WeenieCampbell.com
Country Blues => Saturday Night Fish Fry => EuroWeenie => Topic started by: blueshome on September 24, 2011, 11:14:44 PM
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Following words with the oracle (Richard), we are proposing another Euroweenie gathering in spring 2012. Further details over the next few weeks. We will choose a date to avoid clashing with the EBA spring event. Last weekend in March is the first thought but this will depend on venue availability etc., we hope to return to the New Forest.
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I'd better start saving then (especially as daughter no. 2 gets married at the beginning of April).
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I have plans to be through LHR at about that time, potentially with a day or two free. The New Forest is within striking distance, and this colonial would enjoy a chance to connect. Youse Euroweenies is an intriguing bunch.
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Just catching up after an escape from the rock, so I suppose I had better get my hotel sorting hat on.
Any violent objections as to why we shouldn't go to the same delightfully run down country pile again? And\or any date preferences or know of anything we should avoid clashing with other than the Olympics :(
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My vote is for the same hotel as the last two years. Basically - if it ain't broke don't fix it. The staff are very welcoming and helpful, the conference room is free-of-charge, the food was better last year and the price is reasonable for the New Forest. Plus, we all know how to find it.
Given the above-mentioned nuptials, please avoid weekend of 7 April - preferably by a few weeks if possible. That's also Easter weekend, so also recommend avoiding school holidays because of the extra traffic.
Thanks again in advance to Richard and Phil for their tireless efforts to sort out the venue, programme, etc.
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I'm with PP.
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All makes sense to me... Nice venue in many ways. Not crazy about the food, but the combination of price, food and facilities seems about right all in all.
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Seems fairy 'nuff to me. Food could be better I agree but the rest of it works, I'll make contact.
Are we after the same rumber of rooms, it was about ten last time wasn't it ::)
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we should maybe skip a meal and go for a curry!
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So when you fellas say not fond of the food, what is it? Is it included in the price and therefore you must eat it?
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More of a quid pro quo UB. We agree to pay for the dinner for two nights and we get the function room free of charge. Not sure whether thats a spoken or unspoken arrangement but seems to be how it works.
Im all for scratchy's suggestion (being obsessed with curry) but it does require transport and persuading the hotel to give us the function room etc in return for only one night's dinner takings :-)
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I'd forgotten the hotel food was what got us the free function room...maybe I'll just pay for the two meals but skip one anyway and go for a solitary vindaloo...
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If i get even the faintest hint of someone visiting the local tandoori... I guarantee that person wont be solitary!
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Give me a ballpark figure for the weekend, I might get a windfall.
Especially if I eat the vindaloo...
Waits for tumbleweed, none arrives, gets coat.
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Yes, that is about the size of it (as the actress said to Bishop) without Dinner (sic) the room cost wasn't much less - a sort of gentlemanly blackmail. I'm inclined to go with Prof!
Stumblin, the cost? Umm can't remember off hand, was it about seventy quid a night or something inc the Dinner (sic) - go look up the topic for last April I'm sure the rates were mentioned somewhere.
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I think it was ?78 for bed, breakfast and evening meal last year. Being a Yorkshireman, I'm not keen on paying that much and not having a meal included. (The Grand Canyon was formed when a Yorkshireman dropped a penny down a rabbit hole...). 78 quid for just B&B for one person seems pricey to me. I know a double works out cheaper overall, but Mrs. PP won't come any more to listen, as she puts it, to "a load of old blokes playing guitars".
Maybe Richard can use his charms to get the hotel to agree to our only having one evening meal, get a cheaper rate for that night and then we can go for a curry - and still get the function room for free (they aren't using it anyway at that time of year). If driving to the curry house is involved, we'll need volunteer drivers who don't partake of alcohol.
Scratchy's OK, as he can sleep in his Camper van Beethoven and eat curry to his heart's content (as long as it has a toilet...).
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...it does. And it will also transport me and 6 weenies to a curry shop, provided three of them go end to end on the bed....!
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Will's cheese salad looked good
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Will's cheese salad looked good
What? Were you wearing beer glasses at the time?
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Whilst being a curry fan, I would also point out that eating at the hotel gives us more time playing and drinking.
Still, I can recommend a couple of good places within 20 minutes drive however.
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Points noted, I'll ring them tomorrow if I remember.
I would prefer a Chinese myself, but the thought of three in a bed in the boucing Scratchmobile is rather enticing although I'm not too sure about the trip back after all that curry :-X
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Phew!
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Phil, yes it does sound messy doesn't it!
Now as for the hotel, I've rung them and the lady who knows everything is away till next week, however I have acertained that weekends from 24 March on through April are all available at the minute.
So, can we firm up on the date noting we have Good Friday 6-9 April, the suggestion of 31March is that still a hot favourite ??? As yet I don't know if there is price difference but mid April might be a touch warmer etc etc
Thoughts gentlemen please..........................
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Cheapest wins for me, we're indoors.
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I'm easy...
Its nice to sit out on arrival, but probably not crucial. If its a couple of quid, go for warmer. If more, then go cheaper.
I've no specific dats to avoid.
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As mentioned, we need to avoid the school holidays (anybody know when they are?). Personally, I might be able to make a couple of weeks before Easter, but not just one week before due to my daughter's wedding on Easter Saturday (7 April).
Re: temperature, Phil's right in that we're indoors. However, I do like to get out for a quick look at the local scenery/birdlife (no comments please, Richard). Not a worry though, as I can dress accordingly (yet again, no comments please, Richard).
