Tag Archives: Nostalgic Music Month

Life Lessons

Seasons In The Piano Man Sun

Leave a comment

Nostalgic Music Month Day 20

Billy Joel by Jon Hilton

Almost all of the people who grew up during the 70’s and 80’s had their life touched by the music of Billy Joel. His music was popular for decades and the songs have become iconic to me. It was January 30, 1987. A friend of a friend was going to see Billy Joel in Portland, Maine. We were going to meet them after the concert, I had no intention of going. Arriving early, on a snowy, cold Maine night, we decided to duck into the Cumberland County Civic Center to get warm. We stepped through the door, there was nobody there. Only an opening into the concert and Billy Joel singing.  Sometimes opportunities are just handed to you and that day I got to see Billy Joel for free. It was a great day.

  1. Scenes from an Italian Restaurant– Life is nothing but a series of choices made. The choices come in all forms, easy, hard, good, bad, short-term or lifelong. Relationship choices are some of the most important we make because it is the relationship choices that really define the direction that our soul is going to go. Your needs and those of another dictate the activities and priorities of the life that you live.  In this song, it is a simple choice between a bottle of red or a bottle of white. When I see young people who are in love, I always think about Brenda and Eddie and wish them good luck.  A bottle of white, a bottle of red. Perhaps a bottle of rose instead. We’ll get a table near the street. In our old familiar place. You and I, face to face.
  2. The Stranger-I believe we all have many sides and people wear masks depending on which side they want to reveal on that day. This song describes the fact that people really keep their true self to themselves. Is it because we lack a faith that our true identities will be accepted by others. I once heard that 99% of what we really think about life and people is hidden kept to ourselves and nobody knows except for us. We all fall in love but we disregard the danger……. There is always a danger in falling in love because you are risking a rejection, and romantic love brings with it attached emotions like jealousy and fear of losing what you have that makes people behave in strange ways like possessivness and other crazy stuff. All good things come with an equal danger of bad, communication and honesty is the cure.  You may never understand How the stranger is inspired, But he isn’t always evil. And he is not always wrong. Though you drown in good intentions. You will never quench the fire. You’ll give in to your desire. When the stranger comes along.
  3. Just the Way You Are– All of the positive memories I have about relationships have stemmed from the feeling that both parties are accepted just as they are. There is no desire to change them or make someone into something that they are not.  It seems that the older you get all the people you meet have spent their lives building a relatonship coat. This coat contains all of the things they ideally want and don’t want in a relationship partner. So they are continually looking for someone who can wear that relationship coat and be that ideal person. This puts expectations on people and causes ultimate disappointment.  I know I don’t have any desire to wear someone else’s relationship coat because it would dim who I am. that person should be enough. What relationship coat have you built?  I said I love you and that’s forever. And this I promise from the heart. I could not love you any better. I love you just the way you are.
  4. You May be Right-When it comes to being wrong, I have a particular friend who is a master at it. One of his favorite pasttimes is arguing with people over silly things. In most cases, he is just arguing for the sake of arguing. I contend that he can’t help it because of his family and upbringing. He will argue about things with questionable factual information but always with conviction. I don’t pretend to understand why he gets all worked up about things you can’t control.  All I know is that the best use of Google is to fact check his sources and make sure that all arguments are coming from a factual location.  This song really reminds me of him.  You may be right. I may be crazy. But it just may be a lunatic you’re looking for. Turn out the light. Don’t try to save me. You may be wrong for all I know. You may be right. You may be wrong but you may be right. 
  5. Vienna– Our lives are driven by dreams. Life is a constant jouney to try to build dreams and to work to achieve them. In that journey there is going to be fear and doubt to overcome. Nothing worthwhile comes without a cost. We should all create dreams of accomplishment and achievement no matter how old we are. These are the things that give life meaning and allow us to move forward with passion and adventure. There are going to be doubts, get out of your own head and focus on the goal.  This will make you create a life that is certainly worth living.  In that pursuit it is important to enjoy the journey, because it is in the journey that all the memories are created and the interesting story is written.  But you know that when the truth is told. That you can get what you want or you get old. You’re gonna kick off before you even. Get halfway through. When will you realize, Vienna waits for you. 

Downeaster Alexa, Good Night Saigon, A Matter of Trust, Don’t Ask Me Why, your My Home, Tell Her About It, Say Goodbye to Hollywood, Ballad of Billy the Kid, We Didn’t Start the Fire, Piano Man, The Longest Time, New York State of Mind, Honesty, You May be Right, Only the Good Die Young, River of Dreams, It’s Still Rock and Roll To Me, Movin’ Out, And So It Goes, She’s Always a Woman, Allentown, Big Shot

Terry Jacks by Mike Martin

The 1973-74 school year was the last time that Jon Hilton and I were in the same class. Mrs. Thornquist, our 2nd-grade teacher, was an absolute sweetheart. The highlight of the week was always a visit from her husband Bill, who like his wife, was very much respected in the small remote village of Greenville, Maine.

She was so sweet that she tolerated way too much of our misbehaviors, and I am not saying that Jon and I took advantage of her kindness, but we did earn what I call the “Hilton Rule”-a new policy in the Greenville School System that Jon and I were not to be in the same class ever again.

The school did modify the “Hilton Rule” policy once for a short time. In 5th grade, circumstances dedicated that I move classroom and was in Hilton’s class for what amounted to two days. The duration of the stay was brief because the 5th-grade teacher was a pervert. He made a pass at

Season in the Sun

me and I stopped short of punching him in the nose. I went directly to the VP office Mr. Keenan, asked and was granted a transfer back to Mr. Pooler’s room.

When I hear Seasons in the Sun , an English-language adaptation of the song Le Moribond by Belgian singer-songwriter Jacques Brel- a song that became a worldwide hit in 1974 for Terry Jacks-a Canadian singer, songwriter, record producer, and environmentalist, I immediately think of the bus ride from my house on MacAfee Street to Greenville Elementary School anticipating another great day in Mrs. Thronquist’s class.

The song was originally intended for the Beach Boys, with Jacks serving as producer for the recording; however, after the group decided not to release it, Jacks recorded it himself in late 1973 on his own record label, Goldfish

A different season in the sun

Records. The song became the largest-selling international single by a Canadian artist at that time, eventually selling 14 million copies worldwide.

Terry Jacks “Seasons In The Sun” 2014

Goodbye to you my trusted friend
We’ve known each other since we were nine or ten
Together we’ve climbed hills and trees
Learned of love and ABC’s
Skinned our hearts and skinned our knees
Goodbye my friend it’s hard to die
When all the birds are singing in the sky
Now that spring is in the air
Pretty girls are everywhere
Think of me and I’ll be there

We had joy, we had fun
we had seasons in the sun
But the hills that we climbed
Were just seasons out of time

Goodbye Papa please pray for me
I was the black sheep of the family
You tried to teach me right from wrong
Too much wine and too much song
Wonder how I got along
Goodbye Papa it’s hard to die
When all the birds are singing in the sky
Now that the spring is in the air
Little children everywhere
When you…

And, when riding a school bus in Greenville, Maine back in the mid 70’s, you listened to the girls sing Season In the Sun by Terry Jacks, over and over again. I admit they sounded pretty good, but of course, I was more interested in playing kickball and making slime.

