California Day 2

Have I mentioned that I'm really loving this trip? Yesterday (since I had slept a mere 2 hours the night before) I slept awesome and woke up to sunshine and dogs. Does it get better than that?

Charlie and Ella.

Angus.

I had the morning to get a bunch of work done, (the new cd goes to print on Monday) and enjoy an afternoon jog.

I used to live in Naugatuck, Connecticut, which I thought was the hilliest town for running...well, Oakland is right there with you. But my hosts suggested this route around a lake, and I just couldn't pass it up. It was pretty great.

Like I need a reminder to run slower...

Last night I sang at a diner in San Jose. I wasn't sure how I was going to fit in at a 50s diner, but things all started to make sense when I finally saw the menu. At this diner they offer things like a portobello burger topped with kale and peppers. (Which I ate...and destroyed.)

Checking out the menu and seeing people smile as they walked in for the show as I was setting up, made it seem like folk music wouldn't be so crazy in a place where the walls are lined with photos of Marilyn and Elvis.

It seems that I'm surrounded by hippies out here. I really like that.

Returning home last night, I hung out with my new friends and hosts, and I just kept thinking about how lucky I am.

I meet the most wonderful people. And I really wish that all of you could know each other.

Someday I'll figure out how to make that party happen.

Today is a hike, final album artwork, emails and a house show. I'll report back again tomorrow!

Have a great weekend, Kristen

California Day 1

Yesterday was my first ever day in California. Anyone that I told, from the cab driver to the rental car guy, to my hosts, to the other musicians at Bazaar Cafe immediately welcomed me.

I think all of this sun gets to people out here and makes them really happy. That's my first observation anyway.

PLUS- I had two surprise guests show up and freak me out! My friend Gordon from Connecticut was hanging out on the sidewalk when I arrived, and then my college friend Mike, who I haven't seen in nearly 10 years came. Talk about feeling at home.

Also- it's so strange to see people in different environments. I always think I'm imagining them.

In going to get out a bit more today and I'll report back on what I find!

Kristen

The snow-capped Salt Lake City mountains

My beautiful accommodations in Oakland.

The pretty tree I saw as the first thing this morning!

Now Ain't the Time for Tears

It is with great excitement that I sit here in the Salt Lake City airport. Yes- the mountains are beautiful (still snow-capped) but this excitement is even greater than when I visit a new place.

This is the excitement that comes with finishing this new album.

Every experience for me has always been different, and this time, with these songs, I feel proud.

Not in an arrogant way (I don't think) but because I know that I put together a collection of songs that I really care about, and that resonate with me.

You can listen today. And I hope you love it!

Love, Kristen

Packing

I don't mind packing. Especially when it's for something fun...like a trip to California! I'll be blogging throughout the trip, so stay tuned for some West Coast adventures. :)

Happy day, Kristen

C'mon, Ellen...

One step closer today to getting on the Ellen Show! Having a music producer ask me to send in my new CD? Awesome.

Now, if I can just guarantee that he'll listen to it and love it...

Here's hoping! Kristen

Ps...I'll definitely be slipping in a few Just Be Nice Party buttons and stickers!

My face this morning as I remembered yesterday's phone call!