sall's journal

Home from England and Sun Sun Glow

2009-04-03T13:08:00.002-06:00

Howdy,

Well I am home from the UK. What a great time! Can't wait to go back.

Looks like I am going to be spending the summer in Toronto!

The album will be out some time this summer. We decided to call the band SUN SUN GLOW. Happy and kitschy :). There will be a myspace out soon.

For now I am ensconced in my old bedroom at my moms. Ain't rock and roll glamorous!

xo

Sall

London

2009-02-16T15:59:00.002-07:00

It has taken me a few days to get over the jet lag, but the fog is slowly lifting. I really like it here. Soon I will be doing the networking thing and start to get shows organized. For now I am sleeping in late, walking lots and getting a feel for the city. Its nice to be a tourist. I feel like I am at a private bed and breakfast. The friends I am staying with cook marvelous healthy meal are great company and my room is superb.

The new album is being mixed back in Alberta and will be sent to Toronto at the end of the month to be mastered. I am working on the artwork and hope to do a few limited addition copies this spring for a 'soft-release'. Not sure when the full-release will be or when we will do a larger run. I think we are all pretty exhausted from recording these last 5 months. The rest will fall into place as we get some more sleep.

Happy New Year

2008-12-31T08:49:00.002-07:00

Howdy and a Happy New Year!

Its getting down to the crunch! Tracking of the new album is almost finished. One more week to go!

I bought new luggage yesterday for my trip to London. Finally I am feeling excited. One day keept blurring in to the next and the reality of this trip had not caught up with me. 5 weeks to go! London here I come!

Every year I put up resolutions. This year will be pretty simple...

1) Stay healthy
2) Take life as it comes, no more worrying about the future :)

I figure if I can manage those two, everything else will fall into place.

All the best to you!

s.

It's been toooooo long!

2008-10-30T09:55:00.003-06:00

Howdy,

OK. Tardy will not begin to cover the lackadaisical attitude I have had towards my blogging.

So much has happened.

I received an Alberta Foundation of the Arts Grant for $10000 dollars.

I have been recording for the last month and am about to start tracking.

I have my ticket for London purchased - one way!!!! I leave early Feb.

I am sooooo happy and soooo excited.

More to come :)

s.

camping

2008-03-28T23:42:00.002-06:00

i tried to take a break from music today.

i tried to go camping.

no radio, no ipod, no laptop, no guitar. a happy, no music, listen to the silence, break:)

i loaded myself into the car, sleeping bag, stove, parka.

i drove to elk island national park for a little r & r.

i went hiking through the snow along the lake.

i stumbled across a few buffalo ( i really did, kinda scary)

i stared for what must have been 45 min.

i headed back to my car to make dinner and get set up for the night.

i forgot, spoon, cup and several other critical items.

i debated a night alone without a flashlight, digging out soup noodles from a pot with a stick....

i loaded myself back into my car. humbled by my inability rough-it :)

i am now, warm and fed and showered listening to the National, typing away.

even the best of intentions... :)

s.

New Music West

2008-03-15T21:38:00.002-06:00

I have not posted forever!!!

I have exciting news.

Looks like I am going to New Music West in Vancouver. I wish I could say I was totally cool about it and did not jump up from my desk and run about laughing and causing a ruckus, annoying my roommate...

My apologies roomie... it's good news. I'm stoked.

s.

Whirl-Wind

2008-01-20T12:38:00.000-07:00

It's been much too long again since I posted here. I have taken a bit of a hiatus from the 'sall-gibson-solo-project'. A few months ago I started hunting around for musicians to start a band with. Everyone told me that placing adds in a music magazine was not the way to go....but I have proven them wrong. My new band FAILING ESTHER made it's debut at the Jekyll and Hyde here in Edmonton last Saturday night and it was smashing, so much better than I ever could have hoped for! Then on Friday night we played the Pawn Shop. I am going to continue to do solo shows...so watch for upcoming dates. However I would love to see you out at one of our band gigs. Please watch www.myspace.com/failingesther for dates.

Cheerio,

Sall

Cafe Select

2007-09-14T22:50:00.000-06:00

Night's like last night are why I play music. Small stage, spotlight, rad ambiance, trendy atmosphere, couches and a full house that interacts and listens :)

Thank you to Jordan Payne for his stellar guitar licks and roadie skills :) Thanks also to Chris Quesnel and Cafe Select for having me.

The Vue Newspaper Article

2007-09-14T22:45:00.001-06:00

I was interviewed last week for an article about women in today's music scene. You can read it below. The Vue is Edmonton's only 100% independent news and music weekly. If you want to know what's happening around the city... this is where you look. A total honor :)

MUSIC

IT'S A LONG WAY TO THE TOP WHEN WOMEN ROCK 'N' ROLL

EDEN MUNRO / eden@vueweekly.com

Spend a few minutes scouring the internet looking for something along the lines of “sexy album covers” and you’ll quickly turn up a vast assortment of images that have graced the jackets of all kinds of records, from Whitesnake’s Love Hunter to Ween’s Chocolate and Cheese to Christina Aguilera’s Stripped. And while there’s plenty of variety in the sounds that each of those albums holds within its covers, the one thing shared amongst them all—and plenty of others, too—is the placement of scantily clad women at the front and centre.

It’s difficult to deny that, for most of its history, rock ‘n’ roll has been a male dominated form of music but not every female is under the thumb of male powers. While someone like Madonna, who keeps a tight reign on the control of both her image and her music, might be an exception in a world that is beset by insta-star making machines like American Idol, with singers being judged more on their ability to perform material written by professional songwriters than their own creativity, the fact remains that there are women out there who are capable of so much more, and who are right now flexing their own creative muscles.

Kim Rackel makes up one half of the horn section in The Wet Secrets, and she admits that there were a few female musicians who intrigued her as a child—The Misfits, the rocker girls from the cartoon Jem and the Holograms, and Joan Jett—but as much as she was thrilled by the images, she was never won over by an aesthetic alone
“I was pretty infatuated with Madonna when I was little, and Michael Jackson—I loved Michael Jackson, as well—but I think it was more the sparkles and the dancing,” she recalls. “It was the music—I loved the music, too—but I think it was the whole package ... I thought it was pretty goddamn cool.”

The other half of the band’s horn section is Donna Ball, who has also held down the bass for local metal band Some Won Spit, and she agrees with Rackel’s assertion that music is about more than simply the image. Counting off the first bands that she listened to while growing up, Ball doesn’t name a single act with any sort of official female presence.

“When I was a kid I really liked Bon Jovi and Def Leppard, Glass Tiger—whatever my sister listened to is what I liked when I was little,” she explains. “I didn’t really think about female influence. It was always 100 per cent music. I was always more about music—I can play music, I like it, I’m good at it—more so than having an idol in music.”
After moving from the West Coast to Edmonton, singer-songwriter Sall Gibson says that she has been impressed with the number of girls she has seen out playing at this city’s numerous open mic nights. Gibson says that her initial influences were, like Ball’s, more male-centric than female, though for different reasons.

“If anything, women musicians influenced me in a reverse way,” she chuckles. “Because my vocal styling is in a lower range I was frustrated constantly because I couldn’t sing any of the female songwriters that I liked, so I ended up playing a lot of guy’s songs.”

Just as women count plenty of male musicians as influences, the opposite is often true of men. Edmonton’s Eamon McGrath, who performs solo and with both The Wild Dogs and Red Medicine, says that he was already looking up to local all-girl punk band The Homewrekers when he was 13 years old, and today he lists both Joni Mitchell and Lucinda Williams among his favourite songwriters. McGrath is also quick to add that he likes all of them because of their songs, not the novelty of a woman playing music.

In fact, the idea of shaking up the traditional male mentality of rock ‘n’ roll with a female presence is something that McGrath takes seriously—the drummer in his first band was a girl and until just a few days ago his girlfriend was playing bass in The Wild Dogs.

“It’s good to have girls in bands because they do bring a specific perspective to the music,” McGrath considers. “There’s something very male about rock ‘n’ roll and when you see a perspective from the other side of the gender fence it’s really refreshing.

“I’m not trying to say that there are these great, vast differences between guys and girls,” he emphasizes before continuing, “but the reality is that rock ‘n’ roll is a phallic kind of attitude historically, and changing that up is good.”

If there is some pressure for female musicians to put forward a particular image, it certainly doesn’t manifest itself in some overarching rule that applies to everyone, as Gibson makes clear.

“Because I’m a songwriter and I’m a reasonably proficient guitar player, I don’t really think about the image thing too much,” she says. “I mean, I’m most comfortable on stage with my toque and my hoody and would never really think twice about going on stage like that.”

For Rackel and Ball, sexuality is something that they have few problems with when it comes to the stage—in addition to The Wet Secrets, both women also perform with Capital City Burlesque.

“I can pretty much get on the stage and act like a total retard and take off my clothes at the same time, and be okay with it,” Rackel laughs, adding, “So I guess prancing around in the giant boots and the little marching band outfits that we have—we’re pretty comfortable doing it.”

Bobbi-Jo Moore, the singer/guitarist for Vancouver’s The Elixxxirs, admits that she’s never had any serious difficulties in music that she would attribute to her gender and she points out that there are some possible advantages for females in the industry, too, partly due to the fact that there are statistically a whole lot more men playing in bands.