Please, have a great day, and if you have any questions, drop us a line and please partake in #OctoberNostalgicMusicMonth and while you are at it take a trip to Greenville, Maine-I understand the foliage is majestic this time of year! #visitGreenville

#OctoberNostalgicMusicMonth #visitGreenville

Nostalgicmusicmonth

Small Town Johnson

Leave a comment

Nostalgic Music Month Day 19

John Cougar Mellencamp by Jon Hilton

One of my constant companions, as I grew up and became an “adult” in the 1980’s, was John Cougar Mellencamp. His music was easy for a rural kid from Maine to relate to.  The themes of small towns and simple stories seemed to be something that was easily emulated. As I navigated my way through the turbulent waters of high school and then enjoyed the free years of college, this music was there. Along with the songs are a raft of people and experiences that have helped form my view of the world today.

  1. Small Town– this song spoke to me the first time I heard it, just like it does today. I was definitely born in a small town and my earliest
    My small town

    memories were all formed from that experience. That you treat people the way you want to be treated. You practice kindness every day and help your neighbor out. You do this and ask nothing in return because being in a position to help another is reward enough. When you need help others are there for you. The big lesson is that we are all in this together and each of us contributes to that community in one way or another. Good or bad. I am eternally grateful for the learning I received in my small town of Greenville, Maine.   No, I cannot forget where it is that I come from, I cannot forget the people who love me. Yeah, I can be myself here in this small town. And people let me be just what I want to be.

  2. Lonely Old Night– In life the good memories stand out and shout to you as you grow older and the bad ones tend to fade into the background. This song brings some of the best ones to mind. Times spent drinking wine and dreaming of a future that could have existed if I wasn’t so scared of it. Sometimes we learn lessons and move forward and use them. Unfortunately sometimes the lessons we learn come too late to change a situation or yourself. All you are left with are positive memories of people that mattered to you so much then. The images can seem as real today as they were then but then you realize that they are as much ancient history as the pyramids in Egypt. But they are your history.  Radio playin’ softly
    Some singer’s sad sad song. He’s singing about. Standing in the shadows of love. I guess it feels awfully alone. She says I know Exactly what he means………….
  3. Jack and Diane– A song which came out while I was in high school. I think there is a generation of people who created a fantasy of being in a relationship like Jack and Diane. All Jacks are looking for their Dianes and vice versa. Each relationship we have from the beginning of our existence until today is meant to teach you something. It may be a lesson about love, life, selfishness or something else but most often they teach you something about yourself. If you are paying attention, then the next relationship should be better. Or more likely the one you are in will be more vital and valuable. This song reminds me to learn those lessons. I am a slow student. Oh, let it rock, let it roll. Let the bible belt come and save my soul. Holdin’ on to sixteen as long as you can. Change is coming ’round real soon. Make us woman and man. Oh yeah, life goes on.
  4. Authority Song– One of the constant experiences that I have had in my life is that I do NOT like anyone telling me what to do. Especially when the narrative states how you should feel about certain things.  There is no one path that is more acceptable than another. As long as nobody else is being negatively affected by your behavior, then do what you want to do. Don’t let anyone else tell you what career you are supposed to follow, or what hobbies you want to create from.  Creativity is a vital part of knowing yourself and what message you have to share with the world. Be your true self and let everyone else do the same. So I call up my preacher
    I say, “Give me strength for Round 5.” He said , “You don’t need no strength, you need to grow up son.” I said, “Growing up leads to growing old and then to dying”And dying to me don’t sound like all that much fun.”
  5. Check It Out– Another song which speaks about life and the desire to have your true song heard. It actually is urging the world to “Check it Out” and see what the words and thoughts that people posses. It would lead to a better understanding if people listened to those of different political views, rather than carry preconceived judgments of others. Most of which are created and promoted by the mainstream media on both sides. Keep the people fighting and fearing and they are easy to control.  Look at yourself and those you are opposed to. What is the real issue? Justice? Patriotism? Healthcare? Terrorism?  Check it out, we are the same a lot more than we are different. Most people just want to have a life that is fulfilling.  Seems like we should be able to put aside the petty differences and allow this for everyone.  So check it out. Where does our time go? Check it out. Got a brand new house in escrow. Check it out. Sleepin’ with your back to your loved one. This is all, we have learned about happiness.

Pink Houses, Hurts So Good, Cherry Bomb, R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A., Rain on the Scarecrow, Crumblin’ Down, Minutes to Memories, Hand to Hold on to, Just Another Day, Jackie Brown, Rumble Seat, Between a Laugh and a Tear, Ain’t Even Done with the Night.

Jack Johnson by Mike Martin

Is it ok to throw trash in the oceans?

I once helped start a nonprofit with a Biddeford, Maine lobster tank manufacture. Touch Tanks for Kids was formed to bring awareness to the damages that human activity brings to the Earth’s biospheres-the program included a strong focus on Ocean education.

Jack Hody Johnson is a singer-songwriter, musician, actor, record producer, documentary filmmaker and a former professional surfer born in the USA. I was once referred to as the “Surfer Dude” when I worked for a furniture repossession and extortion company. ( FYI-I don’t surf and have only tried on a few times. I do have blonde hair though.)

Johnson is active in the ecology and sustainability movement and has an ocean-centric focus. Johnson, with help from, Kim, his wife, created the Johnson Ohana Charitable Foundation and the Kōkua Hawaii Foundation.

Dirty Oceans that need to be cleaned

The Johnsons have dedicated a great deal of resources, time and money,  promoting “positive and lasting change within communities by supporting organizations that focus on environmental, art, and music education.”

With the help of several sympathetic organization and people, Touch Tanks for Kids shared its message at festivals, conventions and other gathers including two lobster festivals. The San Pedro Lobster Festival in California and The Maine Lobster Festival  in Rockland, Maine.

Thank you, Cecil Knight for all your help! And, thank you Jack Johnson for the use of your use of your song, Talk of the Town, used in the video as a way to promote one of Touch Tanks for Kids fundraising systems when The Lobster Claw Invade(d) The Maine Lobster Festival

I know a game using live lobsters may seem a bit morbid, but the lobsters who participated got to live as they were set free to swim another day.  And, many great educational organization benefit from the fund raiser including the Coastal Children’s Museum 75 Mechanic Street Rockland, Maine

Touch Tanks for Kids Annual Lobster Chair Raffle at the Maine Lobster Festival 2011 

Thank you everyone for your participation and think we did a great job motivating people to Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. 

If you’re going to the market to buy some juice
You’ve got to bring your own bags and you learn to reduce your waste
And if your brother or your sister’s got some cool clothes
You could try them on before you buy some more of those
Reuse, we’ve got to learn to reuse
And if the first two R’s don’t work out
And if you’ve got to make some trash
Don’t throw it out
Recycle, we’ve got to learn to recycle,
We’ve got to learn to
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Please, have a great day, and if you have any questions, drop us a line and please partake in #OctoberNostalgicMusicMonth and while you are at it take a trip to Greenville, Maine-I understand the foliage is majestic this time of year! #visitGreenville
#OctoberNostalgicMusicMonth #visitGreenville

Nostalgicmusicmonth

The Boys are back in Water

Leave a comment

Nostalgic Music Month Day 17

Water by Jon Hilton

A view of our favorite swimming spot through the trees on Dyer’s Pond

In all of my formative years, I was fortunate to be blessed, living within view of a lake or a pond in all places I lived.  My earliest memories are of these places. They are Moosehead Lake in Greenville, Maine and Dyers Long Pond in Jefferson, Maine. Each comes back to me in memories and it is clearly a part of my soul is in each. This is the story of how these two lakes contributed to my life and formed much of what I understand about the world today.  It is a fortunate thing to be raised in the woods of Maine, even though I often thought otherwise. There are lessons you learn about life and respect for nature many people seem to lack today.

