Hello Good Folks,
Hope everyone is having as wonderful a month as me. Time continues to speed by with the blink of an eye, and I find myself asking…”Where
will it lead next and when will it ever slow down.”
I have been consumed and filled by the joy that has come from watching my Son grow about 4 inches over the past few blinks of the eye and I
find that it is now I who is the one looking up while we talk. As he moves into his teens I am amazed by his transformation into a young man.
Watching him play football this year has made me very proud and straight A’s on his report card has me even more pleased with his progress.
What I enjoy the most I think is seeing how proud he is of himself. You can see it by the glow in his eyes. Priceless!
Thursday delivers another Thanksgiving for us to share with our friends and family and I hope that everyone gets fat and stuffed with plenty of
Turkey. I plan to visit family in New Baden and they KNOW how to EAT (Farmers!), but I hope to return in time to attend the Leeann Atherton
Thanksgiving Barn Yard party that will be held at Ruta Maya/Austin Daze. Doors open at 6:00 and I think they plan to eat Thanksgiving dinner
at 7:00 pm when the music starts. So come prepared to eat, drink, smile, and dance to a line-up that will surely keep the house moving. The
line-up is as follows and was communicated to me by Leeann Atherton on her last email Barn Yard update.
Thanksgiving Line-up:
Joey Lavallee just moved here from Florida, he joined us on the last open Barn Yard mic. His happy smile matches his sweet melodies and his
strong sweet voice.
Wynn Taylor and Band is another new kid who is from Kentucky, he was also at the last Barn Dance open mic., remember the long haired
Eagles/Gram Parsons-ish guy? That's him.
Burton and the Freefallers just released their 1st cd and are ready to share the songs. Big band, wild voice... their guitar player suffered a mild
heart attack today, but will be out on Thursday. Send Good Vibes...
Slim Richey's Dream Band with special guest Leeann Atherton. Meaux Jeaux and Gayle will be in full swing!
Albert Bestiero will join Leeann and Neal for a jam excursion.
This music accompanied by shared smiles, heartful dancing, and spontaneous laughter with like minded friends and neighbours will surely
bring this Thanksgiving to a day of treasured closing. I missed Leeann’s last Barn Yard so I have some catching up to do with some of these
new voices.
Im excited with the photography that I am going to share with you here today. My adventures have taken me to some fantastic musical gigs like
the 8th Annual Sothwest Folk Alliance musical extravaganza held at the Wyndam, a few ejammer parties, and a wild night at The Continental
Club with Toni Price. I have some wonderful shots that I am dieing to share and that I truly hope will bring a glow to your charming faces.
Ruta Maya’s own, “Jes the Adventurer” sent me his update last week with plenty of wonderful photos of his latest adventure to Paris. Totally
mind boggling friends! Take this chance to visit his link, and jam to some kewl tunes while you admire the scenery of Paris that he has taken the
opportunity to capture. Jes is truly fortunate to have the chance to travel across the pond to Europe, and even more blessed to have the
courage to take on every given adventure with the spirit that brings all those whom he encounters with blessing. Jes continues to meet other
wonderful minds that become part of our family here at Austinithinkyoushine, and with each adventure that he encounters he graciously shares
it with us here in our own little world in Austin Texas. Its truly an honor to know that one of our own, one who thinks healthy, one who is not
afraid to love others, and one who appreciates life as much as ourselves is over across the seas bringing our blessed souls just a little bit
closer with each passing day. Thanks Jes…I love you man!. Not to worry dear brother…very soon we will be sharing a bottle of wine in Paris at
one of Eva’s wonderful condos. Think I have to go with the one that has the view of the Eiffel Tower. Smiling! Check it out folks! We have Eva’s
link on our kewl links page in the site.
Until a later day my friends; I need to close, and to you all, I wish you a safe and a blessed Happy Thanksgiving. May the mornings jingle and
jangle in your hearts with each blink of that eye. Im off to shake a few eye winkies at some kewl photo’s while I create this flick for us to smile at.
Peace and Love,
Wesley
Hope everyone is having as wonderful a month as me. Time continues to speed by with the blink of an eye, and I find myself asking…”Where
will it lead next and when will it ever slow down.”
I have been consumed and filled by the joy that has come from watching my Son grow about 4 inches over the past few blinks of the eye and I
find that it is now I who is the one looking up while we talk. As he moves into his teens I am amazed by his transformation into a young man.
Watching him play football this year has made me very proud and straight A’s on his report card has me even more pleased with his progress.
What I enjoy the most I think is seeing how proud he is of himself. You can see it by the glow in his eyes. Priceless!
Thursday delivers another Thanksgiving for us to share with our friends and family and I hope that everyone gets fat and stuffed with plenty of
Turkey. I plan to visit family in New Baden and they KNOW how to EAT (Farmers!), but I hope to return in time to attend the Leeann Atherton
Thanksgiving Barn Yard party that will be held at Ruta Maya/Austin Daze. Doors open at 6:00 and I think they plan to eat Thanksgiving dinner
at 7:00 pm when the music starts. So come prepared to eat, drink, smile, and dance to a line-up that will surely keep the house moving. The
line-up is as follows and was communicated to me by Leeann Atherton on her last email Barn Yard update.
Thanksgiving Line-up:
Joey Lavallee just moved here from Florida, he joined us on the last open Barn Yard mic. His happy smile matches his sweet melodies and his
strong sweet voice.
Wynn Taylor and Band is another new kid who is from Kentucky, he was also at the last Barn Dance open mic., remember the long haired
Eagles/Gram Parsons-ish guy? That's him.
Burton and the Freefallers just released their 1st cd and are ready to share the songs. Big band, wild voice... their guitar player suffered a mild
heart attack today, but will be out on Thursday. Send Good Vibes...
Slim Richey's Dream Band with special guest Leeann Atherton. Meaux Jeaux and Gayle will be in full swing!
Albert Bestiero will join Leeann and Neal for a jam excursion.
This music accompanied by shared smiles, heartful dancing, and spontaneous laughter with like minded friends and neighbours will surely
bring this Thanksgiving to a day of treasured closing. I missed Leeann’s last Barn Yard so I have some catching up to do with some of these
new voices.
