A New Year and a New Beginning (for some of us)

In a few days, we'll be celebrating the start of 2010. I know many people who will be thrilled to ring in the New Year. It always makes me emotional. This New Year's Eve will be great because we will be performing at a local restaurant (Piccolo Mondo in Huntington). It will also be "interesting" because it will the 2nd full moon in the month which last happened in 2007. I'm looking forward to playing this holiday night and sharing the joy of music with others. It will be fun, no matter what! Do I have any resolutions? Hell, no. I hate raising the bar too high when it comes to that. I do sense that 2010 will be a year of major "changes" for me. No, not any sex operations or anything like that. Maybe a move from my current home. Maybe meeting a new person that is going to change my life somehow. I sense a change. Whatever it is, it's going to be good. I know it and believe it...

Wishing you the best in life! Enjoy...enjoy...enjoy.

It's Christmas Time

Well, we're only a few days away from Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. In our family, we like to celebrate both days. But the majority of the festivities (fiesta) takes place on Christmas Eve. It's so much fun for us! Latinos like to live and celebrate with passion. There's nothing boring about our get-together's. We have our traditional food and drink, like coqui (Spanish drink spiced up with rum)for the adults as well as pasteles (a Spanish meat pie that takes hours to prepare!) and arroz con gandules (yellow rice and black eyed peas--the food not the band). As we get older, we are much more appreciative of the time we have together. This is definitely one of my favorite holidays because we are happy and we know it!

I hope your holidays are joyous and that you are surrounded by many precious moments of joy and unconditional love.

Feliz Navidad!

State of Affairs

I'm feeling disappointed and disallusioned about the state of "affairs" with the world. What happened to morals? To doing the right thing even if it hurts? To saying no when you're presented with temptation. Yes, I'm talking about Tiger Woods. But in a way, I'm also talking about lay people in general who like to "play." Woods is just a rich public figure who got caught. On a personal level, I know people (who know people) who cheat and lie and don't do the right thing with their primary relationships because it's easier (and more fun for them!) to have a "side dish." And simply because they can do it. Until they get caught. Then maybe they learn and maybe they don't. Perhaps they lose a wonderful relationship as a result or they learn to cherish the primary relationship. Maybe it doesn't matter because sometimes people who are being cheated on know it but turn their head the other way because they have a lot to lose (as Woods wife does). Sometimes the other partner feels so much love for the cheater and hopes that he/she will change at some point. Who knows? Am I taking it too personally? Yes. Because I'm tired of hearing "bad news" about relationships. Show me devotion and undying love. Yes, I want to live in a fantasy world when it comes to love. But, I'm finding, the reality is very different.

It's Complicated

I think one of the hardest lessons we learn as adults is that love isn't perfect. It's rarely a straight line of emotions. Love is never simple. It truly is complicated. What starts out as love often gets convoluted into something else. But people sometimes hang on to a relationship that might not be right for them because they settle and accept that part of needs are being met by their partner. That's what I tried to do in my marriage but I couldn't settle for long. I got divorced because I wanted to find my soulmate. I didn't just want a "so-so" life partnership. But since then, I discovered that the grim reality may be that there's no such thing as a soulmate. Maybe you have to be your own soulmate and not worry so much about finding that in some one else. In my world, I have found that there are a lot of damaged souls out there. It's hard to accept the fact that you may never find the right person to love and love you back the way you need and want to be loved (because everyone's desires and needs are different) but by the same token, you realize that an imperfect love might be the love to teach you all that you really needed to know...

Looking Forward

On January 2nd, I will be performing at the member showcase of the Folk Music Society of Huntington. I'm looking forward to that event! I will performing with a variety of other featured artists. I believe I'll be performing one or two originals that evening. One of the coolest things about this show is that it takes place in a ecumenical church, with huge cross and all. So while you're singing from your soul's center, a great wooden cross hangs over your head. I like that! I saw Lucy Kaplansky and a few other successful artists perform there. I have to say that the acoustics are great in the church! I'm flattered to be part of this performance! If you're in the area, come check it out!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL OF YOU!

