tag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:/blogs/this-musician-s-life?p=2This Musician's Life2018-04-23T10:58:29-05:00Sabrinafalsetag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:Post/47250612017-05-27T21:24:20-05:002017-05-27T21:24:20-05:00Have I Told You Lately That I Love You<p><span class="font_large">I am a music artist! Some times I say those words to myself and almost can't believe it. But, it's true. I write and perform music to earn my living. One thing, I know is that no matter how much I love it, I couldn't do it with YOU! You come to shows, listen, post pictures and other social media things. You buy cds, downloads, tickets and merchandise. You share my music and invite folks to show. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I couldn't do this without you! I am inspired by your support of what I do. I am moved by your persistent belief in the gift that I share. That you would choose me to be even the the tiniest part of your life is an honor that I do not take lightly. So, if you've never heard me say it before; I say it now: Thank You and I Love You!</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">See you out there on the road, in your city, your favorite hangout and maybe even in your home for a house concert! </span></p>Sabrinatag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:Post/45699692017-01-30T22:11:46-06:002021-10-26T11:40:46-05:00February Album Writing MonthCan you believe how fast we blew through the month of January? Somehow I feel like I'm just shaking off the holidays; but life goes on. So now as we enter the 2nd month of 2017, I'm going to once again challenge myself to write 14 songs in 28 days. I've been doing this for a few years and this year I feel totally unprepared. Maybe it's the craziness going on in the world. Or maybe the craziness going on in my own life. Either way, I don't quite feel like I'm ready to start writing songs. Yet, I want to believe that this is the perfect time. I've often said that I write songs because I can't afford therapy. While often spoken in jest, it is in some ways true. I've found that music has the power to help me face many of the difficulties that life can bring. <br><br>My hope is that I can dig deep beyond the disturbances around/within me and find my voice. I've gathered my pen and paper and dusted off the recording equipment. I'm looking forward to letting the music pour out of me. Don't worry, I won't leave you behind and will share what I write with you. After all, you are still my inspiration!<br><br><br>SabrinaSabrinatag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:Post/43469332016-08-29T11:35:32-05:002022-03-22T06:13:24-05:00The Next SeasonAfter an amazing summer spent in the beautiful Central Australian Desert, I'm back in the States ready to continue on my musical journey. The desert challenged and inspired me both personally and creatively so I look forward to what this next season will bring. <br><br>While I was away, I had a few opportunities to share my music; but more importantly, I was able to recharge. I mean, uninterrupted minutes, hours and even days to refill my cup and recuperate from a weariness, that I wasn't full even aware I was carrying. Don't get me wrong I love my life as an independent musician; but it's not always easy. My summer interruption allowed me the time needed to look at where I've been, where I am and where I'm heading. I was also able to write some great new songs that I can't wait to share with you. <br><br>Now that I'm back, my focus is on improving my craft and providing you with the best musical experience I can. Look for some changes in my shows in the near future. Also, keep your eyes open for new music via live video and recordings. Fall is almost here. With the changing of the seasons, I look forward to exploring new adventures on this musical journey and I hope you'll join me!<br><br>See you out on the road!<br><br>SabrinaSabrinatag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:Post/39865122016-01-13T09:49:24-06:002016-01-13T09:49:24-06:00New Year: Next StepsWell, 2016 is in full swing. We've recovered from the holiday madness and are hopefully still engaged in our new year resolutions to be better. I'm no different from anyone else and entered this new year with hopes for a better life. Don't get me wrong, 2015 was pretty awesome; but i don't ever want to stop growing and pursuing this passion of mine! Whatever your hopes and dreams, I encourage you to work hard and smart. Never give up and enjoy the journey!<br><br>I didn't write a lot in 2015; but I'm looking forward to changing that this year with some specific writing goals in mind (specifically a new cd project). I also am looking forward to hitting the road more. Touring is one of the joys of what I do! My guitar and my passport are ready to go! I hope to see you along the road and to hear about your progress!