I have to admit, over the years I have not been a big contributor on this forum. I have been a follower for over 15 years but just didn't have much to say.

But this post got me thinking.

When I went into high school I had no idea what I wanted to major in. I had been taking lessons in drums and piano since grade school and loved music but had been told that I wasn't "college material". I only knew that I loved music.

My father pushed me into the vocational agriculture program. I knew it wasn't for me but I gave in.

As a senior I decided to take an audition at the Navy unit band located in Boston Mass. I passed and was guaranteed the Navy School of Music in Little Creek Va.(this was in 1966 and the Navy had over 150 unit bands stationed around the world.)

After graduation I was assigned to the Commander Amphibious Force Atlantic Fleet.(on the other side of the base)

Long story short, I spent 4 years as percussionist in the Navy. G.I. bill paid for music degree in college.Three years in a Show Band on the road and last 25 years in Florida playing mobile home parks and fraternal clubs and loving every minute of it. I didn't make a financial killing but I still enjoy every minute of it. The songs seem to never get old.

I'm hoping to get another seven or eight years out of it.

Thanks for enduring my ramble, Allen