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Right weenies pay attention... I have provisionally booked 10 rooms at the same illustrious hotel for the weekend starting Friday 20 April - I think later is good with the weather etc etc
Now, can you please check your diaries,dairies and dance cards for that weekend and if we can manage a quorum or two I will get it confirmed. The prices as much as before ?80 for single B&B&D and the double for two at ?130 B&B&D
The date is not yet set in stone and cen be moved but note the weekends 6-8 and 13-16 April are not available.
Comments etc asp please as I do have to confirm, then post a proper notice with contact details etc.
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I'm in.
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All systems go for me and SWMBO, Mrs. Blueshome.
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Parlor Picker he say "yes!" 8)
Quick edit to add:
Please note that non-musicians (I'm almost one of them) are also welcome.
Also, this year it would be nice to have representatives from over the Atlantic and over the English Channel (what about it mainland European Weenies?).
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Yes I should be there, however caveat is that I was supposed to be at Blues Week this year but work through in a spanner about 2 weeks before.
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Should be fine for me.
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I'm up for it and ready to book the room
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Marshcat he say "maybe"... ::)
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Marshcat he say "maybe"... ::)
Oh, go on! You know you can't resist it. I'll even play ukulele with you (or not, if it encourages you to come).
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Unless there is the possibilty of a transatlantic visitor that another date might suit, it looks like we are on, I'll ring next week and confirm say ten rooms.
And as PP said earlier of course all weenies from Europe are of course welcome, so do have think about it we'd be delighted to see you :)
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Euroweenie 2012 is now fixed for the weekend Friday 20 April 2012 through till Sunday 22 April 2012 at thr South Lawns Hotel, Milford-on-Sea, Lymington, New Forest
Amazingly enough boys, girls and weenies the hotel is prepared to put up with us yet again and I provisonally booked ten rooms as last year.
PLEASE book direct with the hotel Tel: 01590-643911 and be sure to say it's the blues weekend to get the correct room rate. If you ring in the afternoon you stand more chance of speaking with Sue who I have been dealing with and understands where it's at - whatever it is :-X
Bed, Breakfast & Dinner for double room ie 2 occupants @ ?130 per night
Bed, Breakfast & Dinner for single occupant @ ?80 per night
This website has pics of the hotel, which proves the camera does lie ;D Do NOT use the booking agency on this web page but instead book direct as above.
http://www.oxfordhotelsandinns.com/OurHotels/SouthLawn
That's about it folks, it would help if you could post here just to say you have booked, otherwise if I don't see you before I shall look forward to next April!
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Thanks for the sterling work sorting the hotel out Richard. We'll get down to a programme in the New Year. Please PM myself or Richard if you have any suggestions (about the programme PP!).
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Nobody booked yet. I very surprised ;)
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I'm booked and I gotta go!
As suggested by Blueshome, I have spoken to JC Grimshaw about the possibility of his attending on the Saturday, hopefully with his sister Angelina. He's interested (although he already has a gig booked for that evening!) and would possibly do a lap-slide workshop or something else if it's what people want. Anyway, I'm seeing the Grimshaws in just over a week's time and will discuss further with them.
I've been trying to drum up interest from mainland Europe Weenies on the WC Facebook page. Pan and MuddyBuddy have expressed lukewarm interest. Clearly it's more of a financial commitment for them, as they have to travel further. It would be great to see and hear them and any other Euroweenies.
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Booked....
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Excellent :)
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I hope to see you all in April.
Meanwhile, I've recently returned from a trip to Mississippi and Arkansas and I've put some photos on Flickr at http://www.flickr.com/photos/boblong/sets/72157627947071282/
A summary of the story is on the "news" page of my website at www.bobalong.co.uk
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Booked... and only 6 months left to decide which Nationals to take.
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Nationals are banned this year >:D
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Nationals are banned this year >:D
Ha ha - I like it!!
Wooden guitars only! 8)
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Plus ukes and banjos.
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Plus ukes and banjos.
I was waiting for that, Simon! Hence no comment from me about those lovely banjos ( ::))...
Ukuleles are OK because they're made of wood (well mine is anyway).
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Wood only, I think not! Our esteemed Euromaster, Richard is a reso man. Just because you guys can't control the beasts.... There is nothing to beat a tricone!
The banjo ban remains in place.
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Delighted to see the bookings increasing and that you are already beginning to squable over who should pluck the banjo :P
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Slight mis-spelling there Richard with reference to the b***j*, not pluck but........
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Sorry, to what do you refer? Surely the words banjo and plucking invariably occur together or do you mean it should be plucking banjo?
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Mrs.Blueshome has booked us in. She's a glutton for punishment!
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She certainly is ;)
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Hi Folks, just a note to say I'll be joining the fun in April. Looking forward to meeting you all.
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we look forward to meeting you!
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Steadyrollinman, glad you'll be able to make it! Maybe you could bring along three or four of your pre-war Nationals to help me counterbalance the wooden-box-with-a-hole-in-the-top brigade? >:D
Oh, and Richard Scruton, the other half of my Delta Echoes duo, has also booked!
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Excellent, it looks as if we'll have a full house.
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Welcome to wonderful world of weenie SRM and as a gentleman of impecable taste owning an old National or three, would we know you in another guise other than on MMs forum?
That young Marshcat has suffered from delusions of palm tree since he recently bought another proper guitar, but will discover the wooden box is altogether in a different league and of course, is a proper guitar only having a dozen frets :P
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Booked. Although it was only on the fourth attempt that they answered the phone!