  1. Water– Brad Paisley- To live in rural areas one of the first elements you need to master is water. Learning to swim in this scary, monstrous and mysterious lake is one of the first challenges we meet. I remember well
    This was camp, and that boat was my main source of travel, freedom, and entertainment.

    the day I learned to swim. I was standing on the dock at my grandfathers. Tentatively thinking about swimming but fear was in my way. What if I couldn’t do it? Suddenly I was picked up and was hurtling through the air and into that dark scary abyss.  After the initial fear and shock wore off, I realized that I was swimming, and there wasn’t anything to be afraid of at all. Life lesson learned. It is one I have to recall even today when something new comes along. Jump in, give it a go, you will never know if you don’t give it a try.  Yeah, when that summer sun starts to beatin’ down. And you don’t know what to do. Grab your swimming trunks. Ice up that old igloo. Drive until the map turns blue.

  2. Down to the Waterline– Dire Straits There was a path that ran from our camp on Dyers Pond through the woods, past four other camps with the final destination of my grandparents. I ran that path thousands of times in my youth, usually with no shoes on. I knew all of the camps and their inhabitants as well as family. The path was right next to the water. I was very fortunate to be set free almost all summer. I had to be polite when I was around people and was taught to be honest, kind and caring. But when it came to summer days, I was set free with my brothers to go and do whatever I could dream up that day. The woods and the waters were my playgrounds and my teachers.  Respect was the biggest lesson I learned running along the waterline. She can see him on the jetty where they used to go. She can feel him in the places where the sailors go. When she’s walking by the river and the railway line. She can still hear him whisper, “Let’s go down to the waterline.”
  3. All Summer Long– Kid Rock- Growing up and going to camp every summer of my life was a tough life. The lake was not only for fun but also for bathing. There was no shower at the camp. Why? Because you went swimming every day. Usually two or three times. We actually could go as many times as we wanted as long as we could find someone to watch us. Any adult would do.  Of course, we also had to wait 30 minutes after we ate before we could swim. It was based on the unfounded belief that if you swam before your food started to digest you would get cramps and drown. We followed this “science” without question.  Living at camp also meant, using an outhouse, and filling up jugs of drinking water and carrying them home. We definitely take a lot of simple things for granted today.  Splashing through the sandbar. Talking by the campfire. It’s the simple things in life, like when and where. We didn’t have no internet
    But man I never will forget.
    The way the moonlight shined upon her hair
  4. On the Border– Al Stewart- Wind was a constant companion on all lakes. In Greenville, the wind was a powerful and constant factor in life. It made a moderate day colder and a cold day frigid. It did develop a toughness, that if you can handle that cold wind, everything else is minor leagues. In Jefferson, the wind dictated what types of activities the day would bring. Wind out of the south meant warm happy days of sunshine. Wind out of the North meant colder days and maybe some indoor time.  In the village where I grew up. Nothing seems the same. Still you never see the change from day to day.No one notices the customs slip away.
  5. Sitting on the Dock of the Bay– Otis Redding- There are many subtle things about living on a lake you take for granted at the time, but remember as priceless memories. Seeing the movement of the water through the day, or the shadows as they move. Shouting to nobody so that you can hear the echo of emptiness roll off into the distance. Sometimes sitting, watching and thinking are the best adventures available. You just have to take the time to notice them. A lake is a living, breathing entity that provides a life for millions of creatures small and large. As a day drifted softly toward its conclusion, the shadows on the shore grew long and I knew it was time to find the warmth that was waiting at home.  So I’m just gonna sit on the dock of the bay. Watching the tide roll away. Ooo, I’m sittin’ on the dock of the bay. Wastin’ time. 

Thin Lizzy by Mike Martin

If I want to feel invincible, all I need to do is listen to The Boys Are Back in Town from the Irish hard rock band Thin Lizzy. The song was originally released in 1976, on their album sixth studio album, Jailbreak- a song that wasn’t even selected to be on the record until a couple of  Louisville, Kentucky DJs helped bring the song to prominence.

Guess who just got back today
Them wild-eyed boys that had been away
Haven’t changed that much to say
But man, I still think them cats are crazy

“It was 1976 and we were touring America,” recalled Scott Gorham (a California guitarist who contributed to the Thin Lzzy’s twin lead guitar signature style). “Jailbreak wasn’t shifting and we weren’t selling any tickets – but there we were, gigging around… The manager came in and told us, ‘Well guys, it looks like you have a hit record’… Our response was, ‘Wow! Which song are you talking about?’ When he replied, ‘The Boys Are Back in Town’, it was a case of “Really?” We’d demoed maybe 15 songs and ‘The Boys Are Back in Town’ wasn’t among the ten that we chose for the album, which in some ways made it a double surprise. We owe it all to two DJs in Louisville, Kentucky. They fell in love with the (x) song and played it incessantly until other stations in the surrounding area picked up on it… Had that song not kickstarted the sales of the

Boy trying to get back in town

album, then the band was over.”
Thin Lizzy formed in Dublin, Ireland in 1969. Phil Lynott’s was the band’s de facto leader. He was the composer or co-composer of almost all of the band’s songs, and the first black Irishman to achieve commercial success. He died from a condition induces from Heroin dependency in 1986.

Stay safe folks and please have a terrific Tuesday!

Please, have a great day, and if you have any questions, drop us a line and please partake in #OctoberNostalgicMusicMonth and while you are at it take a trip to Greenville, Maine-I understand the foliage is majestic this time of year! #visitGreenville

#OctoberNostalgicMusicMonth #visitGreenville

Nostalgicmusicmonth

Mrs. Robinson’s Cats in the Cradle

Leave a comment

Nostalgic Music Month Day 14

Simon and Garfunkel by Jon Hilton

The songs of Simon and Garfunkel are what nostalgic music month is all about. When I look back over the entirety of my life, these are songs that have been along for the ride from the time I was 7 until today at 51. As I have grown and matured, so have the significance attached to each song. In high school, these songs were there. In college, it was the same. Even as I navigated the ever-shifting waters of adulthood, the music of Simon and Garfunkel has been there.  The difficult part for me is choosing just 5 songs that most impacted me throughout life.