Im excited with the photography that I am going to share with you here today. My adventures have taken me to some fantastic musical gigs like
the 8th Annual Sothwest Folk Alliance musical extravaganza held at the Wyndam, a few ejammer parties, and a wild night at The Continental
Club with Toni Price. I have some wonderful shots that I am dieing to share and that I truly hope will bring a glow to your charming faces.
Ruta Maya’s own, “Jes the Adventurer” sent me his update last week with plenty of wonderful photos of his latest adventure to Paris. Totally
mind boggling friends! Take this chance to visit his link, and jam to some kewl tunes while you admire the scenery of Paris that he has taken the
opportunity to capture. Jes is truly fortunate to have the chance to travel across the pond to Europe, and even more blessed to have the
courage to take on every given adventure with the spirit that brings all those whom he encounters with blessing. Jes continues to meet other
wonderful minds that become part of our family here at Austinithinkyoushine, and with each adventure that he encounters he graciously shares
it with us here in our own little world in Austin Texas. Its truly an honor to know that one of our own, one who thinks healthy, one who is not
afraid to love others, and one who appreciates life as much as ourselves is over across the seas bringing our blessed souls just a little bit
closer with each passing day. Thanks Jes…I love you man!. Not to worry dear brother…very soon we will be sharing a bottle of wine in Paris at
one of Eva’s wonderful condos. Think I have to go with the one that has the view of the Eiffel Tower. Smiling! Check it out folks! We have Eva’s
link on our kewl links page in the site.
Until a later day my friends; I need to close, and to you all, I wish you a safe and a blessed Happy Thanksgiving. May the mornings jingle and
jangle in your hearts with each blink of that eye. Im off to shake a few eye winkies at some kewl photo’s while I create this flick for us to smile at.
Peace and Love,
Wesley
Season Greetings dear loved ones! I wanted to take the chance to share this info. (below) that I received from a fellow Austinite. Its a great way
to help out those who are less fortunate than ourselves during the holidays. The joy that comes from a smile is priceless so help out buy
supporting the organizations below. Spread the word and share the love. Thanks and I hope to be back soon with more adventure and more
photos of what brings both you and I a smile to share.
Peace and Love,
Wesley
In the event that you have been looking for a way to show that true holiday spirit by being charitable to those less fortunate, please allow me to
pass on SafePlace's wish list (below). SafePlace works tirelessly to end domestic violence. In the meantime, there are still many who have had
to flee their homes to save their lives. These are good people in a bad situation and they don't have much. If you can and are willing, please
consider adding them to your Christmas list.
Also, at Christmastime and year-round. If you have a party and have extra food, consider delivering it to the homeless at the ARCH (Austin
Resource Center for the Homeless).There are typically plenty who are hungry at any given point of the day. http://www.frontste ps.org/
Please share the list with friends and family, too, if you'd like.
FROM SAFEPLACE'S WEB SITE: www.safeplace- austin.org.
SafePlace's Holiday Wish List
The Holidays are a time of Joy, Family and Giving Thanks. However, for the families and individuals who have come to SafePlace, the Holidays
can also be times of uncertainty and extraordinary difficulty. There are some people who enter SafePlace too late in the year to be included in
the Sponsor a Family program; however, we would still like to have Gifts for them during the Holiday Season.
And you can help us do that!!
Below is a Holiday Wish List from which you can find Gifts you can purchase and donate this Season. We ask that your gifts remain unwrapped,
but wrapping paper, ribbon and tape are greatly appreciated.
In addition to the Holiday Wish List, you can also purchase and donate Gift Cards from merchants such as HEB, Target, Wal-Mart, etc. Gift
Cards, given in any denomination, can be used to purchase favorite foods for a special Holiday meal, supplement their Gifts for other family
members, or be used to purchase the basic supplies they may not have brought with them when they came to SafePlace.
All donations to the Holiday Giving Program are tax deductible and receipts are provided upon request.
Gifts for Children
Art supplies of all kinds
Batteries, AA, C, 9V, AAA
Board games
Books
Cars/Trucks
Dolls (various ethnicities)
Gift Cards in $5 increments up to $50
New clothes in season
Non-violent Action Figures
Science/craft kits/play dough/clay
Sports equipment/balls
Toddler manipulatives (blocks, etc)
***Please no toy guns/Knives/ Swords***
Holiday gifts for SafePlace programs
Digital Camera
DVD player and discs
Stereos/ walkmans/ boom boxes
Gifts for Teens, Women and Men
Books Fiction & Non-Fiction
Cameras
CD players, MP3 players
CDs no explicit lyrics, please
Gift Cards in $5 increments, up to $50
Gift Certificates for a ‘day of beauty”
Gift certificates to grocery, department stores and for entertainment are always appreciated!
Jewelry/watches
New clothes in season
Nightgowns (one size fits all)
Perfume, Bath Products
Purses/wallets, Date books/planners
Video camera
Videos
Furniture (Call 356-1626 to schedule drop-off)
Dining tables (no glass tabletops please)
Dressers/ Chests o’ Drawers
Loveseats/ lounge chairs
Year round necessities
Baby wipes, shampoo, wash, oil, and powder
Diapers. Especially size 4, 5, and 6
Gift Cards for grocery and department stores
Household Cleaning Supplies
Kitchen utensils and cookware
Non-perishable foods, formula
Pull-ups all sizes
shampoo/ conditioner
Sheet sets Twin, Full, and Queen
Tampons and Maxi-Pads
toilet paper, paper towels
Toothbrushes and toothpaste
Towels (all sizes
Contact the Holiday Giving Program
for more information, please email HolidayGifts@ austin-safeplace .org
or call 481-9255.
* Due to a limited staff during the busy Holiday Season, phone inquiries may take 24-48 business hours for a response. Please leave a detailed
message and we will get back to you as soon as we can.
