Bob Schmidt's (of Flogging Molly) Birthday Bash

I was so pleased to be invited to celebrate Bob Schmidt's birthday with his family. Not only did we celebrate his birthday, but we also celebrated the upcoming birth of his first baby - due in late January! Woo hoo! I've been friends with Bob for years and have known his family for almost as long. It's no wonder he's such a great guy. He comes from such a loving and fun (... and HUGE) family. Bob has 4 brothers and a sister. His mom, who is hilarious, had 2 articles posted on the fridge "Mothers of Sons Lived Shorter Lives, Study Shows" and an article from the 70's where young Bob was interviewed as a "Cartoon Expert" about a writer's strike.

Bob plays mandolin, mandola, tenor banjo, five string banjo, and sings back-up vocals in Flogging Molly. Their live show is one of the most fun things you can possibly experience. Everyone in the audience turns Irish for (at least) a few hours.

One of my greatest friends, the lovely and talented Lindsay Hutchens, was there snapping shots for her long-term project on the band members' relationships with their spouses and extended families. She has also been friends with the band for years and has done a lot of their promo and album photography. She's also an amazing photographer. I really look forward to seeing this project when it's done. Check out her work at www.LindsayHutchens.com.

Lindsay had a photo of Flogging Molly published in the same issue of SPIN Magazine that I had a photo of Coheed and Cambria published this past year. It was the first time for both of us in such a major publication. We were so excited we jumped up and down and screamed. I'm so glad I got to share that experience with such a great friend! : )

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BOB! And Congratulations to Bob and Ella!