If you just read those words and thought of Christine Lavin, then you know that “Cold Pizza for Breakfast” is the title of one of her songs and also her new audio book! If you did not realize that… well, I hope I can change that and introduce you to one of my family’s favorite singer/songwriters.
We were first introduced to Christine in the mid-80’s when my friend Lauretta sent me her CD, “Future Fossils“. This album is a mix of funny songs and deeply moving ones. A few of my favorites: The Dakota – a beautiful and touching song dedicated to John Lennon, The Bag Ladies Ball (a poem about what she would do if she became a millionaire), and, one of her funniest songs, “Regretting What I Said.”
Our family played that CD so many times on road trips that we knew all of the words to the songs by heart. In fact, at our annual camping trip, my daughter, Alexandra and I recited “The Bag Ladies Ball” as our contribution to the talent show. I really admire Christine’s ability to capture feelings that many of us have, and find a way to put them into words and then match them with music that fits them perfectly.
As I was writing this, I remembered yet another of Christine’s songs… it’s called, “The Moment Slipped Away.” I just listened to it again… and it occurs to me that Christine might have planted a seed for my blog many years ago. In the song she encourages us to share kind words with one another (and not to keep them to ourselves.) I’ve certainly tried to do that with the people I have shared pies with over these last few years!
Last Saturday night we were delighted to attend Christine’s concert put on by St. Clair Productions. As always, we enjoyed Christine’s musical talent, her vibrant spirit, and her showmanship (Would you believe she can twirl glow in the dark batons?) To thank her for being such an integral part of our family (unbeknownst to her!) for all these years, I brought her a Kick Ass Apple Almond Pie. Thanks Christine… from the bottom of my heart.
UPDATE! I just received the sweetest thank you note from Christine! In her email she sent a short video that she made… and unbelievably I am in it! What a wonderful coincidence! This is a day I will long remember… Don’t you just love it when things like that happen?
One good thing about music, when it hits you, you feel no pain. Bob Marley
Christine took this photo of me reading Linda Ronstadt’s book, “Simple Dreams”… after I answered her Trivia Question!
Pie a Day Give Away 
No only are you in it….you have the longest segment!!! How cool is that!
I am not familiar with Christine and will definitely look for her music and next time she comes to town, let me know and I will join you!!
Oh, and as for cold pizza for breakfast? Well it is wonderful…as are cold ravioli and almost any Italian food!! ask any Italian-American…
I didn’t realize Karen was the same person who gave me the pie — I ran back to the dressing room to get my camera to document the moment — I was wondering how we’d get word to her that she’s in the video — what a case of instant karmic payback for doing a nice thing. She gave away a pie and won the Linda Ronstadt book. BTW, when I asked the question “What are the names of the two other singers who sang with Linda on the “Trio” albums?” — Karen’s hand was the absolute first one to shoot up — so she won the book fair and square because she knew it was Emmylou Harris and Dolly Parton.
One last thing — even though cold pizza for breakfast is delicious, the day after the concert I had a small slice of apple/almond pie for breakfast. It was fantastic. Apple pie can get a little mushy — but not when there’s thinly sliced almonds hidden about. Mmmm . . . mmm . . . mmmm! Thanks, Karen!
What an honor to have your comment on my blog! I am really touched. And honestly, I feel as if we’ve known you forever… truly. Thank you so much for all the music, for coming to Ashland (such a long way from home for you!). and for being you… My heart is very happy today!!!
That’s really cool, Karen! I’ve never seen Christine live before but really enjoyed her concert. I’m even more impressed to see how she connects with people in the audience. It’s amazing how many bridges you’ve built with pies!