Your support is greatly appreciated!
to help out those who are less fortunate than ourselves during the holidays. The joy that comes from a smile is priceless so help out buy
supporting the organizations below. Spread the word and share the love. Thanks and I hope to be back soon with more adventure and more
photos of what brings both you and I a smile to share.
Peace and Love,
Wesley
In the event that you have been looking for a way to show that true holiday spirit by being charitable to those less fortunate, please allow me to
pass on SafePlace's wish list (below). SafePlace works tirelessly to end domestic violence. In the meantime, there are still many who have had
to flee their homes to save their lives. These are good people in a bad situation and they don't have much. If you can and are willing, please
consider adding them to your Christmas list.
Also, at Christmastime and year-round. If you have a party and have extra food, consider delivering it to the homeless at the ARCH (Austin
Resource Center for the Homeless).There are typically plenty who are hungry at any given point of the day. http://www.frontste ps.org/
Please share the list with friends and family, too, if you'd like.
FROM SAFEPLACE'S WEB SITE: www.safeplace- austin.org.
SafePlace's Holiday Wish List
The Holidays are a time of Joy, Family and Giving Thanks. However, for the families and individuals who have come to SafePlace, the Holidays
can also be times of uncertainty and extraordinary difficulty. There are some people who enter SafePlace too late in the year to be included in
the Sponsor a Family program; however, we would still like to have Gifts for them during the Holiday Season.
And you can help us do that!!
Below is a Holiday Wish List from which you can find Gifts you can purchase and donate this Season. We ask that your gifts remain unwrapped,
but wrapping paper, ribbon and tape are greatly appreciated.
In addition to the Holiday Wish List, you can also purchase and donate Gift Cards from merchants such as HEB, Target, Wal-Mart, etc. Gift
Cards, given in any denomination, can be used to purchase favorite foods for a special Holiday meal, supplement their Gifts for other family
members, or be used to purchase the basic supplies they may not have brought with them when they came to SafePlace.
All donations to the Holiday Giving Program are tax deductible and receipts are provided upon request.
Gifts for Children
Art supplies of all kinds
Batteries, AA, C, 9V, AAA
Board games
Books
Cars/Trucks
Dolls (various ethnicities)
Gift Cards in $5 increments up to $50
New clothes in season
Non-violent Action Figures
Science/craft kits/play dough/clay
Sports equipment/balls
Toddler manipulatives (blocks, etc)
***Please no toy guns/Knives/ Swords***
Holiday gifts for SafePlace programs
Digital Camera
DVD player and discs
Stereos/ walkmans/ boom boxes
Gifts for Teens, Women and Men
Books Fiction & Non-Fiction
Cameras
CD players, MP3 players
CDs no explicit lyrics, please
Gift Cards in $5 increments, up to $50
Gift Certificates for a ‘day of beauty”
Gift certificates to grocery, department stores and for entertainment are always appreciated!
Jewelry/watches
New clothes in season
Nightgowns (one size fits all)
Perfume, Bath Products
Purses/wallets, Date books/planners
Video camera
Videos
Furniture (Call 356-1626 to schedule drop-off)
Dining tables (no glass tabletops please)
Dressers/ Chests o’ Drawers
Loveseats/ lounge chairs
Year round necessities
Baby wipes, shampoo, wash, oil, and powder
Diapers. Especially size 4, 5, and 6
Gift Cards for grocery and department stores
Household Cleaning Supplies
Kitchen utensils and cookware
Non-perishable foods, formula
Pull-ups all sizes
shampoo/ conditioner
Sheet sets Twin, Full, and Queen
Tampons and Maxi-Pads
toilet paper, paper towels
Toothbrushes and toothpaste
Towels (all sizes
Contact the Holiday Giving Program
for more information, please email HolidayGifts@ austin-safeplace .org
or call 481-9255.
* Due to a limited staff during the busy Holiday Season, phone inquiries may take 24-48 business hours for a response. Please leave a detailed
message and we will get back to you as soon as we can.
Your support is greatly appreciated!
Sept 16, 2007
Top of the day to you dear friends and neighbors! Summers over, schools back in session, and good ole' football plauges the TV
screens again. Better football than Bush I guess. It has been nice to have these last few weeks of summer without rain.
I never did squeeze in that camping trip to Krause Springs with the family. I guess there is still time for that later into this month! Spring
fed pools and waterfalls along with the best that nature has to offer. I love it!
The highlight of August for me was the return of Jes the Adventurer to Austin. He returned from Eindhoven for a visit and we were able
to share a few memorable nights together at Ruta Maya and The Saxon Pub. Fantastic time with some fantastic photography of Abra
Moore, W.C. Clark, LZ Love, Will Sexton and more! Jes selected favorite shots of both his photograpy and mine to use in the flick that I
am sharing here today. I hope to share more of this photograpy at a later date for a different occasion! Visit Jes and read the journal
about his adventure back to both his and our home. Not his home anymore, I guess, but home in his "heart" always!
In addition to this was a "fantastic" party a few friends of mine (Ejammers) held to celebrate the Virgo's in the pack. Leeann Atherton and
Shelley King both rocked the night away and created the opportunity for some "wonderful" memories. I'll surely be back within the next
few days to share this photography with you.
For now, enjoy the flick, the photo's, the tunes, and the peace of mind that we hope it brings you dear friends. Your totally "wonderful"
for coming back to visit us at austinithinkyoushine, and know that you are in our hearts as much as our town,Austin Texas, is Magical!
Peace and Love,
Wesley
Top of the day to you dear friends and neighbors! Summers over, schools back in session, and good ole' football plauges the TV
screens again. Better football than Bush I guess. It has been nice to have these last few weeks of summer without rain.
I never did squeeze in that camping trip to Krause Springs with the family. I guess there is still time for that later into this month! Spring
fed pools and waterfalls along with the best that nature has to offer. I love it!
The highlight of August for me was the return of Jes the Adventurer to Austin. He returned from Eindhoven for a visit and we were able
to share a few memorable nights together at Ruta Maya and The Saxon Pub. Fantastic time with some fantastic photography of Abra
Moore, W.C. Clark, LZ Love, Will Sexton and more! Jes selected favorite shots of both his photograpy and mine to use in the flick that I
am sharing here today. I hope to share more of this photograpy at a later date for a different occasion! Visit Jes and read the journal
about his adventure back to both his and our home. Not his home anymore, I guess, but home in his "heart" always!
