The New Year brings New Projects to Duluth.

As the new year approaches, we become that much closer to finishing our first album! It feels as if it's been a lenghy process, seeing how I left the area for 4 months and put the project on hold and now we are just saving our dimes and pennys to finish the last few steps.

I have been so inpspired by other local musicans to get this project to its final stage and ready for disdribution. I feel so blessed to be surrounded by creative, artistic, thoughtful minds that are constantly putting their art forward.  We live in a city that is alive with authentic individuals who keep me inspired!
We will be booking some new shoes in the New Year as our album gets closer to being finalized and even more when we are ready to promote it! So stay tuned and continue to create, Duluth!

Much Love,

Next of Kin..xoxo

Winter Solstice is Back! and so am I...

I have decided to start back up with my blog and use this as a writing tool for myself and as a public way to let y'all know what I'm up to.
Today marks the winter solstice of 2011 and a very exciting and energizing time. The days will start to get longer again, the sun will rise a little higher everyday and hopefully we will have some snow soon, so that we can enjoy that sun while skiing the cross country trails of the northland.
This season feels very different for me this year. It will be the first christmas where I won't be with my family at all. I will be heading to Morris to spend it with Lee and the Martin Clan. But also, I feel like a lot has happened in one year for me. I have new adventures on my horizon, I have left jobs and found a place at the Northern Waters Smokehaus. Lee and I have found a home in Duluth and a place that has become our haven. And most recently I have mourned the death of an old friend and been trying to understand my own meaning of life.
I believe that we must follow our bliss with great intensity. And we must do this with great intention. I am on the brink of understanding what it means to actually set specific goals and then figure out the small steps that must be taken in order to get there. I have gone through a lot of my life with these lofty dreams of rough ideas of what I want to be. And that's how you end up as a crepe maker in Fort Collins, CO!
I am writing, because I feel like it's something I have to do to stay sane and grounded. And I know that I must do it everyday if I actually want to call myself a writer. I have been inspired by people whom I see take the time to be diligent and have purpose and do the things they say they want to do. I am becoming an assistant sea kayak guide this next summer, because that is also something that I feel I must do and it's no accident that I am ending up in Bayfield, on Lake Superior.
So, this season, go out and do what you are meant to do, with great passion and purpose for your authentic life. The holiday of Christmas has lost it's meaning a little bit for me in the past years, but I understand the sun rising and it's cause for celebration and that we have a lot to be thankful for. Merry Christmas and Happy Winter Solstice!

Summer, Telluride, Bluegrass, Fun....

Hello all! It's been months since i've posted, and i feel like summer is slowly (i mean, quickly) slipping away from us!! It's almost August! Ahhhh! Alas, I am very excited for August because i will be moving into my very own apartment! Anyway, the big trip this summer has been to Telluride, CO for the 35th annual bluegrass fest. I drove out there with three other friends and met up with another who came from utah. Let me tell you folks, it was pure bluegrass bliss! it could not have been more fun or gone more smooth. Here are some photos of the scenery. i did not take these, someone just sent them to me. it was the most beautiful place i have ever been, and i miss it already.

Bon Iver means "good winter"...

...and what a good winter it was. I just saw this band called Bon Iver. and i was literally speechless after the show, in a good way. the man behind the name, is justin vernon of eau claire, WI and he is amazing. apparently he spent one winter at his dad's hunting shack, and recorded his album For Emma, Forever Ago, and now has national distribution through jagjagwar records. he's probably about my age, give or take a year, and it's just so frickin' cool to see this young guy getting all these great reviews and press. there are a lot of videos on youtube that i suggest checking out. just type in bon iver in the search and they should all come up. the first thing that gets you is the voice. you'll know what i mean when you hear it. it's so great to hear fresh new music and a new voice from this generation of crap that we are in! i suggest picking up this cd, you will not be dissapointed. my pick from the cd is: the wolves, part I and II. or something like that. check 'em out folks!!

Ode to the Buck n' Bass..... you officially kicked my ass!