“For me, booking gigs is really easy and it has been ever since I started the band,” she notes. “Even if [a promoter] hadn’t heard our music or anything, if I went up and talked to them they’d seem to give us a show. So I’m not exactly sure if that’s because I’m female—I think that has something to do with it—or if it’s my outgoing personality, but I’ve heard from a lot of my friends who are guys in bands and they don’t seem to have the same success. They have to try harder to get gigs.”

Moore goes on to say that she would be at a bit of a loss if image were the number one concern.
“One of the things that attracts our fans is the songs,” she says. “I’m not the greatest singer in the world and I’m not the greatest guitar player, either, but I write really great songs [that are] catchy and people like to dance to them. As a female, if I was singing other people’s songs it would be a lot harder.”

She sees the respect that she gets from other musicians as a direct result of working her way up from the bottom, rather than being plucked from obscurity and paraded around by a bunch of handlers.

In the end, Ball agrees that it’s important for women to prove themselves as musicians. “I don’t think a lot of people think that girls can play,” she admits regarding the challenges facing female musicians today, but she adds that, once the initial shock wears off, acceptance is usually not all that far behind. “You just have to prove yourself, I suppose.
“It’s almost not a sex issue and just an issue of talent, because I think that everyone has to go through it,” she says. “I don’t think it matters what gender you are.” V

The Big Reshuffle

2007-09-06T16:17:00.001-06:00

Man!! If I have to re evaluate, contemplate on or dig deep on any more issues in my life... i think i might have to be committed:) too much too much!!!!!

anyway. i have a show next thursday at cafe select. hope to see you there. i am excited about this one :)

Re Booked

2007-08-02T16:11:00.000-06:00

Hi All,

Steeps show has been rescheduled to Aug 17th 8:30pm. See you there.

s.

Nickleback

2007-08-01T15:16:00.001-06:00

Last night I met Chad and Mike Kroeger from Nickleback. Kinda cool...

s.

Double Booked

2007-07-27T20:32:00.000-06:00

Steeps double booked me... just found out the hard way.

They could not figure out who should play... gong show.

Anyhow, I am re booked for Aug 17th.

Sorry Sorry Sorry for any of you who drove all the way there.

I am about to go back and see who I can apologize to in person.

I know free time is valuable and the fact you would spend it with me, is much much much appreciated.

sorry again,

sall

Condo Woe's

2007-07-20T16:58:00.000-06:00

Having a home can consume you :)

I have been in Ikea hell the last few days. I needed a workspace and for $234 have decked myself out. Today, I am pretty pleased with the end result. However, yesterday as I gazed at the football sized bag of screws, allan keys and nameless little metal pieces I found myself understanding why prebuilt costs more :)

Today I tossed a full carload of cardboard over the balcony and stuffed it into my car. Recycling depot two blocks away = 'total bonus'.

Now, sorting through boxes, my guitar sits lonely in the corner. I find myself murmuring 'tomorrow I promise'....

Home

2007-07-19T11:02:00.000-06:00

I am home.

Edmonton. Home? These two words are finally a fit. God it's nice to have a home again. Cozy, bare feet on the kitchen floor, a bathtub that does not need 10 min of elbow grease before entry, clothes that are selected from a hanger not rumpled from a suitcase. Home :)

Its been a long winter, challenging, frustrating, filled with laughs and lows. I have been moody and brooding which makes me impossible to be around (sorry guys).... but creative, man, has this been a year of creative burst.

Last night was a late one. Got home from playing a shared stage with Chris Wynters (Captain Tractor) at O'Byrnes on Whyte Ave (thanks to everyone who made it out). Sat up eating toast and drinking white wine from the bottle (classy me) by the blue flicker of the tv. Happy is the only word I could use to describe my little late night indulgence/wind down. One of those gorgeous simple moments that catch you off guard, that you want grasp with two hands, but if you give it too much focus, it slips away. So alone I sat happy, ignoring the fact I was happy :)

Next week I have a gig at Steeps Tea here in Edmonton. Hope to see you there.

s.

Terrace

2007-07-11T01:07:00.000-06:00

There are voices drifting over the muggy night air from somewhere up the street. I have arrived in Terrace and am happy to be staying with friends I have not seen for quite some time. Too long really. We had the most amazing dinner of smoked black cod, baby potatoes and asparagus. I have eaten like a queen this past two weeks. Fresh fish almost every night, halibut and salmon. mmmmmm

This trip home to the Coast has been eventful as usual. It has been a long time since I have been in the North West in the summer and not been tied to a day job. In some ways it's a lonely time of year as it is the busiest time of year. Everyone is working long hours or away on holiday with their family. I did get to see everyone I wanted to see, but only one or two at at time. Fall and Winter are the big gathering times.

Terrace. I have now left the coast and am 132 km's inland. It was a beautiful day aside from the humidity (felt a bit like Southern Ontario). Went for a quick jaunt on my friends motorcycle to pick up some dinner items. The water line on the Skeena river is astounding. I missed the actual flooding by two weeks, but the muddy scum left several feet up the trees makes me realize the magnitude of the flooding in these parts.

Thursday night I am playing at the Artful Cup on the main street in Terrace. The show starts at 8pm and Gary Maltin will be joining me for some songs. Tomorrow I have a full day of prep ahead of me, so I should be off to sleep.

s.

Thanks to everyone... and Raid the North

2007-07-04T23:25:00.000-06:00

Thanks to everyone who has emailed me in the past week about the new songs... totally rad to have all that support.

The gig on Saturday night went well... the room was soosooooo long and skinny!!!!! Thank you to the Undecideds and Dwayne Harrison for letting me use their gear and to Mark Ciconi for running the sound. My PA would have never cut it.

A truly unique show to play at. Teams from all over the world competed in the 'Raid the North' extreme event. It was video taped and will be broadcast on Global and the Outdoor Life Channel at some point. Our local Rupert team finished the course and placed 10th!!! I performed at the awards banquet on Saturday night.

This weekend i am playing the Crest again. Several long nights of music ahead. As I was working on my set list tonight, i realized that i am only about 5 songs short of being able to play 4 sets of my own songs. I did not realize I had that many.

s.

Credits

2007-07-04T23:19:00.000-06:00

I still have to add the credits to the music page for the new songs... here they are in no particular order:

Look in Her Eyes :
Vocals, Acoustic Guitar: Sall Gibson
Organ, Drums, Piano: Jordan Payne
Bass: Mike Saunders
Produced by: Jordan, Mike and Sall
Mixed by: Jordan and Mike

Three More Days:
Vocals, Backing Vocals, Acoustic Guitar :Sall Gibson
Backing Vocal: Emily Gibson
Electric Guitar, Drums: Jordan Payne
Bass and song intro: Mike Saunders
Produced by: Mike , Jordan and Sall
Mixed by: Jordan and Mike

Plaster:
Vocals, Backing Vocals, Acoustic Guitar and Tambourine: Sall Gibson
Bass and Drums: Jordan Payne
Electric Guitar, Percussion: Mike Saunders
Produced by: Mike, Jordan and Sall
Mixed by: Jordan and Mike
Vocals

In a Nutshell

2007-06-25T00:55:00.000-06:00

I am the tardiest of tardy journal writers....

It feels amazing to be back on the road again.

Smithers and Midsummer Festival is great for the soul.

The demo is done. Yippee!!!

more to come...

Tuesday @ The Druid - Edmonton

2007-05-27T22:58:00.000-06:00

It's been a while.

The summer tour is shaping up and the snow is finally gone.

This Tuesday I will be playing at the Druid (11606 Jasper Ave, Edmonton).

Its free. Come in and have a beer (not free :). I will be on around 9:00pm

s.

Video

2007-03-06T15:45:00.000-07:00

Hiya,

I put up a video on my Sonicbids EPK. Its a clip from my CD Release Party last year. The song is 3 More Days. You can view it by:

Going to www.sallgibson.com/bio.htm

Then click on the View Sonic Bids EPK link

Then click on Video.

You need either Windows Media Player or QuickTime to view it.

Hope you enjoy,

s.

New Music and Email Appologies

2007-02-20T13:57:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

A good and a bad day. I want to start off by apologizing to everyone who received my Newsletter today. I am painfully aware that I somehow disclosed all of your email addresses to each other. I had put the 'Group' in the BCC.... so it should have been blind.... but somehow they all were exposed. My apologies. I personally know everyone on the list and am certain the addresses won't be used for evil or used at all.

The good news is that I finally have some new music to share with you. I have put up the song 'Look in her eyes'. Hope you enjoy it.

Sorry again :(

Sall

New Website

2007-01-20T16:11:00.000-07:00

My website is finally up and running. No new music to post yet. The tracks are still in the mixing process. Some more recording is in the works this week. Monday night I will be playing the open mic at Side Track Cafe. If anyone is around and wants to check it out, I would love to see you.

This week has been hectic. Wednessday night I saw Emily Haines at the Citadel Theatre. Awesome. I can say nothing but awesome. awesome. awesome. Had dinner at the Four Rooms prior (not bad), drank too much red wine and felt perfectly mellow for the show.