In addition to this was a "fantastic" party a few friends of mine (Ejammers) held to celebrate the Virgo's in the pack. Leeann Atherton and
Shelley King both rocked the night away and created the opportunity for some "wonderful" memories. I'll surely be back within the next
few days to share this photography with you.
For now, enjoy the flick, the photo's, the tunes, and the peace of mind that we hope it brings you dear friends. Your totally "wonderful"
for coming back to visit us at austinithinkyoushine, and know that you are in our hearts as much as our town,Austin Texas, is Magical!
Peace and Love,
Wesley
Title: Magical Place - Austin Texas
(Adventures of Jes's return to our beloved town!)
Memories are forever if you take the time to create them.
(Adventures of Jes's return to our beloved town!)
Memories are forever if you take the time to create them.
Title: Rowdy Howard
Dharana Jones (Massage Therapist,
Life Coach, and Musician) @ Ruta Maya with
his band Common Language!
Life Coach, and Musician) @ Ruta Maya with
his band Common Language!
Dancing away to some Raggae @ Ruta
Maya with Austin Daze!
Maya with Austin Daze!
Hippie's have the strangest pets!
Hippie's use the side door!
Better in the Yard than on my Head!
Title: Texas Musicians Make a Difference
Will Dunlap kicking back Texas Style!
Will Dunlap kicking back Texas Style!
September 23, 2007
Time to share again! Hope everyone is in high spirit and ready to appreciate some wonderful photo’s captured at the Ejammers Virgo party
that was held by Jim & Tinker. I must say that this shin-dig was something to write home about. Gypzee Heart and Shelley King rocked the
night away and truly kept everyone on their toes with celebration, dance, smiles, and laughter. Gypzee Heart was born as an idea to create
an international project to combine musical styles from all over the world; Africa, Russia, Jamaica, South Carolina, Texas... Planting seeds
for the first international Russian/American Peace festival, their intention is to move you and get you moving! Clarke Drake, Shelley King’s
son, was a special treat as he added his talent and love for music. You will see in the flick how photogenic this little whippersnapper is. He’s
truly a “joy” to photograph.
I would also like to take this time to commemorate a beloved friend of the Ejammers circle, Jesse Rodriguez. Jesse passed away in the
comfort of his family's arms on September 18, 2007 after a brief battle with cancer. Jesse grew up in Beeville, Texas and later in life made
Austin his home where he enjoyed the music scene and the company of his friends and family. He will be remembered for his quick wit and
love of life. He is survived by his daughter, Roxanne and husband Valentin Perales; son, Shawn Sibert and wife Theresa; his mother,
Crecencia Canon; and sister, Linda and husband Steve Ayres. He is also survived by three grandchildren, Isaiah, Dylan and Chloe. A
celebration of his life will be held at Jovita's, 1619 S. First Street, for an evening of live music from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. with memorial
donations being accepted.
We will miss him dearly, but remember him always. With every shin-dig that time will bring he will be there. We are blessed with Jesse in our
minds, in our hearts, and most of all in our spirit.
Until my next adventure, and time to share, I bid you farewell. May the days to come bring you everything your heart desires, and the
strength to overcome any trials that may bring your spirit to a test. Be sure to visit the latest past journal entry to catch up on some great
times, kewl art, and wonderful photo's of what helps to keep our home town the kewlest in Texas.
Stay Wonderful,
Wesley
Time to share again! Hope everyone is in high spirit and ready to appreciate some wonderful photo’s captured at the Ejammers Virgo party
that was held by Jim & Tinker. I must say that this shin-dig was something to write home about. Gypzee Heart and Shelley King rocked the
night away and truly kept everyone on their toes with celebration, dance, smiles, and laughter. Gypzee Heart was born as an idea to create
an international project to combine musical styles from all over the world; Africa, Russia, Jamaica, South Carolina, Texas... Planting seeds
for the first international Russian/American Peace festival, their intention is to move you and get you moving! Clarke Drake, Shelley King’s
son, was a special treat as he added his talent and love for music. You will see in the flick how photogenic this little whippersnapper is. He’s
truly a “joy” to photograph.
I would also like to take this time to commemorate a beloved friend of the Ejammers circle, Jesse Rodriguez. Jesse passed away in the
comfort of his family's arms on September 18, 2007 after a brief battle with cancer. Jesse grew up in Beeville, Texas and later in life made
Austin his home where he enjoyed the music scene and the company of his friends and family. He will be remembered for his quick wit and
love of life. He is survived by his daughter, Roxanne and husband Valentin Perales; son, Shawn Sibert and wife Theresa; his mother,
Crecencia Canon; and sister, Linda and husband Steve Ayres. He is also survived by three grandchildren, Isaiah, Dylan and Chloe. A
celebration of his life will be held at Jovita's, 1619 S. First Street, for an evening of live music from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. with memorial
donations being accepted.
We will miss him dearly, but remember him always. With every shin-dig that time will bring he will be there. We are blessed with Jesse in our
minds, in our hearts, and most of all in our spirit.
Until my next adventure, and time to share, I bid you farewell. May the days to come bring you everything your heart desires, and the
strength to overcome any trials that may bring your spirit to a test. Be sure to visit the latest past journal entry to catch up on some great
times, kewl art, and wonderful photo's of what helps to keep our home town the kewlest in Texas.
Stay Wonderful,
Wesley
Click the Photo
Title: There is a Heaven
Dedicated to the memory of Jesse Rodriguez
Title: There is a Heaven
Dedicated to the memory of Jesse Rodriguez
Click the Photo to view the flick!
Title: Where you gonna turn!
Dedicated to all the smiles we have shared.
Title: Where you gonna turn!
Dedicated to all the smiles we have shared.
Nala, our Christmas Lion King kitty. Photo by Paulette Linville
Happy New Year compadres!