This is my official praise to the Buck n' Bass lodge in Barnes, WI, where i spent three glorious days with some glorious people and one hell of a bartender named Steve! Last month, a couple friends held their 2nd annual birthday weekend at the Buck n' Bass lodge, and i was lucky enough to attend this year. I began referring to the Buck n' Bass as "wee-vegas," because apparantly, "what happens at the Buck n' Bass (wee-vegas,) stays at the Buck n' Bass (wee-vegas.) So, really, i'm not at liberty to divulge specific information aobut said weekend. However, i will say that it was an awsome time, filled with laughter, fun, music, and strippers( it is wee- vegas, don't forget. and they didn't actually take their clothes off, they just walked around in bikinis... wierd!) On saturday night, Medford came out to play a show at the bar, and totally tore the place down! it was great, and the locals seemed to like us... also a plus! By sunday, i was sad to leave, but ended the weekend singing on the front step with my friend Caleb, to our rendition of "Buck and Bass, you kicked my ass!" an instant classic! Here are a few photos from the weekend... some of the lovely ladies i hung out with! and of course, Steve the bartender!

Music washes away the dust from my soul....

Lately, I have been playing a lot more music, and singing more and I get such a high from it. I've been singing with a friend on wednesday nights, and the bar, and it's fun to come up with new stuff for us to sing together. It forces me to broaden my musical horizon and find stuff that I really want to sing or play, and also, to create new stuff as well. Now that I have this new computer, too, I'm able to listen to more music and make cd's and just have more access to more music. I would say that my wildest dream (well, one of them) would to be a part of a band or duo and to play shows, and perform. In the past year or so, I have met some of the greatest people, who happen to be muscians, and I can't even explain how great it is to hang out with them, and witness their music first hand, and be a part of it sometimes. I feel that I have really grown in my own musical sense because of these people, who can't help but make music... all the time! This has been some of the most fun I've ever had.... more to come soon.

Bloggable? I think so....

Well, for those of you who watched the Oscars (I did not, actually...) you would have seen Glen and Marketa perform their song "falling slowly." And then you would have seen them win the award for best song. And then you would have seen how cute they are and how humble and beautiful and amazing they are. I watched their speeches on the internet, and my love for them grows more... It's pretty amazing how they were virtually unknown in this country before this movie came out., and now they've won an Oscar! It's crazy!! Hollywood has somewhat redeemed themselves for the moment, but lord knows that won't last. As for Glen and Marketa, I'll be seeing them this summer at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival. I'll be front and center for that one, for sure... And so, the obsession continues...

Soundtrack to my life...

Well, to say the least, 2008 has already proven to be a great year. Definitely crazy at times, but i'm feeling renewed and refreshed and ready to move forward. The whole "soundtrack to my life" refers to the wonderful gift that my friend james just gave me. I came home the other day to a package that contained cd's that james had burned me for my upcoming trip to Hawaii (figuring i'd need some tuneage for the plane ride.) It's probably the coolest thing I have ever received and i literally freaked out when i got it. I think James was a little scared of my reaction. But it was so cool, because music is everything to me, and a part of my daily life, and the songs and the albums that he gave me really touched me and meant a lot to me. My choice pick from one of the mix cd's was "box of rain" by the grateful dead. Now, not only is this my favorite dead song, but it reminds me of the show freaks and geeks, (if you all remember that show??) and lindsay, the main character, puts on the american beauty album and rocks out to box of rain in her room. and that was kind of a pivotal moment in the show, and a point of letting go and moving on. and the other day, when i was dealing with all of my car dilemmas, FINALLY!, i was listening to that song and really feeling like i was letting go of things from the past and clearing the way ahead. As insignificant as it all could seem, these past few days have allowed me to breathe easier and feel a little lighter. peace and love to all in 2008!~

*Ganesh (pictured above) is the God of knowledge and the remover of obstacles. Take time to listen to your heart and hear what you are holding inside, and begin to release it. Clear the way for the good stuff! Namaste!

random thoughts on a random day....

So, i'm up at eagles nest selling gift certificates today, and i'm a little bored and tired. so i figure, why not blog? anyhoo, i'm sure you'd all be interested to hear that a plumber came to the house today and unclogged our bathroom sink and tub. it's fantastic to take a shower and not have to wade in your own filth at the same time. so, that's pretty cool, i guess. also, i was kind of rushing to leave this morning and was brushing my teeth and washing my face at the same time, and totally got toothpaste in my eye.... not cool. so, here i am now, just surfin' the web, checking stuff out, eating a lot and not moving much. hope everyone's day is as eventful as mine. ciao!

p.s. friday is the winter solstice and to celebrate, i'm going to a medford show up the shore. should be a blast. the boys are sounding fantastic with their new lineup.

Gardening, yoga, bubble baths, medication...and I still want to smack somebody!

