Finally getting around to hello

Music: none
Book: Incubus Dreams - Laurell K. Hamilton

The holidays have been interesting thus far. My gigs at the Mall of America were surprisingly fruitful and exhausting. So much happened that I wanted to write about but now I have to confess that my mind has turned to mush; all I want to do is stay in bed for a bit and sleep. My dog actually burrowed under the covers and made herself a cozy nest at the bottom of the bed last night. At first I thought I lost her, then damn near kicked her off the bed. No worries, Sweetie Pie is fine, in fact she was still snoring after the little fiasco. My sister moves out in a week - off to a new city so Mr. Manager and I can return to semi-normal living. The cat might need some recovery time as she enjoys rifeling through all of Carolyns things.

All in all, it's been an extremely busy year. I traveled all over the United States singing for my supper. Such a strange feeling to have a list of places to revisit and half the country left to explore. There is always land left to conquer (hmmm...how American?) I feel change...which is never bad...it just used to come in small doses, now it replaces a morning cup of coffee. Looking at my "to-do" list I'm overwhelmed with comfort and melancholy (spelling?).

Anyway, I hope every had & has a lovely holiday season and I wish you the best in 2005. Thank you for continued support, both musically and psychologically - because they are forever connected.

I'm off to write. Regards - Anne oh!....and it's Mr. Manager's birthday today : )

Back from Vegas

Music: NPR
Book: none

Just got back from Vegas so my sleep pattern is a bit messed up. We had a lovely time...I hadn't though I would enjoy the city as much as I did. So much to catch up but refusing to bring laptop or answer mroe than one cell phone call helped make the vacation a good one. Now I have a guitar to play and Christmas songs to practice and...well...not sure what else, but I'll have it straightened out in a few days. Believe it or not, I actually missed the chilly weather *smile *

busy

Music: Holly Williams
Book: Narscissus in Chains - Hamilton

Heading off to Vegas. Busy packing and learning xmas songs for the Mall of America shows next week. It needs to snow now, but other than that life is good. I'm freezing my ass off at the moment so hot tea sounds like a brilliant idea. Bye.

Long time...

Music: NPR
Book: Obsidian Butterfly - Hamilton

No feeling in my fingertips which means I've been playing guitar a little too much. I'm on a magazine kick lately and it's interfering with my books, but for some reason I found this issue of Business Weekly interesting. Huh. Cold but far from snowy in the Twin Cities....I'd really like a white Christmas. Stillwater beckons for a wine tasting tomorrow night and a low key weekend of me practicing holiday tunes for my Mall of America shows the week before xmas. By for now.

Back in Minneapolis

Music: NPR
Book: none

Friday night was awful in Appleton. Good intentions, but a weird night. The copper rock is a great venue, good food, friendly service, but the patrons talk. I mention this because I feel the need to apologize for those of you who drove down to the show only to have your ears buzz from the other half of the audience. People listened on and off, but talked the whole damn night. Hard work and not a fun show for anyone. As an artist if you cover Green Day or Avril maybe this is the venue for you.

Saturday night was a surprising treat however. The road to Escanaba (41 then M35) is treacherous at best but worth the drive. Rain, sleet and mists accompanied me and my father up to Michigan from Green Bay and not realizing there was an hour time difference...I arrived 25 minutes late. Luckily the paper printed my start time as 8:30pm so it all worked out in the end. I cannot stress enough how CHARMING the patrons were or how gracious the venue. I am so glad to have played the 8th Street Coffeehouse and for those of you still wanting to buy CDs when none were left in the car *smile* please order online and I'll give you a discount! Happy Holidays!

still slightly ill

Music: none
Book: outlander - Gabaldon

I would like to be better now. I'm looking forward to the Appleton show tomorrow...please stop on down to the Copper Rock if you're in the area. And of course Escanaba for Saturday night. Back to bed for Anne. Happy Thanksgiving.

ugh

Music: me
Book: none

I have the flu.

SHOW TONIGHT AT GINKGO IN ST. PAUL, MN

Music: NPR
Book: City of Secrets - Follian

Almost done with City of Secrets - great read. Next I'm taking on Diana Gabaldon's "Outlander". I haven't read it in so long that I need to take it all in again. Seeing as I re-visited "Dragongfly in Amber" while touring the midwest I'm going back to the beginning. I added the audio versions of all the books to my half.com wishlist though...just in case.

SHOW TONIGHT AT GINKGO with Vicky Emerson. Can't wait. See you tonight!!!!

Wild book

Music: NPR
Book: City of Secrets by John Follian

The above book is about the "Truth behind the murders at the Vatican in May of 1998" when the head of the Swiss Gaurd, Estermann, was found murdered along with his wife and supposedly shot by another guard. It is unbelievable. I'm not big on conspiracy theories but Follian backs up some serious ties to Osama Bin Laden and Opus Dei. Wow. No good transition from there so...in other news...

Don't forget my show tomorrow night at Ginkgo in St. Paul with Vicky Emerson...we start at 7:30 and have decided to play off each other in songwriter circle style so whenever you come, the listener will be able to catch a few songs from each of us all night long!! Don't miss it! Chadly is braving the stage with me once again - he's earning his karma stripes.

sometimes you're the windshield, sometimes you're the bug

Music: Mary Chapin Carpenter
Book: none...

Finished all my books and a load of driving. I was a little "off" this weekend, still am. Too much or not enough of everything. I'm spent and tired and bland. Gingko is Thursday night with Vicky Emerson and I am REALLY looking forward to playing in my own town again...well, St. Paul is close enough to Minneapolis to be called home. I'm looking for balance.

Friedrich Nietzsche said, "You must have chaos in your soul to give birth to a dancing star" ....Damn straight...

sick...

Music: none
Book: Dying to Please - Linda Howard

I'm getting a cold. Last night I went to sleep before 9PM. I did manage to whispher out a song or two before collapsing in bed. It's almost better to be completely sick with the sniffles and an excuse to stay in bed. Fighting off a cold to prevent it from setting up camp in your sinuses is the real trick. My bed is calling. Mr. Manager will be in Pixie land for the next few days and them I'm off to Wisconsin and Illinois for the next several days.

Glowing Review in Face Magazine!!!

Music: Home CD
Book: Blue Moon - Laurel K. Hamilton

I just received a glorious review in Face Magazine for Mulligan! www.facemag.com It's number 9 in the column section off to the left on the front page! Thank you, thank you, thank you to Shelby Morrisfor understanding my music and what indie artists everywhere are desperately trying to accomplish in the middle of Clear Channel hell.

I saw "The Incredibles" over the weekend and laughed myself stupid. Rather violent for a cartoon but still funny. I'm rather interested in working on the next Home CD which benefits Children International www.children.org ....More on that later.

Oh and we had a website mix up and the concert calendar showed a gig from Saturday, November 6th at Four Friends in Grand Rapids, MI. The show was rescheduled for 2005, but the website was confusing. I apologize for those who showed up...next time I owe you a coffee but I will be in Michigan next year. Thanks!

Hola

Music: audio book Dragon Fly in Amber
Book: Burnt Offerings - Hamilton

On to book six for Hamilton. It's cold, but not snowy which ruins the fun of winter in Minneapolis. January through May of 2005 is looking crazy for bookings and I will do everything in my power to reach as many cities as possible. "The Incredibles" comes out tomorrow so if Mr. manager is recovered from another 24 hours of concert chaos...we'll be one of the first in line. I woke up early for some reason and decided to workout out, walk the dog, make breakfast and deposit some checks at the bank all before 7:45am...it's only 11:15am and it's been a full day! Bedtime might happen at around 8pm. Hee hee.

Election Day

Music: Holly Williams
Book: Burnt Offerings - Hamilton

Almost finished with the Anita Blake Vampire Series books, I believe they would make a great movie or TV Series. Interesting day...Songs to write. Bye.

DOLLY!!!

Music: Country
Book: Killing Dance - Laurell K. Hamilton

The Dolly Parton concert was wonderful on Friday night. I ran myself ragged over the weekend so I'm sorry for the late post. My only critique of the concert would be the lack of full songs...Dolly's set list was more revue style with only one verse and one chorus of a song bleeding into another song and then another. Her banter with the audience (while scripted) was delightful. She is a true entertainer and a marvelous songwriter. What a treat! If you get the chance - buy tickets to the show.

In other news: I am so tired of political TV/Radio/Mail ads right now I could scream. In one half-hour program on Sunday I saw at least a dozen ads, but I stopped counting at 10. Guess what? If you haven't decided who to vote for by now you could be the dumbest person alive. You know what you believe and what the candidates stand for so make a choice. Is anyone truly swayed by that 10 second radio spots not endorsed by either candidate but just by the party? Harsh, but it's how I feel. We've been bombarded with nothing but politics the entire summer and fall - even if you had wanted to, you couldn't have hidden from the information. My point being - I don't think the ads and brochures are helping; I feel it's wasted money and that makes me a little angry and quite sad. But as long as you vote - I guess you're forgiven. (you probably don't care what I think though and that's okay)

My next show is the Heartland in Chicago on Sunday, November 14th. I haven't played there since I was in college so it will be fun to go back. The last two weeks of November are packed full of shows all over the midwest so you can come out, enjoy the music and start your christmas shopping early by picking up a CD or two or three for family and friends. Now I have to get back to 2005 bookings.

well hello Dolly

Music: a terribly off key CD - I can't name
Book: Bloody Bones - Hamilton

I finished "Lunatic Cafe" and am almost done with "Bloody Bones"; I must admit the Anita Blake Vampire series is getting better and better. Dolly Parton concert is tonight at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul...luckily I don't have to be there until 8:30 so I can nap and then take in some good ol' country music. Mr Manager and I watched "Walking Tall" last night and I drooled all through the movie but especially when the Rock took his shirt off. * yummy* Oh, I'm drooling again. I've had a rush of CD orders through the website and stores which pleases me greatly and I wanted to thank those of you purchasing the catalog enmasse. Hope you enjoy the music! Have a lovely weekend...I wish I could sleep straight through it.

Aberdeen

Music: none
Book: Dust to dust - Tami Hoag

So-so book, Tami Hoag's other works have been more to my liking. I did end up enjoying the Hamilton book, now I have to start off on the rest of the Anita Blakes series.

I played Aberdeen, South Dakota on Saturday and went up against the opening night of the Rocky Horror Picture show - apprently half the town was cast. Enough of a crowd showed up by showtime to make the trip worthwhile. Odd show though. I slept through most of Sunday to recoup from driving straight there and back. Not always a wise choice but I was wide awake & just wanted my own bed. It's hard to sleep in a hotel when home is only a few hours away. Plus, I've been listening to the audio book of "Dragonfly in Amber" which I've read before but the actress on tape is wonderful and has brought the story to life for me once again!

