I’m proud to say that these few days before Christmas I am indeed prepared. This Christmas Eve I’ll not be wrapping any of my gifts, just the ones that Dad needs done. This is a staple role for me…what would we do if it weren’t for the last few hours before bed on Dec 24.

The Cousins crew will be feasting on a 25lb turkey and enough baked goods to feed a small town. Friends of big families can’t buy something for each member so we always receive numerous boxes of chocolates. Any attempt to finish one before opening another fails as I madly dig through with the map, dodging ones with nuts and hoarding the chewy caramels. Luckily my co-health minded brother and I will get a few runs in around the countryside.

2004 has been so good to me and I need to send out some shout-outs to all of you who’ve listened to me perform, who’ve purchased my music, who’ve asked me to be involved in events and who’ve welcomed me into their towns and cities. Thanks to you who’ve passed my music to your friends and encouraged them to come to shows. Thank you to Matt Smith and Club Passim and to all of the new musical friends I’ve made this year that inspire me to keep working at it. Thanks to you for coming up to me after shows or on the street or over email and sharing with me your thoughts and stories. Thank you for your hearts and ears.

Wherever you are and however you celebrate I wish for you the following things: calm, reflection, relaxation, love, open hearts, inspiration, warmth, hugs, appreciation and a happy new year.

In my player: Oen Kennedy, Alison Krauss, Elliot Smith and John Gorka

love to all and to all a good night,

rose