<br><br>Let's make 2016 the best year yet!Sabrinatag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:Post/38370162015-08-31T06:15:00-05:002015-08-31T06:15:53-05:00It's Been A WhileYes! Let me confess that I've fallen off the wagon. Don't get too excited, I'm not an addict or anything; I just haven't kept you up to date for a while. So much has happened in my life since my last post and somehow in the midst of personal and family emergencies, I fell down on the job of websites, etc. So I'm sorry for the lapse; but know that I am not done with this musical journey. <br><br>I've still been performing and am working on adding more dates to the last third of 2015. I've also done a lot of reflecting and have written a few new songs. It's been cathartic. I'm still evaluating if they are ready to be debuted; but will let you know soon! You know every life has its share of ups and downs and I'm grateful for mine (new song material eh?). It keeps things interesting and helps me grow as a person and a songwriter. That's important to me so I embrace the challenges and look forward to what's to come. <br><br>See you along the road and on the internet.<br><br>SabrinaSabrinatag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:Post/37284602015-06-03T22:37:40-05:002015-06-03T22:37:40-05:00Me and Al JarreauI can't believe the time has come so quickly. In just a few days, I'll be opening Al Jarreau's show at the Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater in Peachtree City, GA. I'm so honored as I have such respect for Al's amazing musical gift. Looking forward to putting on a show and being a part of a great night! I've been preparing and I'm ready; but would appreciate good thoughts and prayers for a successful night!<br><br><br>Keeping the music going!<br><br><br>SabrinaSabrinatag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:Post/37042942015-05-12T08:12:31-05:002015-05-12T10:42:20-05:00Al JarreauIn 25 days, I will have the honor of opening a show for the one and only Al Jarreau! A little while back I was contacted and asked if I would be interested. Of course I said YES! There's no way I was going to miss an opportunity to be on that stage. Al Jarreau is a music legend and someone whose musical gifts and styling I have long admired. I would pinch myself; but that would hurt so I'm just taking it in and preparing myself to put on the show of my life. If you're interested in coming to the show, it will be on June 6th at The Fredrick Brown Jr Amphitheater "The Fred" in Peachtree City GA. Tickets can be found online at <a contents="http://www.ticketalternative.com/Venues/513.aspx " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.ticketalternative.com/Venues/513.aspx%20">http://www.ticketalternative.com/Venues/513.aspx </a> or by phone at: <span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">877-725-8849. </span><br><br>2015 has been a great year so far and I'm looking forward to what's to come. I know I must continue to work hard and push myself to stretch and grow beyond perceived limitations. I also encourage you to stretch, work and believe!Sabrinatag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:Post/36623152015-04-16T18:59:00-05:002015-04-16T18:59:00-05:00Warmer Weather and Hot MusicWhew! It's been a while since my last post. Fear not! I have been working! I'm happy to report that my gig calendar has been filling up! in addition to a some great private events like weddings, graduation parties and trade shows, I've scheduled many public shows where you can come and get your groove on! Over the next couple of months, I'll be in KY, MO, NC, GA, & IL. I'm also working on some dates up in the NY area for August. If you know me at all, you know my motto is: Have Guitar, Will Travel. I've made my plans; but they're always open and flexible to add your area in . House Concert anyone? Additionally, in the next couple of weeks, I've got some amazingly great news that I can't wait to share!<br><br>Sure, life is busy; but I wouldn't trade it for anything. I've been blessed to be able to share both my original music and the music of great artists, present and past. I strive not just to entertain; but to touch people and am grateful for the opportunity. I'm looking forward to continuing to write, record and share more music. See you along the road!Sabrinatag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:Post/35860832015-03-09T13:11:47-05:002015-03-09T18:13:10-05:00What the future holds..........Psyched! That's the best word to describe how I'm feeling. Ten days ago, I was on a stage in Atlanta GA opening the show for world renown guitar virtuoso, Al Di Meola. It was, in many ways, a typical show. But on another level, it felt amazingly good to know that someone else was recognizing my talent.<br><br>In the creative life, it's easy to either think too highly or too little of one's self. Balance is a daily challenge and can be difficult to obtain. I didn't feel particularly worthy; but knew that all I needed to do was: do what I do. The stage was set and I just had my part. So, I took the stage with my guitar in hand, said a prayer and shared my soul. Any artist will tell you that when they share their craft, whatever it is, it is more than just the craft that is presented. It is their soul on display. I can say without a doubt that I was rewarded with an amazing response from all listening. So now I'm setting my sights on continuing to grow and be better.