So, the christmas season is upon us once again. and let me tell you, you have not witnessed the true meaning of the christmas spirit until you have worked retail for the holidays. as most of you know, i am working back at the old barnes and noble for the holiday season. my hiadus did me well, because i was able to pick up the pieces of my self-esteem that were shattered by last years' holiday shoppers. i am in good spirits, even when crotchity old ladys try to rush me so they can catch the bus in time to get the good seats. i'm really working on centering myself and staying calm, even in the face of the crazed shoppers. but in the end, i'm only human, and can only take so much of this crazy shit! and i'll be oh so glad to have five days off right before christmas... and that's when the real winners come in and blame you for their special orders not being here and making you feel that you single-handedly ruined their family's christmas. i choose not to buy into the guilt that some so heavily lay on me, and instead go to the breakroom, stuff my face with holiday cookies and bitch to my co-workers. only once in my retail history did i ever cry. this year i'm in a much better place, so far so good! merry christmas to all, and to all that cross me this holiday season....f**k off! i'm in no mood!

Diablo Cody is RED HOT!!!

Diablo Cody is a writer from Minneapolis and i just picked up her book Candy Girl: a year in the life of an unlikely stripper. She's frickin' hilarious! The way she describes Minnesota is so funny and true. "Everyone's favorite supper is a gluey carbohydrate-rich concoction simply known as "hotdish." That's one observation that is purely Minnesota that left me in stitches. I have practically finished the book in two days, literally could not put it down. If you are in the mood for some raunchy, blunt humor, this is the book for you. She has also written a screenplay for a movie that comes out this Christmas called Juno. I've seen previews and it looks really cute and funny. So keep your eyes out for that one. This chick makes me want to a.) write about things and myself exactly as i see them, b.) be a badass chick! and c.)no, not strip... but tap into those parts of myself that i'm scared of but interested in what could be. So, there's my monthly book review. Now that i'm working at Barnes and Noble again, I'll have much more to read and be more up to date on the current prints. Peace out y'all.

One more thing. If you were wondering what "porn-shui" was, it refers the the art of posistioning oneself in one's office or cubicle so that one can surf porn undetected. Usage: "I have great porn-shui; I face the hallway and the desk behind me is vacant."

(experpt from Candy Girl.) enjoy!~

Into the Wild will get into your head....Sonja's movie review.

All i can say, is go see this movie. I read the book, Into the Wild a couple years ago and became obsessed with the story. It's the true story of Christopher McCandless, who set out on the road and lived on the fringe for about 2 years. And his plan was to make it up to alaska and live off the land in the bush. I really admire Chris for living the life that he felt he needed to live. I also think that even though it was so unfortunate that he died young, it almost couldn't have been any other way. When i first heard that there was a movie out, i was appalled. I don't think that every book needs to become a movie, but sean penn really did the whole story justice. the movie was absolutley beautiful! the cinematography was awsome. emile hersh, who plays chris, could not have done a better job. his portrayal was almost errie. please see this movie and call me so we can discuss it.! enjoy....take it in for what it is, and let it penetrate your mind, body and soul.

Sights on a new adventure....in a new place...

Well, I believe that my time here in Duluth, will soon be coming to a close. I have lived here for over 5 years now, and I think it's time for a change. I have recently reconnected with an old friend who lives here, and we both feel that we want to get away from Duluth. So, we've decided to venture out East! My friend, Shelly, and I are taking a trip in April to go check out some spots out on the Eastcoast, and see what we like. We have talked Vermont, Maine, Boston, who knows!? All I know, is that i need a change and i need to close this chapter of my life. I have always wanted to move somewhere far away, just to try it out, and now seems like the perfect time. We will plan on moving next summer, by August at the latest. So, my goal right now is to work more, play a little less and save, save, save!! I feel this is something that i need to do for myself. There is too much here that leaves me feeling stuck in the past, and caught up in too much drama that i would rather avoid. I am craving change and growth, and i don't think i can reach that potential here. Nothing is set in stone as to where we will go, or when exactly, but the trip in April will really help to clarify all of that. I would love some feedback from anyone who has it. This is a very recent idea, but I feel that it's a good one!!!

"ONCE..."

I have been introduced to some of the most beautiful music i have ever heard in my life. There is an indie movie called "Once" that is about two people who meet and make beautiful music, but come together at such the wrong time and have to learn to let each other go. I haven't even seen the movie yet, but I've listened to the soundtrack, and it tells the whole story. I recommend everyone buy the once soundtrack. The leads in the movie are also in a band called the swell season, and the guy is the lead singer for the band the frames, which are from Ireland. I'm so blown away by all of the music and songwriting and vocals and everything. and i can't wait for the movie to come out on video so i can finally watch it. If anyone wants to go see the swell season with me in november in minneapolis, let me know!!

