I snapped this Friday evening as everyone was arriving and getting set up for the weekend. These guys are two of the musicians. Aaron, in the hat, plays in Rowdy Folk, an “alt-country, rock-n-roll, bluegrass, folk” band, while Casey, with the tattoos, plays in Our Mother’s Martyr, a heavy metal band. If you went strictly by appearances you might think they have little in common but you’d be wrong. I think the thing I love best about HMF is the genuine love and respect everyone has for one another. Not in spite of differences but in celebration of them. Peace, love and music, y’all!
A lot of work goes into pulling off an event like HMF. Thursday after work, David and Chris constructed a frame around and over our back patio. The purpose was two-fold. One, it gave us an easy way to string up lights and attach light bars and fog machines. But the primary purpose was to make it easy to cover the patio/band area if it rained.
There was camping – and thanks to Joy’s great suggestion, many made flags for their tents:
The recent rains have our pond full so the paddleboat saw some action:
We skipped the big bonfire this year but a couple of the campers brought a fire pit:
And there was fire spinning:
And morning circle time with coffee and sausage biscuits:
One of the drummers left this miniature campsite which totally charmed me:
And about 20 of us dragged our exhausted bodies to La Fiesta for the traditional post-HMF Mexican food lunch:
As I sat in my backyard listening to incredible music with about 100 of the best people I know, I was simply overwhelmed with a sense of gratitude for this life I’m privileged to live. Over the course of the weekend and in the days since HMF I’ve heard over and over again how appreciative the attendees are that we host this party every year. We have a HMF event page and “survivors club” page on Facebook and some of the attendees left notes for us:
Oh my god. What a party. Thanks to the Piercy family for letting this happen. I had a blast!!! See u next year.
It’s shows like HMF that keep me doing what I do. One of the coolest crowds we’ve played for, for sure. Thanks for the opportunity.
David and Deanna Piercy are quickly becoming two of my favorite people in regards to hospitality and genuine goodness. 6 years in a row is nothing short of a milestone for Happyland and it’s awesome to be a part of what it’s become.
We love the Piercy family 4-evz!! xoxox
Thank you David and Deanna for the most amazing weekend. Your kindness and generosity is legendary. I have never been a part of a more amazing, loving and talented group of people. I truly feel like HMF is our solace and sanctuary for the year. From the bottom of my heart thank you.
It’s so nice to be appreciated but the truth of the matter is that we enjoy HMF every bit as much ourselves. We had no idea that first year of HMF that it would become an annual event and much anticipated by everyone who has ever attended. We are more than happy to host it each year and are grateful for everyone who participates. David and I often say to one another:
It was so wonderful! Can't wait for next year!