Wednesday night, went and saw a friends band play at the Urban Lounge. Great music. You can check out 'Wish' on their myspace account.

Friday night found out my friends, friends band was playing at the PowerPlant at the U of A. The Yoko Casionos rocked the place after enduring a crazy 14 hour drive from Kelowna earlier that day and arriving with not much time to spare for their set. The local band Social Code was pretty solid as well.

I just spent the last 3 hours playing and working on some songs for the open mic. My friend and stellar musician Jordan Payne and I are working on some material together. We might unveil it at the open mic, and might not. We will see how it goes.

Life is good.

s.

Happy New Year

2006-12-31T17:10:00.000-07:00

Today I have been working on finding the calm within the storm. I have been feeling restless, cranky and blah. It's always hard moving to a new city and lately every time I turn around I feel like I am smacking into a brick wall. I am starting to feel emotionally battered. I am trying to be optimistic. Being that its the eve of a new year I am willing myself into a good mood so not to start 2007 on a bad note. I am off to see Mstrkrft and Shout Out Out Out at the Citadel Theatre and then to a hot tub party.

My head aches. I have not eaten all day. That is a recipe for disaster.

I usually put down New Years Resolutions. This year I have said screw it.

s.

Four in the Morning

2006-11-23T04:28:00.000-07:00

You know those nights where the clock ticks and you are exhausted but can't fall asleep? Well, I am having one tonight. I guess I have a lot on my mind. My website is coming along well. My ideas have worked out nicely. The only problem is the drawings are taking a lot longer than I expected. I had hoped the site would be done last week. Now I am thinking, it will be closer to mid December. I can't believe it's 4:23 in the morning. I bought some Safeway bulk coffee today and made a pot in the afternoon. Maybe it's the caffeine keeping me awake. Well, I am off to toss and turn some more. Hopefully, sleep will come soon.

s.

Open Mic, Recording and Website

2006-11-07T00:39:00.000-07:00

Hello all,

It's late. I just got back from a open mic in St Albert at LB's Pub. What a great spot. The house band was fun. Thanks to Tyler for playing fiddle.

The last week has been busy, getting settled in to the new place, trying to find my way around the city and brave the cold (I keep getting told, this is nothing!).

I did some recording this weekend. The tracks are rough, but the essence is there. I have a couple of friends working on the project with me and I am eager to hear what they come up with.

I also started my much needed website redesign. Hopefully, within two weeks I will have the new site launched.

I am off to bed.

s.

Edmonton

2006-10-31T00:36:00.000-07:00

The drive from Prince George on Saturday was tedious and a bit scary. Lots of cars and truck in the ditch. Snow and ice everywhere. My heater in my van is not what it used to be. I had to wear my touque (sp?), gloves and big down jacket the whole way. I was a popsicle by the time I arrived.

Up next, a month in Edmonton testing my songs in a new market and doing some recording. I'll keep you all posted on upcoming shows as they are confirmed.

I am off to hunker down beneath the covers and try to get the chill from my bones. Its cold here... It feels more like Christmas than Halloween :)

s.

Snow

2006-10-25T13:08:00.000-06:00

hmmmm.... snow.

It seems too soon for snow.

Was I not just on a beach.

It's going to be a gross drive to Edmonton.

Yuck!

Friday night I will be at Cafe Voltaire in Prince George starting at 8pm

Hope to see you there

s.

Live @ the Kiva

2006-10-21T13:58:00.000-06:00

I had the best time last night. Gary and I played to a full house. 100 people in an intimate environment. What a great crowd. Thanks to everyone who attended the show and came and chatted with me. It was nice to see familiar faces and a slew of new ones :). The atmosphere was so encouraging it was a pleasure to share stories. It felt like sitting in the kitchen with good friends over a glass of wine.

Special thanks to Elaine at the Kiva for organizing the event, postering, setting up and arranging door staff. Also, a thank you to the North West Community College for paying for posters and advertising the event.

Up next, a week in Prince George and a show at Cafe Voltaire. Friday at 8:00pm.

On the road again,

Sall

If our lives had sound tracks...

2006-10-20T13:06:00.000-06:00

If our lives had sound tracks I wonder what music would be playing right now. In reality I am sitting on the floor, listening to Afrocelts and drinking peppermint tea. Great stuff for driving to or zoning out on your living room floor.

Its been a thought-provoking week. Small changes with big impacts. Something has changed within me. I no longer feel like a hesitant emerging artist. I feel strong and capable. I have mapped out the next 6 months. I have postponed my trip to Europe, it will happen, but at the moment the timing is not right, for reasons I don't need to get into online. The month of November I will be scouring the Edmonton area for open mic nights and testing my music in a more specific 'folk-country' market. December I will be playing at the Crest again and playing at the CBC Charles Dickens Christmas Carol reading in Rupert. I hope to organize a few more shows on the way home maybe Williams Lake, Smithers and New Hazleton. I am going to take some time after Christmas to start working on a 3rd recording and hunker down to finally plan a cross Canada tour for the summer. That's it in a nutshell.

This morning I was invited to perform on the Mix 56 Radio Show with Ryan Boult. It was a pleasure as always. Live radio is fun... you never know what is going to be said. We played 10 things you never knew about Sall. I blanked on my favorite actor and actress. I still don't know who I would say. I have a hard time narrowing my likes down for that kind of trivia :) This evening is the show at the Kiva. I look forward to it.

I hope to post some pics of the summer soon.

sall

Back in the Saddle

2006-10-13T01:24:00.000-06:00

Some people complain that Rupert is dreary in October. I think its great. Its so different than Octobers where I grew up. Here, its foggy in the morning and the clouds are low in the sky, often impeding the view of surrounding mountains and sometimes even the higher elevations of the city. It gets brighter later in the morning and darker early. However, I find this changing of the days and the calm it casts on the city, to hint at the excitement of months to come as we head into the Halloween/ Christmas/ New Years party season (I love). Tonight, standing in front of the crowd at the Crest Hotel I was amazed by how much I had missed performing to a large audience. It was great. My fingers are showing the telltale dark tips and feeling the numbness of a 4 hour show. My body feels sleepy from the physical exertion of singing. I am stoked to be back. I stood for a moment in the parking lot at the end of the night and listened to the water drops fall from the leaves caused by the thick fog that makes the street lights all fuzzy and my skin feel damp and thought to myself that Rupert in October is anything but dreary.

I am meandering and that is a sign to stop writing.

Back in the saddle.

s.

This and That

2006-10-11T23:21:00.000-06:00

I am having a hard time believing that I have been back in Rupert for just over 24 hours. I love this place. It's been a busy two days. Tuckered. I am excited to play at the Crest tomorrow night. It's good to be back.

s.

Phase Two

2006-10-10T11:41:00.000-06:00

I am sitting in South Terminal in Vancouver waiting to board a plane to Prince Rupert. I am excited. With a couple of weeks of vacation under my belt I am refreshed and eager to get back on the road. First up, this weekend, a 3 day show at the Crest. Then a concert in Terrace at the Kiva and a show in Prince George. After, I am heading to Edmonton for a few weeks to work on material for a third album. I promise my posts will be more frequent. Thanks for sticking it out through the dry spell.

Sall

Feet on Solid Ground

2006-08-16T13:25:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone!!

Summer is drawing to a close and with that my life on the water. Aside from rebooting my system and recharging my creativity, I was surprised to have learned a few things about myself and with that skills I will be able to take with me and use in my everyday life. Living on a 75 foot vessel in close quarters with 5 crew is a demanding lifestyle requiring a level of self control I have never had to put in play before. Adding to the mix 6-10 guests..... Wow! Digging deep for patience is one thing, but having to have your game face on at 1:00 am when you have been working since 9:00 am and been on the water for 3 months is another thing!!! An amazing experience all round.... and I feel that it will continue to gain strength the further I move away from it.

I have two trips left and then a couple of weeks on a beach in Costa Rica then I am on the road again. I will be touring in the North West of BC to start. I will post dates soon.

Looking forward to putting some miles under the van, yellow line flashing in my rearview mirror with a horizon stretching ahead of me, hinting of adventure and rooms to fill with music.

Sall

Entertaining on the Water

2006-05-12T10:39:00.000-06:00

Hello Everyone,

Ok, so my plans have changed. This summer rather than me traveling to the people, I am going to let the people come to me :)

I have taken an entertainment position on a luxury boat that travels from Prince Rupert. I am looking forward to it and the few months of stability it will provide before throwing myself back out into the rigors of the road.

I have been working on some new material and plan on using the time to hone the songs in prep for a third cd next winter.

I will be playing for the public again starting on September 15th. I will also be launching a new website at that time.

I hope you all have a safe summer... I will drop a note periodically to fill you in on the trials and tribulations of this section of my adventure.

Sall

Waiting to Board, Bored

2006-04-24T23:26:00.000-06:00

I am sitting in the Vancouver airport waiting to board a night flight to Toronto. Why I have decided to travel on a redeye again I don't know. I remember very vividly sitting in the airport last time swearing that the sore neck and exhaustion the next day was not worth the cheap fare.