I'm planning out my winter tour of 2005 and it's looking like Nashville, Alabama, Georgia and the Carolinas for the month of February - a break from the winter chill of the Twin Cities : )

South Dakota

Music: Holly Williams
Book: Laughing Corpse - Laurell K. Hamilton

I've begun the Anita Blake Vampire series by Laurell K. Hamilton...I'm not a fan yet, but the book is interesting enough. I hear the series becomes addictive around book four. Seeing as I'm a fast reader I can stick it out and muddle through the beginning of the series. I leave for South Dakota tomorrow morning; I play at 9pm on Saturday night at the Red Rooster in Aberdeen, SD. Come one come all. Tonight I was hoping to see a spooky film so we might catch "The Grudge". I've heard it's horrible but Halloween is just around the corner and I've always been good for a scare. It's fabulously gloomy, raining and dark today, not terribly cold, but very London-like weather. I absolutely LOVE IT!

South Dakota

Music: Holly Williams
Book: Laughing Corpse - Laurell K. Hamilton

I've begun the Anita Blake Vampire series by Laurell K. Hamilton...I'm not a fan yet, but the book is interesting enough. I hear the series becomes addictive around book four. Seeing as I'm a fast reader I can stick it out and muddle through the beginning of the series. I leave for South Dakota tomorrow morning; I play at 9pm on Saturday night at the Red Rooster in Aberdeen, SD. Come one come all. Tonight I was hoping to see a spooky film so we might catch "The Grudge". I've heard it's horrible but Halloween is just around the corner and I've always been good for a scare. It's fabulously gloomy, raining and dark today, not terribly cold, but very London-like weather. I absolutely LOVE IT!

Good/Bad shows

Music: Holly Williams
Book: How to make love like a porn star - Jenna Jameson

Jenna's autobiography is fascinating...but I don't recommend reading it during lunch at Perkins in Lincoln, Nebraska. People look at you funny.

About tour: The first time I played Hastings, NE - it was wonderful. Kind audience, beautiful day, CDs sold etc...This time around, there wasn't an empty seat in the venue, but there was a table of teenagers who laughed, cackled, yelled and shouted during my entire set. The room was silent save for the occasional coffee steamer in the background and the shouting match happening in the front of Blue Moon. I mention it because the rest of the audience was so kind and attentive that it was so distracting and embarrassing for the venue, for myself and the other patrons that so few could ruin a show for so many. I left very upset, but still plan to return for their music festival over Memorial weekend in May of 2005. For those nice people who stayed and clapped and expressed gratitude for my coming back to Hastings...thank you, thank you and thank you again for the warm welcome and quiet curtesy. It was a very rough show and your support stopped me from throwing a coffee mug across the room and screaming like a banshee before quitting the show all together. Believe me...I wanted to - that could be the sole benefit of being one's own employer.

Omaha was an entirely different story! Mick's Music and Bar is extraordinary. Great room, unbelievably sound and ...well...it's simply an electric vibe! Theresa opened (wonderful rhythmic guitar playing) and everyone in the audience stayed for my set - even though it was late on a Sunday night and no one had ever heard of me before. I was charmed and absolutley grateful to be allowed the opportunity to play there. I was so hyped about it that I sailed home - 6 straight hours - only stopping once for gas and a bathroom break. I was wide awake when I rolled into the Twin Cities at 5:30am this morning. Music is better than caffeine. Tonight I will probably dream of Omaha.

On a side note: one of my books on tape this weekend was "Holy Fools" by Joanne Harris. I definitely recommend the read. It's full of witchcraft, gypsies, church scandal and murder all set at an French abbey in the year 1610. Quite an engrossing tale!

Boiler hell

Music: none
Book: none

Is that an oxymoron? Install of boiler delayed...so I'm looking at options. Maybe Florida? Ugh. I read eveything Karie Marie Moning has written and now am in search of a different kind of book. We'll see what I find. Label showcase is this Thursday at Escape and then I'm off to Omaha & Hastings for some fun shows in the middle of America. I'm looking forward to a vacation, but have no idea when that will be. Once again I'd like to remind everyone that Gilmore Girls is on TV this evening and should not be missed. I'm going to roll up in a ball and cry now. At least I'm writing songs and that makes the world a bit more tolerable today.

It's official this year sucks

Music: NPR
Book: Dark Highlander - Karen Marie Moning

Moning writes hot, steaming romance novels - fabulous reading. Hedonistic pleasure at its best. In other news: many songs have been written these past few weeks and I'm feeling a bit melancholy about letting them go. That's okay every once in a while. Also, my bank account is sad news.

So far in 2004 my water heater went in March then I got squirrels in my attic around April, July I started looking for a new boiler and low and behold it went bad in September so I had asbestos removed on Monday and the new boiler goes in on October 19th. (Not to mention the ankle injury over Labor Day Weekend - and my numerous trips to the vet with my sick dog Sweetie Pie) And THEN last night I heard a strange rattling in my engine when I idled, which goes away in park, so I took it to my friendly Ford dealer and found out my transmission fluid needs replacing as does my power steering, the right headlight is out and they haven't pinpointed the rattling but it doesn't look good. I swear 2005 can't come fast enough. Touring is the only thing making me smile. So in a nutshell: I wanted to thank everyone for buying CDs (because it keeps me out of bankruptcy) and especially for coming out to see my shows as I roam about the country. When all is lost, we still have hope.

Freezing

Music: none
Book: none

Maybe I should become a hermit... I could still write music and hang out with my dog I think.

Rain

Music: Mike Doughty
Book: Moning "Highland something"

Sorry to be absent...I've been working and writing and reading. Rainy day in the Twin Cities. Apparently it's going to be quite cold this evening. I'd be excited except for the fact that I have no heat. Ah well...

I need a new winter coat and some tennis shoes so it's a mandatory shopping night. Off to MOA.

CD Baby!

Music: none
Book: Blackwood Farm

I sold out of CDs at CD Baby again. That made me smile. Gilmore Girls is tonight so after TV from 7-8pm, I need to change the strings on my Taylor. I was pretty rough on my guitar over the weekend and the strings are almost worn bare. That's a good feeling though. It's odd, but since recording Mulligan in January, I've written enough music for an entire new album. I still have the idea of a live cd in the back of my mind, but no real opportunity to record one. We'll see. I keep saying I'm going to skip a year to just play and tour but I keep cranking out songs that I feel should be on a CD. Hope the well of music doesn't dry up * giggle*

Hold on, hold on to yourself, for this is gonna hurt like hell

Music: Sarah McLachlan
Book: Blackwood Farm

Des Moines was great. Again. We headed off to St. Cloud early enough but mixed up the times on the website vs posters and ended up starting an hour late. So I'm apologizing to those of you who showed up and left before I got there. For those who stayed - thanks. Chadly and I had a good time playing. Drinks followed with a friend from college and I crawled into bed around 3am. I just need some yoga or...something. Music was my salvation this weekend and I guess I needed it for the rotten week ahead. Monday sucks so far...I'd like a latte or possibly a bottle of cabernet to make it all go away. * sigh *

If you judge me tonight judge me by the songs I write

Music: Led Zepplin
Book: Hoag: "Ashes to Ashes", "Mysteries of the Unknown" & "Blackwood Farm"

Since I'm on the road and currently posting from Iowa, Dan Burn's song "Black Tornado" keeps running through my head about driving through fields in West Des Moines. Sioux Falls was a complete trip last night. Friends of Kyle Vincent filled the Black Sheep Coffee House and treated me to a lovely welcome. Many CDs were sold and I left feeling wonderfully fulfilled. I hope to return this December. My hotel room neighbors were a bit...uhm...amorous? last night. Made for interesting TV. I was trying to watch "Friends" to the soundtrack of a very loud porno film. *smile* I just love my life. Laptop in hand, I'm camped out at Java Joes drinking dangerously addictive coffee and catching up on emails and business before my show this evening at 9:30pm. Last time I played here we had a crowd of about 300. Since the bar was packed to capacity in April, I'm pretty sure we'll have a bit more of an intimate gathering this time around, but I'm keeping my fingers crossed it'll be just as fun for all parties. I head back to the Twin Cities tomorrow to check in with my puppy and then get right back in the car for St. Cloud. I haven't played there since my show with Rachel Gaudry 2 years ago. I'm looking forward to it, especially because Chadly's tagging along to bang the drums and make glorious music. Mr. manager will be knee deep in Big & Rich/Tim McGraw at the Xcel Center. I'm a little jealous. Plus, I missed Melissa Ethridge last night in the Twin Cities, but supposedly I have a back stage pass/trinket waiting for me at home as a small consolation.

GILMORE GIRLS!!!

Music: Pink - Try This
Book: A Thin Dark Line

Gilmore Girls premiere is tonight and I intend to sit on my tushy and watch it. I just love that damn show! I have errands to run around town but clubs and theatres don't open until 6pm. Guess it'll have to wait until after WB TV. If I don't start exercising soon I might go crazy, but I don't have a lot of breathing room on this one so I'm shooting for a quicker recovery. Living quarters are stressing me out, but hopefully it will fuel the musical muse. By for now.

Gambling

Music: None
Book: Thin Dark Line

I received a gambling game for my laptop and I haven't stopped playing all day. I keep switching between blackjack and roulette. Maybe it's so fun because there is no real money involved, but I have to say I'm typing with my hands, but my eyes are watching the screen and listening for the drop of the ball. Is it possible to have a problem even if you don't lose or win any money? Maybe I should go back to reading my book...

Forgot to post

Music: NPR
Book: A Thin Dark Line - Tami Hoag

Honestly, I tried reading "The Good Book" and haven't given up on it completely, but I'm pacing myself so I don't throw it out the window of a moving car. Instead, I'm absorbed with Tami Hoag's book. I've only begun but it's as promising as the first. I haven't done a single music related thing today and I feel a bit guilty about it. Nice day though...that could be part of the problem.

Cast me gently

Music: Sarah McLachlan
Book: Good Book

The "Good Book" is not so good. Interesting at times, but a SLOW read. I'll sift my way through it. It took me a year to purchase Sarah M's 2003 CD, "Afterglow" but I am loving it.

I'm half way done with christmas shopping (people hate me for saying it, but it makes me happy) but have yet to wrap a single thing. Today is another perfectly gloomy day in the Twin Cities which is IDEAL for songwriting. I wanted to make note of two spectacular house concerts happening in Minneapolis this fall sponsored by Collected Sounds:

Rachel Sage - 10/23
Anne Heaton - 11/19

go to www.collectedsounds.com for more info but I highly recommend reserving a space now. The house is magnificent and the music, if possible, is even better. Unfortunately, I'm going to miss both shows as I have gigs several states away, but felt the need to notify all the music lovers who check into my journal. Mark your calendars ASAP! Bye for now.