I am happy to promise to do a Uke blues fingerpicking number... 8)
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I am happy to promise to do a Uke blues fingerpicking number... 8)
Just look what you started, Blueshome! Maybe we can make next year more interesting by banning all guitars and only allowing ukuleles. As a concession, resophonic ukuleles will be allowed. I know Scratchy has one and all you others can rush out and buy one - one of those cheap Mahalos if necessary. I see Richard with a bright pink one and Blueshome with a delicate shade of baby blue... :D
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Thank you Slim, but no thanks! It's PP's job to lead the midget guitars.
As far as such a thing coming into Blueshome, whilst there are still guitars out there...........
On a more serious note, it is nice to have a variety of instruments along - we've had mandolin, harmonica, uke, kazoo (banned!), b%%%jo (banned). A double bass would be nice or a good pianist.
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I hear PP is preparing a uke workshop for us :) so I'm just off to get a pink plastic one, a better tone I believe.
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Settled into new home, got BT line connected and booked hotel. Looking forward to seeing everyone again in Milford, if not before.
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Excellent, look forward to it :)
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Settled into new home, got BT line connected and booked hotel. Looking forward to seeing everyone again in Milford, if not before.
Looking forward to seeing you again Graham. I hope your recent health issues have been dealt with.
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While I'm thinking about it and before both Richard and I forget about it.... like we did last year... :D
The UK Amazon search boxes have actually produced 2 UK Amazon Gift certificates in the amount of about 25 or 26 lbs each! Richard has access to the UK Amazon account (if he can remember his login) and these gift certificates. We want EuroWeenie to use these certificates to support EuroWeenie, a small token for keeping Euroweenie going for year 4! (Maybe you can buy a few CDs, books, door prizes... or whatever?) A small way to say Cudos to you guys!
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What?! I thought they were happy with bricks...
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Reminds me - I hid the brick for re-use next year and can't remember where I hid it!
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Reminds me - I hid the brick for re-use next year and can't remember where I hid it!
Between now and next April I'll be learning the art of hypnosis, thus allowing me to hypnotise you and convince you that you cannot remember where the dreaded brick lies. (Look into my eyes ....)
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ssssssh ! it is in the secret bar ;D
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- do you mean the mobile bar?
As for them there prizes I will see what I can find. And, if my failing memory is correct is this not our sixth year and not fourth - two in Guernsey, one at the very unfiendly Crown and this will be our third at the Lawns?
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Richard, your memory serves you well (despite your advancing years :D :D :D - there I got in before Blueshome...).
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I have a GPS location on the brick. It can be recycled for use as a banjo mute should the need arise.
Richard and I are devising a fiendish programme to keep you all occupied, as usual this will involve substantial drinking opportunities. We will also be including a new feature (to be revealed on the day) to increase PP's fear factor.
There are still 2 or 3 places left for the event, so, come on Euroweenies, commit!
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Would it double as uke mute? I have a premonition that ukes are going to be about.
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They'll burn! We could have a de-ukeing ceremony where they are smashed by being beaten by National guitars and then incinerated. We could do that to the ukes too!
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Blueshome is turning into Jeremy Clarkson!
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OMG - et tu Scratchy?
Actually I'm in favour of taking Clarkson out and shooting him on national television. (He could have his Oxfordshire pals join him too.)
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Folks,
I just taken the plunge and booked myself and the wife (Rose) in for the Euroweenie gathering 2012. It will be great to see you all!
Colm
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Ack! More competition for the prize brick!
Will be good to see you both there.
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Very brave, have you warned Herself of what to expect :-X
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Great news! Another one to show us up I suppose.
Your wife must be crazy,coming to spend her time with a bunch of old(-ish) men with guitars.
Colm, are you flying in?
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Brilliant! The "Craic" ( Irish term for fun...not rock crystals!) starts already.
Better answer these questions in chronological order as I respect the formal Euro weenie traditions;)
NS: I believe the prize EW Brick is an "open" event and with the collapse of the housing market here in Ireland the addition of a free brick to a house sale could have a major impact on the negative equity position of our property. So I'm seeking the brick in Ernest!
Richard: I have taken the line that "seeing is believing" when trying to convey the magical weekend that awaits to Mr.s Mc. She tells me she is looking forward to hearing some people who can actually play music for a change... that, and a nice glass of Merlot or three.
BH: Fortunately, Mr.s Mc is crazy! Lucky break for me.
We shall fly into Southampton on the Friday. I've never been in that neck of the Forest, so to speak, so I'm looking forward to it big style.
Colm
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Are you going to hire a car or do you want collecting?
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Good news Colm, look forward to seeing you again.... My better half should be coming too. I would suggest for the ladies some good books or stout walking shoes.
Andrew
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Well, I suspect my wife and kids will be around for a short while on Friday morning. We will probably take them for a lark about in the forest, weather permitting. As soon as they see bearded men with guitars, I'm sure they will be off though.
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Folks, thanks again for the warm responses.
We will arrive on Flight BE385 Flybe at 17.25 into Southampton and depart flight BE384 Flybe at 14.20 on the Sunday. If this coincides with anyone else's travel plans we'd be delighted to hitch a ride and pitch in for the petrol. Drop me a PM if you think it may work.
Books, Shoes,...& ear plugs... or am I just being mean now after everyone being so nice.
Colm
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Its about 25 miles- an hour at most, so Im sure someone can assist (not me unfortunately, as the wife will have disappeared with the car by then).
