I wonder if not posting since in 10 months means that I have once again failed at blogging. NO! I refuse to admit defeat! This academic year has been insane, including (but not limited to) a published manuscript, TA duties, full class load, practicum at the Veteran's Affairs Med Center, and writing my Preliminary Exam (once passed, I can start my dissertation proposal to enter doctoral candidacy!). However, this blog is not about my business, nor is that an excuse. Most of my travels the past months have been in Georgia (Atlanta, Savannah, Statesboro, Claxton, Augusta, among others), visiting my good friend Tim. Over Memorial Day weekend, he and I and a friend from Michigan, Jon, went to a Bluegrass festival in Cumberland, Maryland and had a fantastic time, so I thought I would get back on this old horse and post a bit about it!

The festival site was absolutely gorgeous - in this little valley, surrounded by mountains. Weather was perfect too (some cold, some sun, some sunburn)

Jon and I sitting in the grass, waiting to hear some music!

We heard a lot of different bands. Including: Blue Mafia, Keller Williams, The Del McCoury Band, Yonder Mountain String Band, Trey Anastasio, Carolina Chocolate Drops, Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band, and the Infamous Stringdusters. The highlight of the weekend was the Old Crow Medicine Show concert on Saturday. I danced my feet off and sang my heart out. 

Old Crow!

Overall, fantastic weekend. And yes, Tim trimmed his beard when we got home. 

Coming up next: Ireland (leaving June 27, 2013)!!! Should be some fantastic updates afterwards :D