The RV Week with Phil Kates and Friends (May 15 - 21, 2004)

Friday, May 21 - Day Seven and Conclusion: "… and on the Seventh Day ... rested"

Day Seven: "... and on the Seventh Day ... rested"
We had a lot of miles to drive "and promises to keep" -- a remote airport to get to for our Ryan Air flight, a train to get to the center of London, and a concert to play. We all drove, took turns sleeping, and finally, at around 11:30 a.m., rolled into the rental place. Laars and Siegfried seemed like two long lost friends, and they greeted us heartily. Problem was we were so late, that to get to the distant airport, the use of public transportation would make us late for the plane. Laars came to the rescue and drove us, bless him.

This new airport for Frankfurt (other than the main one outside of Frankfurt) was an old U.S. air base over 1 and 1/2 hour drive away, not far from Luxembourg, according to Paul. It was now taken over by Ryan Air, a discount European outfit (the Southwest Airlines of Europe). We barely made it on in time... but all slept like babies on the hour flight to London. After all we had gone through, I got stopped at the London entry point customs desk for not having a work visa to show for that night's concert. I had the agent call the London presenter, and they faxed over documents to let me in ... Finally …

We made it to the hall with about an hour to spare ... after the concert I slept for 12 hours ...

Conclusion
Phil was right all along -- all would be taken care of, all the needs would be met -- and they were, but not without some consternation and trials along the way.

Some memories at the end of the week were clear ... maybe the effort to have my perfect alpine meadow moment would have been better served by simply appreciating Phil's lead, how he unselfishly cared for everyone on that RV trip, every step of the way caring for others, along with every step of the way our needs being met. (And maybe the two were not unrelated.) In dealing with tour seasons, and concert seasons, and summer seasons over the years, I have discovered that Phil is a man for all seasons, with his zest for life, and his love for others. It's not an easy traveling life he leads while touring "with" the orchestra yet separately, but he is alive in his trust for each moment, as he embraces each new city and country, and then comes and joins in a concert.

When's the next tour, Phil?

Don Liuzzi, Principal Timpani