another packed house at the Yellow Pine Barbeque. Everything was clicking, and I had a great group again.
Saturday was the Bull Moose in Guffey for friends I hadn’t seen in years as well as regulars who were kind enough to make the beautiful mountain drive. I had forgotten my laptop, so I had to play from memory or from my iPad, which was a stretch, but everything worked out just fine. It was great to see so many old friends in such a storied venue.
What am I up to this week?
Thursday is the Yellow Pine Barbeque 6:30-8:30, and I’m sure the fun will continue unabated. I'm enjoying the summer up there so much, although I miss some of the regulars from years past and of course JoAnn Van Lue who put on the barbeque for so many years. Come on out if you can, but come early, as seats are filling up soon after 6:00 if not sooner.
Friday I’m back at PDubs 6:00-9:00 for another night of good beer, good food, and music. I so enjoy seeing old Pueblo West friends and those who enjoy a brew with their music!
Saturday I’m playing an outdoor concert at Lucy's RV Park in La Veta 6:30-8:00. They have a wonderful stage in a relaxing park that really feels nice. I love playing this venue. Bring a lawn chair and something to drink, and Lucy's will provide popcorn and camaraderie.
That’s it for this week. I hope you’re enjoying the beautiful summer weather, and that you haven’t had wildfires disrupt your lives wherever life finds you.
Best always,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where: Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528
When: Thursday, July 20, 6:30-8:30 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: singing and playing
Where: PDub Brewing Company Taproom, 181 S Purcell Blvd, Pueblo West, 719-647-8864
When: Friday, July 21, 6:00-9:00 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing an outdoor concert
Where: I Love Lucy's Place RV Park, 226 W. Grand Avenue, La Veta. 719-742-3252
When: Saturday, July 22, 6:30-8:00 pm
Monday, July 10, 2017
Spontaneity
I had an interesting thing happen to me on Saturday that was unexpected and opened me up to new things - which is always good. I had a friend text me on Friday to ask if I could play for her son’s wedding the very next day. She is a very spontaneous and creative kind of person, so it didn’t surprise me to get a request like this from her. I haven’t booked myself so solidly this summer that I don’t have space for surprise gigs like this - a somewhat planned intention since I’ve missed out on some great things in the past from being too buttoned up. The whole event was just wonderful - from the people to the venue to the experience. Everyone was so loving and genuine, and the food so simply yummy, and the experience so real and sincere. It reminded me how great this life is and how many facets there are in the human experience. I need this, and am grateful to my friend, Alma, for asking me to be a part of their familia for the evening. Go out and live, friends. There is wonder everywhere!
What have I been up to?
Independence Day was a lot of fun. I got to play outside for different parties, and the fireworks didn’t spook the pets too much or keep us awake too late.
Thursday at the Yellow Pine was packed! We had so many great folks and such a fun night of music and dancing. Can’t wait for this week.
Friday night was a fun reception playing with the Atomic Fireballs. The evening was beautiful in Westcliffe with the almost-full moon, and it was great trading licks with the guys in the band.
Saturday was the surprise wedding and reception I wrote about. Congrats to Ahizer and Victoria!
Sunday was a great practice for our Cuchara Valley trio and also playing for the rafting Scouts at Echo Canyon.
What’s up this week?
Tuesday I’m playing for the Scouts again at Echo Canyon. It’s fun playing old mountain favorites and historic songs to inspire them on their way to a great adventure in the mountains at Philmont.
Thursday 6:30-8:30 is another wild night at the barbeque at the Yellow Pine. I forgot to tell you that they had a couple bears hanging around in the pond and in the barns, so the night was full of electricity. I even saw a fox, a ring-tailed cat, and several deer on the drive out. Was a night full of wildlife.
Saturday 1-4 I’m playing at the Bull Moose in Guffey outside. I haven’t played in Guffey in a couple years, and it’ll be good to see the folks up there again and share some tunes. Come on up if you’d like to spend a relaxing afternoon in the mountains with some good company and music.