Alone again Naturally

Once in a while, I just have the need to hide from the world. So I go to this private area of the beach I live across from. It's a secluded spot that I discovered not too long ago. It's absolutely beautiful. Once in a while, someone walks through the area but for the most part it's pretty quiet. Today, a guy came along and started talking to me. Of course, the cynical side of me thought, this guy could kill me right here and no one would know any better. But after a few moments, I started to relax. He introduced himself as Jason and revealed that he sometimes goes to "my" secluded spot during his lunch hours. He spoke about how much he loved it as well. He spoke about how so many people are not happy and choose to complain about their lives. Jason stated that he was very happy with his life and grateful for many things. He added that people are not aware of how lucky they are. I started to laugh because I've been a little whiney lately about circumstances in my life. I felt like Jason was sent to remind me of that I have a lot to be grateful for. Sometimes, all it takes is a stranger to "wake" you up and make you "aware." Life is what you make of it.

Humanly Happy

Like most people on this planet, I have my share of ups and downs. It's not always easy being happy. Despite, everything you read and see about "happiness being a state of mind and not a state of circumstances," the truth is that circumstances definitely affect your level of happiness. If things are going great in your life, than of course, you feel wonderful. If things are on the suck-y side, than you're going to feel bad. As a yoga enthusiast, I know you're supposed to be happy and content even when things are looking grim but I'm human so that's not always the case. So I am glad to be able to feel the feelings and know I can ride out the emotions, good or bad. I also know that the adage "this too shall pass" is absolutely true. Everything changes. So if you're feeling horrible today, know that this feeling is going to pass and you will level out your emotions at some point. If you're feeling happy, then kudos to you. Enjoy the ups and share the joy with others.

Feeling the Blues

It's a cloudy, fall day. Great day to write a bluesy song. My inside is feeling it. I love blues music. I just feel there's so much emotion behind the music and lyrics. I also like the fact that, guitar-wise, it usually follows a 1-4-5 progression. Love that.

I'm not a fan of fall and winter. It's a sad season for many people because the days are shorter and there's less sunlight to take advantage of. I will freely admit that I suffer from occasional bouts of SAD, aka seasonal affective disorder. I usually treat it by spending time outdoors during the day and I also use a portable bright light that I place near my computer (yes, it's on right now). The only advantage to suffering from SAD is that it prompts me to write more songs. Sadness = songwriting. So there's a positive side to feeling this.

The sun will come out tomorrow...but for now the Bright Light sitting next to me will have to do.

Folk Music Society of Huntington

Last Saturday night, we got to perform at the local Folk Music Society of Huntington. The talented and charming Italian guitarist Beppe Gambetta was the headliner for the evening. Prior to his performance, the FMSH opened the mike to local talent. Out of eight terrific performers, we were the last act on the list. I performed an acoustic version of "Artist on the Album" along with guitarist Brian Unger and Rich H., who provided beautiful harmonies. After we finished, we received a rousing applause. I was so flattered by the positive response. It's great when people are actually listening to the music. When I walked back to my seat, several people came up to me to offer their thoughts and compliments. They also admitted that the lyrics made them cry. "Artist on the Album," is powerful song. It is one of my favorite songs to perform because it is a sad and true story about my absent father. If people respond to the song on an emotional level, than I feel like I did a good job in getting the message across to them.

The FMSH is a wonderful organization. As a result of this performance, I was invited to be part of the Member's Showcase Event on January 2nd. I am so flattered and grateful for the opportunity to share my music with others who in turn, show their appreciation in so many ways!

Hope you're all well...

It's Been Awhile

I can't believe it's Oct. 2nd already and that summer is gone! So sad about that! Before you know it, it will be December. Aargh! Don't like those I've been busy doing some press for my debut cd (available on my website, CdBaby and DigStation) and have had a few articles come out. That's always exciting. It is also crucial to have. As a DIY (do-it-yourself) artist I need to market myself and let people know about my music. Advertising and press is key. It's also a known fact that artists don't make great business people. We are fueled by our creativity, not by our business sense. I feel I good grasp on it but the problem is that it takes a lot of time and effort to do the marketing. More time on marketing means less time on songwriting. However, I am learning to balance it all.