Failing that, the train from Southampton through Brockenhurst might be the best bet. Taxis round there tend to be painful...
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If you can get a good deal, hire a car and get your wife as driver. The New Forest is a beautiful area to explore. Otherwise, collection from Brockenhurst is not a problem.
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Sounds like loads of wives will be attending this year! Mrs. PP did one year and then commented something like "Once is enough of a load of old geezers playing guitars!"
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Despite her traumatic experiences in the past, Mrs Marshcat will also be in attendance...
http://weeniecampbell.com/yabbse/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view;pic=1270 (http://weeniecampbell.com/yabbse/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view;pic=1270)
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Weighing heavy on the distaff side now. Maybe if they get together they can keep Richard under control!
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loads of wives
Heavens, can you really imagine that added to all the "old women" we have already >:D
Now that we have real ladies in the plural, do we need to arrange entertainment for them as well I wonder - perchance PP you could give one of your knitting demonstrations? This is verging into the unknown and luckily so far, nobody has mentioned bringing children...
Blueshome I think we need to look at the program again, will you be able to cancel that uumm.... lady "entertainer" you'd booked :-X
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Being a stingy Yorkshire Tyke, I was thinking more on the lines of a workshop: "Fashioning a functional guitar case out of old underpants". ;)
Maybe Richard could tackle "Crocheting a National Tricone" or "The best way to ignite a banjo fire".
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I just chased up JC Grimshaw and although they are keen, he and Angelina have gigs all that weekend and sadly cannot make it over to the mainland. However, he did emphasise that they would love to join us at some stage in the future.
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Ok Richard, the lady is cancelled but she wants to know if you still want the personal,private show you'd requested.
As to the programme, we've been in discussion again today and the great panjandrum, Mr.Thomas, will be posting the results shortly. What is still undecided is how the Euroweenie brick's fate will be decided, but rest assured someone will "win" it.
It looks like we've a great mix for this year, shame about JC and Angelina. but we can add the fount of all blues knowledge, Mr.Bunker Hill, to Saturday's attendees.
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... but we can add the fount of all blues knowledge, Mr.Bunker Hill, to Saturday's attendees.
Pleased to hear it. Looking forward to seeing BH again.
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... but we can add the fount of all blues knowledge, Mr.Bunker Hill, to Saturday's attendees.
Pleased to hear it. Looking forward to seeing BH again.
This time you'll all be spared my pontification of two years ago, I'm purely a spectator.
By the way PP can't you persuade your fellow Rye resident, Roger Hubbard, to make a guest appearance on Saturday?
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EuroWeenie 2012
Courtesy of Blueshome Inc here is a copy of the proposed weekend's activities - I would add that as ever there is nothing to too taxing involved and naturally all times are approximate as are events are liable to change if we get a better idea.
If on reading this the mood grabs you and you feel like offering a short workshop then I'm sure we can squeeze you in. Conversely, if you are bringing your adoring partner and know that you "ought" to spend some time together we have left you an open window to escape so you can go skipping through the New Forestation in the rain together :)
Friday 20 April
2-4pm Meet and greet.
6.45pm Dinner and draw for "Lucky" Dip groups
8.00pm Official Weenie CD launch and photo opportunity perchance???
8.15pm Performances
12.00 Bedtime
Saturday 21 April
10.15am Lucky dip practice
11.15am Scratchy workshop
12.15pm Lunch
2.00pm Talk/demo TBA (provisionally demo of different harmonica styles by Will)
3.00pm Musical Chinese Whispers (we'll explain!)
4.00pm Break\Sleep\Walkies\Practice\Whatever\Extra workshop
6.45pm Dinner (sic)
8.00pm Lucky dip concert followed by performances & Brick presentation
12.00 Bedtime
Sunday morning enjoy the New Forest...
eerrrrrrr... that's it!
Oh, I nearly forgot, thanks Phil for cancelling the "lady entertainer" - do you know if she managed to contact the arch-bishop?
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She wanted to know if you'd be in Room 23 again.
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The room that overlooks those luvly looking sheep, oh yes I'll ask for it specially - and, don't forget your spare batteries for the camera this time. Hope I don't have trouble with my tripod again :-X
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Oooo interesting. I was expecting a challenge like last year's obligatory broonzy number...
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Don't worry Slim, the Chinese Whispers will prove a challenge. Wait for April.
All (printable) suggestions re the brick welcome.
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NS, you may well be in for something similar to the BBB epic as well so don't give up hope too soon :o and as promised it looks like a revision of the timetable is already on the horizion :D
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The programme of activities looks good! Why did Phil cancel the lady entertainer, she might have inspired some outstanding performances from us?
I look forward to seeing you all.
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Act your age Bob!
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Actually Bob, the truth is the pneumatic lady in question has a slow puncture.
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She probably feels we're letting her down...
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Yes, she was quite upset being all physcologically (phonetic) pumped up do do her act. Don't tell Phil, but I've also learnt that he first met her when she used to double as double as barage balloon in the war, which war I'm not sure.
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Actually it was eBay Richard, or that's what you told me.
Never mind only 52 days to go to we meet in Milford-on-Sea.
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Damn, you're right I was confusing the two.
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Hello everyone. A very kind person directed me to this website, and this thread in particular as I was looking for people in the UK interested in country blues and had been unable to find anyone! ( I clearly wasn't looking in the right places).