<br><br>March is already headed toward the half way mark and there's a lot to be done. I'm booking for the summer and fall and looking forward to getting back to some places I haven't been in a little bit. A Northeast tour is on tap for August and in the meantime, I'll be hitting IL, MO, KY, NC and GA performing at restaurants, house concerts, listening rooms and everything else. Look for me in your town or consider hosting a house/backyard show. It's an easy show that's always fun!<br><br>So far 2015 has been great and I'm excited about what the rest of the year will be. Stay positive and ROCK ON!Sabrinatag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:Post/35539452015-02-24T09:43:16-06:002023-12-10T11:32:07-06:00Living The DreamSometimes as an indie artist, it's easy to get bogged down in what is not happening in your career. We so strongly want what we want and have a hard time seeing the beautiful "little" things that are going on right around us. I've been really focused this month on completing my February Album Writing Month Challenge. So focused in fact that I've been a little negligent on my duties of booking dates and performing. Don't get me wrong, February is typically a "slow" month; but it's almost like I've been in hibernation. When I finally realized this, I felt panicky for bills to be paid and future plans that I had that were going to need to be financed. If you don't know this, it's hard to write when panicked.<br><br>In the midst of the storm, I made a decision. While, I can both write and handle the business side of my career, it helps to not have such a large challenge hanging over me. Since, the month was almost over anyway, I decided to focus on the writing. After all, I'm going to need some great songs when I head out to perform again. Once that was resolved internally things just fell into place. I booked several performances that would keep me in town and pay the bills. They happen next month so I'll be done with this writing challenge. Additionally, I've been given two (not one; but two) opportunities to be a part of some big shows. One, I can't reveal quite yet; but the other one is quickly approaching so I'll put it out there. <br><br>I'm so honored to be opening for internationally renown guitar virtuoso, Al Di Meola. If you know me, you know I love, love, love guitar; so this is a great honor. I've come down from my cloud so I can prepare properly; but I'm still a little giddy with excitement. This is just one step in my quest! I encourage you as I encourage myself. Keep taking steps! Follow your heart and don't let discouragement distract you from everyday greatness!Sabrinatag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:Post/35195762015-02-10T12:51:39-06:002015-02-10T12:51:39-06:00To be or not to be.....inspiredThere are some who say that they wait for inspiration to exercise their creativity. I used to be one of them; but several years ago, I took on the February Album Writing Month songwriting challenge and that changed. In order to accomplish the goal of 14 songs in 28 days, you can't wait around for inspiration. If you do, you'll reach day 25 and have maybe 2 songs if you're lucky. <br><br>I'm proud that I've been able to complete the challenge each year because I realized very quickly that I had to go looking for, chase down and pursue inspiration. Sometimes it was easy. You know, out of no where a melody or lyric would appear in the consciousness or I'd hear a cool phrase that sparked something. That however is not the norm. Most time, I had to sit down with my pen and blank notebook and pour out an unfiltered diatribe of all that was in my mind, then sift through for a nugget. That only works a little. What works best is when I consciously take a look and listen around me. It might be a scene from a t.v. show or movie., a book title, observing kids playing in the park, a walk in the park on even in the city or almost anything.<br><br>The key is to be aware! Not just in writing songs but in living life. Don't get so caught up in the hustle and bustle that you miss what's important. Artists of all kind have been inspired by the simple beauty of a sunset, the stars or a flower or a child's smile. It might be worth you taking a moment and slowing down to observe what's around. Be Inspired an! Express Yourself!Sabrinatag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:Post/34890532015-01-27T11:35:18-06:002015-01-27T11:35:18-06:0014 Songs in 28 Days<span class="font_large">It's hard to believe; but January 2015 is almost over. As February quickly approaches, I'm excited once again to participate in F.A.W.M (February Album Writing Month). It's a pledge to write 14 songs in 28 days. WHEW! That's a lot of music. I've done this for a number of years and love the challenge. it really pushes me in my skills and I always walk away with at least a few songs that I absolutely love. Find out more at: <a contents="www.fawm.org" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.fawm.org">www.fawm.org</a> <br><br>While I don't actively participate in the online sharing/collaborating as indicated on the site, I may post a song or two to my social media accounts as I did last year. If you're a songwriter or aspiring songwriter, I encourage you to not wait for inspiration. Write a song!