It’s a fantastic feeling to know that we are moving forward into a new era of time together. There is so much to teach, so much to learn, and so
much to share as we continue to grow with one another into this New Year. We have surpassed our goals here at Austinithinkyoushine for this
year with the help of all of you like minded souls who return to appreciate new faces and new adventures. The site is now well over 20,000 hits
and climbing by the day. Jes the Adventurer continues to share his adventures from across the pond and with that comes international
recognition. It’s exciting to know that half way across the globe we have fans, family and friends who take in a part of our world from time to time.
My plans for this year are to continue doing what I love the most. Sharing my world with you and helping those who need it the most. This will be
achieved with both your hearts and mine. Austin is full of wonderful folks like us and it is an honour to be part of such a wonderful circle.
I was at Maria’s Taco X-press a few weeks ago when The Golden Crown Harmonizers presented all the tips raised throughout the year at Maria’
s to three different organizations here in Austin. They were able to give $2000.00 dollars to each group that dedicated itself to helping others in
need. $2000.00 dollars made it possible for one of these organizations to feed the homeless for and entire month. Imagine the smiles that
came from this friend. This is truly a priceless gift to share and to know that we have folks like the Harmonizers and spirits like us at Marias every
Sunday to contribute a little love makes me proud to be the Austinut that I am.
Well compadres…I wish you the most and send you my love. Lets take on this New Year in stride and welcome the change of life with the
strength needed to help us improve both ourselves and our world.
Peace & Love,
Wesley
It’s a fantastic feeling to know that we are moving forward into a new era of time together. There is so much to teach, so much to learn, and so
much to share as we continue to grow with one another into this New Year. We have surpassed our goals here at Austinithinkyoushine for this
year with the help of all of you like minded souls who return to appreciate new faces and new adventures. The site is now well over 20,000 hits
and climbing by the day. Jes the Adventurer continues to share his adventures from across the pond and with that comes international
recognition. It’s exciting to know that half way across the globe we have fans, family and friends who take in a part of our world from time to time.
My plans for this year are to continue doing what I love the most. Sharing my world with you and helping those who need it the most. This will be
achieved with both your hearts and mine. Austin is full of wonderful folks like us and it is an honour to be part of such a wonderful circle.
I was at Maria’s Taco X-press a few weeks ago when The Golden Crown Harmonizers presented all the tips raised throughout the year at Maria’
s to three different organizations here in Austin. They were able to give $2000.00 dollars to each group that dedicated itself to helping others in
need. $2000.00 dollars made it possible for one of these organizations to feed the homeless for and entire month. Imagine the smiles that
came from this friend. This is truly a priceless gift to share and to know that we have folks like the Harmonizers and spirits like us at Marias every
Sunday to contribute a little love makes me proud to be the Austinut that I am.
Well compadres…I wish you the most and send you my love. Lets take on this New Year in stride and welcome the change of life with the
strength needed to help us improve both ourselves and our world.
Peace & Love,
Wesley
Enjoy the Show ( :
February 9, 2008
Hello friends! Hope this year is treating you well and that this update finds you in good spirit. I wanted to drop in and let you know about a
benefit fund raiser that is being held for Beth Hicks and her family on February 16, 2008 from 3:00 to 8:00 at Maria's Taco X-Press.
An entire web site has been donated specifically for Beth's event. It's loaded with information and as things progress and change, updates will
be made to it. Photos will be posted to it after the event. Please visit http://Benefit4Beth.webenvisage.com for contact information, links, and
more details.
We can all pull together to help Beth and her family with medical expenses so we're rallying everyone we know for a good time, listening to
special guests Scrappy & Walter, Mark Ambrose, and many other fine, Austin musicians. Bring an old, cool T-Shirt to donate for our T-Shirt
Auction, bring your checkbooks and browse several, very cool items in our Silent Auction. (Need a new guitar , bongos or art?) A giant THANKS
to Maria's Taco X-Press for graciously donating the space and 10% of food and beverage proceeds on benefit day! Gobs of benefit details are
at http://benefit4beth.webenvisage.com. Please make your monetary donations payable to Beth Hicks c/o Robert and Susan Wilson, PO Box
684022, Austin, Texas 78768-4022.
As for myself I have plenty of photography to go through and decide on before I can wrap up this update. I have photo's of a few wonderful days
that were spent at Marias listening to a few of my favorite Austin Musicians. Gypzee Heart and Gospel Project. Think I'll change things up a bit
and browse through some favorites that have accumulated over the past few years. So many that I'm like a kid in a candy store when I take the
time to look back at all of them. I've been at this now for about 3 years steady so you can imagine the number of photo's that I have
accumulated. Something different always jumps out at me when I look back through what seems to be an endless number of files and folders
that go on for what seems like forever...lol. I plan to use a poem that Jes the Adventurer wrote in the movie that I create so I am anxious to get
started. It's a fantastic poem and I have not done anything like this for quite sometime. I used to use my own poetry in some of my movies in the
beginning, back in 05, but discontinued it for whatever reason. Cant really recall why at the moment but I still have them. Maybe I'll break down
and share them with you again sometime. Ive improved much since those days and being my own worst critic I probably will not...lol.
I have not had the opportunity to get out to photograph our lovely town as much as I would like to but other things have balanced out the
absence of this. My Son and I are taking Karate together at a wonderful school located here in South Austin
http://www.bakido.com/Bakido/home.htm).
My father was a Martial Arts instructor and during my youth it brought the two of us close during the years that I trained under him. It is
rewarding to relive those years and memories of my Father while sharing in this commitment with my own Son. To see him grow and learn about
the benefits of having balance within his mind and his body as I did at a young age is very rewarding as a parent. Not to mention it is getting me
off my butt and making me use my mind and body to a degree that I am not quite conditioned for any longer. Practice makes perfect and effort
counts for everything when there is a challenge. All you can do is keep your chin up and do your best.
Well dear friends! I'm off to pick and choose, poke and prod, and smile as I share my next movie. Hope to see on you the 16th at Maria's and
before it slips my mind be sure to visit Leeann Atherton's Full Moon Barn Yard Party website www.fullmoonbarndance.com. She's having a
Sweetheart's Barn Dance tomorrow so visit the site for details and come on out to enjoy some tunes and dance to some of Austin's finest. I'll be
back soon to check in and share again, so until then keep your chin up and your smiles real.
