2010 - looking forward to a great year...

One of my friends told me that her New Year Resolution was 'fearless'. When I asked her why, she said 'because great things can happen'. I like that. So much that I have now adopted it as my New Year Resolution - imitation is the greatest form of flattery they say. When I say my New Year Resolution, that would be alongside the perennial less chocolate, less biscuits, more exercise - so brain numbingly predictable.

Anyway, on to music, and I really ought to get to music as it has been a bit of a while since the album launch gigs which were pretty much the last time I was out and about. There is a good reason. Brain surgery. I reckon that must be up there on the best reasons to take a break from gigging list. Big scars don't really come across well on stage, and I must say the latest rummage around in my head seemed to knock the stuffing out of me more than those before. I've also been going best of three falls with my newest acquisition, temporaI lobe epilepsy, which, in short, is horrible. I've been having a quick snooze at all times of day, and then of course not sleeping much at night, which has been somewhat limiting to getting out and about. I've also been rather weak and feeble (no really) so have not had the energy to do much except shop on the internet and chill out in the local cafe with the occasional lemon poppyseed muffin for company. I had to do something to keep my spirits up... I was certainly perked up reading the fab review of my CD in Jazzwise magazine in December and also the mention of my album in the 'A Few of My Favourite Things 2009' article in December's Jazz UK. I have also found myself bursting in to song again which is a good sign that I'm ready to get back out and about. Watch this space.

I've just had a great Christmas with all my family coming to stay here at my new house. Fab. The house in now looking pretty darned gorgeous following a rather long catalogue of repairs and decoration. It seems the previous occupants took the bodge it approach to structural and other issues in the house so I've spent some considerable time and money getting those sorted. Oh how I laughed... Much of the major issues coming to light while I was in hospital having my brain surgery. I'll let you imagine the scene. Anyway, on to phase 24 (I have been here since July 29th so one has to get one with things). Next week, the builders arrive to start putting a pitched roof on the flat roofed end bit of the house. At the moment, it's a bit yucky and damp and cold and a sort of no man's land. By mid April it should be a lovely office, a large vaulted ceiling lounge come music room (with log burning stove), a utility room and a wet room. Hooray!! You never know, there has been talk between myself and my very good music friends of potentially having some kind of jazz sessions down here - workshops, gatherings. I think that would be a great way to put the space to work. Anyway, lets hope the whole process is relatively stress free - hahahahahahahaha!

Looking forward to getting back into the saddle with the singing and hope to see you at gigs around and about soon. Happy New Year y'all and see you soon.

Rx