06/08/2026
Where to start, after a weekend like that?
We had over twenty US states represented, folks from out of the country, and more locals joining in than we’ve ever had before, and it felt like a big, beautifully happy family reunion. I’m so happy that Tod and I made the decision back in 2013 to try a music cruise. I cannot imagine a different life.
Muddy Jakes had a banner, record-breaking weekend, with staff that managed to work themselves silly, while keeping genuine smiles on their faces because the people and energy of the crowd and event community was just so damn fun. Whether kitchen staff, hostesses, management, bartenders, or servers - EVERYONE worked hard and did whatever needed doing to make it work. And it all worked! What a great event!
Our sponsors (special shout out to Earth Angel Charities, DAS, Muddy Jake’s, Rock By The Sea, Marilyn Skiles) and VIP pre-party guests came through in such a way this year that we were able to make the event free, allowing more access and exposure to incredible music. We raised more money than ever before, and because of that, we’ll be giving our LARGEST DONATION YET TO UT MD Anderson Cancer Center!!!
Stage and Sound - Dubb Williams made it all happen, and I am so grateful for him as a professional and as a friend. He and his folks (special shout out to Jacob Mazoch and Colton Joe Smith) got our main stage set up, rigged, and running, even through a couple of not insignificant glitches both days. We were also so very fortunate to bring in Stubbs Audio for the patio stage and secondary help on the main stage. That was a HUGE win, both because he’s a genius at what he does and because we love him and want him at our event.
When Tod and I talked about which artists to invite for this year’s Texafied, we made the decision to make it a sort of “alumni only” event, and with the exception of one local artist, that’s exactly what we did. It. Was. Magical. The lineup was just incredible! There was never a minute that I didn’t want to be actively part of, never a second that I didn’t feel happy and full. The musicians that came together this weekend are more than artists. They are lights in this world that bring so much more than just words and sounds, and if you pay attention and let it in, it’s life changing.
Lastly, my family is unbelievable. When we started this adventure, our oldest (Sadie) was 14, Kelty was 11, and the twins (Lucy & Mac) 9. Now they’re all grown up and have added four more to our family (not officially, yet, but they’re 100% family). They have always just jumped right in and been a part of the whole shebang, working hard and helping us get it all done - and it’s a lot. While I don’t think any of them have “caught the bug” and want to continue the tradition 🤣, they’ve never not wanted to help and support their Dad and me. The love and respect I have for them is more than infinite. There are no words.
Tod, of everything and everyone, YOU are my absolute favorite. Please be here at least another forty? I love you with my soul.
💜
