We have survived yet another winter in Floyd. The weather was mild compared to last year, but you know as well as I, it was not without it’s challenges. Business, however, was unexpectedly constant. The weather was a help, I only got snowed in once, and it was really just because I wanted the day off. What we didn’t account for was the surge of people, Dogtown Crew included, with cabin fever that would venture out if it wasn’t inclement weather. So many grateful customers, happy to have their social fix to uplift their winter blues.
New Years Eve was my first time back on the scene after a much needed break to recoup and regroup. Sparkles and spangles spruced up the event while 3 fantastic DJ’s filled the Sun Music Hall with good beats for a full night of dirty dancing, champagne toasts, and midnight kissing.
The 2nd Annual Mardi Gras Costume Ball, to benefit Blue Mountain School, came with a gusto as people from all over came decked to the hilt in their best carnival attire. Local musicians, SpoonFight and Wildlife rocked the party with a zydeco flair and a some rockin’ blues; paying tribute to Dogtown Roadhouse with a cover of the Door’s “Roadhouse Blues”. A late night costume contest concluded the event, featuring many outrageous jokers and some super-hot-mamas, myself included.
A full moon Equinox weekend, topped with warm weather, kicked off the Floyd Friday Night Street Party — where young and old come out of the woodwork to do what they do: JAM. Dogtown celebrated the return of spring with a 2-stepin’ good time, lead by authentic honky-tonk musicians: JP Harris and the Tough Choices. While the dub-steppin’ dancers patiently awaited their turn on the late night dance floor to DJ Tiki.
Overall, there is a feeling of renewal and celebration for making it through the winter. Hobbling out of the cave, most of my pieces intact, I ready myself for spring training…but don’t think we are not stronger and braver because of our winter experiences. There are two ways to deal with the winter: embrace it or escape it (or maybe a little of both). Either way spring brings growth and gladness and for that I am grateful.
