My younger son, Isaac, remains a moving target of satisfaction.
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It was a hot day at the Philadelphia Folk Festival, but we were all set up and there was little work to do. My sons are responsible enough to stay at camp or go their own way while I enjoy the music I want to see. I don’t compel them to do much. Still, with this freedom, and plenty of his favorite reading material, he was surly.
We headed out all together to see later afternoon music and between the five of us (three Zerbeys and my girlfriend and her daughter) it took a while to get to the desired stage. I was frustrated and pulled them into the next tent with music pouring out.
We sat down to check out Cat Ridgeway and the Tourists and I was immediately captured by the seven-piece band and Cat’s powerful vocals. They reeled me in with an inventive mash-up of Janis Joplin’s “Piece of my Heart” and Steve Miller Band’s “Space Cowboy.”
Isaac had been so cranky that I didn’t really check in woth him until the end of the set. He was genuinely enthusiastic, “Dad, that was my favorite artist so far.”
Cat was breaking down her gear and all was quiet around the area, “Buddy, she’ll love to hear that, go tell her.” He got shy, but I wasn’t having it. I tried to lead him by the hand back to the stage, but he resisted (and giggled). I picked him up clumsily and onlookers must have been confused. He toppled a couple folding chairs as I carried him to the stage, “This is Isaac and he wants to tell you something.” Isaac didn’t hesitate in saying, “I liked your music.” I said, “That is not what you told me, come on.” He reluctantly added, “You’re my favorite at the fest.”
Cat was appreciative and dug out a guitar pick for him.
She’s playing again on Sunday and we’re all excited for another set. Isaac has already scoped out the Cat Ridgeway shirt he wants to get signed and has higher hopes for the rest of the fest.
I’ll be sure to get pictures of that encounter to share here.