You've got to admit it's getting better. getting better all the time

Music: Sarah McLachlan - Fumbling Towards Ecstasy
Book: The Good Book - Peter J. Gomes

Busy weekend...I've become a demon on crutches. The wind this morning was so fierce that the mantra "something wicked this way comes" kept playing in the back of my mind. Last night before bed I re-read "Hearing Voices" by Brian Andreas...he's the Story People guy. His sense of humor always makes me smile.

Dropping Like Flies - B. Andreas

I like people until
they give me reason
not too, she said.

Some days they
just drop like flies,
though, she added.

Sunday

Music: Sarah McLachlan
Book: Looking for one...

Went to Divas 2004 charity event last night - odd evening. Football game today on cruthes - should be interesting. Wrote quite a bit last night on the guitar. I would prefer a nap.

Politics

Music: no clue who the artist is but the music is good
Book: Just finished Dark Horse by Tami Hoag

I'm currently stranded, alone, at my house with no people and even my car is gone - long story. I finished my book, I can't exercise & there isn't even a bagel in the house to get me to lunch. Is my grumpiness showing? Poeple and politics are pissing me off - only because I feel it's being shoved down my throat. Can I ask when the last time a stranger yelling at you on the street about Bush or Kerry changed your opinion of the next election? I can't...I read books and watch the news, I listen to NPR. I like to get things from the source and validate the information instead of relying on hearsay. My grandmother had a friend in Cleveland Ohio who used to host lavish dinner parties and the only rule she laid down was no politics and no religion. I just wish it were true today and that people could respect a person's right to their own opinion.

Doc apt

Music: NPR
Book: Dark Horse - Tami Hoag

Does my journal read like a rejected script for ER? Sorry. I lost my other book so I'm half way into Tami Hoag's and it's great - I'm a first time reader for her and I can't believe I've missed out. But on the bright side, I love discovering new authors which enables me to back track and read all the earlier stuff. It's like getting a library in one hit. I'm off to the doctor's again this evening. This morning was okay, but once again, that was because of the vicodin - now I'm in hell. Honestly, I've had surgerys that were less painful. Could be the weather. Oh and I have a tentative Minneapolis show date for october 7th at Ginkgo on Snelling in St. Paul. Keep a watch on the concert page for details.

ugha

Music: NPR
Book: left my book at home today

Feeling wretched...my ankle/foot is swollen to twice its size - not to mention having turned a lovely shade of violet and sage. It hurts just thinking about it. USA beat Russia last night in the World Cup and it was fabulous to watch. I confirmed some more shows for October in high hopes that the break heals quickly. September is still up in the air. I didn't realize so many of you checked into my online ramblings but your kind words of sympathy and hopes for a quick recovery are very much appreciated. Thank you! Now...I do believe it's pain pill time.

Sarah McLachlan

Music: Sarah McLachlan
Book: Eye of the Needle

Sarah M was a great concert on Saturday night. I arrived back home however and went outside with my dog, fell and broke my right ankle. Now I'm maxed out on vicadin and feeling wretched. The cast goes from toe to knee and I have to have more xrays next week. Touring until October is up in the air but I might beg my sister to drive me around the midwest. Just keeping ya'all posted.

Books, books & music

Music: NPR
Book: Devil in the White City - Erik Larson

I forgot to mention that I finished "The Automatic Millionaire" by David Bach and found it wonderful. I felt good reading it because my parents had already drilled into my brain about certain savings and retirement planning. It was a pat on the back so to speak. However, much of it was new information that I recently put into works. Stocks, bonds, money market, mortgage, charities - you name it, he talks about it (but without talking down to the reader)

I'm almost finished with Larson's book about the World's Fair in 1893 - scary! Great read. A friend and I are going to see Sarah McClahlan (sp?) at Xcel on Saturday night (I'm expecting better than Chicks with Attitude from last week) The state fair still beckon so it will be squeezed in at some point in time this weekend.

Long time no...blog

Music: Big & Rich
Book: The Automatic Millionaire - David Bach

Common Sense finance book by David Bach. It's stuff my father has been telling me since I was 12 years old. I'm hitting open mic at Ginkgo tomorrow evening because I haven't done a Twin Cities open mic since I first arrived. Seems like the world is descending upon Minneapolis this evening. Could be an interesting night.

Show tonight

Music: Big & Rich - save a horse (ride a cowboy)
Book: The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson

Great book so far; it's the TRUE story of a serial murderer working in the shadow of the Chicago world's fair around 1890.

I play the Coffee Hag in Mankato this evening, it's free show and I plan on working in some new songs. I wrote two more last night and re-worked lyrics this morning. Fun, fun fun...I hope Chadly likes them enough to put some drum beats down next week.

It's gloomy and rainy in Minneapolis...my favorite weather. Mr. Manager and I watched "People I know" with Al Pacino, Tea Leoni and Kim Basinger last night. Strange flick. I thought it was okay though. Bye for now.

uhm

Music: Emm Gryner
Book: Must go to library!

Went to the Chicks with Attitude concert which was infested with 12 year olds made up by Maybeline. Odd, yet amusing. Charlotte Martin was wonderful - for the brief moments we saw her. I browsed through a cool magazine called Venus yesterday - I might have to subscribe. Got a bit tied up with things last night but still managed to get a good night's rest.

Today is My Daddy Dave's birthday. Going to call him now...

Chicks

Music: none
Book: can't recall

Heading to the Chicks with Attitude Concert at the Orpheum this evening. Should be a good time. I'll let you know how the concert went tomorrow...

Human Stain

Music: Alison Kraus
Book: none

Mr. Manager and I watched "The Human Stain" last night. Well, I sat through the movie and Mr. Manager snored through it. Wonderful film. I think Mirimax can do no wrong. They take chances. I'm hoping to go to Chicks with Attitude at the Orpheum on Wednesday night. Depends on the calendar.

Weddings

Music: Country Station
Book: None- ahhhhh

I had a whirlwind experience yesterday on my way to sing for someone's wedding. No invitations, everything was by email so I printed out the directions to the Church mentioned only to arrive at the church about 45 minutes before the ceremony - no one was there. I called everyone I knew to see if they could break into my email and double check for amy last minute news. Scary experience, but I finally got a hold of a friend who read through my emails but nothing was new besides a reference to a restaurant "next door" for the reception. I called 411 again and again asking random bars in Stillwater and Marine if they were hosting a reception for the groom and finally got a yes. No one was at the bar so we drove down dirt roads in Marine and saw a group of people outside, grabbed the guitar and ran to the circle of people. We arrived an hour late but the wedding had started behind schedule so we got there about 10 minutes before I had to sing. It rained outdoors during the ceremony but it was still nice. In fact, it was probably the coolest ceremony ever. Lutheran, Catholic, Jewish - you name it. They incorporated beautiful traditions from each religion and had friends and family alike add poetry, speeches, advise and blessings. The choir was incredible and they seemed to be the happiest "just married" couple I've ever seen. I can't believe my luck and good fortune that I was invited, then actually made it to the ceremony and got to experience such a touching celebration. I should write a song for Mel and Adam....

And the silver goes to

Music: none
Book: When the storm breaks

Rebecca Giddens won the silver medal yesterday in Kayak Slalom competition in Athens. Her sister (now Dr. Lindsey Bennett - they're kind of an overachieving family - was in my grade and is one of the best friends a girl could have. I'm so happy for Rebecca and her family that I have purchased every single paper that has a blurb or picture in it about the momentous day. Safe travels back home to the USA for the Bennett Family!!!! We're so proud of you : )

Skye

Music: Melissa Ferrick
Book: When the Storm Breaks

A friend of mine lost her dog on Sunday night, searching the neighborhood all week, day and night, with no luck. I kept praying to St. Francis of Assissi (Patron Saint of Animals - after all I was raised Catholic) and today I found out that Skye - the lost German Shepard - came home at 6am this morning. She was filthy, stinky and dead tired, but somehow managed to make it home. She's probably sleeping the day away. I am so happy. I didn't realize it had been worrying me all week, but I feel so relieved about it. Losing a pet is one of the hardest things to handle so I can't imagine the joy of getting one back!!!

No guitar last night...I worked on my yard again and then fell into an exhausted sleep at 9pm. More manual labor this evening. I have to be done with the yard before my massage and manicure on Saturday (and of course singing for Adam and Mel's wedding). Such a girl huh????

Back Breaking work

Music: none
Book: Thrill

Working on the yard this evening tearing up my side, side walk. Some some kids shooting bbguns. Grrrr...called the police on the little deliquents. Maybe I'll go nuts all week and finish my landscaping before my day at the spa on Saturday. Here I come Spalon Montage.

All I've got is what's on my back a guitar & a backpack but my soul is intact

Music: Dan Bern - author of the quote above.
Book: Thrill - (Wretched, WRETCHED awful book on tape but I have to finish it)

I'm dead tired but back in Minneapolis after hitting Chicago, Indianapolis and Necedah. Weird weekend. Tons of driving and I feel like little was accomplished. I only caught snippets of the Music Summit and it's showcase, but did enjoy stopping back into CATH Coffeehouse to play a set. Nora was wonderful as always. I caught wind of a beautiful alto singer who just got ropped into harmonies with one of the showcase performers so I grabbed one of her CDs (her band was Diamonds & Rust but not part of the showcase). Interesting music mix on Saturday as I was one of the few women singing. Usually the women acoustic singers overwhelm the men, but in this case it was the opposite. My doggie was happy to see me when I walked through my back door this evening, but things have calmed down now and I'm trying to figure out what to eat for dinner. Maybe I'll just go to bed. So sleepy! Feeling "off" at the moment...I even had to drive in silence for about two hours this morning. I just needed quiet; that's never happened before.

La la la la life goes on

Music: Linkin Park - again
Book: When the Wind Blows - James Patterson

Going to walk the dog, get a quote on new facia siding for my roof and pack for Indianapolis. I head for Chicago to my aunt and uncle's house in Glenview for a brief visit before joining the Midwest Music Conference Showcase in Indianapolis, IN on Saturday. Hopefully I'll be able to shop at H&M on Michigan Ave Saturday morning. Sunday I'm stopping at grandma's house for lunch in the tiny town of Necedah. Family weekend I guess. Too bad the puppy can't come along too! Gloomy and gorgeous in the Twin Cities today. I actually ordered hot chocolate for breakfast. Busy morning booking fall shows and checking on flights to Italy for spring of 2005. Now it's time for my workout. Bye.

Headache

Music: Book on tape
Book: When the Wind Blows - James Patterson

Screaming headache today...for no reason that I can think of. I'm listening to the Patterson book. It's interesting but I'm pretty sure that unless my advil kicks in the headache will interfere with enjoying the book. I need to go back to bed.

