phocas.net

Another year, another Eagle Days event has come and gone.  While the majestic birds are always an intrigue unto their own, the recent event at Smithville Lake left a bit to be desired, especially when compared to similar events previously attended. One of the most noticeable differences was the time allotted with the presented birds. In the past, and at other venues, attendees have had the opportunity to spend more time observing and learning about the raptors on display. At this event, one individual droned on about various facts related to the birds, while the eagle sat on its perch the entire time.  The talk was interesting but lost on many, especially the younger folks in attendance. To truly appreciate these incredible creatures, more time would have been greatly beneficial. The number of birds of prey presented were weak too, in comparison with other well-known Eagle Days events. While any chance to see these magnificent birds is valued, the expectation for an "Eagle Day...

  The Brookside light show turned out very likely the best drive through light experience in the middle of town, though a little disjointed overall; still an excellent amusement. Some folks went all out, in the style and form of "Christmas Vacation."  Others remained generally conservative, with row upon row of boring white edging.  It is a journey worth stopping in on, if you have an hour or so to burn on a Sunday night in Kansas City.  The traffic is chaotic even on this slow night.  A little patience goes a long way.  Either that, or park someplace close and go for a walk.  The weather is going to be perfect for it.

Craic (pronounced "crack") is an Irish slang term for fun, enjoyment, good times, lively conversation, and entertainment, often involving friends, music, or a great atmosphere.  This is exactly what we encountered on our first expedition to a place endowed with the very same name, to check in with an old friend and another old friend performing that night.   It all started with a random text from Joe, whom we had kind of fallen out of touch with since the pandemic. He and his beautiful bride were planning on dropping in on The Craic down in Parkville to enjoy an evening of tunes performed by none other than our old friend,  Jonathan Ramsey.  That singular name will always conjure cherished memories of brew with friends banging glasses on tables to the beat at Harlings Upstairs. This night proved no different, though with less banging of glasses and more consumption of delicious food, and lots of catching up in good c...

Stumbled on this little quote attached to an aging mural in Sedalia.  It is not quite as old as it seems though, having only been painted in 2020 by local artist Stefanie Aziere-Sattler.  Nothing could turn up where the quote actually came from, so it is assumed she pulled it out of her own hat.  This may be the last look at this mural, which itself may "be lost forever."  In its current state another may take its place soon, or maybe it will get lucky enough to get a fresh coat of color.

  The Kansas City Ballet put forth another excellent performance of the fantastical tale of The Nutcracker, with Tchaikovsky accompaniment by the Kansas City Symphony.  The story, the music, and dancers glowed against a well-designed backdrop that supported and enhanced the dreamlike intent of the story quite well. As a first-time viewer of this production, it proved quite intriguing and captivating.  Dancers and musicians put out their very best, including the younger participants who seemed to not miss a single queue.  This is definitely a fun and unique spectacle that is worth seeing at least on one occasion in a lifetime.