  1. Mrs. Robinson– There are few songs that have stood up like this one. The lyrics can be applied to today just as well as the 1960’s. The facade that people portray in life. Under the surface there are issues and no life is perfect. Where have you gone Joe Dimaggio?  Our nation turns its lonely eyes to you.  There is also to the seemingly hopeless political divisions of 2017.  Laugh about it, shout about it, when you’ve got to choose, any way you look at this you lose. 
  2. Bridge Over Troubled Water– There are few songs that transport you to an exact moment, and you can vividly remember all of the emotion, thoughts, and feelings surrounding that event. Life is an experience of highs and lows, bitter and sweet, that makes it an interesting journey. I hope that I have been a bridge over troubled water for those who needed it. I also know I have been troubled water to others. For that, I am sorry.  All I could do was my best to ease your mind.  Sail on silver girl. Sail on by. Your time has come to shine. All your dreams are on their way.
  3. Kathy’s Song– If you are a thinking human being, you realize that many of the things you believe in the morning of life are going to be rendered lies or useless as you move into the afternoon and evening of your life. This song reminds me of all the special people who have helped me understand some of those changing beliefs over the years.  Love is the greatest teacher if you pay attention to the lesson. My mind’s distracted and diffused
    My thoughts are many miles away. They lie with you when you’re asleep. And kiss you when you start your day.
  4. Homeward Bound– Looking back on all the different phases of my life, I think all of the struggles and easy moments have all been for the same purpose to find home. I have been fortunate to find some home in many places and to make the best of most situations. Much of what we have to do in life takes us away from being with the people we love.  Ideally, I think work should be something that you are passionate about not something that you do for a paycheck and stability. I know, not realistic.  I wish I was, Homeward bound, Home where my thought’s escaping, Home where my music’s playing, Home where my love lies waiting Silently for me.
  5. The Boxer- Your life can best be symbolized as a line graph. There are times that all factors align to place you on the high end. Then others put you down toward the bottom. This song reminds me of the spirit that we all have of courage to bounce back from adversity. To reinvent yourself, find some growth and keep going forward even when it is dark.  The fighter is there always in all of us to overcome any obstacle. In the clearing stands a boxer And a fighter by his trade. And he carries the reminders. Of ev’ry glove that laid him down

The Sounds of Silence, I am a rock, Scarborough Fair, America, Cecelia, April She Will Come, A Hazy Shade of Winter, 59th Bridge St song, For Emily wherever I may find her, Blues Run the Game

Harry Chapin by Mike Martin

My father has many sayings. My favorite, “if you are going to hire out tough you’ve gotta play the part”

My brother Kevin and my cousin Shawn know my father’s sayings well. We heard them often while we were moving cords and cords of firewood from the big woods of Maine to our homes in Greenville, Maine

Harry Forster Chapin was an American singer-songwriter best known for his folk rock songs including a number one hit Cat’s in the Cradle.

The song’s lyrics began as a poem written by Harry’s wife, Sandra Gaston; the poem itself was inspired by the awkward relationship between her first husband and his father a Brooklyn politician. This is a tribute to Harry Chapin character to record a song written by his wife about her former husband.

Watch the video (Harry Chapin – Cats in the Cradle) Sandy says that Harry put the poem aside until the birth of their son, Josh, born on November 15, 1972.

A dirty, old tractor

Josh, who is still involved with the family’s website, www.harrychapinmusic.com , and contributes to the release of new Harry Chapin material under the family’s label Chapin Productions, says that people want to touch him when they meet him, and he hears many stories of how Cat’s in the Cradle helped heal their relationships with the fathers.

From this line in the song,

And he walked away, but his smile never dimmed
Said, I’m gonna be like him, yeah
You know I’m gonna be like him

It seems that Sandy’s first husband’s father didn’t have much time for his son and it makes sense because love them or hate them, politicians are busy people attending daily work sessions and late night meetings- a huge time commitment that is most definitely a hardship to the family.

My dad has many talents but earned the majority of his income from fixing the big equipment used to harvest the trees for the State of Maine’s paper industry. He said often that he wished better for us that we didn’t have to earn a living lying underneath a dirty old tractor. This astonished me because, when I was ten all, I ever wanted was to make a living lying underneath a dirty old tractor.

Luckily, when I was a kid, my dad always had time for me. I got to go to work with him often and I always came home covered with grease. Of course, that was a day when they let a 10-year-old boy got to work like a man. Those were great days, filled with great lessons, mostly taught by example.

My son was born October 14, 1999, and turns eighteen today. Happy Birthday Coop, may the World bring you hope, joy, and prosperity, and

I don’t know when
But we’ll get together then
You know we’ll have a good time then

Please, have a great day, and if you have any questions, drop us a line and please partake in #OctoberNostalgicMusicMonth and while you are at it take a trip to Greenville, Maine-I understand the foliage is majestic this time of year! #visitGreenville

#OctoberNostalgicMusicMonth #visitGreenville

Nostalgicmusicmonth

Operator, Every Little Thing is Gonna Be Alright

Leave a comment

Day 13 – Nostalgic Music Month

Bob Marley- by Jon Hilton

One of my hidden talents in life is being one of the world’s preeminent dashboard musicians. That is, no matter where I travel, the time always goes faster, and is more memorable when you have good music to sing along with.  I have given performances lately on a nightly basis, and one of the artists that bring the most enjoyment is to sing along with the music of Bob Marley. The point of this project has been to celebrate the many ways that music has highlighted our lives. To rise above petty jealousy and foolishness and remember the happiness in life. The music of the late great Bob Marley always takes me to times and people who were golden in my memory.  Just thinking about writing this makes me smile and know that everything’s gonna be alright.

  1. Could You Be Loved– One of the basic fundamental principals of the world should be that love is the most important thing. More important than money, status and who’s right or wrong. This song reminds me to put the judgment away and accept the differences in people I encounter every day. Put aside differences and look at the similarities that exist in all people. The road of life is rocky and you may stumble too. So while you point your fingers someone else is judging you.
  2. Three Little Birds- Don’t worry about a thing, ’cause every little thing is gonna be alright.  That sentiment will get you through life. Worry never brought anything positive to your life. It is paying for tomorrow’s imaginary troubles today. All days have something positive in them and our job, as I see it, is to find them and appreciate them. This is a finite journey of fixed time through life and it is your choice how you spend it, miserable or happy. The simple choices you make moment to moment dictate that, choose wisely.
  3. Get Up Stand Up-This is a song that seems more relevant today than ever before. We live in a time of division, us and them, there is little understanding. I think we need to get up and stand up for the human being in all people. Rather than approaching things from a perspective of fear, we should be approaching problems from a perspective of love. You can fool some people sometimes. But you can’t fool all the people all the time. So now we see the light (What you gonna do?)We gonna stand up for our rights!
  4. Is this Love-We are all on a journey in life to find our other half.  The person who will complete us and allow us to become the best version of ourselves. This is a song about that search for me. Often I have to ask myself this question and have gotten all types of answers. In my mind now looking back, the answer was sometimes yes and sometimes no. This song reminds me of the many wonderful times I have researched this question and all of those answers I have received. I, I’m willing and able
    So I throw my cards on your table…………
  5. Redemption Song– The greatest stories in life are about redemption. No life is free of challenges, mistakes, miscalculations and foolish behavior. These things only define us if we allow them to. There is always a chance for redemption for all people. The greatest story is a comeback story and the triumph of overcoming our circumstances of pain to become a better version of ourselves. Whatever your struggles, keep moving forward today and move toward the ideal tomorrow that you dream of.  Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery. None but ourselves can free our minds.

