I'll say right now I'm biased. I've been in love with Ashford Manor ever since I saw the empty house more than a decade ago. I met Dave, Mario and Jim at an art opening across the street (back when Lowery Gallery was in downtown Watkinsville) and they were so excited about their new digs, they brought me over for a preview.

Ashford Manor is one of those places that feels homey the moment you see that terraced lawn and wonderful old house. But of course, Dave, Mario and Jim (who died in October last year, leaving a hole in all our hearts), with their incredible warmth make everyone welcome at Ashford Manor -- it's a hub of the community. And I'm sure I'm not alone in the belief that the thriving Town Center across the street can be attributed in no small part to the business the B&B has brought to town.

That Dave and Mario work tirelessly 12-15 hours a day just doing the B&B (yes, they do all the cooking/room cleaning/etc. with very little help) would be enough, but they invite the whole town for their “Concerts on the Lawn” series.

So are they taking a day off on the Fourth? No, they're providing another excellent show, where people can spread out on the lawn and take in some fine tunes. On the bill Saturday are Greg Hester’s Van Morrison Tribute and Athens' own bluesy rockers Mad Whiskey Grin (possibly the best band name ever).

Hester, who's from Augusta, is said to blend southern soul and jump-up-and-dance rock 'n' roll, and has performed with Drivin' N' Cryin', Johnny Winter, Warren Zevon, Hank Williams Jr., Warren Haynes, and more.

If you're looking for a lovely, lazy way to spend the evening of the Fourth of July, this is seriously the deal.

Tickets are $15 for adults, $5 for children under 12, and free for children under 6. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. with Mad Whiskey Grin at 6 p.m. followed by Hester from 7 to 9 p.m. Guests are invited to bring blankets, lawn chairs, picnics and their beverage of choice and spread out under the sunset and stars.

Tickets can be purchased online for the show at www.amconcerts.com. For details, call the concert hotline at 706-769-6132 or visit amconcerts.com.

I hope to see you there.