With only five or six people singing (and only two to three more drinking), I take the excessive mic time to try out handfuls of new songs … and settle my nerves of being in the spot light. I still prefer Elisabeth’s rendition of “Crazy on You” and make a note in my phone to do Tracy Chapman’s “Give Me One Reason” again … somewhere in the South.

We each take our turns, sometimes performing encores, clapping graciously for others and accept praises of being “such a talented, singing family.” (Too bad, we forget to do our acclaimed “Edelweiss”.) My mom smiles a lot tonight – she’s proud I’m letting loose a little (and doing duets) – and I’m having fun turning the tables. (It feels good not having to be the responsible one!) I keep my family and the bar laughing … Mom’s right – a little vodka goes a long way.

At the end of the night, I know this will be one night of karaoke that will not be forgotten. Even though folks tell me people are people everywhere, the Sugar Pine has me excited to meet more strangers. (Though I can do without the Woodies: those suckers have me feeling sick on Sunday!)

The post Sugar Pine Karaoke appeared first on Jewels.

Spa Mom is 9.3 acres of woods with a year round creek, waterfall, animals and activities for kids of all ages. One can start her morning feeding the pot bellies Annabell, Peaches and Petunia before scattering feed to the widowed hens Lucy-Lu and Dotty. (This is truly a female friendly spa!) Panning for gold is best after the winter runoff and the berries are their sweetest in late July and August. The accommodations are limited (crowded) in the winter, but Spa Mom has plenty of room for camping in the spring and summer. Bald Rock is visible from Mom’s room and a 700 foot waterfall is less than an hour away. Both have two trails in and out … one for the smokers and another for the cardiovascularly fit.

It’s no coincidence I’m booked for a few days both before and after 10 weeks on the road.

The post Spa Mom appeared first on Jewels.