Obsessed Much??

I have recently been listening to the Wailin' Jennys newest cd Firecracker, and yes, I am obsessed. Mom and I are fans, and i think that everyone could enjoy their music. It's three female vocalists and between them, they play guitar, banjo, mandolin, violin, accordion, organ, harmonica, you name it! You can listen to them on their website: http://www.thewailinjennys.com/. They are so beautiful and their music speaks to the soul. I was thinking that if i was going out to Seattle for marit's birthday, i would try and catch their show in Victoria, BC. But i am now joining mom and david in Seattle the weekend before. It will be nice to be with everyone to celebrate marit's big day! I'm very excited! well, check out the Jenny's or pick up their cd, and i promise you won't be disappointed.

"jump into the darkness of the unknown....."

These last couple months have been a wild ride for me, and i'm continually trying to regroup and process things and find my balance amongst all the chaos. There have been a lot of ups and a lot of downs for me lately, but it feels good to have that instead of just coasting somewhere in the middle. For those of you who heard about dan's accident, he's doing well and is pretty stable. For those of you who don't know what happened, give me a call and i will fill you in. This has been an intense experience and it has reminded me how precious our lives are and how important it is to have people who care about you and love you. Life is crazy and i feel i've seen a lot just recently, but i feel my eyes have been opened and my heart has been opened. I read a quote in anne lamott's book yesterday...(she didn't write it, but was quoting someone else.) "when we jump into the darkness of the unknown, faith lets us believe that we will either land on solid ground, or we will be taught how to fly..." i thought this was such an amazing way to look at life and to look at taking chances. we have no idea what is out there, and the only way to find out is to jump in and have faith that you will be ok. well, i hope that everyone is well and enjoying the change of the seasons. it's getting cold up here, but it feels good.

BaLaNcE

Within the last few months, I have really felt off course and out of whack! I'm trying to find more balance in my life and in my spiritual quest for happiness. Tomarrow I am going to my first acupuncture sesssion, to deal with my smoking habits. I've read that acupuncture is really good for addictions. And i'm facing the fact that i'm a closet smoker and need to get it out to really get over it. With everything that is going on in my life right now, I truly believe that we can all have balance internally, even when it's not totally projected by the things we do. So, on goes my search for balance in my spiritual life, and wishing everyone peace and happines in their daily lives!

RAGGAE FEST!!!

Yesterday, Dan and I went down to the bayfront to enjoy a whole day of reggae music and the 2nd Annual Bayfront Raggae Fest. "One love, one heart, one destiny!" It was so much fun. We were planning on just staying home and laying low, but my friend offered us free tickets, so how could we say no?? The day was perfect, it was sunny, warm, cool breeze.....beautiful! I ran into some good friends, and some old friends that I haven't seen in years. All in all, it was an awsome day, and a great event for Duluth.

Update on my life....

I have not posted anything in awhile. I'm waiting to get some photos from dad from the souix city weekend. Dad, Ken and I went down there for cousin Sarah's wedding, and it was pretty cool to see some family that I haven't seen in years!! And when I say years, I mean since maybe '92. Anyway, be expecting some pics soon. I know Mar and Ree are anxious to see them.
I feel like I've been gone almost every weekend since summer started. I'm just starting to feel a part of Duluth again. I'm going down to St. Paul to see the Police in concert on July 3rd. Then maybe going up to Nelson's cabin that weekend to celebrate the 4th with them. Should be fun to see all of them, (so i guess the going won't stop anytime soon...) I hope everyone has a wonderful fourth of July!!!

Steamboat Springs Birthday!!!

The layout is kind of funky, but I wanted to get all the pictures in that I could...

Well, I just got back from a weekend of Herbalife training in Steamboat Springs, CO. And it was AMAZING!!! I actually have picutures, too. So, I'm posting quite a few of them so you all can get an idea of the feel out there. Let me just say, I feel like a different person coming back from this weekend. I'm really excited about what I'm doing with my Herbalife. It was fun to have my birthday in a different place and meet some new people. Plus, it was great to spend time with Amber, Laura and Jason (who are in my herbalife team.) We had a blast. Enjoy the pics!

P.S. for reference, Amber is the tall blonde and Laura is the shorter one in the red...And the dude with the 'stache was a not-so-secret admirer.