I shot the sheriff, No Woman No Cry, One Love, So Much Trouble in the World,

 “Jim” Croce- by Mike Martin

James Joseph “Jim” Croce was an American folk and rock singer from Philadelphia, PA. He released five studio albums and had two number one hits on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

Bad Bad Leroy Brown 

Well the two men took to fighting

And when they pulled them off the floor

Leroy looked like a jigsaw puzzle

With a couple of pieces gone

A song about a man from Chicago that Jim had met in Fort Jackson, South Carolina while attending the Army’s lineman school. “Leroy” went AWOL after a few weeks but came back at the end of the month to get his paycheck. They put handcuffs on him and took him away.

Jim said that he listened to him talk about how ‘bad’ he was and knew someday he was going to write a song about him. I met a similar man from Chicago when attending boot camp at Great Lakes Naval Station in North Chicago, IL,

We called him “Shy Town.”  He claimed to be a gang banger and tried to persuade, the nine of us who arrived early and spent the first weekend of boot camp together, to shave our heads bald-just like his. Seven compiled, at the delight of the little Yeoman from Connecticut. I said no and gained a friend and a place at the front of the mail and paycheck line for the eight weeks of Navy boot camp.

Shy Town swan like a fish, so I was convinced he was a preppy private school kid, and just like Leroy, Shy Town only lasted three weeks.

On Thursday, September 20, 1973, during Croce’s Life and Times tour and the day before his single,  I Got a Name (1973)  , was released, the plane crashed an hour after a concert in Austin, TX. Croce died in the crash and was 30 years old.

Two of my favorite Jim Croce songs include the ultimate love song (have a great day Shannon) as well as a song about how to recover when your best friend runs off with your girl. Happy Friday the Thirteenth folks!

Time in a Bottle

If I could make days last forever
If words could make wishes come true
I’d save every day like a treasure and then
Again, I would spend them with you

Operator

Isn’t that the way they say it goes? Well, let’s forget all that
And give me the number if you can find it
So I can call just to tell ’em I’m fine and to show
I’ve overcome the blow, I’ve learned to take it well
I only wish my words could just convince myself
That it just wasn’t real, but that’s not the way it feels

Party-on folks, and if you have any questions, drop us a line and please partake in #OctoberNostalgicMusicMonth and while you are at it take a trip to Greenville, Maine-I understand the foliage is majestic this time of year! #visitGreenville
#OctoberNostalgicMusicMonth #visitGreenville

Nostalgicmusicmonth

Round and Round In Your Eyes

Leave a comment

Day 12 Nostalgic Music Month

Peter Gabriel by Jon Hilton

The college years in a person’s life are transitional as you move from the foolishness of youth into the “seriousness” of adulthood. You need to learn to balance the fun quotient of life with getting tasks completed.  The music of Peter Gabriel reminds me of my own struggles putting fun and work into proper perspective throughout my college years.

I was fortunate enough to attend two different institutions and earned a degree from both. However the lessons I learned in life there were far more valuable than any organized degree. Some of those lessons are here in the music of Peter Gabriel.

  1. Sledgehammer – During the summer of 1986, I worked security at SMVTI. We lived on campus in a dorm called Harborview.  There were 5 of us, 19-year-olds with no supervision. This song reminds me of the lessons learned that summer about time management and responsibility.  Sometimes when you want to have fun and meet young ladies, it is important to be a sledgehammer.  I’m going to be the sledgehammer
    This can be my testimony. I’m your sledgehammer. Let there be no doubt about it.

  2. Mercy Street– This song should be called Hobart Street because that is what I think of. An apartment we rented in South Portland, Maine the second year I went to school there. It is the place I watched the Red Sox blow the 1986 World Series and made a lot of youthful memories. We almost always had something happening. Friends visiting from neighboring colleges or from high school. One of the times in life when there was nothing but positive memories until the time it had to end and we all moved on with life. I often dream of that time and look for that type of happiness again, even though I know like all things, it has passed. Looking down on empty streets, all she can see. Are the dreams all made solid. Are the dreams all made real.

  3. Big Time– When you are young, you think you know everything. Or what you don’t know you can figure out when you need to. Life has not slapped you hard yet. I was sure that I had hit the big time back at that time. Living in the “big city” and getting my first car. It was a 1975 Ford Pinto. I paid $300 for and drove everywhere for a year. It was not pretty, it was not flashy, but it provided me with a freedom that I have enjoyed since. I have owned many other cars over the years but none put me in the big time like that ugly, pea green, potential explosive, Ford Pinto. Big time
    I’m on my way-I’m making it. Big time big time. I’ve got to make it show. yeah. Big time big time. So much larger than life. Big time. I’m going to watch it growing. Big time.

  4. Solsbury Hill– Friends are important throughout your life. When you are a young man trying to figure out how the big world works, friends are vital to the knowledge you gain and the lessons you learn. From how much you should drink, how to stand by those you care about in times of difficulty. This song reminds me of all of those brothers I grew up with in South Portland. All of us have had experiences after but I think the foundation of knowledge we learned on and around the campus of SMVTI has stuck with us. This song reminds me of this always. To keep in silence I resigned. My friends would think I was a nut. Turning water into wine. Open doors would soon be shut.

5. In Your Eyes– Anyone my age has the unstoppable urge to hold a boom box over your head whenever you hear this song. Seriously, right now I am listening to it and holding my computer over my head. This, of course, is the iconic scene of John Cusack in the movie Say Anything.  I think there were many times that “love” has ruled my life. As we get older, we seem to lose some of that passion of youth. The part of yourself that found love to be so vital to your existence.  Always remember the part of yourself that would do the romantic things to make your significant other feel special. I am not sure I want to hang out with anyone who wouldn’t hold a boom box for someone in 1986-87.  When I want to run away. I drive off in my car. But whichever way I go. I come back to the place you are.

HM- Don’t Give Up, Games without frontiers, Red Rain, Shock the Monkey, Digging in the Dirt

 Ratt by Mike Martin

I’ve seen Ratt twice both times in San Diego.  We have three rats- Mocha, Morticia and Cookie. I am not very fond of them.

Ratt is an American heavy metal band that had significant success and contributed heavily to the big glam pop metal movement of the 1980s.

I moved to San Diego in the late summer/early fall of 1985. After spending the coldest winter of my life at Great Lakes Naval Station in North

Great Lakes Naval Base

Chicago, IL, I was ready for some sunshine.

I was a little nervous walking aboard the USS Jouett CG-29 –affectionately known as the Jolly J buy its crew. But, those feelings faded face when I ran into a familiar face. Mike Shandik and I knew each other from Snipe school. The training you receive from the Navy to prepare you on how not to get caught sleeping on watch.

Mike landed on the Jolly J about 4 months before me. I was “push button” Snipe, so I got to hang out in Illinois and Wisconsin for an extra 4 months getting some extra Snipe training. I was happy to see him, and it didn’t take long to feel as though I was right at home.

In retrospect, it seems like several years between the day I was welcomed aboard the Jolly J and the New Year’s Eve that Mike and I (Dave Walsh weren’t you there?) saw Bon Jovi open for the Ratt, a San Diego Band, at the San Diego Sports Arena, but in reality it was less than 4 months.

We’ve had our rats- Mocha, Morticia and Cookie since Christmas 2016, and it seems like three weeks. Why is that?

Rats are considered the dogs of the rodent world. Shannon and the kids tell me they are warm, cuddly, loyal, and loving- not at all like their reputation or the rock band who shares their name.