Peace and Love,
Wesley
Hello friends! Hope this year is treating you well and that this update finds you in good spirit. I wanted to drop in and let you know about a
benefit fund raiser that is being held for Beth Hicks and her family on February 16, 2008 from 3:00 to 8:00 at Maria's Taco X-Press.
An entire web site has been donated specifically for Beth's event. It's loaded with information and as things progress and change, updates will
be made to it. Photos will be posted to it after the event. Please visit http://Benefit4Beth.webenvisage.com for contact information, links, and
more details.
We can all pull together to help Beth and her family with medical expenses so we're rallying everyone we know for a good time, listening to
special guests Scrappy & Walter, Mark Ambrose, and many other fine, Austin musicians. Bring an old, cool T-Shirt to donate for our T-Shirt
Auction, bring your checkbooks and browse several, very cool items in our Silent Auction. (Need a new guitar , bongos or art?) A giant THANKS
to Maria's Taco X-Press for graciously donating the space and 10% of food and beverage proceeds on benefit day! Gobs of benefit details are
at http://benefit4beth.webenvisage.com. Please make your monetary donations payable to Beth Hicks c/o Robert and Susan Wilson, PO Box
684022, Austin, Texas 78768-4022.
As for myself I have plenty of photography to go through and decide on before I can wrap up this update. I have photo's of a few wonderful days
that were spent at Marias listening to a few of my favorite Austin Musicians. Gypzee Heart and Gospel Project. Think I'll change things up a bit
and browse through some favorites that have accumulated over the past few years. So many that I'm like a kid in a candy store when I take the
time to look back at all of them. I've been at this now for about 3 years steady so you can imagine the number of photo's that I have
accumulated. Something different always jumps out at me when I look back through what seems to be an endless number of files and folders
that go on for what seems like forever...lol. I plan to use a poem that Jes the Adventurer wrote in the movie that I create so I am anxious to get
started. It's a fantastic poem and I have not done anything like this for quite sometime. I used to use my own poetry in some of my movies in the
beginning, back in 05, but discontinued it for whatever reason. Cant really recall why at the moment but I still have them. Maybe I'll break down
and share them with you again sometime. Ive improved much since those days and being my own worst critic I probably will not...lol.
I have not had the opportunity to get out to photograph our lovely town as much as I would like to but other things have balanced out the
absence of this. My Son and I are taking Karate together at a wonderful school located here in South Austin
http://www.bakido.com/Bakido/home.htm).
My father was a Martial Arts instructor and during my youth it brought the two of us close during the years that I trained under him. It is
rewarding to relive those years and memories of my Father while sharing in this commitment with my own Son. To see him grow and learn about
the benefits of having balance within his mind and his body as I did at a young age is very rewarding as a parent. Not to mention it is getting me
off my butt and making me use my mind and body to a degree that I am not quite conditioned for any longer. Practice makes perfect and effort
counts for everything when there is a challenge. All you can do is keep your chin up and do your best.
Well dear friends! I'm off to pick and choose, poke and prod, and smile as I share my next movie. Hope to see on you the 16th at Maria's and
before it slips my mind be sure to visit Leeann Atherton's Full Moon Barn Yard Party website www.fullmoonbarndance.com. She's having a
Sweetheart's Barn Dance tomorrow so visit the site for details and come on out to enjoy some tunes and dance to some of Austin's finest. I'll be
back soon to check in and share again, so until then keep your chin up and your smiles real.
Peace and Love,
Wesley
Enjoy the Show! (Poem written by Jes the Adventurer)
17 Feb. 2008
Hello friends! Taking this chance to fill you in on how wonderful the benefit was for Beth Hicks at Maria's Taco X-Press. I was able to capture the
moment, and have put together this flick for you to appreciate. The music was fantastic and the smiles plentiful. Unfortunately Beth was unable
to attend due to her condition, but she was truly there in spirit and in mind with all of us who were there to pull our resources and love together
in unison. Please add Beth to your prayers with each day that comes and "please" come to the next benefit that will be held for Beth very soon (
April I think).
I walked away with a guitar that was autographed by many of my favorite local musicians here in town. You will see it in the flick. The bidding
war came down between myself and another great Austinite (Rick Vidrine). Thanks Rick for backing off and letting me win the bid...lol. Gotta
Love you Man!
In addition to this, most of the Art I donated was successful in raising funds for the cause. I have to admit that I tend to be a bit reluctant in
sharing some of my work, but after last night, this doubt that I have in myself is steadily blowing away in the wind. Thanks to everyone for the
feedback and support in both my work, and even more so, the support that was shared in bringing the Hicks family a shoulder to lean on.
As for now, I would like you to enjoy the flick, say a prayer for Beth and her family, and thank our higher power for giving each of us one another
to love.
Peace & Love,
Wesley
Hello friends! Taking this chance to fill you in on how wonderful the benefit was for Beth Hicks at Maria's Taco X-Press. I was able to capture the
moment, and have put together this flick for you to appreciate. The music was fantastic and the smiles plentiful. Unfortunately Beth was unable
to attend due to her condition, but she was truly there in spirit and in mind with all of us who were there to pull our resources and love together
in unison. Please add Beth to your prayers with each day that comes and "please" come to the next benefit that will be held for Beth very soon (
April I think).
I walked away with a guitar that was autographed by many of my favorite local musicians here in town. You will see it in the flick. The bidding
war came down between myself and another great Austinite (Rick Vidrine). Thanks Rick for backing off and letting me win the bid...lol. Gotta
Love you Man!
In addition to this, most of the Art I donated was successful in raising funds for the cause. I have to admit that I tend to be a bit reluctant in
sharing some of my work, but after last night, this doubt that I have in myself is steadily blowing away in the wind. Thanks to everyone for the
feedback and support in both my work, and even more so, the support that was shared in bringing the Hicks family a shoulder to lean on.