Schutff

Music: Linkin Park - not kidding
Book: Honest Illusions - Nora Roberts

Long horrible drive in torrential rain storms the entire way to Ashland Wisconsin and back to Minneapolis. Got in late last night around 1am. Brilliant show however! I will stress again how much I enjoy playing the Black Cat in Ashland. It was standing room only in the coffeehouse and filled to bursting with the kindest of people. Thank you to all who purchased CDs. Enjoy the music! Purchased a new yoga DVD by Karen Voight and spent a ton of money on clothing at the MOA (aka Mall of Hysteria) and I bought a rug too. Doesn't really match anything but I still like it. Much happening right now. Should be doing yard work but I'm settling for pilates and some dusting. Ah the life of a rock star. I was given a video game called Civilization - all about history and the making of it from the very beginning. Sounds interesting but I'd much rather read a book. We'll see if I even crack it open. Did I mention my sister is coming to live with me for a bit? Should prove fun and interesting. Bye for now.

Uhm

Music: Holly McNarland and Tori Amos
Book: Nice - by Jen Sacks

Funny book. Good music. Weird week. I'm going to buy some plants.

crazy days

Music: Melissa Ferrick
Book: just finished Code Name: Nanny and loved it!

Kinda of a spy romance thriller mystery book but very very enjoyable. I don't even remember turning pages, just the fun story. Strange day, much is undecided but we'll see if things pan out accordingly. My sister is coming to live with me and Mr. Manager for a while to get settled in Minneapolis. Should be fun. The fabulous drummer, Chadly Koppenhaver and I are planning to get together to jam sometime before the fall. Schedules are so busy that we might not meet until the leaves fall. Ugh. Sweetie Pie and Miss Kitty are adjusting to life back at home after a little vacation at my parents house this past weekend. Kitty wants to be adopted by my mother. A friend of mine from college just got engaged. Woo hoo! Good for her, happy thoughts and congratulations for Andrea B. I have so much going on in my head that I can't even straighten it out long enough to write a song. A step back might be helpful...

Thoughts

Music: Annie Capps
Book: NICE

Cure DuChenne benefit was last night. Smaller attendance than last year but still a good showing of supporters from start to finish. Chadly Koppenhaver and I did a stripped down version of my songs with him on jdimbe (spelling???) and me on acoustic guitar. It felt so right. The songs were simple but ridiculously full and energized. If he's available and up for it, we might continue to book some more shows of this nature. Fall is very scattered as far as concerts go so I'll spend some time straightening that out this week. Oh, and California is looking solid for touring this winter.

On a side note: I've been pondering the different music vibes from city to city. Some are really laid back and others are just vibrant. The mix is a good thing though because I feel it influences the way I play and perform; I adjust to the audience. This also gives me an opportunity to explore "old" songs in new ways.

On the road again...

Music: None
Book: Back in Kansas - kinda boring...don't bother

Left Chicago and stopped by Green Bay to pick up the pets this morning. Now Im back in Minneapolis shoving pizza down my throat before searching down my hairbrush. I figure that's about all the primping time I'm gonna get before hitting the Fineline with my fabulous percussionist, Chadly Koppenhaver. He's joining me on stage for the Cure DuChenne MD Benefit Concert. It was a success last year and I predict it will be better tonight. Golf thingy tomorrow www.cureduchenne.org

My head hurts, no idea why. Changes Coffeehouse was a slighty off gig. Nice people, deserted strip mall location and a Park Forest power outage made for an interesting evening. The kindness of strangers is still at the top of the list for making or breaking a show and this one passed the test.

in Chicago!!!!

Music: Can't recall...

I'm at Uncommon Ground listening to the best music I've heard in ages. Annie Capps from Ann Arbor and Martha's Trouble. What a beautiful night of music! I feel revived. Tonight I will sleep as my sick doggie is being tenderly cared for by my parents (thank goodness). Chicago misses me...I just know it. Feels like home : )

What a weekend

Music: rockford - before I forget
Book: can't recall

Spent Friday night at the Emergency vet again after checking out Dan Corrigan's portion of the spot Art exhibit in Northeast Minneapolis. My doggie is still sick. I head off to Chicago for some shows - should be fun if everyone can get healthy for the trip. Saturday night at the Entry was odd. Politics make for an unfun night of music. I guess someone has to speak out though. I enjoyed the music but the vibe was off. Could be that I hadn't slept in a while. Same routine for the rest of the weekend...up with the doggie and then trying to catch an hour of sleep to no avail. My eyes are burning at the moment but I have things to take care of so I'll just look forward to a nap around 1pm or maybe an early night when I fall asleep at 7pm tonight. Ugh.

lovin' my band

Music: book on tape
Book: three fates

We rehearsed last night for saturday's show at the 7th Street Entry and I have to say it was wonderful. I miss playing music with those guys. I finally get a night off this evening and plan on watching movies and eating popcorn! Maybe a little yoga but I'm not pushing it.

Crying, crying, crying

Music: Cure
Book: So You Wanna Be A Rock & Roll Star - Slichter

Just got a $6000 quote to replace my 40 year old boiler with a brand spanking new one. I think I'll go crawl into bed and pull the covers over my head for a bit. It seemed like a good idea to take care of this in the summer when I wouldn't freeze my ass off should anything happen to my house. However, seeing as it's 90 degrees outside the ONLY thing I can think about now is the fact that I have to spend $6000 on a new boiler. Just to have heat. Ugh. My dog and cat liked the Minnegasco guy who came to check things out - so I did too. Wouldn't hurt to have commission and a job go to someone cool.

Oh and I actually got "A listed" in City Pages for my 7th Street Entry show this Saturday. But wait...ah yes...they didn't mention me, the entire blurb was about my opening act Ember Swift. Cool for her. SUCKS for me as I live in this town. At least they spelled my name correctly. That's gotta be a first for our "Entertainment Weekly" Can you detect the sarcasm?! Anyone... Anyone?!?!?!?!

I did something stupid

Music: Cure
Book: So You Wanna Be A Rock and Roll Star?

Last night I tried swatting at a bug and ending up shattering a pane of glass in my kitchen window. No harm no foul...well...except to the window but no one was injured. As Mr. Manager put it: "Without [my] hands we have no money" Hee hee, I thought that was funny. Never realized I was a commodity.I was able to finish "Monkeewrench" last night (by P.J. Tracey and HIGHLY recommend the book!) Because after traveling around to Home Depot and hardware stores I was beat so reading was the answer- and to top it off, that damn fly is STILL in my house. Ugh. I WAS going to organize a set list and run through in prep for Saturday's band show but never got around to it with all of my destructive chaos. Lots to do today as a result. By for now.

Schtuff

Music: The Cure
Book: Monkeewrench - P.J. Tracey

Great book on it's own but extra cool because it's set in Minneapolis about two blocks away from my house. I love that stuff. I'm more than a bit excited about my 7th Street Entry show this weekend: Saturday Night, with Jen Porter and Ember Swift. Woo Hoo!!!! Come one, come all, it's going to be fabulous. Tix are $5, small price to pay for some stellar music. After that I'm going to read "So you wanna be a rock and roll star" by Jacob Slighter of SemiSonic. I've heard nothing but goodness about the book. Friday night is a big deal in Northeast Minneapolis as the Spot Art organization is highlighting the work of my favorite local photographer, Dan Corrigan. Also, playing at Mayslacks at 9:30pm on Friday is Damascus Mile - fun, loud band. I'll be out and about enjoying the blazing Twin Cities music/art community.

gigs

Music: sinead o'connor
Book: monkeewrench

Okay gig in Winona, MN. Some confusion and a double booking but we worked it out. Long drive back but I was glad to make it home last night. Enjoying a new book. Doggie is getting a little better each day. Tired...so very very tired!

My doggie is sick

Music: none
Book: Ten Big ones - Janet Evanovich

My puppy was bitten by a tick and has developed a weird tick disease - not Lyme but something I have to look up that sounds like Elixar but not quite that. The vet wrote it down so now I must do a little research. Yikes, talk about having a heart attack. I'm thinking of shortening my set in Duluth this evening just to make it back to the Twin Cities tonight to give my doggie her medicine and stop worrying about her. I'm sure she'll be fine because we're catching it early but it's frightening none-the-less. So, as a gentle reminder, if you'd like to stop down to the Amazing Grace Bakery tonight I start playing at 8pm and will probably go until 10pm instead of the posted 11pm. Hope to see you there!

long time no post

Music: none
Book: moving target

I'm not having a good week. Busy, ugly, complicated...sigh...I'm waiting for Monday. Hopefully a show in Duluth will raise my spirits, but right now, so much is out of my hands that I'm simply rolling with it. It made sense to refrain from posting my blah thoughts....

Ugh.

the 3th

Music: none
Book: running scared

Took the doggie boating, was eaten alive by mosquitos, saw "Spy Kids" - which I loved! Must finish a few songs today and get ready for the Duluth, MN show on Saturday.

3 Doors Down

Music: Dolly Parton
Book: Nanny Diaries

Hopefully big concert tonight at Xcel: 3 Doors Down and Nickelback. Fun fun. My birthday is coming up shortly and I might get to take a fun little trip but we'll see how it pans out. Must workout this evening, yoga probably because I've been ingesting fast food like it's going out of style - yoga will set me back on track. Sweetie Pie hates the fireworks that have been going off with alarming frequently the closer we get to the 4th of July. That needs to end as it's driving everyone in the neighborhood crazy. Much to do, gotta run.

Ugh

Music: Joan Osborne
Book: Wild Orchids

Political people are driving me nuts. I went strolling around St. Paul before semi-crashing soundcheck for Nickleback and 3 Doors Down at Xcel this afternoon. On Grand Ave I was stopped by a few people (at separate times) petitioning for both Bush and Kerry however, it was so negative and aggressive that it pissed me off. I wouldn't even consider it campaigning: Slogans like "Defeat Bush!" or "Down with Kerry!" say nothing about principles, beliefs or a better America...it just sounds like hate to me. Sad. I've heard about as much bass as I can take so I'm skipping out, heading back home to read a book with my puppy. Once again...ugh.

A weekend of visual entertainment

Music: Mindy Smith (yes again, can't stop listening)
Book: Almost finished with Face - Koontz

I purchased Janet Evanovich's "Ten Big Ones" yesterday but handed it over to a friend so I would finish the book I have first. Last night I rented "Fourplay" with Irene Jacob and Colin Firth and laughed so hard I spit out my drink twice! That's never happened before. Rather dark for a comedy but I thought it was wonderfully done. Not for eveyone though...some might find it off and possibly depressing. Anywho...then I started watching "Secret Window" but got sleepy so I called it quits and went to bed. Ah...Stephen King. I'm finally feeling rested again and can't wait to find an open mic to hit in the Twin Cities! The Darkness is in town for a show tonight...uhm...honestly, it's the only music that makes me twitch uncomfortably. Spinal Tap, but for real. Glad I'm not going. Can't say the same for Mr. Manager though *sigh*

poison

Music: none
Book: Face - Kooontz

I'm reading 3 books at the same time...I rarely do that but I seem be misplacing each of them the moment I put one down. Therefore I'm forced to go in search of the other two. Last night I ate something bad and spent most of my night being sick. Blahk. Mr. Manager was kind enough to bring me some gingerale, which helped considerably.