Ratt came “Out of the Cellar” in 1984, followed that with “Invasion of Your Privacy” in 1985, and then “Dancing Undercover” in 1986. During this time, Ratt was very popular-selling out venues across the United States.

They are still touring and have had no less than 10 different members. They have broken up-reunited –broken up-reunited-broken up-reunited and are currently in a court battle –paying lawyers to decide who gets to use the “Ratt” brand.

Seems like Ratt – Round And Round   Predicted their future.

Tightened our belts, abuse ourselves

Get in our way, we’ll put you on your shelf

Another day, some other way

We’re gonna go, but then we’ll see you again

Party-on folks, and if you have any questions, drop us a line and please partake in #OctoberNostalgicMusicMonth and while you are at it take a trip to Greenville, Maine-I understand the foliage is majestic this time of year! #visitGreenville

#OctoberNostalgicMusicMonth #visitGreenville

Nostalgicmusicmonth

Born to Be Ironic

Leave a comment

Nostalgic Music Month Day 10

Bruce Springsteen by Jon Hilton

It would be hard to think of nostalgia and music for me without including Bruce Springsteen. For many of the formative years of my life, the music of the E Street Band punctuated the activities and defined many of the moments.  Even though I have never raced cars in the streets, or even been to Atlantic City, there is a message in the music that a kid from Maine could definitely relate to and find comfort in. Growing up, I listened to Bruce as I fell asleep many nights, to the dismay of my brother who I shared a room with. The people I shared these times with are very special to me and always will be.

  1. Rosalita– This song reminds my of my own Rosalita, we were the best of friends and in a world where most people suck, it was good to have one who was awesome to hang out with and have fun. There were many nights we would listen to Bruce Springsteen, sing, laugh and just enjoy being alive. Those nights with my Rosalita are bright memories and I think of her now whenever I hear this song and wonder why I made the mistakes I did. Rosalita is still in my heart and always will be.  “Someday we’ll look back on this and it will all seem funny…..”

  2. Hungry Heart– When it comes to decisions in life, I think sometimes we make choices in the moment and we don’t see the long game. I was never good at expressing how I felt, and when feelings I didn’t understand came into my heart, I shut down. The whole thing, I would just avoid the situation. Not the best coping mechanism. Like a river that don’t know where it’s flowing. I took a wrong turn and I just kept going. Too many times this has been the case as it was with Rosalita.

  3. Atlantic City-There is something magical about the Nebraska album that resonated with me and still does to this day. The desperation in life that a person can feel and the hope of a new day.  The message of this song is exemplary of the quiet desperation filled with hope that I had as a young man and still do today. Oh, everything dies, baby, that’s a fact
    But maybe everything that dies some day comes back.  

  4. Spirit in the Night– There are many times that the spirits in the night remind me of. I knew Hazy Davy and we used to drink Black Label and talk about what life would bring, even though we really had no idea beyond the day we were in.  Rosalita is always a prominent memory from this song because of the many times we spent together just talking about life. Again we had no idea what was in store, it was all ahead of us then. Now not so much.  Spirit in the night (all night), in the night (all night)
    Stand right up and let her shoot through me.

  1. Racing in the Street– I have never raced a car in the streets, but as a metaphor, this song captures how I feel about life. People have dreams and over time many of them have been forgotten echoes of who we used to be. Life has a way of making you forget your dreams sometimes as obligations and expectations replace those dreams. It is important to remember that it isn’t too late to do what you dream of, even if that is just racing in the streets.   Some guys they just give up living
    And start dying little by little, piece by piece, Some guys come home from work and wash up, And go racin’ in the street………

Honorable mention- Thunder Road, Born To Run, Born in the USA, Badlands, Jungleland, Dancin’ in the Dark, I’m on Fire, Human Touch, Brilliant Disguise, The River, Because the Night, No Surrender, The Rising, Prove it All Night, The Promised Land, Backstreets

 Alanis Morissette by Mike Martin

Today is a day to discuss Irony. What’s irony? Thanks to Alanis Morissette-Jon Hilton, My Spiritual Advisor, and I talk about ‘it” on the rare occasion when we have nothing else to discuss. Isn’t it “Ironic” , don’t you think.

Alanis Morissette is a Canadian American alternative rock singer-songwriter, musician, multi-instrumentalist, record producer, and actress. She was born June 1, 1974. In 1995, she released “Jagged Little Pill” which sold more than 33 million records, and more importantly, she gained me as a lifelong fan

Her best work came when she played God in “Dogma”, a 1999 American fantasy comedy film, written and directed by Kevin Smith, who stars along with Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, Linda Fiorentino, Alan Rickman, Bud Cort, Salma Hayek, Chris Rock, Jason Lee, George Carlin, and Janeane Garofalo. . I have always thought that God is a female. This movie proves it! -Is that ironic? I’m not sure.

According to the Oxford English Dictionary “irony” is “a figure of speech in which the intended meaning is the opposite of that expressed by the words used”

Let’s face it, the irony is a confusing concept. I guess “Ironic” isn’t technically ironic, but the verses are rich with situational ironies-defined as “the state of affairs or event(s) that seems deliberately contrary to what one expects to happen”.

An old man turned ninety-eight

He won the lottery and died the next day.

This circumstance is situationally ironic-Jon Hilton-you really must think!

“Ironic” was Morissette’s highest ranking hit reaching number four on the US Hot 100 chart on April 13, 1996. Jagged Little Pill was only expected to generate enough money for Morissette to make a follow-up album, but the all changed with the success of the album’s first single, “You Oughta Know”–a raunchy tribute to an ex-lover–a much easier concept to understand than irony, I really do think!

And I’m here, to remind you

Of the mess you left when you went away

Party-on folks, and if you have any questions, drop us a line and please partake in #OctoberNostalgicMusicMonth and while you are at it take a trip to Greenville, Maine-I understand the foliage is majestic this time of year!

#OctoberNostalgicMusicMonth #visitGreenville

Nostalgicmusicmonth

Tangled Up in Teen Spirit

Leave a comment

Nostalgic Music Month Day 9

Bob Dylan- by Jon Hilton

It is hard to find an artist with a broader reach of influence than Robert Allen Zimmerman, aka Bob Dylan. He has been singing and performing since well before I was born and influencing people much older and much younger than myself. His music has been relevant in the turbulent 1960’s all the way to today.  His music has been part of the soundtrack of many movies and has punctuated memories in the lives of millions of people.

My personal connection to Bob Dylan started in the 1980’s, in a time when I was trying to answer some of the key questions of the world. Why are women so hard to figure out? Why are people so mean to each other? Why do older generations seem to not understand or care about youth? What is this life all about?  Many of the answers came from the music of Bob Dylan. At least his songs were a roadmap to start to look for the right answers. There is a flood of nostalgic memories and thoughts that come from hearing the thoughtful words of Bob Dylan.

  1. Don’t Think Twice– Relationships end, that is a part of life. Sometimes it’s hard and sometimes it’s a good thing.  This song was the first to state my feelings about when it is good to move forward, leave a relationship behind and it was a good thing. Sometimes people don’t treat us the way we deserve and it is good to move forward. Goodbye is too good a word, babe. So I just say fare thee well, I ain’t sayin’ you treated me unkind
    You could have done better but I don’t mind. You just kinda wasted my precious time.

