MOHS Surgery

I had MOHS surgery on my left cheek today to remove bad little cells that had taken up residence there. I was at the dermatologist's office for about an hour and fifteen minutes. I think the surgery took about twenty minutes. They called later to say that they had gotten the deep cells but that there were some peripheral cells that still remain that they can freeze dry in about four weeks. I will get my stitches removed next Tuesday. All in all the procedure wasn't bad - there really was no pain except the small sting of the needles when I got numbed - and the healing pain isn't very much either, yet. The last time I had it, it wasn't bad either. Tylenol will take care of it, if necessary. 

Folk Musicians' Retreat

I recently attended a Folk Musicians' Retreat at Janes Island State Park in Crisfield, MD, organized by Pat and Patrick Costello. It was a bold excursion for me because even though I am trying to learn to play the banjo, I felt that I was not far enough along to be considered a "musician." Well, I was pleasantly surprised by the nice group of people that I met there who were willing to share and to help me learn. The weekend, from Thursday to Sunday morning, was fairly unstructured, which worked out surprisingly well. There were some specific workshops, but for the most part, you could just sit where others were gathered and you would learn something. Some of the people there have been playing individually or in bands for years and were very good players. Others were about where I was/am, so I didn't feel uncomfortable. There is a very great deal to learn and I am just beginning the journey, which is why there is no video posted of me playing the banjo. Go to www.tangiersound.wordpress.com and scroll down for pictures of the Retreat.