I am in Minneapolis. I’ve been here most of August; heading back to Antigua Guatemala—and Angeline—in a week.

Its been wonderful to play with Rogue Tango. I’ve done a lot of gigs, a lot of teaching, a lot of research, planning, and meetings. The restaurant has climbed to #2 on TripAdvisor and this generates business.

Six months into the project, it is time to reflect back, see the positives as well as the negatives, re-examine goals and priorities, perhaps make some adjustments. Its been quite a ride! Where do we go from here?

My friend, Timo Lozano, passed away a few days ago. He was an incredible flamenco dancer with flawless rhythm and great groove, played great cajon, too. Very sad.

Another close friend, Ken Turner, passed earlier this summer, and I just came to know of it. Very sad, indeed.

My eight year relationship with Rachel “la Mala” Milloy ended right after our show in March. This has been a tough loss for me, too.

But life is so sweet, so precious. We must continue moving forward. Lots of great friends here. Lots of music; it is bittersweet being in Minneapolis at summer’s end.