  2. Shelter from the Storm– In all lives there are storms and these are the times when we are challenged to change and survive. The storm is raging and you feel like a piece of debris. It is that these moments, shelter from the storm is most appreciated. I have been fortunate to find shelter from the storm several times in my life and I am grateful. This song always reminds me of those moments I needed help and got it.  Try imagining a place where it’s always safe and warm. Come in, she said, “I’ll give ya shelter from the storm.”

3.  The Times They Are A Changin’– The words are as true about politics and our country today as they were in the early 60’s.  The generations and misunderstanding. Leadership gets more convoluted, and the divisions in the world become bigger. Until we change and accept each other and our differences we are in trouble.  Come senators, congressmen. Please heed the call. Don’t stand in the doorway. Don’t block up the hall. For he that gets hurt. Will be he who has stalled. There’s a battle outside and it is ragin’. It’ll soon shake your windows and rattle your walls. For the times they are a-changin’. 

2. Forever Young– This song is my wish for all the people I have ever cared about in life. I wish you the best and that you are able to stay forever young. To hang on the essence of you, that made you uniquely who you are. The world will try to change you and cover up your abilities. Don’t change to be popular, don’t hide because you’re afraid.  Be brave and be the best version of yourself.  May your hands always be busy. May your feet always be swift. May you have a strong foundation. When the winds of changes shift.

  1. Tangled Up In Blue– Bob Dylan took a phrase that meant nothing and supplied it with a story. One that many people could relate to. We have all been tangled up in blue in our life’s narrative at one point or another. Nostalgic music month allows us to look to the past, relationships, regrets, triumphs, and positive things.  The many times that I was tangled up in blue. But all the while I was alone. The past was close behind. I seen a lot of women. But she never escaped my mind. And I just grew. Tangled up in blue.

Honorable mention- Like a Rolling Stone, Hurricane, Gotta Serve Somebody, Subterranean Homesick Blues, A Hard Rains Gonna Fall, Rainy Day Woman #12 + 35, Blowin’ in the Wind, It Ain’t Me Babe, Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door

Nirvana by Mike Martin

I like listening to Nirvana. At the time their music became mainstream listening to them made me feel angry and invincible-now it kind of makes me a little scared.

As I’ve mentioned prior, I use music to help educate my children, and playing the ‘grunge” rock sound of Nirvana is the right time to have a discussion about the dangers of heroin, depression, and mental illness.

Nirvana was formed by singer and guitarist Kurt Cobain and bassist Krist Novoselic in 1987. Dave Grohl, who later became the front man for the Foo Fighters, joined the band as their drummer in 1990.

They released their second album Nevermind in 1991. The success of the albums first single “Smells Like Teen Spirit” introduced alternative rock music to the masses-a new music sound that was embraced by Generation Xers like myself.

For about a second, Nirvana was the hottest band in the world, but Cobain’s personal demons and battles with drugs lead to a quick and violent end to the band from Aberdeen, Washington.

On April 8, 1994, Kurt Cobain was found dead in Seattle, Washington. It was quickly determined that he had killed himself with a shotgun. After reading the lyrics written by the Cobain and the other members of Nirvana, I can’t help but speculate-why did my power go out this morning? It Indigenous Peoples Day for peat’s sake?

And please always- Come As You Are

“Come as you are, as you were, as I want you to be
As a friend, as a friend, as and old enemy
Take your time, hurry up, the choice is yours, don’t be late
Take a rest as a friend as and old memoria
Memoria, memoria, memoria, memoria”

And, if that doesn’t work, there is always – Lithium

“I’m so happy because today
I’ve found my friends
They’re in my head”

Please. Party-on folks, and if you have any questions, drop us a line and please partake in #OctoberNostalgicMusicMonth and while you are at it take a trip to Greenville, Maine-I understand the foliage is majestic this time of year!
#OctoberNostalgicMusicMonth #visitGreenville

Nostalgicmusicmonth

Sweet Baby Desperado

Leave a comment

Day 8 Nostalgic Music Month

James Taylor by Jon Hilton

Music punctuates moments in your life with meaning and allows you to resurrect those time when you hear a song after a week or after 30 years. Like a time warp, you are transported to that place, feeling those emotions. The music of James Taylor does this for me for sure. It takes me to a time when I was youthful, hopeful and hadn’t made a lot of mistakes in life. A time when possibilities were seemingly endless.

It was the 1980’s and I was out in the world for the first time, seeking my fortune. I first went to South Portland to go to school first, and that was the classroom I started to learn about “real life” in. When I completed two years there, I went on to the University of Maine at Farmington, for more life lessons.  The Music of James Taylor accompanied me on that journey.

  1. Carolina In My Mind– I don’t really want to go to Carolina I think, but the sentiment of the song reminds me of my life in Maine, and childhood in Greenville in particular.  I have always idealized the experience and the place. To me, it was the best location to grow up. It was safe, fun and full of great people and experiences.  I never wanted to leave, and I still visit that place and time if only in my mind. The signs that might be omens say I’m goin’, I’m goin’. I’m gone to Carolina in my mind
  2. Steamroller– James Taylor defined how I felt when I was 20. I was a steamroller, guaranteed to blow your mind. It seemed like there was nothing I couldn’t do or acquire if I set my mind to it. Life tends to take that out of you. But at the time, I was a steamroller baby and I’m gonna roll all over you. I still feel that way on occasion today.
  3. You’ve Got A Friend– Friendships have been a big part of my life, and during that period of life, living in South Portland, life would have been nowhere near as good or as interesting if not for the friends I had.  The troubles we faced were few, and we had a lot of fun learning how to navigate life.  Friendships in adulthood have not been the same. As deep or as reliable, so as the years go by I cherish those times and the friends that made them great!
  4. Sweet Baby James– Being a country boy from Maine, this has always been home but I still had a healthy wanderlust, and still do, to see the places I have never been. This song reminds of some of those travels I have had and those still to come.  With 10 miles behind me and 10,000 more to go.  I think that our lives are all a song we sing so that others of like mind and sentiment will understand. He sings out a song which is soft but is clear as if maybe someone could hear……..
  1. Something in the Way She Moves– When you are young and in love, you think that nothing could ever be like that again. It is the biggest, the best and most wonderful connection that can never be duplicated. Yet, these things tend to end, and leave you with memories and the realization that good times will come and other relationships will hit you just as hard in the future. BUT …It isn’t what she’s got to say, But how she thinks and where she’s been. To me, the words are nice, the way they sound I like to hear them best that way. It doesn’t much matter what they mean……….

Honorable mention- Mexico, Fire and Rain, Mockingbird, Never Die Young, Shower the People, How Sweet it Is, Your Smiling Face, Country Road

 Ten Lesson from the Eagles by Mike Martin

If I had to pick one friend to accompany me on a road trip, without a doubt (apologizes to my other friend) that friend would be Daryle Doustou.

I met Daryle at Ruby Tuesdays in Presque Isle, Maine. Daryle had moved to Maine to manage a sneaker store in the all-new Aroostook Centre Mall which opened on November 1, 1993.

Daryle has family roots in Fort Kent, Maine, and since no one else from the Midwestern athletic apparel company had ever heard of Maine than again Presque Isle, Maine, Daryle was given his first shot at store management.

