We were a pally bunch, tramping the streets of Peterborough, New Hampshire, yapping as we went. I think Thulani Davis was there, the sculptor Karl Ciesluk, David Barnes of “Barnztuff” fame, and some others. We were thirsty, and there was a place I’d heard a lot about and never seen. When we went through the doorway, I saw a small stage on the other side of the room. No one was on it. Some skinny guy behind the bar spotted me with my guitar slung over my shoulder. I always had it with me in those days. After all, you are what you carry. Then the bar guy grabbed up a short stool, walked over to me, and put it in my hand. “Buy you a beer,” he said, giving me the once over. “Another when you’re done.” I touched the brim of my hat. I’d have done it for one. All songs c. 2012 by Mark Ari or in the Public Domain