A very nice evening at the Red Cow last night; so little has changed since we were last there, but it was a nice to reconnect with the ever-lovely Natalie and Steve. We never seem to have time to talk to everyone, in this case hardly anyone else. The performances were dominated by Nigel and his friends, as we have come to expect, I think he performed 8 songs vs. the 2 that everyone else was allocated. He's a first class performer but I don't really like his music or style, so this aspect of these nights can be a drain.
June Holland's rendition of 'All I Want For Christmas Is You' was stunning, vocals as good as Mariah Carey, but with greater star quality. June's recordings do not do her live performances justice. So much in art is personality and presence; not content, or so much skill. Those who lack this star qualtiy, this 'X Factor', often try to force their work on an audience and wonder why they get so little in return, despite producing pleasant, high quality work. These people will never become stars, but many can eke out a miserable living. Of course, many with the star quality don't make it; but for great success it is essential. The Beatles, above all other factors, above skill and imagination, intelligence and hunger, were successful because of their personality.
I didn't realise it was a 'festive' event, so performed 'Norman Bates' and 'The Arm', rather than anything Christmassy. I rather enjoyed it all and relished the fun aspect of everything. Deb performed a new poem 'Abacus Overload'. She is a natural performer.
Today, a slow day. The day started with a 90 minute Windows update, then a trip to the shops with Deborah. When home I made this soap dish from stainless steel. Soap often melts into a watery mess, so this rack should keep things cleaner.
After than, upholstering my 'Warm Comfy Sofa' model with needle and thread, and updating Argus on Steam.
I'm frustrated with slowness, not moving forwards enough. I must push harder and set more explicit goals.
