Blogs from Champaign, Illinois, United States, North America

Another day of travel and another day closer to home. We left Missouri when we crossed the Mississippi River into Illinois and drove most of the way across the state before settling up camp near Champaign, Illinois. When I pulled into the campground and opened the camper door I got yet another discouraging surprise. The steps are supposed to come out when you open the door but they did not and they will not. I crawled under to investigate and I lubricated all the joints and banged on things. I didn't see anything bent or stuck and all the wires are intact. I checked the fuses and circuit breakers but nothing was wrong, so that's about it as far as a road fix goes, unless a brilliant idea occurs to me. We went out for supper ... read more

Leavetakings Everyone was meeting at the practice space on the north side of Chicago. Having been out of the country for a couple years, I hadn't had a chance to meet the new(est) guitarist, Adam or the interim bassist Steve. We started loading up some equipment in the van according to the drummer's detailed instructions. Having known Mike for 17 years at this point, it came as a shock to me to see him that focused and organized. I guess he had been saving himself for Verona Red all this time. A few words on the setup of the van: Mike had bought a van that had 2 full rear benches. He ripped the last bench out, and built a huge wooden frame that fit inside the back. On top of the wooden frame there ... read more

Well one last blog from the road. We had our closing show today and last load out. It was bittersweat for sure. I am going to miss being on the road, but I am happy about coming home. During the last show, one of the skaters decided to get the crew to come out during finale to give one a bow. It was a nice jester. And very nice to go take a bow. We worked hard for it. Most of the guys on tour who have been on tours for a long time, said that this was one of the hardest they've ever done, even worse than South America!! So we made it. And set the company record for fastest load out! 1:49! It feels like I've been gone for years. BUt I am ready ... read more

Today it snowed!! WOOO HOOOO!!! How I love the snow, it's meant to snow later this afternoon again too. I love it!... read more

Sometimes, you find something interesting, worth visit in the most unexpected place. By chance, I found this winery. (I was reading local newspaper and saw the vineyard's event calendar). Sleepy Creek is located between Champaign and Danville, IL. Basically, I called this region, the cornfield country. A vineyard in East Central Illinois? I got to check it out to fulfill my own curiosity. On a lazy Saturday afternoon, I visited Sleepy Creek. It is a small but charming vineyard. The drive way lead me to a barn, which is the tasting room. I was the only guest when I arrived. The staff was very friendly and eager to show me their specialties. Unfortunately, several of their wines were already sold out due to popular demand. I tasted 3 wines: Sour Puss: A dry white wine with ... read more