In happier news, I'm planning out my next tour stops. Seattle again and California for a stretch in February of 2005. How odd that Detroit, Chicago and Cleveland rarely seem like a trip anymore. My mind thinks "14 hours? Hah! That's nothing!" I would have fainted at the thought a mere year ago.

I'm keeping my fingers crossed for Ireland in October and London again this November. I'd hate for my passport to get bored. I haven't touched my guitar since Sunday and am itching to write down all the songs from my tour. For some reason, open mic sounds like a good time tonight...possibly because I'm intruigued with the concept of only playing for 10 minutes. At the moment, that sounds like heaven.

thoughts

Music: Mindy Smith
Book: The Face - Koontz

Where to begin? Should I break the trip up by state? Or possibly by show? Order of fun? Levels of disaster? Glad to be back, glad to have gone. I had a lovely, but definitely exhausting time of it.

I traveled to Aberdeen, South Dakota (only to discover cities called Aberdeen in both Montana AND Wyoming. Weird) School had been out for about a week, therefore attendance at the Red Rooster was less than the normal college crowd. People still drifted in ¡V prompted by a charming article in the paper and flyers peppering the entire venue. Since Mr. Manager and I go to a lot of hard work and effort creating, printing and mailing posters, it is always nice when the establishment takes the time to distribute them. Self explanatory to some, but you¡¦d be surprised how many posters sit behind the counter untouched until I ask about them. Grrr.

I almost drove off the road when I reached the Badlands of North Dakota. Gorgeous! Montana just got prettier! Actually until I reached Kansas I couldn't have been more in awe of the landscape. Bozeman proved to be a daunting city, but only because I tried hiking a mountain twice the size of Olympia. Recovery was slow and luckily I didn¡¦t start hurting until the morning after my show at Leaf and Bean. Due to the distance separating Minneapolis from Montana, I think it¡¦ll be a while before I can return but I hope to do so as soon as possible. The town was inviting and gave me quite the welcome.

Wyoming made me fall in love with cowboys and convicts¡Kin that order. I was invited out for a drink or two with several groups of show attendees from Zen¡¦s. We had a hysterical conversation about prison and politics while enjoying a beverage at the Hitching post. Fun town and I hear there¡¦s a big party in May every year during Frontier Days. Giddy-up¡Knext year maybe *sigh *

Colorado promised me sun and beauty but delivered rain and fog so I was unable to enjoy the mountains as much as I¡¦d hoped. Tuesday was a benefit show for a guy named Jules who is getting kicked by cancer at an alarmingly young age. It was a raging party of a fundraiser but a depressing night. My fingers are crossed that we raised a good chunk of change to help out with his bills and expenses. I went home sad and thoughtful. Next I hit Englewood for more rain and fog (thankfully I missed the tornadoes that struck southern Colorado) and took myself off to a movie theatre to escape the rotten weather. Show was a good time and I ran into some folks from high school that had relocated to Denver. Amazing how many long lost faces my career is able to track down.

Hastings Nebraska was an amazing show. Small town, huge crowd filled with listeners. I was invited back for their Memorial Day music festival next year. Here¡¦s hoping it works out with my schedule. The only hitch of the evening was the 4-year-old kleptomaniac who tried stealing my money jar, CDs and finally the TAYLOR guitar before his mother and I yanked it away from his greedy little hand. Never had that happen before and maybe I¡¦ll laugh about it in a few years but my heart just started beating normally again from when I tore my guitar back from his thieving little hands. Ugh.

Kansas isn't much to look at and when I arrived 4 hours before the show I had high hopes of locating a book store to pass the time but after asking no fewer than 4 PEOPLE where I could find one ¡V and receiving a vehement ¡§no idea¡¨ accompanied by a blank stare, well, I gave up. The ¡¥Choke was cool, kind people who bought a ton of CDs and dropped more than the suggested amount into the money donation jar and a lively crowd, but I was tired and missing my pets and Mr. Manager so I hightailed it out of the city as fast as I could.

More stuff happened but as I said before. Still tired. I need a break and have to take care of touring junk for the next round of shows. Happy to be home¡KI¡¦d be happier in bed though ƒº

tired

Music: Mindy Smith
Book: Widow

Tired. Must sleep. Going out for Sushi instead. Hmmmm.

Montana

Music: Mindy Smith
Book: All that remains

Lots of driving but it's going rather quickly as the landscape is so gorgeous. I asked Mr. manager to post a bit for me about climbing the world's tallest mountain today but I actually survived it. Rocks...mudslides, torrential rains and blazing sun - and that was only in the first 30 minutes. I ran home though to soak in a tube just in case I was going to be sore tomorrow. No aches or pains yet. Dogs are everywhere so I'm surviving without my pets even though I miss them. I'm off to Cheyenne on Monday morning and then Colorado then Nebraska and Kansas etc etc etc. Music from "The Unsinkable Molly Brown: is raging around in my head. Hee hee. Bozeman is a darling town and terribly friendly...I haven't passed a soul who didn't wish me a good day or a beautiful morning. Unreal! My typing is awful, I'm sorry, I'm rushing off to sound check now but the computer was free in the lobby lounge of the hotel so I grabbed it. Next time I'm thinking about bringing friends with me so I have someone to experience all this Western glory with, but not talking for days on end until I reach a gig is doing wonders for my voice...I have the strength of 10 Celine Dions. Bad reference : )

Aberdeen

Music: Italian
Book: Countess

Made it to Abderdeen. Quiet, cool town. No cell phone coverage from the border into South Dakota on. Yikes. Praying for safe travels and strong tires. Miss my loves already though.

Happy Hour

Music: Pink
Book: Running Scared

Went to happy hour at Rock Bottom with about 95 other people. Good times, believe it or not. Slightly sleepy this evening, but I think it's due to the heat. Weird humidity today...not condusive to creativity. Must shower now. Bye bye.

Lee's

Music: Heart
Book: Rule of Four

Last night at Lee's was a big treat. I got to see a bunch of new bands, hear some Minneapolis live music that I miss a lot being on tour. I'm almost finished with the Rule of Four - I might be a little sad when it's over...or for the first time in my life I might just start reading the book all over again. Oh and we're going to see Harry Potter this afternoon. *smile*

Show tonight

Music: None
Book: Rule of Four

Excellent book...very insightful. I feel like posting a quote or two but the list of possible entries is endless - they are all wonderful. Just go out and buy the book please. Mr. Manager and I are headed out to dinner before the GINA for missing persons show at Lee's Liquor Lounge this evening. Wicked storm happening at the moment: lightning, thunder, rain...Minneapolis is such a fun place to live. *hee hee* My little nephew is getting baptized this weekend in Cleveland, I'm absent, of course because of my shows. I'll see the kid get dunked in water some other time. Next week is the west tour which I'm anxious to begin as I've never played that way and would like to make friends and hopefully fans during the trip. I hope to see some of you tonight at Lee's for the benefit show. Cheers.

HEART

Music: Essential Heart
Book: In Babylon

I tracked down a HEART compilation CD - I love it. It's been too long since I've heard Ann Wilson's voice! Fell asleep awfully early last night but I feel wonderful this morning. Birthday party to attend later on this evening in Minneapolis and then MSP airport tomorrow night!

Rockford

Music: Sista Otis
Book: The Hier

Mr. Manager and I went to see the Rockford Band at the Fineline last night. Ben Johnson, the talented bass player who joined me on "Mulligan" was playing in his band Rockford. Good times. I'm a bit sleepy now though...

Rain rain rain

Music: Pimsleur Italian
Book: In Babylon - Marcel Moring

Just started the book so I have no idea how it's going yet. I wrote another song last night - the rain inspired me. I want to thank everyone who signed up for the mailing list at the airport on Friday night and pass on the hope that you receive my updates. Maybe I'm going blind or perhaps many of you were rushing to a gate but half of it is chicken scrawl so if you check into the website and realize you aren't receiving any mail then please sign up again via clicking on my cute puppy at the home page. I apologize for not being able to read it all right.

I watched "Children of the Century" with Juliet Binoche last night. Long time since I've been able to soak up a foreign film. Interesting story. Much to do. Gotta run.

Vacation

Music: Nothing
Book: The hier

Lazy weekend. Much rain, more sleep. Timberwolves game tonight that Mr. Manager might be dragging me into a sports bar to watch (painful). Doggie gets a bath in about 4 minutes and then book shopping for the 30th time this weekend.

Oh and there was a little hoopla about a "sexist" ad in acoustic guitar magazine: the nude back of a woman made to look like a guitar by attaching strings and a bridge to her back (right over the plumber butt) I searched it down only to be awe struck by it's beauty. No matter how hard I searched there was no offense to be found. Page 21 of this month's issue in case you'd like to make up your own mind. happy holiday.

Airport

Music: none
Book: jester - james patterson

Played the airport last night to many many many people and actually had a remarkably good time. Mr. Manager and I went to Morton's for good wine and snacks only to see a few LA Laker people milling about before tonight's Timberwolve's game. I must confess to be a TAD bit sore - all over- from working out, playing, running around etc, but it is a vacation weekend so I'm taking it easy watching movies and laying around the house. I need a new book, but can't seem to pick one seeing as I just finished the Jester and the library is closed the whole darn weekend. I'll be back playing the airport again next Friday in case you're flying through the Twin Cities and happen to stop by terminal F.

Bye for now.

Putting the damage on - Tori Amos

Music: Italian
Book: The Jester

So last night was awful. How do I put it nicely? I received a plethora of emails expressing excitement and pleasure that I was singing an early acoustic set in a child-friendly establishment on a weekday night for a change. Everyone couldn't wait to come...supposedly. The numbers for the door, however, were disappointingly low. A few brave, kind souls fought the rain and made it to the show…but where was everyone else?

I had a random thought that it's easier for me to be on tour than it is to stay in the Twin Cities and play gigs. At least on the road I have a guaranteed following of loyal fans. Here, in my own city, it's hit or miss: a glorious CD release show followed by a handful of people on a Wednesday night. Ironically, I don't mind the small shows; in fact, sometimes they become the most rewarding. But I DO mind the expectations I develop when people express interest in having more venue options, swear they can’t wait to see me, mention a group of friends coming along etc etc etc…but then don't show up. It makes me feel wretched - for me, for the few who show up and for the poor venue who just got screwed out of a good crowd.

To be clear, I don't want your money...I need it to survive as a musician, but that's not why I play. Day after day, artists slash open a vein and bleed out every known emotion for the masses to dissect, explore and sometimes reject - completely! Whether or not people accept the music or the message, we still get up and do the same damn thing the next day. Because we have to. Because we want to. Because we need to and it's a waste not to share what you can with the world with hope that someone out there, anywhere benefits from what you do.

