This time last year... I was busy, in Brasil, trying to remember that when I saw an "R" I need to think "H". Not precisely, but that's as close as I'll come, on paper, to a Portuguese "R". Anyway, I'm here in the northern hemisphere, with lots to be thankful for, including last year's trip to S. America. You might be surprised, maybe not the things you'd think. But I'll leave that list for later. But this is now.And here! What's on my mind is these special dates coming up when I can share a little joy with all my friends. Or a lot! So here you go. Don't be late or you'll miss half the fun. Or be late and just enjoy being there. Or go somewhere else (stay home, you say?) and enjoy being THERE. You don't need a note from home explaining your absence, but I will totally enjoy seeing you, and playing for/with you, so... come on! And don't forget to give the gift of music! Old fashioned, hold-in-your-hand, CDs can still be played in some homes, cars and even public places. Downloads, so much hipper (and easier to play on cheesy smartphone and tablet speakers), are also available for invisible giving.  I should mention that the latest CD, Pra Você, is available in a variety of high(er) fidelity formats. No new LPs, yet... All right HERE Meanwhile, the real live deal:   WED 09 DEC 2015 Midday Music Meditation 1:00 pmBoulder Library 9th & Canyon After a one month hiatus due to the library closing for Veterans Day, Midday Music is back with the usual cast of characters, minus James Hoskins who flew off to a gig in Tucson. Jesse Manno, Brett Bowen, Michael Stanwood, Jenna Woods, Tom Weiser, Victor Mestas, Dexter Payne will play contemplative music for your peace. Sponsored by Library Foundation. Please join us! THU 10 DEC 2015 Dexter Payne Quintet 2nd Thursday 7-10pmCaffe Solé, 637R S. Broadway, Boulder, CO This group started 10 years ago, bringing traditional Brazilian instrumental music to Boulder. It has become a monthly collaboration by some really fine instrumentalists: Dexter Payne, Bill Kopper, Raoul Rossiter, Dave Willey and Victor Mestas. Don't miss this month's show - before you get totally swept into the holidays, relax with us. Dance, eat, drink. It's a great hang! If the regulars at this event are not already your friends, come out to Caffe Solé Thursday and meet them! THU 24 DEC 2015 Christmas Eve with Michael Stanwood 6:30 pmAlthea Center for Engaged Spirituality, Divine Science Church, 1400 Williams St. Denver, CO 80218 Cannot count the years - almost since the beginning of the century Michael Stanwood has invited Dexter Payne to join him for a song on Christmas Eve at the First Divine Science Church of Denver. Last year's absence notwithstanding, they will be there together this year. The short non-denominational service is open to the public and traditionally features beautiful music.