By Shebaby Spencer

Winter is fast approaching and the weather is getting colder and colder. Some folks have a tendency to ‘hibernate’ or not venture out as much. I am just the opposite - bring on the cold and I love to travel more and more. I like to visit shows that are some of my old favorites, catch up on old acquaintances or find those new shows. New places have always interested or drawn me in.

This last month I got to venture upriver baby-doll, and visit an old favorite; The Lyman Tavern oft times referred to as the horniest bar in the Northwest. During this last visit I learned some of the history on those walls, there are actually 60 years worth of history on those walls. It was enlightening taking a guided tour of them this time up. This rustic, friendly, hometown place has some character. You can learn a great deal about a wide variety of animals and hunters. I got a great picture of what they refer to as “The Rainier Beer Bear”. You really have to ask about that story sometime, it’ll just amaze you. There are some antlers hanging on the wall from the 1940’s - really and truly 60 years worth of history. They have started a new Africian Wall.

Since the owner’s, Monte and Debi, have been remodeling for the last three years, they realized they have 180 sets or variety of animals on the walls. The final upgrade, for now, will be to add river rock outside.

The folks sure do appreciate their singers and are proud of them up here. They make everybody who walks through the door feel welcome.

The Friday and Saturday night karaoke show is still hosted by that handsome, fun and friendly white knight, Rob. And to quote the owner, “Best steak you ever ate away from Home on styrofome.” Really, they do have an exceptionally flavorful steak. And, as I have shared in a time or two, the adult style karaoke show. Well, you ain’t never seen nuthin’ like this kinda karaoke show before. “Celebrate your own style!”

Another old favorite is the Overflow in Sedro Woolley with that multi-talented host Croak Dog “Paul” hosting for your entertainment dollar every Wednesday and Friday night. You can flow on in and sing to the overflowin’ crowd, and what a crowd he brings in! He just knows how to treat his singers right, make you feel welcome and glad you came every single time.

The town regulars’ who like to call this their watering hole are a lively and friendly bunch. They have their favorites for singers, of course, but are always open to new singers and new songs. Stop playin’ pool just to watch you sing and everyone always claps and even hollars for you. They’re truly an appreciative bunch.

Once again, I have to mention here, they will even help you park - for those of us that are parking impaired. Something about a place where the people are friendly and smilin’ before you even get in the door, you just know your gonna have a good time when you do make it inside.

Have to give a nod here to those Anacortes folks, just love em’! I really enjoy venturing up thata-way to any one of Steve’s shows. From the Corner on Thursdays to that Watertown bunch on Wednesdays, it is just a memorable and good ol’ time out a singing. Oh, what singers he has! The talent in that area is truly amazing in and of itself. Well worth the trip just to listen and watch them. The unique styles and musically talented group have me going back again and again.

I look forward to seeing you all. No, I look forward to HEARING you all again real soon.

In addition to the many old favorites, I found some new ones to add to my singing enjoyments. There is a Friday night show hosted by Liz from the karaoke store up in Burlington. By the way, you hosts out there should take time to visit the karaoke store in Burlington, on Cherry Street. Special ‘Thank You’ to Greg and Liz for not only finding me two new Rolling Stones discs this month, but also for delivering them directly to my show. Thanks so much! I surely do appreciate you guys.

Back to the new Friday show on Hwy 20 between Burlington and Anacortes at the Loon Café, yes, the Loon. The is a fun show and the bartender is super friendly. The food here is so good! It is so worth the drive to find a show where you can sing and visit, just smile and have a great time. I love her new books!

Saturday night in Stanwood at the La Hacienda, hosted by the friendly and sweet Monica, who has more Rolling Stones songs than anyone I know... well, except me maybe. Anyhow, you can now catch her shows at the La Hacienda - a hometown favorite place to visit. Monica also has a Friday night show at the Stanwood Hotel that is just a blast and has added a new Sunday night.

I haven’t gotten a chance to visit the one in Silvana at the Town Tavern there as of yet. As always I do enjoy visiting with folks and hearing her singers’ they are not only talented, but interesting to listen to.

I found a few other new shows that I visited and really enjoyed myself. Thanks to each of you for taking the time to invite me down. I love meeting new people, seeing new places and of course, hearing new singers.

Please feel free to continue to share. Happy holidays and safe journeys to all this month.

Keep on singing sweet.

Just me - Shebaby’