<br><br>In the midst of all of that excitement, I'm continuing to fill the calendar with performance dates. Excited to return to Cape Girardeau, MO for the community sponsored Tunes at Twilight in June. If you'd like me to come to your town, pop on over to my contact page and drop me a note. Let's make some music!</span>Sabrinatag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:Post/34684242015-01-15T12:40:59-06:002022-03-02T04:10:16-06:00New Show Announcement<span class="font_large">I'm performing on Tuesday, January 20th as part of the "Women Who Rock" series at The Springwater Supper Club in Nashville. Music Starts at 8 p.m. and features a lineup of great female artists including Hunter Monroe of American Idol. It's a 21+ event and the cover is just $5. Gonna be a great night of ladies taking over in Nashvegas!<br><br>Springwater Supper Club<br>115 27th Ave<br>Nashville, TN </span>Sabrinatag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:Post/34608542015-01-12T06:45:00-06:002021-09-14T05:55:52-05:00All Things New?One full week into the New Year and things are moving full steam ahead. I'm determined to be productive while enjoying every step of the journey. Here's to a fantabulous 2015. <br><br>Soon and very soon, my new EP "Gonna Get Burned" will be released. Excited to have new music to share with you. It'll be available at all the usual outlets and especially at my shows. Stay tuned for the official release date!<br><br>I'm also, booking new dates for this year. I'd love to come and showcase these new songs personally for you at your favorite venue and even at your <a contents="house" data-link-label="House Concerts" data-link-type="page" href="/house-concerts">house</a>. My most recent extended tours took me as far north as New Hampshire and and as far west as Arizona. I can't wait to come to your town. Have guitar will travel! See you on the road!Sabrinatag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:Post/34506412015-01-05T06:00:00-06:002015-01-05T06:03:54-06:00The Road AheadWe reminisced about 2014 then rang in 2015 with much merriment all around. Now the time has come to get to work. Last year was a great year of touring, meeting new folks and writing some great songs. I learned a lot about myself and about this business of mine. I'm ready to make 2015 even greater because of what I've learned! I know that in order for that to happen, I have to take what I've learned and apply it making any changes that need to be made. I know, easier said than done. I'm a creature of habit so it's much to easy to follow the same path as always. Yet, I am painfully aware from past mistakes that this is not the way to go. Not if I want something more!<br><br>So, nervously, yet excitedly, I resolve to push myself and stretch out of the comfort zone in my music and personal life! It's not going to be easy or pretty; but I've got a feeling that it'll be worth it! I hope you'll come along with me on this journey. My new EP, "Gonna Get Burned" will be released in a few weeks! I'm already planning tours in different parts of the country am working on ideas for sharing the music with more folks in creative ways! Welcome to my 2015 great adventure!<br><br>See you on the road and Happy New Year!Sabrinatag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:Post/32961882014-11-18T05:30:00-06:002021-09-28T12:06:01-05:00GratitudeYes it's the month of November and everyone's on the gratitude bandwagon. I'm not here to knock anyone because I'm definitely very grateful. Having spent the past week in bed and unable to perform, I'm grateful to be on the mend (say a prayer as I have a couple of shows this week). I've been a lifelong asthmatic and severe allergy sufferer; but there's nothing like a particularly bad episode to make you appreciate the simply complex gift of just breathing normally. I mean, we do it everyday without thinking until it's compromised in some way. I'm quite guilty and you'd think I'd know better.<br><br>While I lay in bed this past week trying to find relief for my lungs, I thought about how many other things am I taking for granted. Am I really seeing,hearing, smelling, tasting, touching life? What if I lost my ability to do these things? My eyes have been bothering me lately and I've started wearing glasses for reading and computer work (the things that are probably aggravating my sight). Let me be candid and say: I HATE IT! I think, wow, I need to use my eyes to do my work and yet, the very work can hamper my ability to continue to do the work in the future. Messed up, if I say so myself. Sometimes, paranoia takes over and I wonder if I'll have my sight in 20 years. I can't imagine not being able to see and yet, I find too often that I don't stop long enough and enjoy the beauty around me or look deep into a friends eyes connecting us on a level beyond consciousness. What about not being