Germanfest!

I spent some time on both Saturday and Sunday at the 85th Annual German-American Festival. I think that a good time was had by all, and a large souvenir stein of German beer always gets the ball rolling for more enjoyment. We consumed delicious bratwurst and kraut and some mediocre German potato salad. The live bands were a good time too, but I wish someone would have been adventurous (or drunk) enough to enjoy some polka dancing with me! I was hoping to hear "Roll Out the Barrel" and fortunately, it was played shortly before I left on Sunday evening. The only bad part was that people were complaining that it was too hot in the tent (well, I guess they had a good point since it was about 90 degrees this weekend) and that it smelled bad. I guess when you mix beer, lots of people, bratwurst, and sauerkraut, you tend to end up with not-so-nice smelling surroundings.

This is the week of Sufjan Stevens coming to Chicago to showcase his newest album, aptly named "Illinois" or "Come On, Feel the Illinoise", depending on who you are speaking to. I'm really looking forward to this. Oh yeah, and I'm really looking forward to the fact that I leave for Austin City Limits in about 10 days as well. I know, I know, I talk about it just about everyday, but I can't contain the excitement!

I have successfully memorized my first banjo tune, "Bile them Cabbage Down". I haven't nailed it down perfectly, because that C chord is still giving me problems, but I suppose it will take a little more time and practice. My friend, Elana, came over yesterday and she used to play bluegrass banjo and she could remember how to play the same song, as it was the first one that she learned as well. It really sounded different when it was played bluegrass style as opposed to clawhammer. I'm still wondering if I would enjoy bluegrass more?

I sent out my first job application for my part-time job on Friday. I'm going to keep my fingers crossed and hope that something comes along soon so I can start saving up some money for my big trip.