As for now, I would like you to enjoy the flick, say a prayer for Beth and her family, and thank our higher power for giving each of us one another
to love.
Peace & Love,
Wesley
Enjoy the Show! Beth Hick's Benefit at Maria's Taco x-Press
17 Mar. 08
Hello Folks,
Hope this update finds all of you with harmony and a centered balance. After spending this past weekend with hundreds of caring souls at the
Million Musicians March for Peace, I truly have a better understanding of Peace, Love, Harmony, and Balance. The energy of the music and
love generated from the spirit of the crowd at the Million Musicians March for Peace had my heart consumed with smiles and it helped me to
realize even more that Austin is a place of balance unlike any other that I have ever had the opportunity to experience. I hope you enjoy
watching the flick as much as I enjoyed walking and singing during it.
Another wonderful "highlight" for the month has been the arrival and release of the Maria'ss Taco X-press calendar. It was designed and
created by Paulette Linville and has a musician line-up of favorite photos that we have captured over the past few years. It's a must see
calendar for all you music lovers. The feedback has been wonderful and I speak for both Paulette and myself when I say "thank you" for all of
the wonderful feedback and support for this priceless piece of our Austin history. Paulette will be available at Maria's over the next few weeks
(Sundays), so get there while the getting's good my friends, they are going "fast". You can also contact her through the link provided above to
place and order.
As for the remainder of this month and the next I am going to have my days filled with life adjustments and new life lessons to overcome. I hope
to be back soon to share more of what I love the most, My Love for Austin, and until then, take everything life dishes out at you with a sense of
pride, and at the end of each and every day, take the time to smile with and for a cause.
Peace and Love,
Wesley
Hello Folks,
Hope this update finds all of you with harmony and a centered balance. After spending this past weekend with hundreds of caring souls at the
Million Musicians March for Peace, I truly have a better understanding of Peace, Love, Harmony, and Balance. The energy of the music and
love generated from the spirit of the crowd at the Million Musicians March for Peace had my heart consumed with smiles and it helped me to
realize even more that Austin is a place of balance unlike any other that I have ever had the opportunity to experience. I hope you enjoy
watching the flick as much as I enjoyed walking and singing during it.
Another wonderful "highlight" for the month has been the arrival and release of the Maria'ss Taco X-press calendar. It was designed and
created by Paulette Linville and has a musician line-up of favorite photos that we have captured over the past few years. It's a must see
calendar for all you music lovers. The feedback has been wonderful and I speak for both Paulette and myself when I say "thank you" for all of
the wonderful feedback and support for this priceless piece of our Austin history. Paulette will be available at Maria's over the next few weeks
(Sundays), so get there while the getting's good my friends, they are going "fast". You can also contact her through the link provided above to
place and order.
As for the remainder of this month and the next I am going to have my days filled with life adjustments and new life lessons to overcome. I hope
to be back soon to share more of what I love the most, My Love for Austin, and until then, take everything life dishes out at you with a sense of
pride, and at the end of each and every day, take the time to smile with and for a cause.
Peace and Love,
Wesley
Enjoy the show! Smile with a "CAUSE!" Peace & Love...Me!
Hello Friends,
I’m sitting here listening to Carolyn Wonderland while looking through over a month’s worth of photography that I am pleased to share with you. I
have so much that I am not quite sure of how to share it all. Guess I won’t worry about it now and do what I always do. Share everything that hits
home within the heart, and have confidence that you like minded folks can relate to what it is that stands out as being something that you are
able to preserve. The one’s we love and the unconditional smiles that capture the spirit are all that matters my friends. Think about it!!!
I am thankful that Jes the Adventurer continues to bless our lives with his adventures from across the pond. With each monthly update that Jes
shares I learn a little more about the world that many of us may “never” have the chance to experience. Just watch a few of the videos Jes and I
have created on his page and you will surely be grateful that you have. The Photography is fantastic and his witty journalism is always fun to
read.
As for “our” neck of the woods, this past month of photography has been something I will store away into my little box of priceless memories. Old
Settlers, Bob Marley, and Eyore’s brought together friends, family, and spirits as far as the eye could see. I couldn’t help but capture the
children in the crowds dancing to the sweet sounds of Bluegrass and Reggae. To watch a child smile and dance about as they prepare us to
see everything in their own little way is perhaps the most rewarding gift that I have ever had the pleasure of appreciating. Dance, laughter, and
smiles are a powerful thing when it comes from the ones whom we treasure the most. Thoughts within my heart shine as I type this, because I
know that yours will shine as bright as my own when you see the energy of these young spirits.
Perhaps the most touching memories that I am sharing with you here today are of Beth Hicks. Wife, Mother, and Mentor too many of my friends
and family whom I love so dearly are blessed beyond expression to have been graced by her spirit. They were not able to play this video at her
memorial, but I truly wish they had. It is a time line of her life from youth to adulthood that was pulled together by her family thanks to the effort of
South Austin’s own, Washboard Judy. We cried together as we watched the memorial commemoration upon completion with both smiles and
laughter. Please say a prayer for Beth and her beautiful family as you watch this memorial of her life. Thank her for everything that she has
shared and everything she has given us to treasure.
With that final thought I shall close. Hope you have fun with the site today friends and I hope that each and every one of you can appreciate
your fellow person as much as life appreciates us.
Peace and Love,
Me
I’m sitting here listening to Carolyn Wonderland while looking through over a month’s worth of photography that I am pleased to share with you. I
have so much that I am not quite sure of how to share it all. Guess I won’t worry about it now and do what I always do. Share everything that hits
home within the heart, and have confidence that you like minded folks can relate to what it is that stands out as being something that you are
able to preserve. The one’s we love and the unconditional smiles that capture the spirit are all that matters my friends. Think about it!!!
I am thankful that Jes the Adventurer continues to bless our lives with his adventures from across the pond. With each monthly update that Jes
shares I learn a little more about the world that many of us may “never” have the chance to experience. Just watch a few of the videos Jes and I
have created on his page and you will surely be grateful that you have. The Photography is fantastic and his witty journalism is always fun to
read.