Saturday night I’m also playing for another group of Rafting Scouts.
Whew! That’s a pretty busy week, and next week gets even busier. I hope you’re enjoying your summer, and I hope to see you sometime.
Best always,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where: Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528
When: Thursday, July 13, 6:30-8:30 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing
Where: Bull Moose, Guffey. 719-689-4199
When: Saturday, July 15, 1:00-4:00 pm
What have I been up to?
Independence Day was a lot of fun. I got to play outside for different parties, and the fireworks didn’t spook the pets too much or keep us awake too late.
Thursday at the Yellow Pine was packed! We had so many great folks and such a fun night of music and dancing. Can’t wait for this week.
Friday night was a fun reception playing with the Atomic Fireballs. The evening was beautiful in Westcliffe with the almost-full moon, and it was great trading licks with the guys in the band.
Saturday was the surprise wedding and reception I wrote about. Congrats to Ahizer and Victoria!
Sunday was a great practice for our Cuchara Valley trio and also playing for the rafting Scouts at Echo Canyon.
What’s up this week?
Tuesday I’m playing for the Scouts again at Echo Canyon. It’s fun playing old mountain favorites and historic songs to inspire them on their way to a great adventure in the mountains at Philmont.
Thursday 6:30-8:30 is another wild night at the barbeque at the Yellow Pine. I forgot to tell you that they had a couple bears hanging around in the pond and in the barns, so the night was full of electricity. I even saw a fox, a ring-tailed cat, and several deer on the drive out. Was a night full of wildlife.
Saturday 1-4 I’m playing at the Bull Moose in Guffey outside. I haven’t played in Guffey in a couple years, and it’ll be good to see the folks up there again and share some tunes. Come on up if you’d like to spend a relaxing afternoon in the mountains with some good company and music.
Saturday night I’m also playing for another group of Rafting Scouts.
Whew! That’s a pretty busy week, and next week gets even busier. I hope you’re enjoying your summer, and I hope to see you sometime.
Best always,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where: Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528
When: Thursday, July 13, 6:30-8:30 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing
Where: Bull Moose, Guffey. 719-689-4199
When: Saturday, July 15, 1:00-4:00 pm
Monday, July 3, 2017
Happy Kitty and Independence Day!
I’m a little groggy today from lack of sleep. We got a new kitty last Monday, and she really fit into our family instantly. This is a wonderful thing, but she also sleeps with us which is taking a while to adjust to, and so our sleep is not as solid as it might be. We'll adapt, but in the meanwhile we’re not sleeping as much. We’ve named the kitty “Tuzi” which is part of the Apache word tuzigoot, which means “crooked water”. The meaning of the word doesn’t really have anything to do with the personality of our kitty - we just like how it sounds and how it suits a cute little cat. She had a rough go of her first six months. Someone very badly declawed her and left her front toes permanently deformed and disfigured. Then she got pregnant, which is not that uncommon for a cat under six month (needless to say, spay and neuter pets). But she also wound up on the street as a stray and then at the shelter where she got a serious infection as a result of the miscarriage - probably because she was too small to give birth. So she has a shaved belly from being spayed and walks a little tentatively on her misshapen front toes, but she gives us lots of love and accepts the same in return. And she got along immediately with our big dog Beau, so we really couldn’t ask for more. The declawing actually works out well with Beau's eye disease which could be aggravated by a claw scratch in the eye. And all this makes me thankful, which is a good way to feel for Independence Day. Our founders really were trying to establish a new way of living on earth when they started our nation. We’ve had a lot of struggles, but overall it has been a worthwhile experiment that has bettered our world. Happy Independence Day, everyone! You can see pictures of Tuzi on my Facebook page.
What have I been up to?
Tuesday was a great group of Scouts to play for at Echo Canyon Rafting! They were from Georgia and Pennsylvania.