able to hear? Music, which is brings me joy, peace, comfort and counsel is so vital in my life. And while I love to say that music is felt and not just heard, I know I'd truly be devastated if I couldn't "hear" it. <br><br>Well, all of that to say that I'm grateful! Too much to name here; but I'm grateful and I'm determined to find a way to slow down and appreciate and acknowledge the many gifts I've been given in this life. That includes you! Sabrinatag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:Post/31672282014-09-02T05:35:00-05:002014-09-02T05:35:16-05:00The Best Job I've Ever Had!When I decided to become a full time musician, I knew that it wouldn't be easy. Partly because I was giving up the supposed security of the corporate world as well as the fact that I am not a new to town 19 year old trying to be a "star". But after carefully considering where I was in my life and evaluating what really makes me happy, I took the plunge. <br><br>Now let me say it again. It's not easy! In fact, I've never worked harder in my life. Every day, I spend hours on the computer and/or phone. I contact venues for performance opportunities, respond to requests and update my web and social media sites. This is all very time-consuming and while extremely important, sometimes interferes with the creative side and why I chose this life. Some weeks are great with a full schedule of performances and others are empty and have me wondering if I made a mistake. Travel is a big part of what I do; but to travel you need money, which is a vicious cycle, since I've chosen to make money by making music and I have to travel to make music. You get the picture! <br><br>Anyway, with all of this going on, the music can feel like it's the last priority. In these moments, I pick up my guitar. In an instant, I'm transported back to the excitement of my initial interaction with the instrument. My breathing slows, my stress is relieved and my heart is uplifted. I begin to sing and in my ecstasy, recall the emotion that inspired the lyrics. This moment is personal and yet I know it is not my own. Too often, I've watched the faces of fans connect with a lyric or entire song and know that they have been touched by the gift in me. That knowing is worth all of the long hours, late nights, bad dietary habits and endless miles. <br><br>My desire is for my music to inspire. Just a glimpse of that happening is enough to keep me going! I hear the music of life and I want to help everyone hear it too. But not just with their ears; but rather in their hearts and souls. So, I toil; but it is, for all its weight, a joyous toil. I work! Harder than I've ever worked in my life and I love it!Sabrinatag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:Post/30395842014-06-26T06:00:00-05:002021-09-25T11:27:47-05:00Confessions of an AddictOk! So it's time that I confess. I have a slight addiction to Candy Crush Saga. I play first thing in the morning, last thing before I go to bed, all during the day. At first I just thought it was a good distraction to deal with my social anxiety. You know, I'm looking at my phone so I don't "have" to talk to folks until I build my confidence and look up. Right?! I've caught myself wanting to play it so much that I would have the game open on my laptop, cell phone and Kindle all so I could continue playing when I ran out of lives on one device. Like most addicts, I say that I can't be too bad as I've never spent any money on the game. I just refuse to do so no matter how tempting 2 hours of lives for 99 cents sounds. Yep, I've got it bad.<br><br>Still, with anything there can be a bright side. I'm pretty advanced as far as levels (425 in one world and 215 in the other) and am working on a particularly difficult one at the moment. I had three particular candy combinations and was excited because finally, all things were aligning. I got the hardest combinations first and only had the easiest one left. I had enough moves left. I switched and matched candies making my way to my goal. I finally aligned the two candies together that I needed when to my utter dismay, I was out of moves. How was this even possible? For just an instant, I was heartbroken as those candies don't normally line up like they did in this game; but then I collected myself and started a new game determined to beat this level sooner or later.<br><br>You know, this happens in life. you get to the edge of a dream, so close you can see or even taste it. It's right before you and something comes at the last moment to dash your chance. You have two choices in this scenario. Get angry, accept defeat or pick yourself up and try again. The reality is if you quit you'll never know the joy of victory. But if you keep trying, you can discover joys along the journey and maybe even reach the "candy" promise land.<br><br>So wherever you are today on the path; <strong>DO NOT QUIT!!!! </strong>Sabrinatag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:Post/29736182014-05-27T10:43:45-05:002014-05-27T10:43:45-05:00Stop and Smell The RosesI can't believe it's been so long since I last posted. The pace of life is crazy and that in turn makes us crazy. You can see it all around us and yet many times we feel helpless to do anything but be swept away by the tide. It can leave us feeling empty, powerless, resentful and filled with a host of other negative emotions.