Regardless, Toronto here I come. We should be boarding momentarily. This late at night, people certainly don't look their best. Grumpy tired eyed children, rumpled blearly eyed businessmen and the restless, bored, rest of us. I wonder how the rest that don't subscribe to the laptop way of life survive. Technology certainly has a way of making, whiling away the time, more enjoyable. I have listened to music, chatted online to friends, checked and returned emails, did some music reviews (for a site I belong to) and now am updating my severely falling short daily journal.

Well, it looks like they are calling my seat number. Yippee Toronto here I come.

Toronto Bound and R&R

2006-04-23T23:39:00.000-06:00

Ok....so my blogging has become progressively worse. I feel though, that I am gearing up for a creative outburst. Maybe my blogging will improve at the same time.

Tomorrow I am off to Toronto for several weeks. Mostly a trip for rest and relaxation, but I will do a couple of small shows as well. Tonight I am holed up in a hotel in Smithers. I just finished a three nights of shows. A friday night show at the Alpenhorn and then a two night engagement at Ski Smithers. Lots of fun, great crowds and amazing weather. I;ll post some pics soon.

Well, I am off to sleep.

night world

s.

The Terrace Best Western

2006-04-15T13:30:00.000-06:00

Played at the Terrace Best Western last night. Fun and a good practice for next weekend. Friday I am at the Alpenhorn in Smithers, Friday and Saturday at Ski Smithers in the Lounge. After the show tonight I am off to Rupert for a week. I will prob do some show's at Cowpuccino's. Hope to see you there.

s.

Quesnel Show Postponed

2006-04-13T12:56:00.000-06:00

Hello Quesnel - ites

I regret to say it but, I have been under the weather for the past few days and because of that I have had to cancel my show in Quesnel. I am making arrangements to come back an play in August. I hope to see you all then. Thanks for the support.

Sall

Where am I?

2006-04-10T22:39:00.000-06:00

Tonight I actually had to ask someone at the hotel what town I was in. How's that for rock and roll! Well, 100 Mile House it is I was aiming for Williams Lake but did not make it. Lets see, where have I been, what have I been up too, where did I leave off. I played Bastion square in Victoria (which I wrote about) and then in the evening had a show at the Black Stilt Coffee House. A fun night had by all. It was great to see so many familiar faces. Thanks to Ryan Bresser (The Blue Arbutus) for organizing the show, postering, promoting and playing. In addition, thanks to Kirsty Hudson from CBC for promoting the show on air. I have had emails from all over the province, based on that clip.

I am now on my way to Quesnel for a show on Thursday then it's playing at the Best Western in Terrace on Friday and Saturday night.

Tonight Live from Victoria

2006-04-07T17:53:00.000-06:00

Hi All

Tonight I am in Victoria at the start of another couple of months on the road. During the day I played at Bastion Square, down by the waterfront. It is a artisan fair. I want to thank everyone who bought a cd and threw money in to my pot :) Having never busked for a full afternoon before... i was not sure how it would go. Lots of fun, met some new people and enjoyed the wonderful spring air. On my way home (lost again) I saw the cutest girl.... the longest brown curly hair, shoe laces untied, thick glasses, rumpled clothes, walking home from school, nose stuck in a book. I tried to see what she was intently reading and almost rear ended the driver in front of me. It's nice to see kids these days that are excited about books. Thankyou JK Rowling !

Last night we went to Herman's and watched a jazz trio. The drummer was a guest named Lou Williams who is touted by many to be one of the best jazz drummers in Canada. I was told has set up the jazz programs at universities such as McGill. Pretty awesome.

Tonight I have a show at the Black Stilt Coffeehouse on Hillside here in Victoria. The show starts at 7:30pm and runs until 11:00. It is a double bill with my friend Ryan Bresser. It should be a fun night. Admission is by donation. Hope to see you there. Sorry about the short notice

Queen of the North

2006-03-22T23:06:00.000-07:00

Today I received some distressing news. The BC Ferries vessel, Queen of the North sank this morning. The ship ran a ground, approximately 100 kms away from Prince Rupert along the inside passage near Hartley Bay. Details surrounding this disaster will emerge over the next few weeks. Initial, they were reporting minor injuries and that all crew and passengers accounted for. Hours later they are still unsure about the fate of two workers.

My thoughts are with the families, crew and passengers of all aboard the vessel this morning. Living in the north the QPN and the inside passage route from PR to Port Hardy is close to all of us in some way. We travel it, our friends and family work on board. It will be a day many will not forget.

s.

The Next 12 Months

2006-03-18T12:20:00.000-07:00

Planning, Planning, Planning. It seems like things are starting to fall into place for the next 12 months. On tap, is at least one more ski hill show, possibly a stint on BC Ferries, a gig at the Crest and the Rotary Fish dinner. Plus a slew of coffeeshop shows on Vancouver and Queen Charlotte Island. Then shows across Canada throughout the summer. And hopefully a trip to England, Germany and Austria for the Fall and Christmas. It's been a rewarding organizing all of these shows.

I am in Seattle at the moment. Did I say that in my last entry? I am sitting in a Bookstore/ Community Centre/ Food Court that is jam packed with people, smells and interesting things to look. There is a 'Spring Flower Fair' going on and there are little kids running around and crawling under the tables. It's a energizing place to work.

I mentioned in an earlier blog that my van needed to go in for repairs. Not too much damage. My back emergency brake was seized causing the wheel to lock and I had a caliper on the front right that needed to be changed as well. It's all fixed and driving smoothly!

Off to work.

s.

I am a Bad Blogger

2006-03-12T21:03:00.000-07:00

My current location is somewhere in the Interior BC. I am heading to Vancouver tomorrow and then on to Seattle later in the week. I have scheduled myself some much required planning time. I am anticipating, that with proper utilization, this down time will propel me into another 6-month tour, that will take me through to the end of the summer. I am aiming for cross Canada.

I have been a horrible journal writer as of late. Mostly due to shows in the vicinity of family, therefore my free time has been prioritized differently. It has been rewarding to my soul!

Recapping, the past month has been fruitful, with well attended shows, solid CD sales and remarkable support from audiences.

This morning I drove away from Sun Peaks Ski Resort after a two night apres ski booking. The snow conditions were fabulous and showed the sign that spring is just around the corner.

I will write a more inspired entry tomorrow. Words are eluding me tonight.

night s.

Prince George, Williams Lake and Regina

2006-03-01T08:15:00.000-07:00

This morning I will be hopping a plane to do a couple of shows in Regina. Unfortunately, before that happens I have to get to the Canadian Tire. Last night 'Big Red' decided it needed a piggy-back to the garage. My back tire will not spin...lets hope it's only a seized brake. All in all it could not have been better timing. At least now it can be repaired while I am away and will not interfere with show schedules.

Since returning to Toronto I have played Prince George at Cafe Voltaire and in Williams Lake at the Gecko Tree. I have pics and will post them in a day or two. Lots of cd's sold and superb attendance at the shows. It feels empowering to be doing a solo show again. Just me and my guitar!

Yesterday, prior to the van fiasco, I decided that I will be returning to Toronto for more shows starting May 20th. I am hoping for a full 3 weeks this time. Wow...then it will be festival season. I guess I need to start planning my summer cross Canada tour.

How time flys.

Heading Home

2006-02-22T16:40:00.000-07:00

I am standing at an internet kiosk in the Vancouver Airport, hurriedly typing as the minutes countdown toward another toonie insertion. I had a great time in Toronto the last few shows were great!

I have to say checking into the Vancouver - Terrace portion of my flight was entertaining. I was switching carriers from West Jet to Air Canada...The special baggage people said they wanted me to open up my guitar case so security could inspect it. Ok...no big deal...that has never happened before....but with all of the new security implemented it makes sense. Get this! My guitar sets of a explosives alarm. I have security going through my bags...agents taking away my boarding pass... pretty crazy. Ok..I might be blowing it a bit out of proportion...but it was pretty bizarre and a bit frightening. I imagine that guitars must set of the sensor all the time...especially if the musicians have been in venues with flash pots. I am guessing the Reverb in Toronto has used them in the past for events. Anyhow I am hoping the rest of my flight will be uneventful.

s.

Playing THE Reverb, Toronto

2006-02-13T12:01:00.000-07:00

Playing THE Reverb, Toronto

2006-02-13T11:47:00.000-07:00

Ontario

2006-02-13T11:31:00.000-07:00

It's snowy, dry and cold! Just the way I like it! I have really missed this kind of weather. Crisp, squeaky snow, wind that nips and clear high blue sky's and sun!! I arrived late on Friday night and got settled in quickly. Gary took the redeye and arrived early Saturday morning.

Saturday afternoon I picked up my rental PA from Long and McQuade. I am always amazed how cheap it is to rent gear! Then I headed to the Niagara Region for my first show. The fine dining restaurant we played at was entertaining. One person asked what style of music I play....they compared me to Norah Jones (total compliment). We played all of our songs at half speed to suit the ambiance! Gary had to make up drum parts on the spot to accommodate the new tempos. But it works...I now know that we can pull off a formal evening.

Last night we played at THE Reverb in Toronto. This venue is 180 degrees from fine dining. We opened for 3 bands, all amazing musicians, THE WHOMB, LUTENTENT and RECOVERY CHILD. It was nice to be able to let loose and play my songs the way I wrote them. Today I have the day off and I am going to wander around the city and check things out. Tomorrow we head up to do a Valentines day show in Dunchurch.

