We made the decision at the last event where we were selling our Celtic jewelry that we were going to retire from traveling to do shows.

There are a number of reasons for this. One is that what used to be fun and exciting as younger folks, gets to be a grind as we edge ever older.

Ten years ago I would drink with my buddies at a Scottish Games until 3 am, then get up at 6 am for set up the booth for an 8 am opening. My body and mind don't appreciate that kind of behavior any longer.

It wasn't an easy decision to make giving up Celtic Fests, Highland Scottish Games and other shows we've done over the years, as the money has often been very good. But, money isn't everything, and we are really appreciating being home in our beloved town of Ashland, Oregon much more.

One year we traveled in our RV with two cats starting in February, down to Arizona, then back East to Georgia for the Georgia Renaissance Festival, then on to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee for a two week stint at Dollywood helping some friends out. From there we did 10 weeks at the Bristol Renaissance Festival in Illinois, then on to the Texas Renaissance Faire for 12 weeks, and then home for a bit.

We have lots of great pictures and memories from that trip, but I certainly wouldn't want to do it again. Our best wishes go out to all our friends who still do.

It hurt a little bit to give up our favorite show of the year, KVMR Celtic Fest in Grass Valley, California. It's a great venue, with everyone dressed up in costumes, great food, great music and good times. But things change. I guess we'll spend some of that energy on making this Web site even better.

Cheers, Bram

One of our favorite events every year is KVMR's Celtic Festival. This year (2009) it is October 3rd and 4th.

This festival is a perfect mix of great music, unique crafts, tasty food, and the best setting you could imagine.

KVMR Celtic Festival started in 1996, and each year it has grown, and in good ways.

I can't tell you how many peak music experiences we have had, both from our booth which is just 60 yards or so from the main stage, and from the short trips we take turns making when a band is particularly hot. (this happens often)

As you can see from the photo, the grounds of the Nevada County Fair are covered with trees, and the grassy meadow in front of the stage is full of friendly, Celtic music loving fans.

Part of the allure is that most everyone is dressed up in renaissance, or fantasy attire, making for a fun environment for shopping, playing, interacting, and listening to world class music.

One of my favorite memories from 2008 is from Sunday night when our friend Kim Silverman, the magician, was dazzling some foreign visitors in front of our booth with his close-up magic, while I was showing other attendees a few of our Celtic pendants.

This is just a sampling of the spontaneous happenings that occur throughout the weekend.

Do yourself a favor, and check it out.