The Thought Vox

Oliver, the eldest of the three Pigott children, has been the man of the house since the passing of their father; who was also a passionate musician. “Ollie” definitely exudes a vibe of strength on stage and off. His vocals are commanding, yet his interaction with the audience is soft spoken and humble. There is a raw emotion in his lyrics that puts me in mind of Tom Waits. At times when I watch him perform I see a young Springsteen. Mostly I see a fresh new face that has just scratched the surface of his writing/vocal talent, which is evident in his original song “Still On Your Mind.”

I am notorious for taking in “stray boys.” I would take these two in a heartbeat if they were in need of a home! Off stage they are polite, gracious, funny, and generous: absolutely genuine. Alas, they are not in need of rescue. It has been my pleasure to spend time with the brothers as well as their mom, Linda, and younger sister, Charlotte. The four Pigotts are tight knit. They are what every family unit should be: respectful and loving. Linda, a doctor and a writer, has raised three great people! She’s at every performance, along with Charlotte, both working the door and selling CD’s. Charlotte recently returned to Canada after modeling in New Zeeland. She is also an aspiring writer and like her big brothers: She’s loveable and funny. To say I adore this family is an understatement.

I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to meet many musicians, artists, and actors, through Jake and Glamma @ House Of Glamma. I’ve met a lot of amazing talents who have gifted me with the opportunity to shoot film and video of them. I’ve also met some awesome musicians through Myspace and hope to showcase several of them in the months to come.

The music business is rapidly changing in, this, the digital age. It is SO imperative that all music lovers pay for the art they are listening to. The small download fees artist’s like Ollie and Sebastian charge is what allows them to make more music. I don’t think it’s cool to rip off ANY artist, but it is even worse to steel from those who are scraping the bottom of the barrel to get by. End of rant…

To those of you who suggest I put her out of my room I tell you two things:
- That’s mean – she and her brother Riley Sweet-pea always sleep with me.
- She makes a lot more noise scratching to get in and howling her displeasure.

Any cat “owner” will tell you: “WE ARE NOT IN CHARGE!”

Upon arrival, I was greeted by fresh air and silence. I love Toronto and can’t see me leaving anytime soon. However, sometimes a change of scenery is good for the soul. I spent my time taking photographs, eating, and spending time with a couple of dear friends.

A few years back, when it was just my cats (Riley Sweetpea & Rory Beanie) and I, there was less to miss when I was away; the cats always had babysitters who loved them (Yes – they are spoiled). Since having a house full of young men it’s strange to be out of contact for extended periods of time.

Milford is a dead zone. Something right out of a Stephen King novel: A sleepy little town with zero cellular reception and a quaint general store. Though it was amusing to watch tourists wandering up and down hills, frantically, searching for a signal – it was strange to NOT receive text messages from Joey, Josh, & Nick. I knew they were fine – they are absolutely self-sufficient; but the detachment was odd. It’s quite something how a change in the landscape of a life can alter us completely.

As much as I loved my quiet time I missed the boys. I also missed the cats – but Joey takes the best care of them. Also, I had “Tennessee” to spoil with attention.

I knew in my early 30’s that I would not have children of my own. After my divorce I lived the single life and enjoyed my freedom. Then overnight, 2.5 years ago, I became a mother figure to one 18 year-old boy, then another, and another. Followed by many more. By Joey’s count there have been 12 – as anyone who stayed more than a week counts as an adoptee. I guess the moral of the story is that the “mother instinct” can kick in at any time.

One highlight of my visit was a solitary wander to the Milford Bridge. The locals say one is initiated into the community by taking a swing into the river from the communal rope on the communal tree, or by jumping off the bridge. Luckily there were sun showers the day I made my way there – nobody was around to encourage my initiation.

I smiled large when a boy arrived. On good days, I’m told there are a dozen kids at the bridge; this day he was the lone adventurer. When he noticed me taking photos from the bridge he started to showboat for me. It was GREAT! I got some fun shots of him and it was nice to be near the wild energy of a teenaged boy. I never got his name – but “Young Tarzan” is a good fit. He reminded me of my boys – who are NEVER without vigor.

I arrived home to a silent house and it was a bit of a letdown. My young men were out for the night. I did the only thing I could do: I called Jake and said, “we need fries and gravy.” Off we went, at 11:50pm, to the KFC for some nice greasy comfort food.

I was happy to be woken the following morning by Joey – who greeted me with a hug and a can of Coke. Yes – I’m still addicted, but have cut WAY down.

As I sit here in the quiet with two furry babies flanking me, loving me unconditionally, and I reminisce about my visit while sorting through 800+ photos a thought strikes me: Life is grand!