Sold Out Show in Terrace

2006-02-06T17:01:00.000-07:00

Well....The show at the Kiva on Saturday night went really well. We sold out a day in advance and still managed to pack a few extra in. I hate turning people away, but we had to. I have a few pictures to post from the CD Release Party. I hope to have a few professional ones to add soon. This week we have a private party on Tuesday night and then it's off to Ontario on Friday for 10 days of shows. It will be great to play in my old stomping grounds again.

Crashing Your Couch - Part 2

2006-02-01T16:43:00.000-07:00

Officially I am on the road again. I loaded up the van this morning and enjoyed a scenic drive along the Skeena River to Terrace. I can't believe it has been 2 months since I drove into Rupert having ended my first ever tour. Reflecting on the past months, I realize that as much as things change in ones life...much stays the same. For all of the new experiences this past year has brought me. Really, I am still the same girl. I am going to miss everyone in Rupert and I want to thank everyone who attended the CD Release Party and all of the radio stations and papers that helped promote the event. You are all the best!

Things are shaping up for the show on Saturday night at the Kiva. I just got word that over a third of the tickets have sold. The radio has been giving away some as promos during a quiz show and with tomorrow co: hosting the Mix 56 morning show I hope to spread the word further.

I'll write more soon.

Sall

Fabulous Release Party

2006-01-30T12:16:00.000-07:00

I am cradling my cup of coffee as if it contains the essence of life itself. Groggy and bonetired, the pathetic self-induced exhausted state I am in can't hold the smile from my face. It's Monday morning and I have had 30-some odd hours to reflect on the CD Release Party on Saturday night. The only words that come to mind are 'life-changing' and 'milestone'. The photos are being developed as I write this and I will post them this afternoon.

I keep wanting to laughed outloud. What an amazing night. The theatre was packed at least 50 people over capacity, standing room only. The doors opened at 7:00pm and people kept streaming in. At 7:30 the theatre told me they were going to have to close the doors and put up the 'sold-out' sign. Thanks to Steve B for taking care of the 'front of house politics' and somehow kept packing them in :)

After that, the rest of the night was a bit of blur. Jordan Payne took the stage at 7:40 and played his beautiful originals and entertained the crowd with a rendition of my song ' Advice to a friend'. Russell Bowers from CBC introduced us at 8:10 and I have a vague recollection of walking across the stage picking up my guitar, speaking a few words into the mic and striking the first chord of Freedom. Playing with the band was the most amazing experience I have ever had. Thanks to Triple By Pass (Mark Giordano, Paul Cox and Brian Miller) Jordan Payne, Chris Vick and Gary Maltin for letting me take my music to the next level. It's going to be hard to play a 3-month acoustic tour after this!

After each song I was smiling so much that I had a hard time clearing my head to remember what my next song intro was going to be. I kept thinking this is going too well....it was perfect!! 12 songs later plus 5 encores I left the stage a changed performer!

I now have two days to get organized, sleep and say my goodbyes. I hit the road again on Wednesday for 3 months. Wow....this year is going to motor by.

Sall

Jet Set

2006-01-17T14:47:00.000-07:00

Exciting news. I am off to Ontario for a week in Feb to play some shows in Toronto and the Niagara Region. I'll post more as I know the details. Last night I got to jam with some of the most talented musicians in Prince Rupert. A group of 20 somthings that exude nothing but enthusiasm about the instruments they play and the journey music can take you on. What a fabulous night. Thankyou you guy's! Nights like that remind me why I am alive.

sal!

Pics

2006-01-15T16:00:00.000-07:00

Sleepy Sunday

2006-01-15T15:42:00.000-07:00

It's a sleepy Sunday. I am curled up in a chair in my makeshift office. The house has hot water heat, so I have my toes wrapped around the radiator, toasty and warm. It has been a while since I last posted. Much has been the same. I am enjoying the small rituals that come from being geographically stationary, although the road is starting to call my name. Plans for the Release Party are moving along without any major bumps. The CD is at the printers and should arrive with days to spare (everyone cross their fingers). I had my first rehearsal with the band last week and it went well. All of the musicians are solid, exceptional players and with a few more practices we will all be solid on the songs. Cohesion always takes time. Next week I will have to remember to bring the beer:) Having never worked with a full band before this is a learning experience for me. One I am enjoying greatly.

The ski hill finally opened. The town is empty of many of my friends today as they all made the trek to the hill. This is the first year, that my first priority, has been something other than skiing. I felt strange knowing that everyone is ripping through the powder without me. Ah well, pursuing a dream means making sacrifices.

I have posted some pictures from the past month. From top to bottom they are:
- New Years Eve with the girls and yes I have feathers in my hair and Rayanne is wearing a wig. No flash and double exposed...But it looks neat.
- Playing at the Crest. This picture makes me laugh! The hotel had to move me under the elk the second night to accommodate a large reservation.
- On the Tracy Isle taking a tour of the harbor over Seafest weekend.
- Playing at Cowpuccino's Coffeehouse in December.

Hope you enjoy.

S.

Mayhem....Just The Way I Like It ;)

2006-01-05T00:45:00.000-07:00

I'm coming up for air.

First let me tell you about New Years Eve. My cheeks are still sore from laughing and singing. We started out the evening at a friends house, just 12 of my closest friends. We were civilized folk for at least a few of the remaining hours of 2005. Then as the night drew closer to 2006, as with most that venture out on New Years Eve, our spirits soared in direct relation to the spirits consumed. At midnight we found ourselves standing on the stoop and street (which also happens to be the main street of downtown Rupert) shaking bottles of champagne (donated by a local establishment) and letting the corks fly. It was pouring rain, we were soaked and just when I thought the mayhem would end the glitter/confetti throwing started. Unbenowst to me a few friends acquired two very large bags of sparkly confettie which in the rain adorned the street, parked cars and ourselves with shiney multicoloured bits of plastic that were to remain as reminders for several days to come. As childish as it was, fun was had by all.

Starting Jan 1 I have been in work mode....on the agenda is CD completion, Release Party Planning, Festival Applications, Web Redesign and Feb Tour Planning. I am pleased to announce that triple By Pass, Jordan Payne, Chris Vick and Gary Maltin will be my back up band for the event. I am also coordinating with students from PRSS to display some of their portfolio pieces. Life is busy and good. I hope everyone had a safe and happy holiday.

Sall

Six Hours Till 2006

2005-12-31T19:03:00.000-07:00

I started this year living in a cozy little basement suite, with a full time Quality Manager Position and a head full of dreams and aspirations. I close out the year, with a van full of experiences, my dreams now my reality, and aspirations on the path to fruition.

Today, the liquor store clerk asked me what my greatest accomplishment of 2005 was, and I told her, it was making myself happy. My greatest epiphany of the year has been how to handle disappointment and change, while not letting my little cart on this rollercoaster of life, derail.

I never was much of a resolution maker and last year I put them online for the world to see. How did I do? hmmmmmm. Should I tell you? I guess so. Lets see.

I took every gig offered to me. I learned the art of busking (it should be called 'Learning how to become invisible in the eyes of City Dwellers!') I played more outside of the northwest of BC. I ran almost everyday, ate veggies more, laughed more than I have in years, bought a tuner I could use on stage, traveled more and did most of the tourist things that I wanted to do around PR but never got off the couch to do in the past.

Where did I fall short?

I am no closer to being a ukelele or piano virtuoso than I was Jan 1, 2005. Ah well, maybe next year.

I think that the only new resolution I am going to add, is to learn more about accounting. Sorry....pretty dry. And I guess to keep following my heart (not so dry!).

Hope you are all having a great evening. I am off to get 'Doll-d' up and hit the town! (In my weakness today I bought a New Years Eve Tiara, equipped with rhinestones and pink feathers!)

Happy New Year Everyone!

Sall

Happy Holidays

2005-12-24T14:36:00.000-07:00

It's 1:30 on the afternoon of Christmas Eve. I am sitting in a small coffeeshop in Prince Rupert. I just finished my last minute grocery shopping and am about to head home. It's pouring rain and cold here...no snow for us on the horizon. I realized during my shopping, that although I have spent many Christmas in British Columbia I have not spent one in Rupert. So with open arms I am embracing my first rainy Coastal Christmas!

Tonight I am attending an 'orphans Dinner' hosted by a friend for those without family in town. Tomorrow I am sleeping in and will spend the afternoon driving around town visiting with friends.

I wish everyone a Merry Christmas.

Sall

CD Release Party

2005-12-19T16:16:00.000-07:00

It's official. The launch party for my new CD Simply Undone will be January 28th, 2006 at the Tom Rooney Playhouse in Prince Rupert BC. I will post more details as they are confirmed. Hope to see you all there.

Sall

Update

2005-12-13T21:50:00.000-07:00

First off I have to say Lindsey Donovan you rock! I just got the photo's that the stellar Vancouver photographer Lindsey Donovan took last month for my upcoming cd. I have posted a sample of her work and her website is .

Now with photos and CD master in hand, it's crunch time to get the CD cover layout to the printers for my December 21 deadline. Planning for the release party next month is coming along swimmingly. Life is good, Christmas is just around the corner and I am getting in the spirit of things (no not getting into the Christmas Spirits!). I have a gig next weekend at Cowpuccino's doing Christmas music. I am slack again with the writing, I post more frequently in the New Year. Happy Holidays to everyone.