Thursday was a fun crowd at the Yellow Pine Barbeque. We had a good turnout and a beautiful night.
Saturday was a huge crowd at Art in the Park in La Veta. I saw so many friends and acquaintances from over the years. It was a blast!
Sunday the chapel in Cuchara was packed for services with Don Pike presiding and my music before and during. Thanks to Eldaa for setting all this up and providing great piano music as well!
Sunday night was a good group of old and new friends for my online concert. I did a different mix of songs with some old favorites and a few surprises. Thanks to all who listened in and contributed.
What am I up to this week?
Independence Day I’m playing a couple of parties at nursing facilities which should be a lot of fun. I don’t talk about these much, but it’s a joyous way to give back to the community.
Thursday 6:30-8:30 I’m at the Yellow Pine for the barbeque. We’re full on in the season now and enjoying all the regular Cuchara folks and travelers as well. The old barn never looked better, and the s'mores by the fire and the dancers to my music have never been better. Come on out if you can. Call 719-742-3528 for reservations.
Friday night I’m playing a wedding reception with the Atomic Fireballs. I always look forward to playing with the guys and stretching my legs on acoustic AND electric guitar.
Sunday I’m getting in a practice with Dennis and Trudy to prepare for some upcoming dates for our trio in Cuchara that I’ll be talking about soon.
Sunday I’m also playing for another group of rafting Scouts.
What’s on the horizon?
The weekend of the 15th and 16th I’m playing in Guffey at the Bull Moose and then with the band for the Westcliffe Stampede rodeo dance. The following weekend I’m at PDubs in Pueblo West and then at Lucy's RV Park in La Veta for an outdoor concert. Details are on my website http://tommunch.com. Of course I’m at the Yellow Pine for the duration of the summer for the Thursday barbeque.
That’s all for now. I hope you’re having lots of fun this summer.
Best always,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where: Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528
When: Thursday, July 6, 6:30-8:30 pm
What have I been up to?
Tuesday was a great group of Scouts to play for at Echo Canyon Rafting! They were from Georgia and Pennsylvania.
Thursday was a fun crowd at the Yellow Pine Barbeque. We had a good turnout and a beautiful night.
Saturday was a huge crowd at Art in the Park in La Veta. I saw so many friends and acquaintances from over the years. It was a blast!
Sunday the chapel in Cuchara was packed for services with Don Pike presiding and my music before and during. Thanks to Eldaa for setting all this up and providing great piano music as well!
Sunday night was a good group of old and new friends for my online concert. I did a different mix of songs with some old favorites and a few surprises. Thanks to all who listened in and contributed.
What am I up to this week?
Independence Day I’m playing a couple of parties at nursing facilities which should be a lot of fun. I don’t talk about these much, but it’s a joyous way to give back to the community.
Thursday 6:30-8:30 I’m at the Yellow Pine for the barbeque. We’re full on in the season now and enjoying all the regular Cuchara folks and travelers as well. The old barn never looked better, and the s'mores by the fire and the dancers to my music have never been better. Come on out if you can. Call 719-742-3528 for reservations.
Friday night I’m playing a wedding reception with the Atomic Fireballs. I always look forward to playing with the guys and stretching my legs on acoustic AND electric guitar.
Sunday I’m getting in a practice with Dennis and Trudy to prepare for some upcoming dates for our trio in Cuchara that I’ll be talking about soon.
Sunday I’m also playing for another group of rafting Scouts.
What’s on the horizon?
The weekend of the 15th and 16th I’m playing in Guffey at the Bull Moose and then with the band for the Westcliffe Stampede rodeo dance. The following weekend I’m at PDubs in Pueblo West and then at Lucy's RV Park in La Veta for an outdoor concert. Details are on my website http://tommunch.com. Of course I’m at the Yellow Pine for the duration of the summer for the Thursday barbeque.
That’s all for now. I hope you’re having lots of fun this summer.
