Migration

Sandhill Cranes gathering in Palmer, Alaska; migrating South. What a gorgeous sight. I am always thrilled to witness migration. Deeply moved, actually. The Canada geese, gathering in the next month here in Anchorage, practicing formations and eating all they can; until one day (most likely in October) they all swirl up, higher and higher, and you see them leave in the thousands, sailing over the mountains on the East side of the city. I hope I am free to watch the big day. I loved reading Flight Behavior by Barbara Kingsolver. Monarch Butterfly migration at the center of that story.

A New Dream

Well now.

Here I am, promoting Alaska Lullaby at a store opening,  and who should show up to do her own book signing, but Barbara Lavallee. As my teenage daughter would put it, I went all 'fan girl' on her. I was so excited! She had me sign a book for her grand kids.
Come on! I love her work so much. She is Alaska royalty in the children's book world.

New dream: work with Barbara.

Silence

This goes against the very point of having a blog I suppose; but when I go through difficult times I tend to retreat and clam up. Even writing it down here, where it is still a private place in a way, is something I can't do easily. Many therapists suggest 'getting the story out' - that in the telling of it there is much to be gained. So why do I hesitate still? 

A video worth watching.

Twins born, still holding each other during bath.

Such a lovely video. - MJ

CATcerto. ENTIRE PERFORMANCE. Mindaugas Piecaitis, Nora The Piano Cat

How is it that some people can have something truly great right in front of them, and not be able to see it?
What trick of the mind prevents them from embracing the good thing? Something shows up, not looking like anything that was imagined or planned for; yet there it is with a life of its own. And with success attached to it. With recognition, favorable response, and forward momentum. But hey, it wasn't part of the original plan.

I am always trying to see things with eyes wide open, and I can reflect back on the fact that some of the very best stuff of my life 'showed up' unplanned for. I try to remain flexible, adaptable, and open. Surrender is a favorite word of mine. In the best possible meaning of the word.

We are so delighted to share this with everyone. No one has worked harder on this recording and video than Kurt has. Hard to keep it all straight with late-night brain storming sessions, but I believe the concept for the video was his idea. And it is beautifully done.
I had this reach-for-the-stars idea that I could get Davy Spillane to play on this song. I started referring to the solo section as "Davy's solo" and I sent an early version of the song to him, explaining why I wrote it, and asking him to please listen to it, and consider playing on it. Understand that I have been a fan of his for something like 20 years. When he wrote back and said "It is a fine song and I would be glad to play on it" well, let me tell you, I could not have been happier. Possibly the best moment of my professional musical life thus far. I don't know how I kept from telling the world.
So here we are, done. I hope you like it. Loss is a hard subject, and yet it is common to us all. My sincere intention with this song was to convey the pain of a loved one dying, and to bring the listener through a cathartic place.
A note about the video: We came by all of these shots honestly. They are friends. No models holding stock photos. To those who shared your time, photos of your loved ones, and stories, thank you from the bottom of my heart.
If you like the song, please share. It is also up on iTunes and Amazon for sale. We appreciate your support.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4SUOTP6DslI&feature=youtu.be