Sall

The Eye of the Storm

2005-12-06T16:56:00.000-07:00

I am experiencing the false calm in the middle of the storm. I have always akin-d life in Rupert to a beer commercial. Healthy people that can party all night and then live the outdoor adventure all day. Since I arrived in Rupert on Thursday Morning, I have been going non-stop, late nights playing at the Crest, dancing all night, after hours parties, early morning gourmet breakfasts and hiking. Yesterday and today have been fairly quite days of R&R (Thank Goodness I am out of practice!). On the schedule for the rest of this week are several potlucks, Christmas Parties and two more shows. This Friday night I am playing in Terrace at CafeNara and then this Saturday afternoon at Cowpuccino's here in Rupert. It's going to be hard to leave here next week and head to the flatlands.

I have started planning my Winter Tour that will take me over much of the same ground that this first tour covered. I will be also adding venues in Alberta and Saskatchewan.

Coastal Chaos

2005-12-03T17:31:00.000-07:00

Ah Rupert....home sweet home. So far it has been 3 days of non-stop reunion with friends. Rolled into town on Thursday with enough time to check out the amazing house I am staying in, visit a few friends and get ready for the Crest gig. I have always heard musicians state that there is nothing like playing for your hometown crowd and now I understand first-hand why.

This weekend is WinterFest, with tonight the annual 'Sail Past'. The local fishing boats, coast guard etc decorate their boats with Christmas lights and cruise around the harbor. There are fireworks and a bonfire on the water front. It's one of my favorite Rupert traditions. It has been snowing all day making Rupert a little Winter Wonderland. I am off to get ready for the show.

Processed cheese, Cheap Hotels, Prince George

2005-11-30T10:31:00.000-07:00

**my spell check is not working and this is a rushed post...I will fix later**

I am back in my stomping grounds. Last night I pulled into Prince George after a 'harried' drive from Cache Creek. Snow everywhere, visibility zero and a car accident(not my car) involving a dead horse (don't laugh it was really sad). The photo shoot on Monday went fabulously. Aside from the photographer having to deal with an emotionally dead subject (I definalty was not my most vibrant self) I think we got some great shots. It was hilarious, wandering around the streets of Gas Town, people stopping to watch...me in the road trying not to get hit by oncoming traffic so we could get the shot!.

After hurried goodbyes I picked up my van and battled rushhour traffic out of the city. I made it as far as Cache Creek that night, stayed in a small motel that only charged me $18 because their hot water heater was broken and ate in a pub that visually gave the impression of a high class food establishment but served their pizza with white processed cheese slices! Nasty!

This morning I am off to reunite with the Terrace contingency. I sure the evening will involve, superior food, multiple bottles of wine and marveling at the lack of snow on the hill, but epic conditions in the backcountry.

Dawn

2005-11-28T08:50:00.000-07:00

I have been up since 6:30 staring at the beautiful Vancouver panorama. This morning is the photo shoot. After which I have decided to immediately start my journey to Prince Rupert. It's time for me to go back to the beginning, share stories of my adventure and start the planning process for more. I have learned so many things this past 3 months, about myself, the direction I want to head, the types of experiences I want to recreate. I used to have difficulty seeing myself as an 'artist'. The word would make me cringe. I admire other 'artists'...musicians, photographers, painters. I just found the label did not sit well on my form. I think it is time for me to embrace the title, wear it with pride. I find myself standing at the point of no return, and I am ready to jump in with two feet.

Direction Clear

Sall

Looking Forward

2005-11-27T18:21:00.000-07:00

I have so many ideas for the next year I can't wait to get started on them. As much as I love the Christmas season, I can't wait for it to be over so I can start my plans on their path to fruition.

Sall

Not much to report

2005-11-26T21:38:00.000-07:00

I am in the city and I should be taking advantage of it, but I can barely keep my eyes open. Damn that jet lag. I'm going to be in bed by 9:00pm.

Not much to report today. I wandered around the streets looking for inspiring places for the photo shoot on Monday. Sat on a bench, read my book and drank tea. Worked on songs for the next album, all in all a nice day. I'm off to bed.

Sleep Tight World

Peace and Quiet

2005-11-25T19:16:00.000-07:00

I still feel like I am on the plane, the ground moving beneath my chair. The plane was loaded with Hamilton Ticat Fans heading out for the Grey Cup. While waiting to board the plane I found myself sitting with several free ticket winners, including a women that won the 'Greatest Fan Contest'. Amusing group.

I am back in Vancouver again, enjoying the peace and quiet of an empty condo. It took some creative maneuvering but I found a parking spot for my van and a ride downtown. My new van is now too high to fit in the underground parking garage!

This past week has been a blur. At some point amidst the flying, family and funeral I turned another year older. I wish the circumstances surrounding my trip to Ontario had been different, but it still was nice seeing everyone. I couldn't ask for a more supportive family.

This weekend I am going to relax and enjoy the city. Monday brings a photo shoot for the new cd cover art. Tuesday brings the start of my trip to Prince Rupert, then a show at the Crest Hotel. Right now I am headed for a shower and dinner.

T Dot

2005-11-22T08:40:00.000-07:00

Less than 24 hours ago I was waking up in Keremeous BC, now I am sitting at my childhood kitchen table in Ontario. My Dad just left to go back to work after retrieving me from the airport and making sure I was well fed :) The house is really quiet and the kitchen and living room clocks are ticking away in a syncopated rhythm. My 17 years old cat is curling around the legs of my chair excited to see me. She just got back from the vet and I keep trying not to laugh at her 1/2 shaved body (poor thing, LOL). I am trying to decide if I am going to sleep for a few hours or push through. A hot shower will tip the scale one way or another. The backyard and house look as beautiful as ever. No leaves on the trees and it's quite cold. Being home, alone in rooms filled with memories and ghosts is giving me unexpected perspective of the past few months. I found myself humming, walking from room to room with a smile on my face. I peeked into the crawlspace and tried to wipe the dust off my drum set. It desperately needs new skins. I'd forgotten how I used to sit in the basement for hours banging away first at the drums and then guitar dreaming of a music career. It's nice being home :)

Airports

2005-11-21T18:26:00.000-07:00

There are three places that once entered immediately make my adrenalin start to flow. Amusement Parks, Hospitals and Airports. I am a roller coaster freak, leary of hospitals and love flying. Maybe not actually love flying..but traveling and the promise of the unknown. As sad and travel weary as I am, walking into the airport tonight I felt that familiar excitement and started to grin.

Sitting here eating dinner I got to thinking about how many times I have sat in airport, bus and train stations off to something or another. I think I have written before about my Dad sending me off at the Union Station in Toronto when I was moving out West...excited for me, telling me of the yet unknown adventures I am going to have. What words of fore shadowing! Hindsight is 20/20. I wish that someone had told me the importance of writing journals. Maybe on the flight I will try to figure out what I have done and where I have been for the last bunch of years. Interesting.

Familiar Roads

2005-11-20T18:30:00.000-07:00

I have gotten used to writing in this journal daily. But I find there is not much to report today. I am traveling back to Vancouver driving down familiar roads. My day was 'thought heavy'. Starting with strange dreams difficult to wake from, premature goodbyes and hours of driving in solitary confinement, I am ready to curl up and lose myself in a book.

This past year both my physical world and perception of the world has gone through several stages of expansion and contraction. Summers in the fish plant have a way of focusing your physical and mental reality to the inside of four concrete walls and daily production totals, space not permitted for sentences starting with 'I'. This tour has done wonders for pushing out both the geographic and cognitive barriers to personal growth, allowing for breakthrough and positive regression (this sounds very self-help, yuck!).

As usual, lots on my mind, lot of questions, few answers. Looking forward to seeing family and friends back East. I am also looking forward to returning and getting photos completed for the upcoming cd. I wrote yesterday that I want 'this' more than ever and it's true. If anything, all these setbacks have only strengthened my commitment to seeing this dream through to it's end. What ever that end may be.

The World is Testing Me

2005-11-19T15:11:00.000-07:00

My dream and this tour has been tested by temptation, car accident, illness and now a funeral. Regrettably, I have to cancel my last two shows in Nelson and Cranbrook to return to Ontario for a Funeral. I am going to drive to Vancouver tomorrow to catch a plane on Monday returning Friday. My shows in Rupert and Terrace will still go as planned.

Saddened, Discouraged, but still with Hope.

S.

I want this more now than ever!

Nakusp

2005-11-17T17:48:00.000-07:00

Nakusp. I like saying the word.