Best always,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where: Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528
When: Thursday, July 6, 6:30-8:30 pm
Monday, June 26, 2017
What Is Truth?
I'm struggling with something this morning. I told a historical story on Saturday that I had researched and told many times. Shortly thereafter someone else told a different contradictory story about the same event. I deferred to them because I figured my memory might be faulty, but I researched again this morning and found that my story was correct. I thought about sending a link to the person who told the other story, but I decided not to - even though it goes against my grain to let history be incorrect. But it opened up a bigger topic in my thoughts - what really is truth? I don't think that even if something is proven scientifically that it is absolutely true. I'm still open to what some might call "magical thinking" because I've seen too many things I couldn't explain. This may brand me as "simple" in some folks' eyes, but I have my own inkling of what is true. I suspect we all do. Some see this as a major problem in our world that leads to uninformed decisions. I see this, but I also don't want to close myself off to new paradigms and explanations that science hasn't broadened enough to study yet. The science I have studied has taught me that the world is a much more wonderful and mysterious place than we tend to believe - especially in the quantum realm where the laws seem to contradict what we know in our bigger visual world. It makes for an interesting experience in this life - separating the wheat truth from the chaff truth. Stay curious and thoughtful, my friends!
What have I been up to?
Thursday at the Yellow Pine Barbeque was a little slow last week. I need to sell it better. A friend told me that there's nothing that can compare to the atmosphere of the old barn where we enjoy yummy barbeque and share bygone western tunes and hospitality, and the campfire where kids can roast marshmallows and make s'mores. Does this sound good to you? Then come on out if you can!
Saturday was interesting. I got a rock in my windshield that blew glass onto my head and lap. My Subaru also lit up pretty much every light on the dashboard to check most of the systems - Check engine, AT Oil Temp, Vehicle Stability, ABS, Hill Holder, Cruise, and Sport Shift. I think the computer is fried. It still runs great though! Then my voice disappeared in the middle of a song at the wedding. It came back within a few notes luckily. What a day! I just wanted to go home and go to bed. But I did have two good gigs.
Saturday was cowboy tunes in the old patio of the Francisco Fort in La Veta. I had a great crowd for my set of trail-drive and movie cowboy songs, and then I shared the stage with Will Dudley, Kurt Corsair, and Peggy Godfrey in a round-robin of tunes and poetry.
Saturday was also a beautiful mountain wedding for Erin and Mark in the chapel in Cuchara. Congratulations, you two!
Sunday was my first time of the season playing for the Scouts heading to Philmont Scout Ranch after rafting the Arkansas River. They had a wild ride on very fast water with winds whipping the canyon. Sounds like fun, no?!
What's up this week?
Tuesday I'm playing for rafting Scouts again. I can't wait.
Thursday 6:30-8:30 I'm back at the Yellow Pine Barbeque. I'll sell it again. It is a really cool place for some good eats, hospitality, and music. You don't want to miss it if you are in the area. It's a Cuchara tradition! Call 719-742-3528 to reserve a table for your family.
Saturday 11-1 I'm playing for SPACe (Spanish Peaks Arts Council) Art in the Park in La Veta. This is always a fun event with handmade art, food, and music. Come on out!
Sunday 9:30 and 11 I'm playing for church services in Cuchara at the chapel where I played the wedding last week. I love little mountain chapels - I went to several with my grandparents on summer vacation in the mountains when I was a kid where we even had deer grazing next to us at outdoor chapels.
Sunday evening 7-8ish MDT I'm playing my monthly first-Sunday online concert from our living room. I haven't picked out any sort of theme, but I made a list recently of some of my absolute favorite songs that I've gathered and written, and I think I'll pick songs from that list. Think of it like the list of essential songs that Johnny Cash made for his daughter, RoseAnne, that she picks songs for her album, "The List".
I think I'd better close on that note. There's a busy week ahead, and today has several commitments - fix the car and windshield, change guitar strings, cut weeds, and we're going to see a possible new cat today. Be good to each other, and love life!