I am pretty excited to find that there are get togethers and events like this going on. - and in the south, even better - but I have a few questions about them. I have read through the thread so apologies if I missed the relevant posts.. I've only been playing for around 3 years so to attend do you need to be a certain level? Do you just pay for the accomodation costs or are there extra fees for workshops etc?
Unfortunately I found this a little late and don't think I could make it this year but would be very interested in attending similar workshops and certainly Euroweenie 2013! Also it would be great to hear from people around here (I'm in Wiltshire) who play country blues guitar or just enjoy talking about it.
Cheers
Laura
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Well Laura, welcome to wonderful world of a weenie weekend!
The weekend extravaganza that I "put on"is for all weenies and since you have been brave enough to sign upas a said weenie then I don't see why you shouldn't come along and enjoy the fun :-X
Seriously, come along all you have to do is book in the hotel and say you want the blues weekend rate. The weekend's activities are totally free, totally al fresco andsubject to change, the sole object of the thing is get together those that like country blues. Whatever playing level you are at makes no difference, evan as a non-playing weenie you would be welcome so we will hope to see you there and who knows you might even enjoy it ;)
We hope to see you there and so send me a message if you have any queries.
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Hey Laura,
There are a few Country Blues acts in your area. I've got some dates in Salisbury later this year myself.
I'm hoping to make Euro Weenie if I'm not playing. It'll be my first time.......they look friendly......mind you my Mum said that on my first day at school.
Adam.
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Laura, even if you can't make the weekend, come down for the Saturday, you will be made very welcome. Don't worry about your playing level, we've got those amongst us who have been playing for 30 years and still aren't very good.
Also, are you aware of the European Blues Association and their events? Nothing to do with Weenie Campbell but most UK weenies have attended their events and support the organisation.
www.euroblues.org (http://www.euroblues.org)
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... we've got those amongst us who have been playing for 30 years and still aren't very good.
Talking about me behind my back again Blueshome!!
Seriously Laura, it would be good to have some new blood - and reading between the lines, I guess your're not an old bloke with a beard, like so many of us. It would be refreshing to see a new face. Don't worry about musical ability, you'll be made very welcome. In fact, I look forward each year to the social aspect of meeting up with old friends just as much as, if not more than, the playing.
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Sorry, I'm going to be really boring and say I can't make it this year ... I don't drive so the cost of the trains/taxis plus accommodation would just be a bit too much with it being next month and also a little off the beaten path. I am really disappointed though because you are all making it sound like such a great weekend.
Phil - I looked into the idea of just coming down for the Saturday but again it's more the problem with transport than anything else. By the way, thanks for the EBA link - looks like they have lots of good stuff going on. Is it worth the membership fee to sign up?
Great music Adam - I will definitely keep my eyes open for those Salisbury dates!
It's a shame you don't do this twice a year, but well done Richard on organising it - as I said I will certainly plan to be there next year and who knows I might be quite good by then !
Parlor picker - No, I'm not an old bloke but I could probably work on growing a beard if you think it might help :P
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Well ain't it a pity, ain't it a shame..
I don't know where you live, but since people appear from all over there might be somebody coming your way and could give a lift.... you could always ask!
If not, well think of next year and maybe the EBA thing for the campus week in Northampton it's brilliant.
Keep playing!
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Laura, funny, I see from your pin you're in Swindon or thereabouts. I have a story for you.
I lived in a one room bedsit there for a year in a house full of crazy people in the mid 70's welding for a living. I was aiming for a commercial diving ticket on the North Sea oil rigs in a vain attempt to buy a farm and retire young.
My folks had moved to Lydington Hill so I could drop in on the weekends. Got my scuba cert (after first actually, yes, learning to swim in the Swindon Baths), got a TOPs grant to go to commercial diving school in Fort William if I did my time in industry, and a promise of a job from Comex Diving in Aberdeen if I learned to weld, courtesy my Dad, who worked for an oil company. So I went to the local tech college to learn welding. I was, and still am, pretty crap at it.
Spent a year welding, fitting, cutting, riveting, rolling, pounding a sledgehammer, etc in a Swindon shop that reconditioned and built buckets for draglines, diggers, dredgers and various other weird and extremely large and heavy contraptions, which I would hitch up and dump into my workspace with an overhead crane. Dark night of the soul, but a lot of fun. All the older guys were deaf from years of leaning on riveting guns, I always wore ear protectors.
In the evenings I would attempt to improve my darts game (still fairly mediocre) and drink a lot of beer in the local pubs. After a year of it, just when I could have gone to Scotland for the dive course, I decided I didn't want to be a commercial diver after all, after reading screeds about saturation diving, bone necrosis and the accident rate. I got on a train and moved on. I still have a twinge of regret I didn't just go on and do the commercial dive course, and then walk away.
I wouldn't have missed it for the world. Played guitar throughout but admit I had lousy influences in music at that point, it was the mid 70's after all. Moved back to Brighton, then to Germany, then NZ, now happily domiciled in Texas.
Anyway, give my regards to Swindon, my old home town for a while, and home of the very wonderful band XTC (after my time). Saw Elvis Costello on his very first tour in a disco in Swindon town center.
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Laura,
Final call..... Check out this http://ojp.nationalrail.co.uk/service/timesandfares/SWI/BCU/210412/0800/dep/210412/2000/dep (http://ojp.nationalrail.co.uk/service/timesandfares/SWI/BCU/210412/0800/dep/210412/2000/dep)
We can pick you up from and drop you at Brockenhurst which is only a few miles from where we meet.