As for “our” neck of the woods, this past month of photography has been something I will store away into my little box of priceless memories. Old
Settlers, Bob Marley, and Eyore’s brought together friends, family, and spirits as far as the eye could see. I couldn’t help but capture the
children in the crowds dancing to the sweet sounds of Bluegrass and Reggae. To watch a child smile and dance about as they prepare us to
see everything in their own little way is perhaps the most rewarding gift that I have ever had the pleasure of appreciating. Dance, laughter, and
smiles are a powerful thing when it comes from the ones whom we treasure the most. Thoughts within my heart shine as I type this, because I
know that yours will shine as bright as my own when you see the energy of these young spirits.
Perhaps the most touching memories that I am sharing with you here today are of Beth Hicks. Wife, Mother, and Mentor too many of my friends
and family whom I love so dearly are blessed beyond expression to have been graced by her spirit. They were not able to play this video at her
memorial, but I truly wish they had. It is a time line of her life from youth to adulthood that was pulled together by her family thanks to the effort of
South Austin’s own, Washboard Judy. We cried together as we watched the memorial commemoration upon completion with both smiles and
laughter. Please say a prayer for Beth and her beautiful family as you watch this memorial of her life. Thank her for everything that she has
shared and everything she has given us to treasure.
With that final thought I shall close. Hope you have fun with the site today friends and I hope that each and every one of you can appreciate
your fellow person as much as life appreciates us.
Peace and Love,
Me
Click the Banner to view the Movie
Title: Beth Hicks September 26,1951 - March 24, 2008
This movie is dedicated to Beth Hicks, her beloved family, and to all the
wonderful things she was able to leave "within" everyone who knew her.
Title: Beth Hicks September 26,1951 - March 24, 2008
This movie is dedicated to Beth Hicks, her beloved family, and to all the
wonderful things she was able to leave "within" everyone who knew her.
The Old Settlers Music Festival in March delivered everything a person could ask for this year.
Friends, Family, Smiles, and Bluegrass Music brought that spirit of unity one begins to feel when
surrounded by such powerful things. Truly have to love it my friends! For more fantastic shots of the
Old Settlers Music Festival visit Ron Baker at http://www.geocities.com/ron8318/oldsettlers.htm. His
photo's of the musicians are truly a work of art.
Friends, Family, Smiles, and Bluegrass Music brought that spirit of unity one begins to feel when
surrounded by such powerful things. Truly have to love it my friends! For more fantastic shots of the
Old Settlers Music Festival visit Ron Baker at http://www.geocities.com/ron8318/oldsettlers.htm. His
photo's of the musicians are truly a work of art.
Click the banner to view the flick!
This is a special night with a handful of special Austinuts. I was lucky enough to
discover the talent of Urban Roots back in "05" while floating venues on
Congress Ave. To enjoy more of the Urban Root vibes tune into their Myspace
and let them know how much you enjoy the song used in this video.
This is a special night with a handful of special Austinuts. I was lucky enough to
discover the talent of Urban Roots back in "05" while floating venues on
Congress Ave. To enjoy more of the Urban Root vibes tune into their Myspace
and let them know how much you enjoy the song used in this video.
Lost my wallet 30 minutes into the Bob Marley fest this year and was totally down and out when it
happened. After calling in my credit cards and borrowing some money from my Son it was business as
usual. Smiling faces and photography of Austinut's who love their Raggae.
happened. After calling in my credit cards and borrowing some money from my Son it was business as
usual. Smiling faces and photography of Austinut's who love their Raggae.
Aug. 19, 2008
I think you will really enjoy watching this movie of Eeyore's Birthday Party at Peace Park. I know I enjoyed creating this movie as much as I "loved"
bouncing around the Park with my camera capturing the vibes of all us wonderful Austinuts.
I have found that over the past year my minds eye has grown fond of capturing the demeanor of others that shine as bright as my love for Austin.
A smile to me last forever. People come and go in life for many different reasons and I have found, that for those that I have encountered and
especially the ones I have lost in my life, their smiles are still a warm part of my memory. Just close your eyes and they become as vivid and as
deep as a clear blue sky. I can still see my Uncle Jack smiling at me as he gave me 50 cents for a hard day's work on the farm trapping Prairie
Dogs on his Cattle land. I was 10 at the time and took pride in knowing that he respected my efforts for helping to prevent the broken leg of a
horse or one of his cows. We lost Uncle Jack to Cancer many years ago, but the smile he delivered to me on that day will always be a part of me.
See ya soon with more to share my friends. Be sure to stay tuned for a recent update from Jes the Adventurer. His visit to Austin is over now and
he will be sharing these adventures with you within the next week or so.
Thanks for returning to the site to check in on us and may your day be filled with blessings knowing that each and every one of your are within my
prayers.
Peace and Love,
Wesley
I think you will really enjoy watching this movie of Eeyore's Birthday Party at Peace Park. I know I enjoyed creating this movie as much as I "loved"
bouncing around the Park with my camera capturing the vibes of all us wonderful Austinuts.
I have found that over the past year my minds eye has grown fond of capturing the demeanor of others that shine as bright as my love for Austin.
A smile to me last forever. People come and go in life for many different reasons and I have found, that for those that I have encountered and
especially the ones I have lost in my life, their smiles are still a warm part of my memory. Just close your eyes and they become as vivid and as
deep as a clear blue sky. I can still see my Uncle Jack smiling at me as he gave me 50 cents for a hard day's work on the farm trapping Prairie
Dogs on his Cattle land. I was 10 at the time and took pride in knowing that he respected my efforts for helping to prevent the broken leg of a
horse or one of his cows. We lost Uncle Jack to Cancer many years ago, but the smile he delivered to me on that day will always be a part of me.
See ya soon with more to share my friends. Be sure to stay tuned for a recent update from Jes the Adventurer. His visit to Austin is over now and
he will be sharing these adventures with you within the next week or so.
Thanks for returning to the site to check in on us and may your day be filled with blessings knowing that each and every one of your are within my
prayers.
Peace and Love,
Wesley