Wishing you warm blessings!

positive press is always a good thing!

http://www.longislandexchange.com/articles/local/singer-songwriter-performs100109.html

cd

The Art of Saying Sorry

As I'm writing this, I'm multi-tasking (yes, I do it well because I've been blessed with female genes) and listening to a TV segment on how people have a hard time apologizing to each other. This is true. The question is why? Why is it so hard to say "I'm sorry" and of course, mean it. Is it because it means that we are admitting a wrong-doing and therefore feel we might be judged by others? Is it because we don't like to think of ourselves as making mistakes? We as "human beings" have to come to the realization that no-one is perfect. That we are all capable of failing, of being wrong or making decisions that have consequences. But learning to say "I'm sorry" (and meaning it) can be very freeing. It can bring you and the person you hurt to a new level of relating. Those two words are very powerful to building and maintaining a positive relationship. "I'm sorry" is not easy to say but it can go a long way to healing the hurt and pain. Hopefully, you won't need to say it very often but if you do, remember to mean it. There's nothing sorrier than an "I'm sorry," that doesn't come from the heart.

CD Release

My debut CD, No Expiration Date, has been released to the public. I was so excited when I received it and held the final product in my hands! It's been an interesting journey, to say the least. I think people doubted my ability to actually complete this project, but I never doubted that I would arrive at the finish line! It wasn't a project that was completed in 2 weeks or 2 months, as some artists claim to do. I definitely took my time because I wanted it to be as good as possible and because I did not have the luxury of going into a studio for an uninterrupted block of time. Now comes the hard part--marketing and selling it! However, I'm looking forward to the challenge! They say artists make lousy business people. That may be true to a certain extent (I'd much rather write songs than deal with sales) but I am going to try and put the same diligence and focus on it that I did in the recording of the Cd. Check out my website to purchase the Cd directly. I hope you enjoy it!

Say What You Need To Say

One of the things I've been practicing lately is the act of clearly defining to others what it is I'm feeling and what it is I want or need. Sometimes, that is difficult for me because I don't always verbalize what my needs/wants are or I minimize my own needs/wants and then find myself in unhappy situations. Communication is key in any relationship but, let's face it, it's not an easy key to use. We muddle our words. We say the wrong thing. We beat around the bush. We don't say what we mean. Then we wonder why we're not getting what we need or want. Sometimes we are afraid of expressing ourselves. Sometimes, the people we want to express ourselves too don't want to hear what we have to say. They do their best to minimize our feelings and disregard what we have to say to them.

Nonetheless, it's important to"say what you want to say" (John Mayer song) and then move forward. Your feelings, your thoughts, your needs and wants are just as important as anyone else's. Don't let anyone else TELL you anything different!

Beach Hut Gig

We got to play at the Beach Hut in Lindenhurst on July 30th. There were hundreds of people in attendance. It was a beautiful night and once again, I was in the state of happiness. So thrilled to be there. Watching people dancing and singing along brings me even more joy. That's one of the things I love about performing--you can see that it affects people! When people are into it, then they are in the zone as well. The magic of music includes the ability to be transported to a different place emotionally and sometimes physically (get on that dance floor). No worries my friends! Just be happy...

Do What You Love

Last week I was sitting at practice and was feeling a bit bored because my band member was busy working on some keyboard parts. So I took my Martin guitar to the corner of my drummer's basement and said, okay, I'm going to write a song. The first two lines came to me in an instant. The rest of the song took a bit longer but by the end of the following day, I had written it all. I get goose bumps and emotional whenever I am able to do that because writing a song connects me to my "zone." I feel so happy when I am able to write songs that have substance. I feel like I am doing what I NEED to do in this life. I also give credit to God for giving me the inspiration. I don't feel I create alone. Some will disagree but as a songwriter I feel that those moments of inspiration only happen because a greater power is at work.

Anyway, I am performing the song this Thursday at our gig at the Beach Hut in Lindenhurst. We'll see what kind of reception it gets.

Bottom line, do what you love!

The Cyclone of Life

My Cd is at discmakers, currently being manufactured so that it can be delivered in mid-August. I'm so happy that I'm finally giving birth to this baby! Hopefully, you will enjoy it and appreciate the love that I put into making it. Of course, you can check out my website to find out how to purchase it.

Life has been a series of ups and downs in the last few weeks. It's funny because when things are going well, I have a tendency to think, oh, oh, how long is this smooth ride going to last??? People say that maybe I'm attracting "bad kharma." But it's not that! It's that I realize that life is not a consistently smooth ride and my personal history has proven that over and over. You have bumps along the way. But those challenges/bumps also help you realize that you have the strength to survive the cyclones! It's not an easy task for anyone. You have to believe, and replace faith with fear. It's the only way to survive the turbelence of this crazy world.

LET'S PLAY!

