Watson Wire

Well, That Was Fun.

Tuesday, October 12, 2010 |

I noted at some point in the last couple of weeks that this year's Concert Under the Stars was the fifth of them, which means I’ve been throwing this party since before I was a Texas Senator (which dates the whole thing back to sometime before “forever”).

And as I said, we’re getting pretty good at the whole thing.

Well,  I guess now you'll believe me when I tell you something’s going to be a good time.

Thursday night was as close to perfect as it gets.  The weather was gorgeous.  The band was truly unbelievable – and as nice and generous as they were talented.

And the maraca player – well, what can you say about that guy

I must admit that when I was a child – starting at about age 5, when my parents first shoved maracas in my hands and told me to play – I sort of resented being forced into monotonous practice for hours on end while the other kids were outside enjoying just being kids.

But they had a dream for their son and, as they say, practice makes perfect.  I can only thank my folks for having the foresight to be sure I was prepared for Thursday night.

The Real Story

Of course, the real story is that Robert Randolph surprised me and handed me the maracas as he and I walked out together for the band's encore.  I was just going to thank the crowd and the band, and then leave the stage.

He unilaterally decided it would be cool to present me with maracas in front of more than a thousand people and put me in a position to perform.  There was really no way I could say no.

So, the real lesson is that I'm simply a natural maraca player – a prodigy, if you will.  I'm frankly shocked that I didn't recognize such a talent in myself and start playing much, much earlier.  (The only problem is that I obviously need to be doing more upper body conditioning, because my arms got really tired from shaking those things.)

Thanks

Seriously, thanks to everyone who came out to the concert on Thursday night.  Here are a few more pictures. You made it a great, truly memorable night, and I deeply appreciate your support and friendship.

I’m looking forward to working with you and for you during the legislative session.

The home stretch

And now for a moment of business.

Early voting for the November 2 election starts in six short days, on October 18 (for more information about early voting in Travis County, click here).

That means, among other things, that I’ll be haranguing you for the next three weeks about doing your duty as an American and a Texan – and about making those very sweet, very dedicated poll workers smile so brightly when you come through the door.

It also means that you need to spend the next three weeks haranguing your own friends, family, neighbors, vague acquaintances, Facebook friends, Twitter followers, and pretty much everyone else you know to go vote too.

Seriously, don’t let up.  Don’t take “maybe” or “later” for an answer.

Just remember: if you’re being patriotic and getting others to be patriotic, then you legally can’t be annoying.  It's in the Constitution, I think.

Thanks again – for your commitment, your service, and your support.