<br><br>The other week I had to take my car in very early for some repair work. There was really no good way to get home and back and I didn't want to spend the money on a taxi (especially since the cost of the repair depended on what they found once they took it apart). I kind of knew this going in so I resolved that I would take a notebook some water and comfortable shoes. I thought I'd grab something to eat and then try to catch a bus to the center of town where I was sure I could occupy myself. After consulting the bus schedule I found that the buses in that area only run in the morning hours and then in the afternoon. This was not going to work. So, I thought well, I guess I'll write a bit and hoped for the best. I indeed got the best but it was not what I expected.<br><br>I grabbed some breakfast from the corner market and sat outside on a concrete bench & table. To occupy myself I also bought a paper. For the first time in I don't know how many years, I read a physical newspaper from cover to cover. All of the news, advertisements and even (gulp) the obituaries. I originally started out just wanting to kill some time; but wow! In those minutes, I had a focus that was not about getting me to the next thing. It wasn't even about the information. It was a slow down enjoy life kind of moment. I was finishing my breakfast when the garage called, told me what was wrong, how much it would cost and asking for authorization to continue with the repair. I gave permission and silently prayed for more work so I would be able to pay for it by the time the credit card bill was due. <br><br>Now that the paper was read, and the repair was still a couple of hours from being completed what was I to do with myself? I thought well, let's take a walk and burn off breakfast calories. So I did! I decided to stroll down with a stopping point in mind but not set in stone. I walked along the sidewalk, leisurely taking in the sunshine and an occasional breeze. I saw folks out for their morning jog or walking the dog. Some were out on their porches playing with their kids, workers were nearby completing construction repairs on some of the homes. It was a nice day; but all of sudden, I was overcome with deep emotion. The beautiful flowers of all sorts and the green grass of freshly mowed lawns and those needing to be mowed called to me. The architecture of the historic homes as well as the way each home had decided to landscape and decorate pulled me in for some reason. It was as if I was seeing, hearing, smelling and experiencing all of these things for the first time.<br><br>Now, in general, if I hear "stop and smell the roses' I acknowledge it's a worthy saying but subconsciously am thinking about thorns and possible allergies to pollen. Not the most optimistic viewpoint I know. But on this day, I felt my world slow down and I remembered the freedom of childhood to enjoy the moment rolling in the grass, climbing trees and enjoying nature. I'm sure my life is not too different from your and it's missing something. We're so busy trying to keep up with everything in our media heavy world that we've lost the enjoyment of our existence. A computer game cannot compete with kids running around using their imaginations in the neighborhood. Email cannot compete with sitting on the porch or just even talking across the way with your neighbor. I'm so guilty of hiding away in my busyness, that I'm afraid I'm forgetting how to live. Don't get me wrong, life is different from when I was a child. As we grow older we have certain responsibilities. The problem I see is that we seem to live as if our responsibilities have to push out our enjoyment of life. Not the momentary things that temporarily distract us; but unadulterated joy. <br><br>I could quote the line from the Beatles song "How I long for yesterday" and sometimes I feel that way. But more importantly I want to be present in today. I don't want my senses to be dulled to the beauty that still exists around us. We don't have all the time in the world and there are some things we must do; but I encourage you and me to STOP and SMELL THE ROSES!Sabrinatag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:Post/27429932014-03-14T05:50:00-05:002022-08-14T00:16:14-05:00Be like a treeThis winter season here in TN has been most interesting. I've been especially interested in the severe wind storms that we've had. Some of the winds have been as strong as tornadoes and have caused almost as much damage. In watching weather reports and driving through neighborhoods I'm always amazed at how some trees remain standing while everything else around them has been blown to bits. I know that some trees fall because they are old and rotten; but there are many trees that are seemingly healthy and yet they topple beneath the wind's mighty force. It seems that the trees left standing are those that have strong roots that stay