Tonight I will be performing with my band at Madison's in E. Northport, NY. It's been a while since I played out. I am looking forward to it and of course, I'm experiencing a little bit of nervousness. I used to get more anxious about it until I realized that people aren't there to judge you. Well, maybe they do judge you if you're really bad but for the most part, they are out to have a good time. If you share your positive energy with them, they appreciate it. Sometimes, you and your music are just background music to all the chatter that is going on in the bar or restaurant. That's a hard situation to accept because you want people to listen to your music but that is the reality of playing out. You play out to an audience and hope that they get into it, even if it's just for a couple of your originals. Tonight, I'll be able to announce that my CD, No Expiration Date, is being manufactured and will be ready for release in about 3 weeks. Can't wait!

I hope that whatever you're doing, you are having a great time!

A Day of Death

Today was a day of loss for many. The world lost the music legend, Michael Jackson to cardiac arrest, and the famed actress, Farrah Fawcett to cancer. But neither of these deaths will affect me as much as losing my stepfather, Nino, who succumbed to cancer today at the age of 70. While Nino was not my real dad he was the only father I knew. My mother was married to him for over 30 years. I'm still in a little bit of a state of shock. It's been many years since someone close to me passed away. I feel sad and numb at the same time.

Nino had Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma, stage 3. They tried chemo and radiation but because he was a dialysis patient, it made him very ill. He was hospitalized for quite a while and whenever I visited him my heart broke for him. It's difficult to see someone you care about in agony. He couldn't move his body without crying out in pain.

Before he started to get really sick, he shared with me that he had been thinking about death. He also admitted that he was afraid of dying. I didn't know what to say to that but I held his hand and tried to ease his fear, "Don't be afraid. It's going to okay. "But it wasn't okay for him. His health quickly detioriated and he was in constant pain. He lost 40 pounds in a matter of weeks. The only consolation I feel is that Nino is no longer in pain...

A few days before Nino passed, he would try to talk but not make much sense. But he did say to me that he was hearing the voice of his mother calling him. She had been dead for many years. It makes you wonder about the afterlife...

I also feel for my beautiful mom who has been married to him for all those years. We are there for her and always will be.

RIP Nino. You will be missed...

Love is not Enough

I was listening to Suzanne Vega's song, "The Story of Frankie and Ava." The hook of the song is "it's not enough to be in love. It's not enough to be in love." I love that lyric line because it is so true. Frankie and Ava are in love but have a dysfunctional relationship. They have major passion and major problems. As grownups we sometimes go into or stay in a bad relationship because we are "in love." We deny or minimize flaws in the partner because we don't want to let go of that person or that love. So we sweep issues under the rug or pretend that the "red flags" aren't there. But eventually, people in dysfunctional love relationships realize that "it's not enough to be in love." If the issues can't be repaired then the relationship is bound to end. Unfortunately, love is not all you need. You need much more to keep the flame of love burning bright...

The Sad Cycle

I recently learned from my mother that my father's dad was also a musician and that he was also an absentee parent to my father. My grandfather, "Vincent," was not around for his own son either. I didn't know that! Finding out about that bothered me and made me sad but it also made me understand a little better perhaps why my own father was not around for me either. Perhaps he simply repeated the sins of his own dad because he didn't know any better.

Writing "Artist on the Album" (the first track on my debut CD, No Expiration Date) was great therapy for me in terms of allowing me to create something good out of something bad. As the lyrics to the chorus states, "I never really knew him. He left when I was three. He needed to pursue his passion, so he left our family. Music was his mistress. His whole damn life, you see...the artist on the album was only my daddy." Not surprisingly, those words resonant a little more deeply now that I know my father experienced the same disappointment. I guess we have that in common.

Time to Celebrate!

In about 30 minutes I will be celebrating ANOTHER birthday. It's exciting to me, even at this age! I am grateful to be alive and well! I will be celebrating with friends and family and making the best of it. Besides my family whom I love and treasure, my friends are vastly important to me. In many ways, they are like my 2nd or backup family. I am blessed enough to have quite a few best friends in my life. Each of them bring something special to the table and are patient enough to deal with my occasional bouts of wackiness.

I am grateful because this birthday is the year that I will have released my new CD, No Expiration Date. Barring no setbacks, it should be ready to be released on Tuesday, June 30th. I can't wait! We also have a few gigs lined up for the summer and that's always fun! Life is good and getting better.

