15 minutes found us back in my hotel and writing up the initial (and condensed version) of the review.  Keith left for home promising to be back for breakfast this morning.  I stayed up for a bit, just letting the events process in my mind, catching up on mail, catching my breath, and cooling down.  Man, it was hot in that club!  Took a quick shower and passed out on the bed at about 4 this morning (local time).  Keith and Nate (the newest TFJ I know at 5 months old) showed up this morning, we hung out for a while, traded some CDs and then as quickly as yesterday seemed to pass, it was time to leave for the airport. 

Keith got me to the airport in plenty of time, safely, and with some excellent company.  I was off!   We had a short wait on the  taxiway in Minneapolis .  Evidently the electric auxiliary thingy that starts the engines decided to go on strike after the first engine was started.  They had to do a "cross bleed" or something like that which, I gather, is the aeronautical equivalent of a push start, only without the motion.  2nd engine started and 15 minutes of paperwork later, I sit here somewhere over Wisconsin finishing this for you and on my way home to get the dogs and settle down from this carnival ride.

Keith:  I can't thank you enough for your hospitality, company and unconditional friendship.  You're a real treasure.

Tia:  What can I say?  You rock!  I just wish we were able to thank you and say goodnight before we split the club.

Jonasay:  You guys could very well have what it takes.  Yeah, like WTF do I  know? I do idiotic things like travel the globe to see Creed, Hootie and The Alarm, for chrissakes.  Anyway, if you lose that sincere and humble attitude, stop being so damned approachable and nice, get a "fuck you" attitude, and start ignoring every fan except those willing to exchange flesh for a smile, I might just be getting pushed around by your security at an arena near me in no time!

Hootie:  Thank you thank you.  For having the talent to write, record and perform such great music.  For the patience that recording and touring takes.  For the serenity that has got to be necessary to deal with fans -- especially really irritating ones like me ;-) And for the energy.  It's karmic in so many ways... you'll never know.

The rest of you?  Get to know Jonasay.  You won't regret it.  If you don't know Hootie and the Blowfish, you should.  If you know them but haven't heard them in a while, take another listen - this band is truly one of the best active bands, imo.

DebbiR

for those interested... a full report including reviews and set lists will be available on my site:  http://www.debbir.com/hootie.htm