He did a great job and was basically the de facto Mayor for the Aroostook Centre Mall-everybody knew Daryle.  Which is why Larry (can’t remember his last name right now) the bartender at Ruby Tuesdays was shocked that Daryle and I had never met.

I had moved to the area about the same time as Daryle, but I was in a relationship and spent most of my nights either at home or working on my dirt removal business. So, we never met until that day. We instantly became friends, each happy that we found someone else in the area that was both brave and stupid enough to enjoy life to the fullest.

With saying such as—“If you’re not living on the edge…..”, and “My name is……take me as I am or……” Daryle and I always have much fun and make the best of every situation.

I have many funny stories about the adventures that Daryle and I have shared which include getting arrested for doing laundry, watching Daryle try to ride a baby moose while traveling on the “Golden Road” and our “Planes, Trains and Automobile” moment when I jumbled in Daryle’s bed after learning about The Centennial Olympic Park bombing on July 27, 1996.

Me: “Do you have any close on?”

Daryle: “No”

ME: “AHRG—how about those Bears?”

A few months after I met Daryle.  We took a two-day road trip to Montréal, Canada to see the Eagles. The trip was memorable and we did not get arrested.

I have always loved listening to the Eagles for reasons that are difficult to put into words.

Jim Valvano the famous basketball coach who led the NC State Wolfpack to an impossible championship in 1983 said this in a famous speech while his body was riddled with cancer.

 “If you laugh, you think, and you cry, that’s a full day. That’s a heck of a day. You do that seven days a week, you’re going to have something special.”

I guess the Eagles just help move me to something special. Thank you, Daryle Doustou for completely understanding my bullshit and for being one incredible friend.

Ten Lesson from the Eagles:

  1. You are never alone: Linda Ronstadt “Desperado” Live
  1. Lying sucks: Eagles – Lyin’ Eyes
  2. You won’t be the new kid forever- Eagles / New kid in town (Live 1977) 
  3. Don’t get lost: The Eagles – Hotel California 
  4. Mornings are best: Tequila Sunrise – The Eagles
  5. Always do your best: Eagles – Best of My Love (Live at the Capital Centre,1977)
  6. All time is good time: The Eagles – Wasted Time (Live-2005)
  7. Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself: Eagles – Take It To The Limit (Live at The Capital Centre 1977)
  8. There is no time for hate, judgment, and jealousy: Eagles – Get Over It – Hell Freezes Over
  1. And, take it easy: The Eagles – Take It Easy (1977) Live 

If you have any questions, drop us a line and please partake in #OctoberNostalgicMusicMonth and while you are at it take a trip to Greenville, Maine-I understand the foliage is majestic this time of year! #visitGreenville

#OctoberNostalgicMusicMonth #visitGreenville

Nostalgicmusicmonth

Sunshine to Sundown

Leave a comment

Day 6 Nostalgic Music Month

Just a kid from Maine by Jon Hilton

When I really look at myself, the truth is that I am just a kid from Maine, who was raised in a wild and free manner.  My formative years were spent in two rural settings, Greenville and Jefferson Maine. It would hard to be more country than that. Music was always a part of my life and I have my parents to thank for that. There were many car trips between Greenville and Jefferson which is about a two-hour trip.  On those trips, the only form of entertainment was the radio and singing along to the latest hits. No music today reminds me of growing up in the woods of Maine more than John Denver.  These songs are a connection to that kid from Maine that I am and was.

  1. Thank God I’m a Country Boy– Since I am clearly a country boy, this song always makes me smile. It takes me back to a simpler time. Growing up in a rural setting you learn to make your own fun. You learn to fish, play and explore the unknown. There is also a healthy respect for nature that innately grows in you.  The biggest theme I remember from that time is the freedom I had to do just about what I wanted. Thank God I’m a Country Boy

  2. Rocky Mountain High– Even though Maine is about as far from the Rocky Mountains as you can get, the sentiment of this song relates to the natural beauty and rugged wilderness that exists in this kid from Maine. I spent my summers literally running around a small lake in Jefferson, Maine and the connections to that place and experiences run through me still today. It is funny how you never see the value of some experiences until long after they slip into your history. Talk to God and listen to his casual reply.

  3. Back Home Again– When I think of that home of my youth, it was really not the place that made it special, it was the people I was fortunate enough to call family. I was fortunate enough to know and have a personal relationship with all of my grandparents and most of my great-grandparents.  All of them are gone now, but pieces of them live inside me, from the kindness they showed me, the advice they gave me and the example they set.  As a kid from Maine, I was able to have a great experience.  Hey, it’s good to be back home again………

2. Sunshine on My Shoulders– I remember waking up on a summer morning as a kid and seeing the reflection of the sun off the water dancing across the room. I knew it was going to be a great day because it was sunny. No rain would lessen the activities that we could participate in that day.  Fishing, swimming, boating, and adventuring were all on the docket and I was going to participate in all of them with vigor.  Even today I feel the same way about the opportunities that a sunny day will bring.  This kid from Maine was lucky that all he needed was sunshine to be happy. If I had a day that I could give you, I’d give to you a day just like today…..

  1. Country Roads Take Me Home– There are two roads I think of that led to home. One is the road into Greenville. When we saw the lake and were coming down the hill into town, I knew I was home.  The other was the old dirt road in Jefferson that led to camp. The roads we travel tell a lot about our journey. It was good to be a free kid from Maine. I think many of us spend a lot of time looking to those times in the past. I guess I do too, but for a different reason. Not to experience the things that were again, but to make today a little bit more like that time. I was so fortunate to have the family and friends that I did and the life I lived. This kid from Maine had it pretty good.  Country roads take me home to the place I belong.

Gordon Lightfoot  by Mike Martin

Thursdays are my most intense day of the work week. Couple that with a teachers workshop, an afternoon playoff baseball game, and the Patriots on Thursday Night Football. There ain’t much time to write about nostalgic music feelings.

So, today I am picking Gordon Meredith Lightfoot Jr. as my day 6 #OctoberNostalgicMusicMonth section. Possibly the best songwriter ever to live- a musician that if he would have changed his name might have surpassed every music sales record ever held.

Gordon Lightfoot is credited for defining the folk-pop sound of the 60s and 70s. And I, Mike Martin, outside of Dale Duff, a local, Bangor, Maine sports broadcasting legend, is possibly the biggest Gordon Lightfoot fan ever born.

Listening to his music puts me in a great mood and the imagery created by his poetic verses are just like a Calgon Bath.

So, please Gordon-Take me away and help me make another day.

Gordon Lightfoot – “If You Could Read My Mind” 

If you could read my mind love

What a tale my thoughts could tell

 

“The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” – Gordon Lightfoot

When suppertime came, the old cook came on deck sayin’

Fellas, it’s too rough to feed ya

At seven pm a main hatchway caved in, he said

Fellas, it’s been good t’know ya

 

My personal favorite: Gordon Lightfoot – Sundown

She’s been lookin’ like a queen in a sailor’s dream
And she don’t always say what she really means

Peace and Love, Please have a terrific Friday!

If you have any questions, drop us a line and please partake in #OctoberNostalgicMusicMonth and while you are at it take a trip to Greenville, Maine-I understand the foliage is majestic this time of year! #visitGreenville

#OctoberNostalgicMusicMonth #visitGreenville