Kelowna to Nakusp on the map does not look very far, but it took me most of the day to get here. Tonight, I pulled up a Topographical Map of this area and had a good laugh. Lots of tight circles stacked on top of each other. The roads were snowy and icy through the mountains, last night it must have snowed 15 cm, so there was a thick white mound of snow covering each of the pines. The first section of road outside of Vernon/Coldwater I felt like I was in a Stetson Cologne meets Ford Truck commercial. Rolling hills, sprawling ranches, horses, cows, snow. Very quickly it turned in to the quintessential winter driving scene from a 'this is why you need Blizak tires commercial'. Twisty mountain road, frozen lakes on one side below a 20metre drop and rocky cliff on the other. Spectacular! Took the ferry from Needles to Fauquler (spelled wrong I will correct tomorrow). Almost stayed at the Nakusp Hotsprings...but it is threatening to snow and I did not want to get stuck there. Its a 12 km drive up a valley road. So I am in a hotel that specialized in winter helliskiing packages instead (poor me:)). Most of the staff ski/board, so it was like spending the evening with long lost family. Looking forward to a few days at Shames when I get back to PR. Off to dream of music and snow.

Oh...from top to bottom the photos in the last post are:
Fountain in Osoyoos at -5c
Storage Locker in Vancouver - The higher the space the cheaper!
Car Accident Damage to my Vanagaon - Does not look that bad does it?
Snow in Osoyoos - My first snowfall with Big Red
Rain from a distance - Outside of Osoyoos 1 month ago - Fingers of God

Nite'
Sall

Van Heat, Christmas Decorations and Proposals

2005-11-16T19:51:00.000-07:00

Today was a muck-around day...window shopped down the Main Street of Kelowna, tried to visit one of my new-found friends from the previous evening at the Pawn Shop he owns, but it was closed. Around 2:00 I decided that I was going to head out of town and start my journey towards Nelson. Leaving town I saw a Canadian Tire. Shivering, I decided to see if they could fix my heater. Luckily they had the thermostat in stock and could work on it right away. Van tucked away getting repaired I walked around the store whiling away the time in the Christmas isle dreaming of decorations for a house/ apartment I no longer have to decorate. Adorning the van would move me from being viewed as a girl who lives in her van perusing a dream, to an oddball that gets showcased on 'Weird Homes'... not a transition I care to make :)

One unexpected thing about today was witnessing a couple get engaged at the Boston Pizza. I've never seen that before...a proposal, let alone one at a Boston Pizza.

Different Day. Well the van now has heat.

S.

Miscellaneous Photos

2005-11-16T03:20:00.000-07:00

The Grateful Fed and Aquarium Hotel Rooms

2005-11-16T02:16:00.000-07:00

It's late and I just got in from the funniest evening. The show at the Grateful Fed was quite enjoyable. After, a group of us went out for a beer and talked the night away. It's always interesting having frank honest discussion about life, love, sex, politics, religion with almost-strangers and then walk away knowing that the odds are you will never see any of them again (or at least anytime soon, I would like to play in Kelowna again). It's free, refreshing insight into other bubbles of reality.

Now I am back in my hotel room, cranking up the heat, Missy Higgins tracks competing with the gurgling of the boiler next door for my attention. This aquarium-like hotel room is really quite nice. Tomorrow I am going to see what gigs I can scare up last minute for this weekend, next week it is Nelson and Cranbrook. Then Rupert! Wow...two and a half months over already...?

Osoyoos

2005-11-14T14:49:00.000-07:00

It's Monday afternoon and I just walked 4km to find internet access. Once again I am listening to the hum of a Laundromat dryer and it is making me sleepy. My typing is getting faster as my hands start to thaw...It's below freezing here and the icy wind is sneaky, poking it's fingers into the smallest openings in my clothes.

My new van is a treat to drive through the mountains. V8 engine and 4 on the floor standard lets me truck up the steepest slopes and pass with ease. The gas mileage is great too. The heater leaves something to be desired. Bundled up in my puffy down jacket, hat, gloves and a blanket I was still stiff as a board when I reached Osoyoos. The owner of the hotel used to be a mechanic and is going to take a look at it for me today....Hence the 4km walk.

Played for 5 hours yesterday with out any vocal strain. Being on the road I have definitely honed my 'chops'. Lots of fun playing in the pub. An enjoyable day from beginning to end. Played several games of pool and won more times than not (Thanks Raistlin and LJ, playing on a bar table now is easy!). Tomorrow I am off to Kelowna to play at the Grateful Fed Restaurant.

And I am Off

2005-11-12T09:57:00.000-07:00

Concert was good. Starting act Missy Higgins was awesome...can't wait for her album to be released in Canada.

Finally, the next leg of my journey!

Sall

Lugz Coffeehouse with Special Guest Jennifer Zickerman

2005-11-11T16:00:00.000-07:00

Foiled Again

2005-11-11T15:43:00.000-07:00

At this point all I can do is laugh. Has some great force conspired to keep me in Vancouver? Ugh!!!! Of course the mini-storage would be closed on a Stat. Holiday....I mean, who in their right mind would want to have access to their belongings on a day when they could at their leisure find the time, rather than rushing after work!!!! Ok my sarcasm sucks! Anyhow, I guess I am in town for another night.....I have resigned myself to that fact. Its my own fault for not checking. On the bright side I get to go see Liz Phair without worrying about my stuff getting stolen from the van. Off to check for tickets.

S.

Off into the Sunset

2005-11-11T11:32:00.000-07:00

Yippee....today I get to spring my belongings from storage and hit the road. Got the van to the shop yesterday $800 of repairs! Yowsers! Today I need to clean it, load it up and drive off into the East(not the sunset I know).

I have been humming 'on the road again...' under my breath for the past hour :)

Goodbyes

2005-11-11T03:47:00.000-07:00

I am usually good with goodbyes. Finding the right words so I don't drive away with regret. This time I was unable to find the right words...

when levee's don't hold...

2005-11-10T00:13:00.000-07:00

slippery silence has drifted in to my room. not unwelcome. but not invited. for some, the witching hour leaves room for vivid imaginations to run wild. for me, my over stimulated mind shuts down, leaving me feeling vulnerable and melancholy. endings, beginnings blur together. which way is up? deep seas to sail these days. tomorrow night I sing for the first time in several weeks. why am i on the road again? i hope i will remember. so many expectations. singing is my harbour. big decisions, small decisions, decisions, decisions. what a journey.

Collection of Thoughts

2005-11-08T23:00:00.000-07:00

I am drawing to the end of my stay in Vancouver. As I trekked around today I felt myself once again mulling over the 'moving' decision. Here is my critical eye. Vancouverites are a stylish people, not afraid of a little colour....I like that. They are friendly, open doors for you, 1 out of 15 people make eye contact (pretty good for a city and I actually did a little experiment!). The weather is better than where I have been living for the past 7 years (sorry Rupert, Van wins out on that one) the bus drivers speak sentences rather than grunt, there's the SeaBus....to a Torontonian that's so cool!, great shopping (not that I can afford it), good food (again thanks to the kindness of friends I am able to partake) and a pretty good music scene. On the flip side, it's expensive, I would have to be someone's 'roommate again' and I definitely would not be able to live downtown. Other than that I don't have a lot on the negative side. hmmmmm......I went out to North Van tonight to have dinner with a friend (hence the cool SeaBus comment). It's a pretty nice area to live....not quite the bustle of the area I have been staying...but lots more green spaces and better flowing traffic. Well, I don't have to decide tonight.

Speaking of tonight....weird happenings outside my door! For the past 3 nights in a row as I walk up the street to my apartment, the same two street lights flicker and go out. One after another, but not until I am right underneath them. Eerie! I keep expecting to see Dumbledore from Harry Potter standing off to the side with his magical light Putter-Outer. Ok I admit it! I'm a Rowlings fan from way back. Weird about the lights though.

On to musical subjects. Thursday night I am putting on a casual coffeshop show at Lugz Coffee Lounge located at 2525 Main Street. It's free, licensed and starts around 8:00pm-ish. It's kinda short notice...hope to see you there.

Sall

RSS

2005-11-08T15:00:00.000-07:00

For those 'aggregate-news-readers' out there, my journal is now available in a RSS Feed.

Sall

Nights Like These

2005-11-07T20:10:00.000-07:00

Got home this morning around 6:30 am. Was up all night playing music, eating great food and enjoying stellar company. Had a few hours of sleep. I can't believe how quickly I recoup these days with a solid 4 hour nap. Gary and Jennifer picked me up early afternoon for dim-sum at the Pink Pearl. Right! Gary...Crazy Gary who flew in for a Sunday night dinner and music jam and then flew out 24 hours later. What a guy! Later this afternoon we sat down in the Gaolers Mews in Gas Town and played music in the crisp Fall air. The alley is more of a square alcove created between/ behind the buildings on Water Street. It's beautiful ,with cobble stones, rod iron and moss covered trees. The space is open to the air and is at least three stories high on all sides. The acoustics are beautiful. It would be a great spot to put on a show in the summer months, or a Christmas show with the snow drifting down. I wonder who regulates the space...?

Christmas...I am getting excited for the season....I get ridiculed constantly for saying it is my favorite time of year....I know it has become too commercial, but I can still find the meaning of the season!

It's not raining tonight and I can feel the nip of winter in the air. It's a great night for a walk. I think I might do just that...warm cup of tea in my hand bundled against the chill. Off I go.

Wanderlust

2005-11-06T19:23:00.000-07:00

My wanderlust and worn out boots are sitting waiting by the door.
Will I ever know a moment when my hearts not wanting more.
Is there a gene for traveling that is dominant in some.
Or is it from a childhood that us types are on the run.

Lyrics from a song I wrote in college seem appropriate today...I am eager to get on the road again.

