I’ve been trying to think of something eloquent to say about Andrew Heringer and the Andrew Heringer Band. I don’t know why I’m at such a loss for words. Maybe it’s because I’m used to writing about more abstract topics, and this one is near and dear to my heart. So, excuse me if I’m about to gush.

Andrew was one of my best friends in high school, is one of the few people from that era of my life who I still talk to today, and – though we don’t talk nearly enough – is still one of my favorite people in the world. He’s probably the most talented person I’ve ever had the privilege of knowing. Above and beyond raw talent, he’s incredibly hard-working and savvy. He was never just the kid playing guitar in his mom’s garage and imagining someone would hand him a record contract. I am incredibly proud of him for pursuing what he loves, and doing it with such imagination and passion. Everything Andrew has achieved, he’s worked his ass off for, and that’s why I wanted to say something here beyond just reposting a link.

In an effort to expose more people to their music while releasing their newest album, the Andrew Heringer Band has come up with a Kickstarter.com plan. They’re looking to cover their recording and production costs, so they can release a free version of their newest album, as well as a deluxe (longer) version. You can chip in anywhere from $1+, and starting at $10 can get a (digital) download of the deluxe album. At $20 you can get a signed hard copy. There are even better perks moving up from there, but I mention those two levels specifically because – hey – that’s what you’d pay for a digital album on iTunes or a CD, anyway. Why not do it and help an indie artist with a creative venture?

While I was in California, I got the chance to see Andrew perform as part of another project with his (also insanely talented and beautiful) girlfriend, Marlana Sheetz: Dawson and Marie. Something that still strikes me, after all these years, is how genuine his ability really is. Andrew is not someone who sounds good after post-production, but makes you cringe in concert. He’s the real deal – vocally, instrumentally (he can play just about anything you put in his hands), lyrically. He’s a friggin’ nice guy, too.

I don’t bleg for myself, much, so you better believe I really, really love a friend to do it for them. Check ‘em out, for me? :)

P.S. If you want bonus good Karma, re-post or pass along a link, would you?

I’m sorry, I can’t hear you over the sound of Idaho kicking more ass.

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On a personal note: Thank you all for your good thoughts, prayers, etc. My grandma is doing well, all things considered. She’s doing inpatient stroke rehab at UC Davis, and is making great progress. She has most of her physical function back, but not all of her neurological pathways. So, she has the strength to walk, but her brain doesn’t always send the right signals. She has the ability to talk, but can’t always find the right word. We’re not sure just yet what the course of action will be regarding the cancer.

In other news, my dad thought he cracked a rib the other day, so he went in for a chest x-ray and they found a nodule in his lung that wasn’t there a couple of years ago. He had a CT scan yesterday and they’re doing a needle biopsy on the 31st. Add him to the good thoughts list, yes?

Oh, and, my 34-year-old horse died the other day. Though, she appears to have more or less gone in her sleep, after a day of sunshine, grooming and a hoof trim, so not too far off the way I’d like to kick the bucket. I’ll miss her but am glad she was in good health ’til the end.

And have I mentioned how much I hate this god-awful, smoggy, allergy-inducing, bankrupt cesspool of a state? Back when I lived here, I thought I had a high level of wanderlust. Now, as I feel the same feelings rising, I realize it’s not really wanderlust so much as a fight or flight instinct. I just want to be somewhere not here. Also, my hometown is completely overrun with thug-life looking cholos. WTF.

Anyway. I could use a vacation from my vacation, and since neither The Inconvenience or my best guns are here, my #1 and #2 stress-relief are off the table. Sigh. All that said, I’m actually in surprisingly high spirits, all things considered, and have at least gotten to connect with some old friends and enjoy the sunshine.

C’est la vie.

I would appreciate everyone’s prayers and positive thoughts for my grandma. Last week we found out she likely has cancer (again), and today it appears she had a stroke. She’s not doing very well. I could use some good vibes too, as I try to figure out the logistics of getting to California.

Blogging might be sparse for a little while – I’ll try to keep you all posted. Thanks, in advance.