firm in the foundation yet pliable branches that know just how far to bend without breaking<br><br>In my own life, I have faced and am sure to face some rough storms. I hope I can be like the trees left standing. How do I do this? I think I've got to know who I am and have a firm belief system that grounds me. But I must also be flexible enough to roll with the punches or sway in the wind, if you will, without losing my hold on what's most important. <br><br>We're all going to face some storms and we'll all have an opportunity to fall over causing damage to ourselves and others; but the question is will we fall or will we hold fast to our roots knowing that soon the storm will pass over?Sabrinatag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:Post/26696652014-03-01T08:47:37-06:002021-08-10T12:45:31-05:00Feeling Accomplished!Today, March 1st! It's easy to get a little worried that the year is slipping away too fast and truthfully it feels that way sometimes. I think of all the things I want to accomplish and start measuring myself by what someone else is doing and quickly feel depressed. It's not the way to go my friend! So, I've decided to not relax my standards but instead celebrate each little victory knowing that persistence is the name of the game.<br><br>This February, I once again participated in February Album Writing Month. It's a songwriting challenge to write 14 songs in 28 days. I'm not a hired gun songwriter churning out songs every day/week. I admire those folks but that's not me. Over the years that I've taken the challenge, I've found myself faced with many obstacles including deaths in the family, illness, being out of the country etc... Yet, somehow I manage to meet the goal. This year I actually finished a few days early and realized that I am able to do this because I really want it. No one is judging me or checking up to see whether I get it done. It's me! I want it, I go after it. I get up early and stay up late.I keep my mind and my notebook open. I try new chords, new progressions and even new styles and instruments all in the quest to be able to say:<strong> I DID IT!!!!! </strong>As I face the rest of the year, I'm determined to follow every goal that way! Fueled by a personal passion that drives me to sacrifice with the end result being a good pat on my own back. Everything else is gravy as they say.<br><br>Two months into this new year, what are you working toward? It's not too late to set a goal and then make it happen. I'm a realistic dreamer. Enough of a realist to know there will be challenges; but enough of a dreamer to believe in the possibilities. Happy dreaming! Go out and make it happen!<br><br>Sabrina<br> Sabrinatag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:Post/23624262014-01-10T10:44:26-06:002014-01-10T10:44:26-06:00Let's Do SomethingThe new year is well underway and some folks have already given up on their resolutions. Ten days in and our resolve has faltered. The lofty goal that we aspired to has now been relegated to the "it's too hard" pile. I know, I know because I've been there. Made myself a promise and promptly broke it in favor of my personal comfort. Wanted a different result with the same "comfortable" actions taken previously. INSANITY!!!!<br><br>I believe part of the problem is that we don't prepare for the difficulties. Everyone sets their eyes on the glory of the accomplishments without really honing in on the work required. . Most of the big stuff is just a brief flash in the pan. The big radio hit lasts for a moment; but the everyday act of writing and perfecting your skill is what leads to the success. You can't go and win Olympic goal without endless hours of practice, nutrition,and mental and physical conditioning. You get the idea!<br><br>So what are you doing? Not dreaming or thinking about; but doing? I don't want to reach the end of 2014 and have nothing to show for it so I've got to work every month, every week, every day. Pick a goal and make an action plan that requires commitment and allows a little grace for your human capacity to falter and fail. But should you fall don't stay there. Get up and go chase after what you want. Don't let laziness,fear, pride, lack of knowledge/skills or finances stand in your way. You are a wonderfully created being with gifts waiting to be revealed from you. WHAT R U WAITING 4?Sabrinatag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:Post/13981482013-08-13T17:02:06-05:002013-08-13T17:02:06-05:00Breakfast Lessons Well, I just returned from a 10 day tour up in the Northeast. We were in NY, NH, MA, PA & MD. It was great fun, making music, friends and fans. Still, my favorite memory from the entire trip was a breakfast date with my five year old nephew. I'd promised him the night before that we'd go to breakfast; but had to wake him up to stay on schedule because "Tia" , as he calls me, should not have told him and gotten too him excited to go to bed. We get in the car armed with my GPS and I ask where he wanted to go. Like most kids his age, he said Mickey D's so off we went. <br><br>