Best always,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where: Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528
When: Thursday, June 29, 6:30-8:30 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing for Space Art in the Park
Where: Ryus Ave as you enter on the right - just cross the tracks in La Veta
When: Saturday, July 1, 11-1 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing for church services
Where: Cuchara Chapel, Cuchara, CO
When: Sunday, July 2, 9:30 and 11:00
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing
Where: online at https://www.concertwindow.com/
When: Sunday, July 2, 7-8ish pm MST
What have I been up to?
Thursday at the Yellow Pine Barbeque was a little slow last week. I need to sell it better. A friend told me that there's nothing that can compare to the atmosphere of the old barn where we enjoy yummy barbeque and share bygone western tunes and hospitality, and the campfire where kids can roast marshmallows and make s'mores. Does this sound good to you? Then come on out if you can!
Saturday was interesting. I got a rock in my windshield that blew glass onto my head and lap. My Subaru also lit up pretty much every light on the dashboard to check most of the systems - Check engine, AT Oil Temp, Vehicle Stability, ABS, Hill Holder, Cruise, and Sport Shift. I think the computer is fried. It still runs great though! Then my voice disappeared in the middle of a song at the wedding. It came back within a few notes luckily. What a day! I just wanted to go home and go to bed. But I did have two good gigs.
Saturday was cowboy tunes in the old patio of the Francisco Fort in La Veta. I had a great crowd for my set of trail-drive and movie cowboy songs, and then I shared the stage with Will Dudley, Kurt Corsair, and Peggy Godfrey in a round-robin of tunes and poetry.
Saturday was also a beautiful mountain wedding for Erin and Mark in the chapel in Cuchara. Congratulations, you two!
Sunday was my first time of the season playing for the Scouts heading to Philmont Scout Ranch after rafting the Arkansas River. They had a wild ride on very fast water with winds whipping the canyon. Sounds like fun, no?!
What's up this week?
Tuesday I'm playing for rafting Scouts again. I can't wait.
Thursday 6:30-8:30 I'm back at the Yellow Pine Barbeque. I'll sell it again. It is a really cool place for some good eats, hospitality, and music. You don't want to miss it if you are in the area. It's a Cuchara tradition! Call 719-742-3528 to reserve a table for your family.
Saturday 11-1 I'm playing for SPACe (Spanish Peaks Arts Council) Art in the Park in La Veta. This is always a fun event with handmade art, food, and music. Come on out!
Sunday 9:30 and 11 I'm playing for church services in Cuchara at the chapel where I played the wedding last week. I love little mountain chapels - I went to several with my grandparents on summer vacation in the mountains when I was a kid where we even had deer grazing next to us at outdoor chapels.
Sunday evening 7-8ish MDT I'm playing my monthly first-Sunday online concert from our living room. I haven't picked out any sort of theme, but I made a list recently of some of my absolute favorite songs that I've gathered and written, and I think I'll pick songs from that list. Think of it like the list of essential songs that Johnny Cash made for his daughter, RoseAnne, that she picks songs for her album, "The List".
I think I'd better close on that note. There's a busy week ahead, and today has several commitments - fix the car and windshield, change guitar strings, cut weeds, and we're going to see a possible new cat today. Be good to each other, and love life!
Best always,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where: Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528
When: Thursday, June 29, 6:30-8:30 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing for Space Art in the Park
Where: Ryus Ave as you enter on the right - just cross the tracks in La Veta
When: Saturday, July 1, 11-1 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing for church services
Where: Cuchara Chapel, Cuchara, CO
When: Sunday, July 2, 9:30 and 11:00
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing
Where: online at https://www.concertwindow.com/
When: Sunday, July 2, 7-8ish pm MST
Monday, June 19, 2017
What Is Music?