Pink Skies

When we have sunny days like today, I try my best to become present to my natural surroundings. I look at the grass, the trees, the sky and just try to take in and really appreciate it. I love the different colors of the world. It can be so picturesque at times. Mother Nature is truly an artist. A case in point was the sunset we had last night. My sister and I were walking on the marina boardwalk. There were many different types of boats docked in the bay. People sat in their boats. eating and/or drinking with family and friends. Being that it was part of three day holiday weekend for many, there was no question that people's moods were light and relaxed. Many couples strolled along. hand in hand, or sat on the benches overlooking the water. When the sun started to set, people stopped took notice and couldn't help but comment, "wow, look at that sky!" In a matter of minutes, the landscape above our heads was turning colors. From a calming blue to an iridescent pink. People were using their cameras to take pictures of the skyline. It was gorgeous and breathtaking. I truly love pink skies. To me it is one of Mother Nature's most beautiful works of art.

Lighten Up and Laugh!

I'm in the midst of watching MadTV. To me laughter is so important for the mind and soul. If I'm home, I usually try to watch some kind of comedy show right before I go to bed. I used to watch the news and then realized that the bad news was affecting my sleep and my psyche. Now, I just tune into the Daily Show, the Colbert Show, Letterman or Leno and then go to sleep with a smile on my face. I also love hanging out with people that make me laugh. Having a sense of humor, especially during trying times, is so important. It reminds you to lighten up and enjoy the good in life. Remember, a smile goes a long way and doesn't cost a thing!

Enjoy your holiday weekend!

Is Your Character Showing?

I was reading a book today and there was a great quote in it by the author, C. Hickland. She writes, "crisis doesn't build character, it reveals it. " How true is that! When we're faced with a challenge or crisis, it's up to us to decide how we're going to react to that challenge or the crisis at hand. Let's say a close family member discovers he or she has cancer. He or she is going to need you during this time of crisis. How do you react? Do you make excuses and retreat? Do you welcome the opportunity to help? What about those of you who have lost jobs? So many people are in crisis as a result of corporate cutbacks. But once again, during these difficult times, the character of a person is tested and revealed. You do have a choice. You can lose all hope and just stay in bed all day. Or you cau stay motivated and keep looking for or create your own opportunities.

I myself have been through my share of crisis'. I have dealt with people close to me having cancer. I have dealt with people close to me losing their jobs. I have dealt with divorce. But all in all, these challenges revealed so much about the importance of having inner strength and a strong sense of faith. A crisis can be a blessing in disguise.

One Door Closes, Another Opens (Most of the Time)

I was a little upset to learn that one of my current guitar players has decided to move to Key West. Can you blame him? No. I would love to move to Key West, or maybe not. Maybe it's too laid back for me. Being a high energy Gemini, I think living in New York suits me best. Anyway, back to the original point (another Gemini trait; sometimes digresses from original thought). I felt sad that Ralph was leaving because we have been playing and performing together for over a year (when it comes to band situations, that's considered a long term relationship) and I liked his style. As soon as he told me, I panicked a bit. Who is going to replace him! Within a day, I placed in ad in Craigslist (not for erotic services!) but only got a few replies. I was surprised at that. Was it because my musician's ad read "no egos, heavy drinkers or druggies!" Was that an oxymoron? Were my standards too high? I finally contacted one of the interested parties. We auditioned Joe on Thursday. Brian, my other guitarist, and I were pleasantly surprised by Joe's technical ability. Joe played tastefully and harmonized well. Right off the bat, we knew it was a good fit. How lucky for me that I only had to audition one musician! Yes, my friends, a perfect example of how one door closes but another opens. Believe me, when it comes to band members,sometimes it can be more like a revolving door because musicians can come and go...Even in personal relationships. One person may shut the door in your face or you may shut the door on his or her face. But it doesn't mean another door won't ever open. Unless of course, you've locked it up! So keep an open mind, an open heart and an open door. You never know what's waiting on the other side!

Sorting Through the Rubble in Relationships

Relationships are learning grounds for growth. Unfortunately, these grounds offer a lot of rubble that we are forced to sort through. We throw stones at our partners or build stone walls around our hearts. We step and we stumble. We fall on our knees and cry out. Tears flow easily as our hearts are broken and shredded to pieces. Yes, intimate relationships can get ugly. They can be toxic to our bodies and souls. But even through pain and disappointment, they can teach us about our capacity to love ourselves and others and how to learn how to forgive.