S.

87' Ford Econoline Campervan and it's all mine!

2005-11-06T13:29:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow I will be the proud owner of 'Big Red' its a standard, F350, has two gas tanks, bed, sink with hand pump, closets, pop top, curtains and inflatable boat with paddles! I am so relieved! The end of my saga! (knock on wood)

Sall

Rupert I Miss You

2005-11-05T00:57:00.000-07:00

Got an invite to the Warren Miller ski video 'Higher Ground' showing at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre tonight in Van. Now I won't be able to get powder off my mind. Gary and Guido have been sending me photos of their backcountry trips. What's it like on the hill? Someone please let me know when Shames is opening. Still no car purchase yet. Tomorrow I have to make a final vehicle decision. It's nice to know that the time to choose is finaly here. I love staying in the city...but the road calls. Still no confirmed location or time on the show next week. But it will be happening so stay tuned.

Van Owner to Shoelace Express

2005-11-03T18:25:00.000-07:00

Gave back the van to ICBC...My tour is truly paralyzed until I find a new vehicle. Several prospects on the horizon. I decided not to go to Seattle so I could utilize the weekend for car hunting. Owners are not home weekdays and I am getting tired of crawling under cars with flashlights at night to look for rust! If the Jeep in Seattle does not get repaired this weekend then I need to have a plan B. On the music front I have decided to put together a coffeeshop show next week sometime. The ever so talented Jennifer Zickermen is going to join me on stage for the evening. We both will be doing originals and covers....I'll keep you informed as the details emerge. I am off to look at an 89 Ford Econoline CamperVan. Once again wish me luck!

Sall

The Great Canadian Car Hunt

2005-10-31T22:41:00.000-07:00

Today I thought I was going to buy a car. Not meant to be I guess. I spent $160 to have BCAA tell me that the prospective purchase was a lemon. Tomorrow morning I am going to hit the used car lots....maybe I will have more luck there. Tonight I wandered through Gas Town and up Grandville Street checking out the Halloween festivities. Seems to be a lot of cowboys, draculetts and fairies running around this year. Several creatively bandaged mummies too.

These days I write less and less about my music career. I can't wait to get on the road again and remember why I am on this tour. Keep you fingers crossed for me that I can find a car tomorrow.

Gd' Nite
Sall

4:00am Katherine Wheel

2005-10-30T17:04:00.000-07:00

Tired...so tired! Gas Town is not a place to get a good nights sleep on Halloween Saturday night. What a ruckus! Fireworks and Katherine Wheels at 4 in the morning right outside the condo window. Would have been pretty cool if I was not sound asleep, head 4 inches from the glass windows! Could of sworn someone was shooting a revolver in the apartment. To add insult to injury I forgot about the timechange so I left for my first car viewing at 6:45 rather than 7:45. Oh well! Lots of junk on the market. I think I found a keeper though. I am going to have BCAA check it out tomorrow. I'll let you know how it goes. It is a butternut yellow, 84 Volvo 240 in mint condition. I'll post a photo if I buy it. Just got back from the pool...off for a nap. mmmmm sleep!

New World Disorder, Snow and Car Quest

2005-10-29T16:49:00.000-06:00

A perk to staying in Nelson for one more day was an invite to see the local launch of the pro-mountain-bike-video 'New World Disorder 6 - Unchained'. Top world rider and Nelson local, Robbie Bourden is a close friend of the family I was staying with. Featured in the film, Robbie rides some pretty gnarly trail and conquers gap jumps like I have never seen before. I have seen some pretty spectacular feats on skis and boards...I have a new respect for what can be done on two wheels.

Speaking of conquering feats...my drive from Nelson to Van yesterday was 'white knuckle'. Snow! Holy S!%#! Driving through the mountains I realized that it is good I am getting rid of the V-Dub Van...I hope I can trade it in for a more skihill worthy vehicle. Today I looked at a 90 Jeep Cherokee 4x4 and tonight I am going to look at a Volvo Wagon (not really skihill material...but I have always wanted to own one). I should be in Van for the next week and then off for another couple of weeks of shows. Right now I think I am going to go for a swim.

Nelson

2005-10-25T20:41:00.000-06:00

Oregano and Hotsprings

2005-10-25T12:32:00.000-06:00

I am on to a new herbal remedy. I'll try anything to get rid of this cold! Oregano oil. The owner of the Nelson healthfood store swears by it. An expensive little treatment and it makes you smell like a pizza parlor (I guess there could be worse things), but it seems to be working. Coupled with a trip to the Ainsworth Hotsprings and 3 days of solid nourishment I am recovering quickly. Tomorrow I think I will leave the magic of the valley and head back to the magic of the metropolis.

Grand Forks, Fruitvale and Nelson

2005-10-23T15:14:00.000-06:00

I am starting to feel human again. I just spent the last 45 min relaxing in one of those amazing soaker-tubs staring out the window at a beautiful Fall landscape. My spirit is beginning to be repaired, I hope in a day or two so will my body. This last few days my cold has given me a run for my money and I was starting to feel 'broke'. I arrived in Nelson this morning and plan on spending a few days to get back on my feet. There is something about this place that is soothing. Don't laugh, but it kinda reminds me of 'Rivendell' in the 'Lord of the Rings'....a safe-haven for travelers, filled with magic, minus the elves :).

With the deepest regret and frustration I had to cancel my show at the Villagers Inn last night. I spent the day sleeping in the hotel room and tried every trick in the book to convince my body/voice that I could pull off one more show. However, it was not meant to be. We are going to try to reschedule for next month, when I come back to do shows in Nelson and Cranbrook. I want to thank Mary and Len for being so understanding.

To the citizens of Grand Forks, may I say you are people after my own heart. Thank you for all of the support you showed me on Friday night. It is always a challenge to sing when sick, and you made me feel welcome and satisfied with my performance.

After my R&R here in Nelson, It's off to Vancouver again by the end of the week to pick up my new Jeep Cherokee (new to me that is!). Looks like I get to enjoy city life again.

Ginseng = Insomnia

2005-10-21T06:06:00.001-06:00

Really...this is getting ridiculous. It's 5:00am and I have not slept a wink. The buzz I have is similar to getting back from a great first date! Except, even then I can't wait to get to sleep so I can dream about the guy! Ok...maybe I should save this entry as a draft first and edit it in the morning. I feel a bit slap-happy or maybe just plain old loopy at the moment, prob sharing too many details. I look like a little hermit sitting here crosslegged at the end of the bed, hood up, in my jammies, hacking away at the keyboard. hmmmm...I have a show in 14 hrs. One sweet thing is that the coyotes are howling like crazy tonight. It makes the hair on the back of my neck stick up and a grin spread across my face. I don't know why they call it howling....it sometimes sounds like women crying. Eerie! Ok....maybe I feel a bit tired now....crashing....should I spell check?....I'll live on the edge. Gd Nite World

Website Dilemma

2005-10-20T19:22:00.000-06:00

I spent the day today nursing myself back to health. I am feeling much better...gotta love that Ginseng! Between loafing on the bed, channel surfing and eating takeout soup, I have been looking at my website. I made it myself earlier this year....and I think that it is not too bad for a first attempt. I would like this Winter to give it an overhaul and maybe give it more polish. I suppose it should match my new cd image as well. Anyone have any suggestions?

4:00am

2005-10-20T04:55:00.000-06:00

So the pharmacist suggested that I try a new product called Cold-Fx. It is a derivative of Panax quinquefolium, North American Ginseng. According to a recent study taking this product decreased the length of the average cold, I can't remember by how much, but it was significant. It is supposed to increase the activity of 'Natural Killer Cells' or macrophages (cells that consume pathogens, dead cells etc) thereby boosting the immune system. You take 3 pills, three times a day for the first day, decreasing the dose by one pill a day over three days. I'll let you know if it works. The problem is that Ginseng is traditionally taken as a stimulant, it increases endurance and stamina (supposedly...I don't know if there are studies that prove this). When I was in college we would take Ginseng tablets during exams to lengthen study times and Ginko Biloba to help our memory. Did it work? Can't really say . However, tonight I can't sleep. I start to get tired and almost drift off and within 10 min I am wide awake again. I am also taking over the counter cold and flu meds. I should be sound asleep by now. Anyhow, it's late and I feel like I have enough energy to enter all this months receipts into my books. I guess that's what I'll do. As the rest of the world sleeps...I log expenses.

Trip from Hope to Trail

2005-10-19T18:38:00.000-06:00

Augh! I have a cold

2005-10-19T15:24:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I drove the 500 kms from Hope to Trail. I found out this past weekend, much to my dismay, posters for my Grand Forks and Trail shows had not arrived as scheduled so.....I drove them up there myself. It was a great day sun shining, blue sky and fall colour, not a lot of traffic so I got there in good time. This morning I put posters up around Trail and then drove back to Grand Forks to put up posters here. The weather is rainy and miserable and I am getting a cold. I have learned to sing through most aliments...so unless I get too stuffed up, the shows will go on as planned. I found a hotel that has high speed internet in the room so I can get some work done and keep dry. I have been thinking a lot about January and the CD release party. Rupert has to be the location, as for the venue I am undecided. Well I am off to poster the town.