Last night, that 9-year old girl I mentioned yesterday mouthed every word to every song she knew from my latest CD. Realistically, I only sang for her. I enjoyed performing at Acadia for the few who showed up but it was a struggle and in the end, sadness won.

I war with myself, my conflicting emotions every time these heartbreaking feelings seep out after being crushed by my own expectations. Probably my own fault, but that disappointment is there none-the-less. And I’m ashamed that I allowed those painful, destructive thoughts into my psyche when I should have been giving the audience in front of me every ounce of passion and concentration.

Side note: Another factor could be the insane man who joined the show for my last set, sharing comments such as: "All republicans are fascists", "Welfare people can't do anything", "My favorite bottle of wine is $6" and "Everyone is corrupt, EVERYONE, me, him and YOU TOO!" (pointing a finger at me). Needless to say, regardless of political affiliation, I would think the entire population en mass would find some offense with this man. He seemed to judge and attack every person he came in contact with. He was verbal and abusive and unfortunately determined to have a conversation with the poor souls who came out to see a live music show at Acadia. Just the icing on yesterday's cake.

Sorry, forgetting to post

Music: Pimsleur - Italien
Book: Fox Evil - Minette Walters

I was told that some of my family may be traveling to Italy next June so I thought I would learn some Italien just in case I can go (if it works out with my schedule).

Please stop down to the Acadia Cafe tonight...I might have a percussion guest and it'll be a rare treat to have an acoustic show in the Twin Cities. PLUS, this is an all ages show so people can bring their children for a change. (A few weeks ago I recieved a wonderful email from a woman who's daughter (9) falls asleep to "Mulligan" every night at full volume and even dances around the room naked with a fake microphone. Seeing as I used to do that to Madonna (dance - not naked) I figured it would be awfully cool to meet this little songstress at a future show.) Here's hoping it works with everyone's schedule.

I'm trying to figure out a time to head out to California, but with UK in the fall and the summer already booked...it's looking like late January or early February of 2005. Maybe it'll turn into a little winter getaway. We'll see.

As a reminder, if you'd like to host a hosue concert in California - or any city for that matter - please email us at houseconcert@annedeming.com and we'll work it into the schedule. Quiet, intimate, acoustic shows are a favorite of mine so if I'm not touring to your area but you'd like me to...just send me a note.

That's all for now. Cheers. Bye-bye.

rain

Music: jade island - on tape
Book: Fox Evil - Minette Walters

"Fox Evil" is one scary book, but so appropriate as I live in Minneapolis which is loaded with land/tax issues - the heart of Walters book. Tenant, animal and renter rights all boiled into a spooky mystery; she never fails to confuse and intrigue me.

The band got together and played a fun house gig on Friday night in Uptown. I met a load of new faces and heard a bunch of music. Traingle Park was haunting and goofy at the same time - if that's at all possible. I have a few relatives driving into town this afternoon for a full house later on. It's rained day in, day out for almost 4 days now and looks to continue through the week. Call me crazy but I absolutely love this weather and will cry when it's over and the nasty sun pops out. Slight headache at the moment but I've reached my maz for painkillers and it's not even lunch time!

Email Down

Music: Books on tape
Book: Jade Island

My email is being difficult this morning...I can see I have messages but am unable to view or reply to them *sigh*. I'll recover, but wanted to post something about it in case anyone is waiting for an answer about booking or gig shares etc. I'm sure it'll be fixed soon - no worries.

Mr. Manager and I saw Shrek 2 last night and I thought it was adorable. Definitely better than Tuesday night's movie...but admitedly not as pretty, visually, as Van Helsing.

I had horrible dreams last night that my car broke down and needed something like $17,000 worth of work. Strange. The I dreamed that someone messed with my guitar - the details are fuzzy but something about painting it nauseous shades of yellow and drilling holes into the body. Where it's coming from...I have no idea. Even the cat was looking at me strangely when I woke up.

Anyone looking to buy a house in Uptown? If so, I know of a fabulous 3 bedroom for sale...

I've been lucky in my life: food to eat and bed to sleep at night

Music: Billy Pilgrim
Book: Sushi (with 10 pages to go) & Jade Island

Last night I laughed my tushy off at Van Helsing the movie. Sad part being of course that it wasn't supposed to be a funny movie. At least Kate Beckensale was pretty to look at. I'm thinking of going to see Shrek tonight just to wash away last night's vision of gothic messiness.

This afternoon I saw a man brushing his teeth in a public drinking fountain...I guess there's a first time for everything.

My fingers are still number from playing so much but I've been tinkering here and there to bleed out a few more songs from the road.

Ani Difranco said it best:

"How can I go home with nothing to say
And know you're going to look at me that way
You'll say girl you kicked some butt
I'll say I don't really remember
But my fingers are sore and my voice is too"

Stuff

Music: books on tape
Book: Sushi still (but I'm almost done)

Going to work out for the first time in 2 weeks. My legs don't seem to be working. I fell asleep at 6pm last night and slept until 7:30am when my doggie had to go outside. Rather nice, my sleeping that is, not the doggie, even though she's wonderful too. My sister is settling into Winona, MN and hopefully Mr. Manager and I will be able to visit her soon. I scheduled a day at Spalon Montage for August which I'm looking forward to with ridiculous amounts of glee and hedonism.

Fellow Indiegrrl, Jen Porter from Chicago will be joining the Anne Deming/Ember Swift show at the 7th Street Entry on July 24th. So excited, should be a fabulous night of music!

More to tell, but it's slipping by at the moment. Oh and I'm off to see Van Helsing this evening. I love goth movies : )

Back in Minneapolis

Music: Sista Otis
Book: Sushi for Beginners

Not much time to read, but books on tape are a savior when driving mile after endless mile. My pets greeted me warmly upon returning to Minneapolis and I must admit to sleeping most of yesterday away. Thank you to one and all who stopped out to the shows, which on the whole, were enjoyable. I had a few snafus on the road, such as the woman who decided to change a dirty diaper in the front row of my show, and the TV that was blaring a rented blockbuster movie during my set time which the club owners refused to turn off, or even turn down for that matter. That being said, even with the most wretched of touring circumstances, a brave soul or two from those shows signed up for my mailing list and bought a CD or two while apologizing for their fellow man.

I was able to catch up with many friends and meet a few new ones during my travels. Des Moines was a delicious surprise and I can't believe the swarms of people who stopped down to Java Joe's for such a warm reception. Thank you, thank you, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Once again, Xhedos in Detroit restored every ounce of purpose and affirmation to my artistic heart. That audience is the height of respect and attention, support is endless and genuine. There are no words to describe what it means to be able to play there time and again. I'm planning on returning before end of summer. On a side note, Alison Lewis opened up for me at Xhedos, we swapped CDs and I was able to soak up her music on the road to Cleveland, Ohio. She has the most distinct voice I've heard in ages and recommend checking out her trip hoppy/trance band, The Twilight Babies, which is 180 degrees from her acoustic music but just as engaging.

I stuffed myself silly on Skyline Chilli in Cincinnati, Ohio and had the most yummy food from the entire tour in Newport, KY just over the river. Cool venues, neat area - amazing friends! As you can probably tell I'm trying to make up for a long absence from my journal musings...throwing in observations and updates in a very haphazard manner - sorry.

We kicked off the arts festival in Edinboro, PA with hot as hell weather but a lovely night of music. Another spot I'm hoping to return to before fall.

Chicago is still my first home so any and every show there is an experience. I played two extremes: Gallery Cabaret for open mic on Mother's Day to a room full of people and dogs while enjoying myself thoroughly and listening to local talent and then Gunther Murphy's for the MECA conference a week later where there was a bit of confusion between MECA and the venue about set times, but the sound guys, bar keeps, bouncers and patrons were friendly, accommodating and supportive by purchasing CDs and being frightfully quiet during the show.

Now I'm home and trying to sift through your kind emails and online CD purchases which will be in the mail shortly. I appreciate the word of mouth marketing technique which continues to bring more people down to each and every show. Your support keeps me going. Thank you again.

Oh and I wrote a couple of songs on the road because I kept oscilating between angst and awe from one show to the next and as we all know: emotional extremes are songwriting goldmines. More music to come.

Regards - Anne

on tour

Music: everything
Book: sushi for beginners

Tour is up and down. Much to say, no time. I'm in the fabulous town of Ferndale just outside of Detroit and will sound check at Xhedos in about 2 minutes. Glad to be back north. Edinboro was energizing. Tomorrow is chicago, don't forget to come down and support MECA. I miss Mpls though...

Bye.

On the road again

Music: Billy Pilgrim
Book: Digital Fortress - Dan Brown

On the road. Please stop out to a show and say hi. See many of you real soon...

Missing my Sweetie Pie already....

MECA

Music: Billy Pilgrim - Bloom
Book: Digital Fortress - Dan Brown

Billy Pilgrim is the one band I am dying to see play live...well...before I die. Anyone know if they tour? Beautiful music and quirky harmonies...not to mention catchy tunes are just stock piled into this 13 song disc. I just loved it from my first listen in college!

"Buried at Sea" was a great chase/mystery of a read. I recommend it for vacation reading, perhaps by the beach or definitely while sailing if you enjoy the water and don't get seasick. I'm going to spin the audio CD of Romeo & Juliet on my car ride to Des Moines for tomorrow night's show at Java Joe's. It's been a while since I've dug into a Shakespeare tragedy...and listening to the BBC version in the middle of the night on a strange, spooky highway sounds better than a horror flick on Halloween.

I'm picking up my 12-string Gibson from the Podium tomorrow morning after many repairs and a bunch of TLC...should be exciting. Let's see, other than that, I'm mailing bills, having my blotchy lawn soil tested to see how I can make it beautiful and I'm caving in this evening to watch the Friends finale. Call me crazy.

And finally, after much debate and confusion I WILL be playing the MECA music conference in Chicago next weekend, May 15th at Gunther Murphys on Belmont with the Katie Todd Band. Come on down if you're in the neighborhood. Fun fun fun!www.gunthermurphys.com (I'm not on the calendar yet as we confirmed yesterday)www.katietodd.com

groggy

Music: radio - and it sucks
Book: buried at sea

Sleepy or I should say groggy as hell today! No idea why, but I'm thrilled about Gilmore Girls this evening - LOVE THAT SHOW. It's truly my only Must See TV show : ) Hopefully I'll find time to work out and pack and write a song or two before Friday. That's my goal anyway. My sister just confirmed that she's coming to Minnesota for a theatre internship. Too cool!!! So excited to have her near the Twin Cities. Mr. Manager is happy too, they get along like salt and pepper : )

Hit the road jack

Music: Butterfly Boucher
Book: Buried at Sea

Great book by the way! Crazy weekend...housework and homes and happy hour. I am ready to be on the road in my car and playing new cities. I have that itch. So soon....

slow day

Music: Brenda Weiler - Crazy Happy
Book: Buried at Sea

Worked out this morning. Heading out to HH this afternoon. I did mad insane house upkeep yesterday, paint scraping/painting/yard work/cleaning - the works. I'm really tired now. At least I have time to write this evening.

stuff

Music: Melissa Ferrick...still
Book: can't remember the title..sea something

Shopping for graduation gifts and random things. So so dinner in Uptown and a misbehaving puppy. Maybe I'll do housework tomorrow or something...nothing sucks worse than that. Oh, and it's cold too....

