I remember the first time I saw Mary in person. I was a senior in high school and as every young man at that age was, I was infatuated with Mary Travers. Long blond hair, beautiful voice - I was in love from afar. My singing partner, John Eads, and I were on the campus at Oregon State University for a conference and PP&M were playing that night in the Field House. We were trying to see if we could crash sound check or something, so we were hanging around as the group arrived. There she was - my heart went thumpy thumpy - the group got out of the limo and were rushed inside under heavy security. But for that brief moment...ah...teenage angst! Then, years later I had the good fortune to actually get to know her and for one song, we stood side by side on stage and sang together. Though she'd gained some weight by then I still had a crush.
I do believe, though, that in every tragic loss there is opportunity to be found. A few years ago when Mary was first diagnosed with leukemia I jokingly offered my services to Noel Stookey as Mary's replacement. Perhaps now is my chance. Going for the trifecta: The Brothers Four, The Kingston Trio and...Peter, Paul and Bob? Nah - I'd have to use my middle name: Peter, Paul and LARRY. Huh? Whaddaya think?
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