Graduation Day

Posted on September 24, 2016 by thebohemianfreethinker

I just want to give everyone a quick update on Chuckles and to thank all of you for your concern and well-wishes these last few months. On September 15th Chuckles completed his 20th radiation treatment and “graduated” from the program. He was given this sporty red neckerchief to wear to celebrate his accomplishment.

(I was hoping they would give me one of their “My Dog Goes to N.C. State” proud parent t-shirts but no such luck.)

We have been home a week now and trying to settle back into a daily routine and to pick up where we left off before July 19th when all this started. The doctors have told me that the next 5 months are the most critical as the brain tumor will continue to die. After this period, Chuckles’s prognosis is quite good and statistically there is hope for a long and healthy life.

I can’t say enough good things about the doctors, technicians and staff at the NCSU College of Veterinary Medicine. The care and compassion they give their patients is unsurpassed. I hope they will treat me if I ever become critically ill! Before we left I gave all of his care givers a sweet reminder of Chuckles. Do you remember this candy?

One side note….. while in Raleigh during this crazy time I continued to work toward completing my CD which will be released next month. Watch for an update and sneak peak very soon!

“Songs of Hope and Courage”

Posted on August 28, 2016 by thebohemianfreethinker

“All the Tears in the World: Songs of Hope and Courage” –Bett Padgett

Multi talented singer-songwriter Bett Padgett will release her 7th and latest cd on September 10th. Bett was my guitar teacher for many years when I lived in Raleigh. I visited with her this past week with Chuckles since we are staying in town for his treatments as many of you know. I credit Bett with providing me with the skills and confidence I needed to finally write my own songs. She is the one who unlocked the door for me and for that I will always be grateful. No doubt she has done the same for countless other students as she has been teaching guitar for 30 years in Raleigh!

I was lucky enough to have Bett play for me on her celtic harp!

Originally from Durham, and a musical family, (just like me) Bett has been playing guitar since she was 11. She also teaches mandolin, banjo and ukulele. Bett is a prolific song writer who weaves stories about life experiences and emotions common to us all. “Although dealing with tough topics, there is optimism and courage in each song.”

Bett playing a song from her new cd

David Roth says, ““For me listening to Bett’s new recording is to enjoy fine songwriting, thoughtful arrangements, and a voice that is at times reminiscent of Mary Travers, but best of all, Bett herself. She sings with conviction and connection to what she’s writing about. Who could ask for more?”

Well, how about the fact that she plays almost all of the instruments on her recordings!

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Bett’s music is making waves in the folk music scene across the country. You may listen to cuts on Soundcloud for samples of the CD and some previous albums as well. To learn more about Bett and her music and other goings on in Raleigh music check out her website http://www.bettpadgett.com/ceilidhe-music/ceilidhe-music.php.