Spalon!!!

Music: Ani Difranco - Little Plastic Castles
Book: In The Dark - Melody Taylor

I've never won anything in my life. You know...the kind of random drawings and lucky numbers that powerball is made up of. But yesterday my name was pulled out of the hat for an entire day retreat at Spalon Montage in Edina, MN. How cool is that?!??! Now I have to decide when I want to pamper myself for the day and destress. Just knowing that you get to relax and be pampered is enough to melt away every last ounce of tension in the body, but it doesn't necessarily detract from the joy of such an experience. I'm thinking about end of June maybe after my "Heading West" tour....it'll be a ton of driving and a nice way to close off the month. Started writing again...I guess you could say it's for CD #6.

Coffee Hag

Music: Heather Nova
Book: In the Dark

The coffee hag was a wonderful treat on Saturday night; great set up and an attentive audience. I bought the book mentioned above at the store as the author was there working away on her second novel. It's a vampire story by Melody Taylor...one of my favorite book topics. I'll let you know when I'm done. The only down side to the evening was that it rained CONSTANTLY on the drive down, during my show and horribly the entire way home. I don't mind it usually but site was rotten and I was worried about hitting a deer. I arrived home safe and sound though - so it all worked out.

Better morning

Music: Flutterby by Butterfly Boucher
Book: Face - Dean Koontz

The rain has washed away (rather violently) part of my garden so I'll have to do some damage control this evening and repair. I swear to god these flowers better be PRETTY or I'm buying silk ones next year and faking it! I hate playing in the dirt. I just finished the USA Today ("gives new depth to the word shallow" - hee hee, love that quote) and am starting koontz next. I received Butterfly Boucher's CD in the mail yesterday afternoon and it's great. What's most astonishing is that she played every instrument, wrote every song and arranged absolutely EVERY SINGLE THING on the album. I find that very inspiring. Plus...it's a damn good listen! Currently I'm enjoying a Red Tea from the republic of tea collection - tasty and relaxing. I have a beautiful bouquet of flowers right next to my computer and just finalized another gig for my "west" tour in June. After a bit of telephone tag I was able to reach my grandmother last night in Necedah for a brief catch up chat. I'm truly out of sorts if I don't speak to her every so often. Now I'm off to read.

P.S. Because so many of you have sent nice little notes and inquiries about my right arm hairline fracture...it's healing nicely. I haven't played the guitar since my last show and still no yoga, but I'll be 100% soon and back to writing songs. Thanks for your kind thoughts and words...

Alarm bells

Music: none
Book: USA Today

I woke up to alarm bells this morning. Not my alarm clock but my motion sensor security system. Mr. Manager set it before I was even awake. Odd. Anyway, after the animals calmed down I took my dog on a freezing cold walk. I've spent the morning on the internet being unproductive but at least I know what the weather is like in Memphis. Booking calls have been strange this morning. No yes no or maybe to report only things like "I'm off to a carpool, I'll call you back at 4:45pm"..."My husband took the booking calendar to work by mistake" Or "What day is it? Bad morning...can you call back tomorrow?...oh and we really liked your cd". As I said: weird. It's as if everyone is having a scattered day. I've found that some days have better booking karma than others so if it looks bad, just stop right then and begin again the next day. On the flip side though, if things are running smoothly and the phones get answered, the response is positive and the calendar is filling up - then you must continue until you drop. Just my experience of course... Today, however, is a new one...I think I'll stick it out.

Glorious storms

Music: none
Book: random magazine

A book hasn't been able to keep my attention for the last few weeks...I guess that means it is spring!

Minneapolis had some glorious storms last night. Tons of rain, thunder and lightning - my poor doggie was crossing her legs (I thought she was going to wet her pants) because the winds and turrential downpours would have carried her away. She got brave a time or two but then backed away quickly once I actually opened the back porch door for her to go potty outside. Around 8pm she gave in, ran outside, ran back in (completely soaked) and promptly went to bed - under the covers next to me! Not that this is interesting to any of you, but Sweetie Pie looked so funny, I couldnt' stop laughing about it.

Singing for my...flight

Music: radio
Book: Newspaper

So, Mr. Manager just booked a series of Minneapolis/St. Paul International airport gigs called Friday Night Live. Seeing as 20-30K people go through the airport on any given day I'm amazed at the reach capabilities of this opportunity. While traveling through Atlanta in the fall I witnessed a similar set up at the airport but didn't catch the music as I was boarding my own plane. But I thought it was a great idea and am thrilled to be a part of it in Minneapolis. The tentative start date is April 30th...but I will definitely keep you posted on the details. Cheers! Oh and Mr. Manager worked the American Idol show at Xcel center in St. Paul last night so now our house is full of Clay and kelly paraphinalia..even flowers. I guess Clay didn't want them...

Funny story

Music: Melissa Ferrick - it is an amazing CD
Book: White Teeth - found once again

A woman who recently bought my Mulligan Cd for her guitar-loving daughter told me a funny story. Apparently her 8 year old listens to the CD over and over and over again in order to fall asleep. But two night ago while she was getting ready for bed she decided to dance around the house completely buck-ass-naked holding a fake microphone and singing along with her Anne Deming CD. I thought that was the most hysterical thing I had ever heard! What a compliment , huh?

In other news...Europe is calling again (after only 8 months away) so I'm planning a return trip with guitar and CDs - which will hopefully arrive with the rest of my luggage this time around.

Oh and it looks Mr. manager booked me a gig at the Minneapolis/St. Paul airport. Interesting and strange but I'm looking forward to it none-the-less.

Happy Friday : )

Required listening

Music: Melissa Ferrick - 70 people @ 7000 feet
Book: can't find my book today

I'm groggy and slightly grumpy but my dog doesn't seem to mind so we'll be fine. I'll get in a better mood shortly. I just booked a show in Milwaukee at the Bremen Cafe for May which is terribly exciting because I've been wanting to play there for a while! I feel like cooking but can't seem to decided what to make because I'm not hungry at the moment. Odd huh?

I forgot to mention my relaxing evening with Amy from Collectedsounds.com on Monday night. We listened to Indiegrrl artists and drank some wine. I brought my Sweetie Pie and we mingled with the pets. It was a nice break from the chaos.

Morning

Music: Heather Nova - Storm
Book: White Teeth

No time for reading this weekend, but I did manage to finally watch a few episodes of the Sopranos! I know, 7 years late, but I've been a bit busy. I joined a web list for Indie female artists and I'm thoroughly enoying the talk...no one is bitter and everyone is suprisingly supportive and helpful. An added bonus would be finding out about artists all over the country. Kinda cool. I had coffee this morning and it went straight to my legs which can't stop shaking. Guess it was a strong brew (damn you Mr. Manager!) Just kidding...sort of. At least I'll get a lot done...

Completely random, but some day I would love to vacation at one of the Von Essen Hotels *sigh*

www.vonesseshotels.com

Ashland & Easter

Music: Heather Nova - Storm
Book: White Teeth

A long drive through Minnesota and Wisconsin brought me to the absolutely charming establishment known as the Black Cat Coffeehouse. After an initial scare when a patron told me my eyes were so pretty he wanted to pluck them out and take them home, I ordered dinner and a latte while checking out the very cool music room! Initially there was a small group but the room quickly filled. Everyone stayed through the night and we closed down the venue. I must admit it was a little sad to leave. If you play acoustic anything, I highly recommend contacting Jen Chen at the Black Cat for a booking...I hope to return this summer.

The drive home was long and lonely especially since today is Easter so even gas stations closed down last night around 10PM. I stayed awake hoping the gas would hold out and a bathroom would appear somewhere between Duluth and Minneapolis. All is well now, I arrived back home safe but tired and now we're going to plan on a quiet night at home.

Oh and I just bought Melissa Ferrick's 70 people @ 7000 feet, her live disc. So far, great listen!

Gig

Music: None
Book: White Teeth - by Zadie Smith

I head off to Ashland, WI in a few hours for my show at the Black Cat Coffeehouse...it's almost 4 hours away! Who knew? Should be fun though...good day for a drive I think. Wish I could take my puppy with me though *smile* I had a stressful day yesterday so I actually went to bed at 8pm. It made 7am this morning feel divine. I had more to tell but I've forgotten already!

La la la la

Music: None
Book: Ahhh - none!

Talked and talked and talked last night...feel like I can stay quiet now for a month. I don't think I'd make it though. Today is filled with errands and catch up phone calls. Relatively unexciting. I did find an old favorite pair of pants hiding in the back of my closet that have been "missing" for about 6 months. I love when that happens. It probably means I'll have to clean out my clothes soon, but who knows what I'll find.

Officially Crazy Aunt Anne!

Music: Melissa Ethridge
Book: 1000 places to see before you die

I have a nephew: Noah Joshua Bates. All else seems kinda insignificant comparatively...huh...

No Nephew

Music: Bad talk radio
Book: ten poems to set you free by Roger Housden

I heard the poem "Lake and Maple" by Jane Hirshfield a few months ago and have been trying to acquire it ever since. (Seeing as it haunted me) I finally found it in the collection of poems above. It's rather inspirational so I thought I would share:

Lake and Maple
by Jane Hirshfield

I want to give myself
utterly
as this maple
that burned and burned
for three days without stinting
and then in two more
dropped off every leaf;
as this lake that,
no matter what comes
to its green-blue depths,
both takes and returns it.
In the still heart,
that refuses nothing,the world is twice-born-
two earths wheeling,
two heavens,
two egrets reaching
down into subtraction;
even the fish
for an instant doubled,
before it is gone.
I want the fish.
I want the losing it all
when it rains and I wantthe returning transparence.
I want the place
by the edge-flowers where
the shallow sand is deceptive,where whatever
steps in must plunge,
and I want that plunging.
I want the ones
who come in secret to drink
only in early darkness,
and I want the ones
who are swallowed.
I want the way
the water sees without eyes,
hears without ears,
shivers without will or fear
at the gentlest touch.
I want the way it
accepts the cold moonlight
and lets it pass,
the way it lets all of it pass
without judgement or comment.
There is a lake,
Lalla Ded sang, no larger
than one seed of mustard,
that all things return to.
O heart, if you
will not, cannot, give me the lake,
then give me the song.

busy work

Music: Melissa Ethridge - Lucky
Book: Tom Clancy's Op Center

I tried building a retaining wall for a front proch garden one handed on Saturday...didn't go so well. I watched a ton of movies and went slightly stir crazy not being able to play the guitar while my right arm heals. *grrr* I finished the book "Bad Heir Day" by Wendy Holden which was close to hysterical. I watched "Second hand lions" and was absolutely delighted! I've spent this Monday morning looking into refinancing my house but it's driving me crazy so I'm taking a break. CD sales continue to be strong - thank you for supporting the independent musician and being so complimentary of my (and Jon, Chadly & Ben's) studio efforts.