I often contemplate what music really is to me and to this world. There is no doubt in my mind that it is magical beyond what we see, hear, and understand. Sometimes I feel it like a wind inside of me, and sometimes it is a slowly moving deep current of water. I intimately know that it is part of the force of the universe and flows through me and all around me. I often struggle with the fact that its creation within me is not something I can take credit for, and yet I also know that I have been given a gift to express it and mold it to some extent. To this end I sometimes balk at being paid for performing it. But then I think that being paid is an odd concept at its heart as well. I think I would have been better off in a barter and patron society. But back to music, what is it - really? Some see it as a mathematical set of principles whose inter-workings help to shape our brains with its patterns and logic as we listen and play. Some see it as an frivolous curiosity. Some see it as a beautiful jewel that sparkles and awes. I see it as an integral expression of that unknowable and powerful great mysterious that you can call God, or spirit, or universal energy. Whatever it is, it's a pure pleasure to be part of it.
What have I been up to?
Thursday at the Yellow Pine was a lot of fun at the barbeque. Unfortunately it was a sad day for the staff because one of their horses got colic and was doing very poorly. I'm not sure whether the horse pulled through.
Friday was the anniversary party for PDubs, and it was great to see so many friends and to help celebrate PDubs with good music, beer, and food!
What's up this week?
Thursday 6:30-8:30 is the barbeque at the Yellow Pine. It’s starting to get busy as the summer progresses, so call now if you’d like to come - 719-742-3528. It’s great fun!
Saturday 11-1:30 I’m playing for Cowboy Day at Francisco Fort Museum in La Veta again. I love getting the chance to play cowboy music, and this event is always spectacular with some great cowboy poets and singers. It runs 10-4:30, so come on out!
Saturday afternoon I’m playing a private wedding in Cuchara. I love playing for these beautiful summer weddings.
Sunday I start the season of playing for the Boy Scout groups on their way to Philmont Scout Ranch after they raft on the Arkansas River. I always enjoy playing for these groups of young men headed to the adventure of a lifetime. Hopefully I give them a little inspiration and some great tunes to keep in their heads as they hike the trails.
That’s it for this week. Be good to each other, and come on out and enjoy some summer fun if you can.
Best always,
Tom
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where: Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528
When: Thursday, June 22, 6:30-8:30 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing for Francisco Fort Cowboy Day
Where: Francisco Fort, 306 S. Main, La Veta. 719-742-5501
When: Saturday, June 24, 11-1:30 pm
What have I been up to?
Thursday at the Yellow Pine was a lot of fun at the barbeque. Unfortunately it was a sad day for the staff because one of their horses got colic and was doing very poorly. I'm not sure whether the horse pulled through.
Friday was the anniversary party for PDubs, and it was great to see so many friends and to help celebrate PDubs with good music, beer, and food!
What's up this week?
Thursday 6:30-8:30 is the barbeque at the Yellow Pine. It’s starting to get busy as the summer progresses, so call now if you’d like to come - 719-742-3528. It’s great fun!
Saturday 11-1:30 I’m playing for Cowboy Day at Francisco Fort Museum in La Veta again. I love getting the chance to play cowboy music, and this event is always spectacular with some great cowboy poets and singers. It runs 10-4:30, so come on out!
Saturday afternoon I’m playing a private wedding in Cuchara. I love playing for these beautiful summer weddings.
Sunday I start the season of playing for the Boy Scout groups on their way to Philmont Scout Ranch after they raft on the Arkansas River. I always enjoy playing for these groups of young men headed to the adventure of a lifetime. Hopefully I give them a little inspiration and some great tunes to keep in their heads as they hike the trails.
That’s it for this week. Be good to each other, and come on out and enjoy some summer fun if you can.
Best always,
Tom
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where: Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528
When: Thursday, June 22, 6:30-8:30 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing for Francisco Fort Cowboy Day
Where: Francisco Fort, 306 S. Main, La Veta. 719-742-5501
When: Saturday, June 24, 11-1:30 pm
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