No matter what, love is a gift that we must share with someone who appreciates and cherishes it. We're not meant to be partnered with someone that cast dark shadows. We want to be partnered with someone who brings light to our lives. And yes, sometimes it's not so easy to find that but when we do, it's a treasure to have and hold.

Artist on the Album

I spent the day today working on my CD cover with my creative designer. It was my third trip to his home office in Brooklyn. It's definitely a little challenging trying to come up with "packaging" that will be appealing to the eye. The cover plays a big part in marketing. It has to be unique, intriguing and show the artist in the best light. It has to motivate the passerby to pick it up and look at it. It also has to give an idea as to what kind of music is inside the package. I'm happy with what we designed. Hopefully, other people will like it enough to want to take the CD home!

Why Didn't I Think of That???

The other day I was listening to WFUV, the Fordham Radio Station, call letters 90.3 and the d.j. made mention of the fact that artist, Jill Sobule, had her fans pay for her new record. What!!! I just went on the website www.jillsnextrecord.com and sure enough, Jill Sobule did indeed do that. What a feat. In a nutshell, if you donated money to Sobule's musical cause (her goal was 75K), then she would provide things like a signed CD, your name used as executive producer (for $2,500), or for 10K, she allowed you to sing on her CD. Okay, my friends, get ready because that's what I'm doing for my next release! My soon to be released CD, No Expiration Date, costs me some serious money. Had I done it Jill's way, than I would be up to my ears in debt. Why didn't I know about this earlier? Oh, well, live and learn.

To Facebook or Not to Facebook? That is the question!

As much as I didn't want to, I recently joined Facebook. The reasons I didn't want to join was because I was worried about spending too much time on it. Time is so precious and these days, it seems like my free time is more and more limited. I also was afraid that people whom I didn't want to connect with would try to connect with me and if I didn't desire to do that, then I would have to reject them. Listen, being the rejectee is not my idea of fun. But much to my surprise, my fears in joining Facebook were unfounded. I enjoy being in contact with people and this is a great way to network. However, I do have on issue with Facebook. It seems to be a contest on how many friends you can collect. Some people have hundreds of friends. What's that about? I have a handful of friends who are very precious to me. If I were to have hundreds of friends, I would lose my mind. I'd never have time for any of them! But back to the Facebook deal. You can find me there and be in touch that way, if you'd like.

However, even though I'm trying to be progressive, I have yet to join Twitter and by the time I do join it, something else will have come along. The methods by which people communicate in this day and age are pretty incredible. I have a feeling that it's just the tip of the iceberg.

No Money Honey

So many people are in such a negative head right now. Worried about the recession, the increasing oil and food prices, yada yada. It's not looking like a pretty picture right now. People are struggling to make ends meet. But in a way, it's been an eye-opening experience. We can no longer be as impulsive as we used to be. We think twice about what we're purchasing and where we are putting our money. We are budgeting and doing what we have to do. We are separating "need" from "want." But on the other hand, I do feel that the media is putting an additional burden on the consumer mentality by constantly bombarding us with the "sad realities" of the the financial crisis. I'm not saying it's not real but I do think they're making the situation worse by feeding into our fears. There's no confidence because we are being told we should have none. You know me. I'm a believer in thinking positive but sometimes outside forces try to do infiltrate that thought system. Guess what? I won't let them. Neither should you!

Why We Shouldn't Judge a Book by Its Cover

I love the story on 47 year old singer, Susan Boyle, who is currently on Britain's version of American Idol, a big hit on YouTube and the latest media star (octo-mom gets a break). What an inspiration! America is in love with this woman whose incredible voice seems to be coming from "somewhere else." Who would have ever expected it? She's been called homely, ugly, matronly and plain but the truth is that when you hear and see her sing, none of that matters. When she sings, her voice just holds you hostage. You no longer see her physical being, you see her true essence. You see and hear her gift. You can't help but say, wow, she's amazing! That she is.

People are so used to judging a book by it's cover. Susan Boyle proved why we shouldn't do that. We have to look and examine at what's going on inside. Now, everyone is talking about whether she'll be given a major makeover. Why? Because, from a physical standpoint, our society can't deal with accepting her as she is. We need her to be visually acceptable before we accept the whole package. Wouldn't it be beautiful if we didn't feel a need to make her over? If we just let her voice be what really matters?