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Wow, Rivers - That is quite some story, thank you for sharing! Yes I do live in Swindon now (Born and bred) but escaped as soon as I could and ended up in Tokyo at 22. I lived there for 6 years and was planning to stay there permanently but the March 11th earthquake scared me enough to move myself and now toddler daughter back to steadier ground :)
I took up guitar at school and played for a few years but completely dropped it after starting college. I was feeling a little isolated and bored in Japan and picked up a cheap acoustic in the freeads - randomly found a Duck Baker lesson "Make me a pallet on your floor" on Youtube and well..from there I got hooked! I've been teaching myself for the last couple of years and probably keeping Stefan Grossman in business with all the DVD's I've bought ;D I've recently treated myself to a lovely second hand Ebay guitar (yes I know, Ebay!) and it has such a lovely tone I'm enjoying playing so much now. I even looked up my old school guitar teacher and have been taken some real lessons for the last couple of months. And there is my story!
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Phil - Thank you very much for the extremely generous offer of a lift - I've sent you a private message.
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Laura, great story also. It certainly does kick-start your playing hanging with other country blues fanatics. Steal as much as possible, and redistribute it when you can, is my SOP
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Only a month or so to go weenies so unless anybody says anything we will assume no news is good news. I have a feeling there is actually something else on at the hotel during our weekend which will be interesting ! Maybe we could get a paying gig out of it, if it's a wedding, funeral, birthday, centenary, christening, divorcing or something equally unexciting, eh?
Now back to reality any questions or help needed from those relying on public transport?
Colm, I'm comingover mit car this time on the ferry as I have to go Bristol way after so I won't be available for airporto lifts in a hire car - so are you sorted?
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Richard, thanks for asking. we are all sorted. We will hop the train to Brockenhurst and cab in there. Colm
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Colm, I don't know what time the Hurt Shuttle is beaming you across from the airport, but as the station is only about about 10-15 mins from the hotel I'm sure one of us could pick you up (not that I want to be done for importuning) if you were give us an approximate arrival time and then confirm by the dreaded mobile I'm sure we can do something. Mine's a vino bianco.
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Be advised there are two station entry/exits on either side of the station.
When Blueshome came to collect me two years ago he was waiting in the car park whilst I was outside the ticket office. Neither of us were aware of this, fortunately Blueshome had the good sense to investigate the possibility of another entrance.
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I am definitely a candidate for standing resolutely at the wrong door so thanks bh for the insight to that potential pitfall. If all goes to plan we should land at the hotel just as you guys are sitting down for dinner but as always with flights things can get delayed so we will make our own way down from the station. Starting to really look forward to the trip now...vino blanco and all! colm
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No discrimination, mines a red!
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I was about to craft some witty remark along the lines of ... and mine is BLUE.... but just in time realised that this would leave the door open for some terrible nun gags ( Richard you know you could,t resist) so best leave it at that then. Colm
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Would I, what a thing to say.
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Just a note to say we are looking forward to seeing you Euroweenies at sunny (we hope) Milford from the 20th.
The event is now fully subscribed for this year.
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The event is now fully subscribed for this year.
Indeed it is, the hotel has no more rooms and other years I have been struggling to fill the rooms :)
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The event is now fully subscribed for this year.
Excellent - now the rowdier elements can plan to crash the party ! ;)
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We already there
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Does this make me part of an "exclusive" group?! 8)
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No, whatever gave you that impression?
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No, whatever gave you that impression?
Foiled again!! ::)
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"Does this make me part of an "exclusive" group?!"
We are very inclusive, just full up!
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Now I just have to figure out how many guitars I can squeeze in the car, alongside two kids and their assorted paraphenalia...
My daughter surely doesn't really need her travel cot. She can sleep on the floor thereby making space in the car for a banjo...
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Simon - just let the kids play with the banjo (and don't forget to pack their big hammers)... You know if it enters our hotel that Blueshome might suffer some kind of medical emergency.
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PP could be right there. Actually speaking from years of experience I would say if at all possible get them a banjo each plus a uke for the Mrs and and then quietly bugger off on your own. Just think of the peace and tranquility sat around a smoulding camp fire of burning ukes in the New Forest, that cellulose fires up a treat :)
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"Hand me my shotgun and a pocket full of shells"
(John Lee Williamson, 1938)
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Hi folks,
Im new to Weenie Campbell but having had a heads up from Phil via the Michael Messer messageboard I would like to come along on the Saturday if that's OK?. I only live down the road from Milford in Sway and have been running a monthly acoustic blues session (Sway Acoustic Blues) in the village since 1998.
Is it also OK to bring along an instrument or 2 to play and sing?, Im not sure about your protocol for the event. Otherwise I'll just have a listen. (I also play b***j* but have seen your views on an earlier page so would leave that at home but mandolin seems to be OK?!).
Cheers, Mike.
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I know Mike well.
Met him when I moved to Southampton in April 1989 he was a regular at a pub called The Onslow which prided itself in having blues nights every Friday and booking visiting American artists (see below, click to zoom)
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Not much point coming without a guitar Mike. We'll look forward to meeting you.
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Thanks for confirming that Phil.
Im not familiar with nicknames here, but Im guessing that Mr Bunker Hill, might have the initials AB in real life?. If so, I emailed you yesterday about giving you a lift from the station (Brockenhurst?) on the Saturday.
Cheers, Mike
Hmm - maybe I need a nickname then, "fat old grey bloke with beard and walking sticks" suits me well but doesnt quite roll off the tongue... might just stick with Mike Shipman....