He didn't know it; but I was enraptured by his trust, and enjoyment of the moment. Unlike me, he was not thinking about, where he had to be next. The only thing he knew was that Tia was letting him ride in her car and taking him to breakfast. He took my hand as we walked in and his face lit up when I told him he could have whatever he wanted (it was too early for happy meals). We sat at a table and talked. I listened as he told me about getting ready for kindergarten and going fishing with his dad. We saw a garbage truck pass by on the street and he explained to me that they picked up the trash and took it to a dumpster. Of course, I knew this; but still it sounded fresh and new coming from him. We laughed and made funny faces over our hotcakes and sausage. <br><br>
Our breakfast was over too soon and all too soon I had to say goodbye; but those few precious moments were amazing! His innocence and inquisitive nature, made me stop my hectic pace and just enjoy! <br><br>
Maybe I'm biased but I think I have the most amazing niece and nephew in the world. Every time I have a chance to spend some time with them, I'm proud of the people they are becoming and overwhelmed with enormity of their innocence in this complicated world. I learn from them about trust, love and simple enjoyment. May we all take a step back from the crazy pace and see the world through the eyes of a child.Sabrinatag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:Post/9591402013-06-17T17:06:56-05:002013-06-17T17:06:56-05:00A Dreamer's Dilemma I'm a dreamer. I always have been and always will be to a certain extent. I have big ideas that come to me at random moments and I gaze off into the sunset imagining how they are going to change my life and often the lives of those around me. While there's nothing wrong with dreaming, a dream cannot be realized without work. <b>HARD WORK!!!</b> ......and that's where the problem lies.<br><br>
It's so easy to imagine and suppose and theorize; but when it's time to put your hand to the task can I really come out of the dream into a reality that is often challenging and sometimes not very pleasant. In itself, life is constantly calling us to do this or that and we have to comply on the most basic level just to survive. But survival is not what I want,. I want to <b>THRIVE </b>and I believe I can but it involves work that a lot of the time is not comfortable. Soooo, in my case that means, I can make phone calls or I can wait by the phone for people who don't know me to call. I can go out and network or I can sit at home "waiting" to be discovered. I can practice and perfect my performance craft or I can rub a magic genie lamp and play like Clapton. NOT! It just won't happen that way. I must make the investment to reap the benefit. <br><br>
I challenge you and myself, to dream and dream BIG but to then get up and make those dreams reality by working hard and doing the diligent things to be, do and have what we want!<br type="_moz">Sabrinatag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:Post/734442012-11-25T14:18:26-06:002021-09-11T11:06:43-05:00Ho Ho Ho???Oh the holidays! For most people it's a great time to be hustling and bustling around. Get togethers and full on parties are well in swing as well as multiple trips to the mall. Somehow, people seem nicer and the world looks a bit cheerier during this time. Yet for others, it's a reminder of all that is missing. Tthere are those who can't find the cheer because they are struggling to keep warm and yet others don't have enough money for the essentials so there'll be no presents under the tree, in fact they won't have a tree. I am not particularly a holiday person in the sense of the typical festivities; but I never begrudge anyone their right to celebrate! I find that for me it's a more reflective time. God gave His greatest gift to us and we in turn have an opportunity to share that gift through demonstrations of love. <br><br>
Whatever your situation, may you remember the newborn baby for Christmas that represents an opportunity for renewal .Let us always remember the blessings of where we are and look forward to a future pregnant with opportunity and promise. <br type="_moz">Sabrinatag:sabrinasongs.com,2005:Post/2150782012-09-16T15:40:00-05:002021-08-20T05:47:42-05:00Conquering FearsSo much has happened in this past year; but I'm excited about getting this site up and running. Additionally, I'm out touring in support of my new cd "Bloom" which will be available online very soon. Sometimes taking new steps involves revisiting old places and picking up pieces that you may have left behind. I've recently seen or acknowledged that some really simple fears have been holding me back and I wasn't even aware of it. Along the way, these fears paralyzed my ability to think or see straight and consequently, I stood still. Anyone knows that standing still is <b>NOT </b>progress.<br><br>
So, here I am with some of the same fears ever present; but a new found determination to take a step forward. If I don't know or don't have, I'll ask for help! If I can't reach the moon, I'll at least reach for the stars. Action begets action so go out and LIVE YOUR LIFE ON PURPOSE!Sabrina