The Mind of An Artist

One of the great things about being an artist is that your mind can be creative. It can also be overly creative. As a musician, a Latina and a creative individual, I am not "normal." I react to things in a different way. Sometimes, I can be overly sensitive, overly dramatic and make more of a situation than I should. I realize that. But by the same token, those attributes also allow me to write lyrics and verses that reflect the intense feelings of love, passion, disappointment, suffering and more. If I didn't feel as deeply as I do, than I could not be a good songwriter. I am glad that my brain is wired differently than others. When my friends ask me, why do you think or act that way" I say, "I'm an artist, that's why." My friends laugh but they get it. Most people know that artists think and act differently than others because he is creative and doesn't just see things in a normal way. It's part of the job description. I consider it a blessing. My friends might just disagree...

: )

Rain, Rain Go Away

It's raining in lovely New York . Nice day to stay inside and drink white hot chocolate by the fire. I don't like the rain but it definitely is matching my mood today.

I'm working on a new song. I have most of the lyrics and verses down. Just have to tweak it. Unfortunately, it's not a happy love song. It's more about doubt. We, as human be-ings, are prone to face suffering and pain. We also have happy moments but, sometimes, they seem to be far and few. I just want to have a smile on my face and on my heart and have it stay there for at least an hour or two. But unfortunately, there's a gray and heavy cloud hanging over my head. Mostly, because my personal life is up the creek right now. I have decisions to make that will affect my future. Not fun. But I will prevail either way. I have hope that there will be better and sunnier days ahead. I'm a survivor.

Cracks in the Foundation

Sometimes the universe is intent on teaching me lessons. It puts me on a path that I have been on in the past and in the interim, the journey is riddled with painful reminders of how I may be older, but I'm not necessarily wiser. Case in point. I still believe that people are capable of changing for the better. But the universe keeps proving to me that I am being foolish in thinking that. From the time a person turns 18 years of age, their character is formed. If there are defects in character at that age, there will be the same defects at the age of 40 or 50. Granted some people might try to be better versions of themselves, but the reality is that the basic foundation is pretty much set in stone and nothing or no-one is going to change or move the structure. The cracks are there to stay. It's a hard lesson for me to learn...

A Beautiful Day

Last night, I went to see Lucy Kaplansky in Centerport. She was performing for the Folk Music Society of Huntington. The event took place in a local congregational church. I've had the pleasure of seeing Lucy perform several times in the last few years. The last time was at Joe's Pub in the city. Seeing her in a church environment was totally different, to say the least. She sang and played her Martin guitar while a big wooden cross hung over her head. I'm sure God was proud of her too. While I was listening to her, I became inspired myself. Lucy was at the grand piano doing a lovely version of the Beatles' Let it Be. All of a sudden a lyric came out of my head, so I pulled out a pen and a piece of paper from my purse and quickly wrote it down. I kept writing. That's the way a new song was born. I worked on it at length today. I like the melody and the structure of it. Seeing other artists perform is a great way to get the creative juices flowing. To me, songwriting brings me a level of contentment and joy...nothing quite like it.

Today I also went to the beach for a little while. It was a beautiful day; about 65 degrees and sunny. I watched the seagulls glide overhead. I felt a peacefulness in my soul, that I haven't felt in a while. Being surrounded by Mother Nature relieves stress and makes you connect to the beauty of life. I like it!

Spring is Here But I'm Falling Behind

It's April already. I can't believe that life is going by me so quickly. I feel like I've boarded a fast moving train that's making absolutely no stops in between. I know I'm supposed to enjoy the journey but when life is flying by it's hard to appreciate all the little nuances. It's hard to sit back and take a breathe and contemplate the beauty of the surroundings. I have to remind myself to relax once in a while.

As a singer/songwriter/performer/guitar player (www.mariedelacruz.com) I've poured my heart and soul (and money) into trying to make a debut CD that I'm so proud of. Of course, when it is released, is it going to be judged by many people. I hope and pray that people enjoy it. It's been a intensive labor of love, to say the least. Yes, it's taken longer to make this album than I planned but for some reason the universe wanted me to spend some time on it and make it as good as it can be. Once thing for sure, it's definitely wasn't an overnight project. So in the next month or two, the album will be out for all to see and hear. It's like giving birth to a baby. Here it is, like it or not!