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Hmm - maybe I need a nickname then, "fat old grey bloke with beard and walking sticks"
Mike, there'll be a stampede here for that nick name now! :D
Look forward to hearing you at the EuroWeenie Shindig! Colm
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So.... Just how many folks are coming now?
Seems to be getting pretty big- should be good!
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MS, well do come along and enjoy yourself - being local I assume will you be staying for the evenings musical extravaganza?
As for how many are attending, despite organising it I've lost the plot so what about a quick roll call start a list below >>>>>>
Richard
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Colm Kill Paul and Mr.s Colm Kill Paul Check
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Richard, I think we are at 14 plus partners. 15 if Will appears.
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Take lots of pictures and it would be great if someone did a write up for our Front Page.
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Is it OK if I bring my "Rezzonators" partner Pete?, he's not (yet!) a Weenie member... (that just sounds wrong!)
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MS that's fine by me, since we are into double entendre territory would that be your musical partner... you know there's no admission unless you can flash your weenie membership..
Forgot to add as editor in chief I will be looking for scribe or two to do a suitable piece since Slack has kindly offered us the front page, so I hope you'll all behave :-X
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Welcome to WeenieCampbell Mike! And don't let these guys discourage you from bringing your banjo. They have to have something to pick on, having such refined tastes can be such a burden, and banjo is just an easy target.... they all actually love the sound of a properly played banjo.
:D
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Slack beat me to the joke there. :P
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Hi Slack and Richard,
Thanks for your responses, Pete is indeed my musical partner, the other 50% of The Rezzonators. He is hopefully coming along to Milford too and as he has a penchant for the double entendres (a la "Carry On" films), looks like he'll be in good company.
Cheers, Mike.
ps - I might put a b**j* in the boot of the car (yes, I have more than one, tenor and five strings...!), and to beat you all to the obvious punchline..... "and its probably best if you leave it there!"
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Guess I'll be taking snaps as per previous years, but hope others bring their cameras as well (e.g. Marshcat!).
Somebody else can do the write-up. Any volunteers?
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Mike S
penchant for the double entendres (a la "Carry On" films), looks like he'll be in good company.
Maybe he's a Round the Horne fan as well!
As for b****'s I shouldn't admit it but I have one as well :-X It's the uke brigade you have to be wary of..
We look forward to meeting you and mine's a vino bianco ;)
PP, yes please take some pics and if you could take a few names\ notes (no pun) along with A N Other conscript I'll cobble up something worthy-ish of publication.
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Richard, I think we are at 14 plus partners. 15 if Will appears.
I will be there, but the Missus has dropped out like last year..... damn kids.
anyway looking forward to it...... I think !
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Richard, I think we are at 14 plus partners. 15 if Will appears.
I will be there, but the Missus has dropped out like last year..... damn kids.
anyway looking forward to it...... I think !
Andrew - kids are a valid excuse.
My wife says one weekend of old geezers playing guitars was more than enough for her, so I have to attend on my own now...
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"Children are a good substitute for people who have no pets."
BTW, anybody want to see any particular rare old National in attendance? Most can be accommodated - apart from that elusive style 4 round neck.
Marshcat
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Polychrome woodbody?
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk 2
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Oh, and an aragon ?
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk 2
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And there's that rare bird of the reso-uke, but I expect PP has one of those as well.
Also I hear you have very nice sq neck style O ?
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Prof.: No Aragon, alas, and a polychrome woodbody is in the pipeline but unlikely to arrive by Friday... :(
Richard: I'd hate to be responsible for your tears of regret if I bring along your old square neck style 0 >:D
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Prof.: No Aragon, alas, and a polychrome woodbody is in the pipeline but unlikely to arrive by Friday../quote]
Marshcat! Note to self: must try harder!
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PP I feel that sans kiddywinkies and sans Mrs's is the only way to go for such events as these.
Think you get none of the "I'm bored " or "when does it end" or "I'm going to bed (and make you feel guilty)" or "How much have you drunk?" or "Do you really like this awful music..."
:)
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In line with my guitars, I only own a wooden-bodied ukulele. But if somebody wants to donate a resophonic model....
(By the way, established on Facebook that Diamond Dac has gigs and therefore can't make it this year, which is a shame.)
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Yippee!, colm kill Paul and rosie magrosie have hopped a freight car on the Southampton bound train. Guitar slung over shoulder we,ll be in Euroweenie land tonight. (who knew these freight cars had wi fi ;D)
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My mate Pete and I will be transporting Alan (Bunker Hill) Balfour tomorrow arriving at Milford around 11.30 NFST (New Forest Summer Time). Alas I cannot pop over this evening as my wife is out so Im childminding.
Looking forward to tomorrow and hopefully the sun will stay shining, its glorious here at the moment!
Cheers, Mike
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Glorious...sounds like we are heading the right direction...currently in a wet and cold Dublin city....but we are still truckin ;D
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Thanks to all you good Weenie folk for letting us join in the musical shenanigans yesterday - very much enjoyed the workshops (Prof Scratchy and Blueshome) and seeing my old mate Bunker Hill after too many years. A very friendly and welcoming bunch of bluesy people you most certainly are.
I endeavour to smarten up my image having been inspired by Colm, but as Cotton Traders 3xl range tend not to include such smart togs, think I'll stick to my plain black tee shirts.
Loads and loads of musical talent there to be seen in sunny Milford on Sea, I dont think Ive ever been somethwere where finger picks and thumb picks were pretty much universally used.
