This morning, we woke up earlier than most of the other campers and headed back to Keewaydin to harvest and prepare food for the fest. I chop up purple cauliflower, broccoli, peppers, summer squash, tomatoes, kohlrabi, zucchini, carrots, and cucumbers for a giant catering tray. Next I put together a tray with cantaloupe and blueberries. The colors and smells are stunning and I hurry back to Driftless Music Gardens, excited to feed our friends. Once I get the food on site, it’s time to turn my focus to emceeing. When Rufus and I were first asked to MC, I was a little surprised. It is something I could see Rufus doing, but not necessarily myself. However, we wanted to help out wherever we could, and I eventually warmed up to the idea. Backstage I mingle with the musicians and singers, ask how they would like to be introduced, and finally take the stage. I feel less nervous than I expected looking out into the crowd of faces. It is almost as if I, myself, have slipped into another version of myself, a character for the people, one that is not afraid to get up there and put myself out there. I have to admit, it feels a little surreal, and I enjoy it more than I expected.

~Joy