heinz ketchup

What's with the title? Well I turned 57 this past Monday November 2nd so if you're old enough, you know the reference. If not...

Then it's a stupid title, isn't it?

I've been in a reflective mood lately and it's all good stuff. I had a GREAT birthday, perfect weather, treated myself to a new white Ibanez 7-string too. I am still celebrating until Friday, when Supernova plays Jefferson House. It's being subtitled as a "post-birthday Bello bash" so that works for me.

But like anything in my life, epiphanies abound.

Recently I found out that three classmates passed away, two in the same week, and one last January. It's very jarring to hear this because it hits too close to home. Not here to be doom and gloom but the adage is true: life's too damn short! 

I can't act like I was such good friends with these people. One of them, yes, but even then, I was never close with anyone in my class. I never fit in anyone's wheelhouse, and for years that was an albatross around my neck. And then one day, a while back, it hit me...I AM SUPPOSED TO BE THE OUTLIER! Everyone else were busy blending in and wearing the right uniform. 

Not me.

I enjoy advancing in age because it beats the alternative. I've got more living to do and while my days as an original artist are behind me, I'm sure there's some gas in the reserve tank for the future. I'm in a better place now and enjoy it very much.

Glad I still have my hair too!