Richard - Ive got the entry form for "Britains Got talent" for us as I think I heard Simon Cowell was looking for a lap steel duo... or was that a lap dancing duo...?
Having not been aware of Weenie Campbell until a couple of weeks ago, it will certainly be one of my regularly vsited sites, masses of great info.
Looking forward to the next Euroweenie event!
Cheers, Mike.
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Glad you enjoyed it Mike!
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Another one over.
Thanks to all who came along to make it such a great weekend.
Special awards were made (courtesy of Colm And Rose) to Simon for getting the Weenie's Blues cd together, to Richard for yet again getting the show on the road.
The "substantial prize" of the Euroweenie brick was awarded to Colm for sartorial elegance and furthest distance travelled.
Full reports will follow from our designated reporters.
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I've recently arrived home from a bookfair (what else?)
Really enjoyed my Euroweenie Day.
Amazingly talented bunch of people, which is more than can be said for myself who, even as a kid, couldn't get a tune using a comb and paper, let alone a kazoo. :o
Thanks to one and all. Maybe, if I start saving now, next year I might do the entire Friday to Sunday.
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Thanks for your company Alan.
BTW, best comment of the weekend was from Rose (Mrs.Colm) to the room in general in a surprised Irish brogue, "Youse can really play then!"
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As per usual it all went too quickly. As per usual a great bunch of people.
If Slack can please create a Euroweenie 2012 Photogallery, Marshcat and I will gradually get around to posting some pics of the weekend - and maybe some other people as well (Rose aka Mrs. Colm was snapping away, as were one or two others).
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Did we ever agree who was doing a write up?!!!
I'd love to volunteer but its year end, and I have one too many clients likely to call me irately this week wondering what has become of various tasks....
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Folks,
Just need to say on behalf of myself and "the missus" what a terrific weekend we had in Euroweenie land. Everyone was sooooooooo welcoming and the music was superb! It was perfect! So thank you all for making us part of the gang.
Today I'm trying to come to terms with a new reality where my wife is talking about resonators (both the band and the guitar!) This is great but I'll need a little time to adapt.
The trip home was eventful: Armed drug police singled me out for a search using a sniffer dog in the middle of a busy departures lounge bar in Southampton Airport while I was having a pint of Guinness. ( I think this was due to my fedora hat...and I felt it was an endorsement of my musician status so was quite pleased 8)). The funniest part was Rose ( who was missing our own dog badly) immediately dropped down to pet the sniffer dog and give her a cuddle. The deflated look on the disappointed cop as he walked out of the bar was priceless.
Can't tell you how proud I am to join Prof Scratchy in the elite alumni of The Brick. The Brick has been restored to it's secret location under the rites of the sacred ritual (as passed to me by Prof Scratchy) so that it may be passed on to future recipients should they be deemed worthy by the mighty judges of The Brick. Subject to confirmation I will be adding the credentials T.B. to my forum name so as recognise my new status as recipient of the The Brick. :)
Thanks again everyone. Really was special!
Colm Kill Paul T.B.
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Colm TB, It was great to meet you and Rose and to see new, younger faces in this gathering. You played that John Hurt stuff beautifully.
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Your problem, Colm, is not the resonators...
Your big problem is that after ten minutes in a camper van with prof. scratchy, your good lady wife is not now going to be happy until she has a van of her own!
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NS this is NOT funny....
Apparently Prof has reinforced the virtues of the original VW camper van to Rose over later Brazilian constructed versions. Thanks to a camper van workshop with PS my arguments are being out gunned big style!
This is a devil's alliance I'm sure of it...
;)
Colm
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Your 2012 Photo Gallery is awaiting...
As per usual it all went too quickly. As per usual a great bunch of people.
If Slack can please create a Euroweenie 2012 Photogallery, Marshcat and I will gradually get around to posting some pics of the weekend - and maybe some other people as well (Rose aka Mrs. Colm was snapping away, as were one or two others).
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I've now uploaded my photos to the 2012 gallery.
I hope some other people will also be adding to the body of work!
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What a great time. Pics bring it all back.
Thanks to all you folks for making me feel welcome. Loved every minute of it.
Chris.
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Three Cheers for Parlor Picker! Hip Hip!
Fine photo montage of the fine "photogenic" fraternity that was Euroweenie 2012!
Hope to add a couple more shots over the weekend.
Colm
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You don't think he could have gone with a more soft focus approach given the models?
Great to see photos of the weekend and all the Euroweenie hardware and toys.
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Some additional shots added to the gallery for the 2012 Euroweenie Bash. These are not up to the standard set by Parlour Picker but Rose managed to catch the man himself so now we have a complete record of attendees!
Colm
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Thank you for the pictures, it looks like you guys had a great time together! I sure hope to make it one of these years, meanwhile I'm hoping for more images and music from this years gathering. 8)
Cheers
Pan
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Thanks to all for coming and joining in, it seemed like a really good time was had by all.
Now, I've only just got back home having taken a detour and played a jazz gig, did I say I would write a few words about the great event... :-X
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Likewise, Richard, I just got home/out of rehab recovering from the event and will post some photos and field recordings soon... and I haven't forgotten about 'your' style 3.
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OK, guys, I just added a few more photos to the rogues' gallery :D Still editing the sound recordings!
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Great Shots Marshcat. I particularly like the one of Chris. His slide and foot have great movement yet his face is pin sharp. Great job. I guess the floor rolling is an integral part of the artist at work :) Well worth the effort on the evidence here!
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Colm, if it's foot-tapping you want, check out Slo-Blo's Travelin' Shoes!