There was more but my head is fuzzy and I'd really love a Caribou Coffee....

Tappas

Music: Blues Compilation
Book: Finished Track of the Cat - now back to Bad Heir Day (which I had misplaced)

My cousin Cary and I met for a lovely dinner at La Bodega last night, drank our way through a bottle of wine and talked over and in between every subject imaginable. Ah good times, good times. And yet still, in other news, NO NEPHEW. Gorgeous, sunny day in the Twin Cities, hopefully I'll be able to sneak an extra walk in for my doggie. As Mr. Manager pointed our, Sweetie Pie looks like a moving mop in her excitement to get and be outside.

Arm feeling better...or numb at least

Music: None
Book: Track of the Cat by Nevada Barr

Enjoyed a nice glass of wine last night at bev's. I missed the Gilmore Girls but compensated by going to bed early. Lovely, but slow day.

Flop tumble down on your knees

Music: Tori Amos
Book: Bad Heir Day

Ugh. Soon, I am going to be an aunt. My big sister was supposed to give me a nephew on Saturday (to celebrate the CD release - hee hee), but apparently he's running late or maybe he got lost as boys tend to be bad at following directions. Anyway, last night the phone rang while I was just falling asleep in bed, I let it ring once and then bolted out of bed thinking it might be news on the baby. I grabbed my robe without turning on the lights and dashed down the stairs and ending up falling down them. Ouch. Thankfully, because of yoga I think, I'm able to bounce and bend but I feel like I've broken half my body this morning. I'm sure I'll be fine, but I guess grace is not one of my strong attributes. And ironically, it was a different sister simply calling to talk and catch up. Sweet conversation, but this morning I've made a decision to let voicemail pick up from now on. Once again...ugh.

Overwhelmed

Music: Stevie Ray Vaughn
Book: Vogue Magazine (that's a first huh?)

I'm overwhelmed by the support shown at the 7th Street Entry for my CD release this past Saturday. First Ave office and floor staff went above and beyond the call of duty with cabaret seating and pulling out white table cloths for the show (and even sticking around for the music!!!!). As far as audiences go, this could be the quietest, most polite group of listeners I've ever played for. I was just so impressed.

Hattie and Ben Weaver were deliciously entertaining, I trust you enjoyed them too.

I have to thank Chadly Koppenhaver and Ben Johnson, once again, (no matter how many times I gush about them it will literally never be enough) for joining me first in creating the music and then playing it live to share with all of you. Mr. Manager survived the evening on lead guitar and even wowed a few friends who were unaware of his musical talents.

I'm dead tired today after a broken water heater and hours of shopping. All of it fun though. Oh! And yummy sushi for dinner last night.

Mulligan is now on sale and should be posted online shortly. Cheapo will have it on shelves by the end of the week and CD Baby...well soon..

Thanks again for coming out to celebrate the music.

beautiful day

Music: Avenue Q soundtrack
Book: Bad Heir Day

Lovely write up in the Pioneer press - thank you Molly Priesmeyer! My sister arrived safe and sound last night so I'm kind of playing hooky today. I think we'll be enjoying a sociable or two at Bev's wine Bar this evening. Yoga last night was wonderful (except for the very smelly guy next to me - that's the first time it's ever happened but it was rather awful) Bikram yoga tomorrow morning to start of the weekend in style. I'm off to play outside now. Toodles...

Down with City Pages

Music: L'il Kim (yes I'm serious)
Book: Bad Heir Day by Wendy Holden

City Pages has ignored my music/CD Release/Touring schedule and general existence as a Minneapolis musical entity yet again. No big surprise but still a continued disappointment. For a publication claiming to be the "News and Arts Weekly of the Twin Cities" I have yet to see a focus on the arts. Their cover story is about Bush and his politics once again...if I wanted world news, I'd watch CNN.

(SIDE NOTE: Shitty Pages...woops..I meant CITY Pages has a tendency to A list sold out shows which is hysterical to me as those artists DO NOT NEED THE PUBLICITY!)

I realize I am opening my mouth to insert foot at some later date or just wishing bad luck/press upon me by criticising a local publication, but as they say...isn't any press good press? (If that's the case then City Pages should thank me for this scolding)

Ironically, the big time newspapers of the Twin Cities, Star Tribune and Pioneer Press, have consistently supported my arts and efforts from the very beginning. So, the "free" press could care less about Anne Deming and the 50 cent newpaper is calling for an interview. *sigh*

To clarify: I'm pleased with any mention and all support offered by or through the media, but sometimes the reality of the Twin Cities Independent Music community drives me to prozac.

So, hopefully you can simply check into my website and the online First Avenue concert calendar for a glimpse of what is to come on Saturday night at the Entry for my CD party celebrating the release of "Mulligan". (as it will not be highlighted in the Arts weekly)

I am now leaving to get some coffee as it is too early to drink Whiskey.

Walls are closing in...

Music: Howie Day
Book: Grail Church - Manchester

Busy day. Kitty sick. Want to finish Grail book. Yoga and rehearsal this evening. Uhm...more to tell but I've forgotten.

ugh

Music: head like a hole - NIN
Book: Grail Church by Manchester

Mulligan...

Weekend recovery

Music: Sinead O'Connor
Book: Bookless!

First Lady was wonderful...I must purchase all of Michael Malone's books...he has a style similar to Penelope Williamson. My kitty is on the computer now...I must go. My body still hurts but I'm sure tomorrow will be better. Saw "Taking Lives" - good movie, not great but okay.

feeling rotten

Music: Nina Simone
Book: First Lady - MM

Bad reaction to some vaccinations yesterday. Painful - everywhere...must get sleep and some food I think. ouch. Back to bed after some concert flyering.

Business Day

Music: Mike Doughty
Book: First Lady by Michael Malone

Sleet and rain today. Odd... Yesterday was horrible so I'm putting the day behind me. Today is better but I have calls to return and appointments and such. Busy but far from productive. I feel like a nap.

Tired

Music: Social Distortion
Book: 100 places to see before you die - Patricia Schultz

I'm reading through two cool books and the latest issue of Yachts magazinge...the international issue. Strange day. I hope I have the energy to attend the hockey game this evening. At least there's a snack bar and some beverages to tie me over. What a long day...

Forgot to write over the weekend

Music: Howie Day
Book: Story People - Brian Andreas (book of poems)

Bikram yoga did wonders last night...I swear I feel invinsible after a practice. If only I had 3 hours every day to dedicate always for yoga and morning fasts. In my next life maybe. I read through Story People last night...which I do at least once a week...Andreas inspires me. Rather spiritual post wouldn't you say? I believe it's a hockey game at Xcel tomorrow but I feel creepy going to a game after that horrible Kanucks/Avalanche attack. We'll see how I feel on Tuesday.

I splurged on some jewelry this wekend and I must say it felt nice to drop a little cash on something other than my "Mulligan" CD for a change. (no pun intended)

No clue

Music: Hattie Peterson "Crawl"
Book: The Kitchen Boy by Robert Alexander

Apparently Bob Dylan rocked Roy Wilkins in St. Paul last night. Good to hear. I found it odd that he put a picture of the Virgin Mary on his crew/back stage passes, but that's just me. I spent the morning chatting with an expert on Vienna travel, cuisine and culture which makes me want to return...well...if possible, tomorrow. Vienna could be one of the most magical cities in the entire world. The only problem would be finding a dog sitter and being able to leave my dog for any length of time. (I'm rather attached to my friendly, furry companion).

I froze my tushy off this morning in 6 degree Minnesota weather, but at least I didnt' have to pee outside - that would officially suck. I have a few outdoor-type siblings so camping and traipsing through the wilderness in any/every season is not unheard of...or even bizarre. *shudder to think of it*

I've been asked why I'm in mourning by three people today and it's not even 10am - this could be the last time I dress completely in black. The pale and tragic look can't be avoided normally so I guess I look like the black widow or something. Oh well...its a change. Bye for now.

Missed show

Music: Sarah M.
Book: Dumas Club

Mr. Manager and I missed Vienna last night at the Fineline. Due to an error on out part, we assumed the show would go on later than posted (we even had a friend call to let us know the correct set times, but missed the call) and...well...missed the show. *sigh*

I have a bunch of appointments all over the city this evening so I'm hoping it doesn't snow.

My March email should be arriving in Mailboxes shortly. Cd release, cd release, cd release..etc etc

Happy Birthday mom.

uhm...that's all for now.

Toby...again

Music: Sinead O'Connor - "Stretched on your grave"
Book: currently without

Mr. Manager and I went to see Toby Lightman open for Edwin McCain last night at First Ave. Pete somebody opened too and I'm going to apologize right now for forgetting his last name but he was rather entertaining as well. Sooooo, Amy at Collectedsounds.com passed on Toby's promo CD about 2 weeks ago for me to take a listen. Toby's acoustic guitar thumping out soul/R&B rhythms coupled with her gravelly and oddly melodic voice caught me hook, line and sinker.

The best way to describe her live concert is to portray the audience. At first the crowd was thin...clinging to tables, to the bars, like lonely barnacles waiting for a whale, but then everyone else just arrived fashionably late I guess. So there were a few hundred present for the show by the time the music started. (But I have to say that there were an extraordinary amount of 30-something drunks falling about, tripping on stairs, spilling drinks - that sort of thing - and it was only 9PM! And on a Sunday night no less.)

Anyway, Pete (the opener, opener) woke everyone up to the point that people were midly interested in the world about them but unwilling to leave the safety of their charis. But then Toby hit the stage and enchanted them. It was like people filtered in from off the street to follow the sound of her voice. Zombie like, but polite. People moved closer and closer to the stage, quiet during her songs and then gradually more and more appreciative of the music coming from the stage. Her last song was a disappointment, a cover of Mary J. Blige's "Real Love" which was done extremely well, but Mike Doughty has been covering it for years AND I would have liked to hear more of Toby's original music. When she finished her set to thunderous applause...there was a crowd of fans waiting not-so-patiently to buy her CDs, sign up for her mailing list and just to say hi. She was a definite hit with McCain fans and I was truly impressed with her set.

She could ditch her second acoustic guitarist though...there was really no need. She was all that and a bag of snacks, by herself, under the lights, winning people over left and right.