tag:saramaedafoe.com,2005:/blogs/f28d2311-e1e8-47f1-ab22-2ea40cf041de?p=2.2023-11-25T21:47:35-07:00Sara-Mae Dafoefalsetag:saramaedafoe.com,2005:Post/73094062023-11-25T21:47:35-07:002023-12-08T18:34:17-07:00November 25 (A travel story)<p>Today's date…November 25th. Not a super creative blog title, but a significant one.</p><p>My brain obsesses over dates (the calendar ones, I mean…haha). When a specific date is mentioned in a book or movie, without even meaning to, my mind will figure out where I would have been and what I might have been doing. Where did I live? How old was I? Was that before or after I moved to Calgary? In the same way that birthdays or anniversaries are meaningful and memorable, I hold onto dates for all different types of reasons. </p><p>November 25th has become one of those days. I have been thinking a lot about it, remembering the November 25ths of years past. It wasn't a significant date until 7 years ago. </p><p> </p><p><i>2016</i></p><p>I was newly divorced. It had been such a difficult year. I had been through so much and was feeling like I was finally emerging into a new season of life. In the spring of that year I opened an email featuring travel deals (I don't know when or why I had signed up for that email list but I am sure glad I did) and read about a deal to travel to Iceland. It wasn't a place I had ever thought about, and certainly never imagined going there. I read the email, clicked and read more of the details of the deal, then deleted it. It didn't cross my mind again. Until…I got another email. It was listing that same deal and a few others. After that second email I remember doing a little research, just for the sake of my own curiosity. I read about the natural beauty, the culture, the art. I was intrigued but again, I was just curious. It wasn't until the third email a couple weeks later, the subject line reading “last chance” and something in me didn't want to miss out.</p><p>I called the company and remember asking what the catch was. The deal seemed too good to be true so I was suspicious. I made the poor person on the other end of the call explain and re-explain and specify exactly what a person would be charged if they should happen to book this trip. I asked all my questions and wanted to think about it. But it was the last day of the deal and time was nearly up - their closing time was only minutes away so if I was going to do it, I had to do it. I was actually shaking when I pulled out my credit card and gave them my information. What the heck was I doing?! </p><p>Once the trip was booked, I had to wait 7 months before actually going. I realize now how much joy I get from both the experience of travel, and the planning and preparation before travel. I spent many hours looking things up - restaurants and art galleries and must-see things. I had practically memorized the layout of downtown Reykjavik. I was going! To Iceland! I would mention it and people would ask me two things - who was I going with, and why was I going? I was thrilled to be going alone (and got a not-so-small bit of delight from people's surprise at my solo travel plans). I felt strong and brave and totally empowered…just what I needed after a difficult marriage and divorce. And why was I going? I took great pleasure in saying “well…why not?!”</p><p>And the trip? It was amazing. I would love to return. Iceland is an overwhelmingly beautiful place. It also felt like a victory declaration. Life had knocked me down for a while, but I got back up and I was okay…in fact, I was better than okay. I walked around Reykjavik for hours, stopping in every little shop that caught my eye, lounging in cafes with cappuccinos and people watching, marvelling at waterfalls and geysers and a landscape that was otherworldly. I soaked in the blue lagoon. I went out into the blackest night to the middle of nowhere on a bus full of strangers, all of us hoping to catch a glimpse of the northern lights. When they appeared, wispy and ghostly white, dancing across the sky, I stood there shivering in the cold, with tears streaming down my cheeks and a huge smile on my face. It was absolute magic. </p><p>November 25th. The day I went to Iceland all by myself, 7 years ago. </p><p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/415815/9274cf9c59dde6b54de831b582e5381a285d7243/original/20161128-105415.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p><p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/415815/55aa5176cb9443a23db9e5568724a45d3d8e68da/original/20161128-141003.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p><p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/415815/3c84be921b2173604bf434b1c3964739ed16e082/original/20161128-100438.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p><p><i>2021</i></p><p>I'm not quite ready for all the story-telling pizzazz on how this one came to be…give it a few years and I'll be ready to put more of it into words. So the short version… As the world slowly and cautiously opened up again after the dumpster fire of 2020 (and beyond), there were travel deals to be had. I was dating someone (let's call him Mr. Adventure) who had his ear to the ground on flights and such and he invited me to join him on a fall trip to London. After working out the details and using up all the points I had been collecting for years on my credit card for my flight, it was official. I was going to London! </p><p>I was very nervous. I hadn't been on a big trip in quite some time and in the time since my last one, I had been dealing with some pretty severe anxiety. The biggest anxiety attack I ever had was on a road trip a few years before. If that was how I reacted on a road trip, how would I manage an overseas trip? I had some strategies and tools, and thinking through what I might do if I felt the anxiety rising helped me feel prepared. </p><p>Technically it wasn't my first time in London. On a layover on the way to Uganda back in 2009 (that should probably be another blog post one of these days! Travel story time with Sara-Mae!), I ran (literally) to as many sights as I could with a group of friends in a couple hours. It was exhausting and a little crazy but so much fun. So while I had been there, I hadn't really <i>been there. </i></p><p>I was completely enchanted. The history, the architecture, the museums and galleries, the fish and chips… I had a fantastic time. I absolutely loved Westminster Abbey, the National Gallery, and Carnaby Street (especially the most magical shoe shop in the world - Irregular Choice - where I purchased my sparkly rainbow shoes). I ate and drank a lot. I saw the Phantom of the Opera. I walked around the neighbourhood Jack the Ripper had terrorized over 100 years before. We enjoyed the Victoria and Albert Museum so much that we went 3 times! </p><p>November 25th, 2021. Nearing the end of a week in London, having pushed past my anxiety and travelling again.</p><p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/415815/7768bae3f01384a5bea5b09d1a1cdd1b8a66a111/original/20211123-132621.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p><p><i><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/415815/bd98d0ae74bc5609439c4f1324540ff85b691ea6/original/20211123-142318.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/415815/c1d4287ecae318b22f32865dc8410e7245e47f7e/original/20211122-113541.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></i></p><p><i><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/415815/1c5833e32b71affd14e400368b6dd5966fdeb137/original/20211124-141707.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></i></p><p><i>2022</i></p><p>The year after the London trip I was still seeing Mr. Adventure. We had talked about the possibility of another trip and he wanted to surprise me with the location. I knew the when and the who, I just didn't know the where. We had to do some negotiating…I wanted to know well before we actually left (see above…the joy is in the experience <i>and </i>the preparation!). I think he'd have been happy for me to know nothing at all until we arrived at the airport, and that idea has a certain romance to it, but that just isn't how I roll! </p><p>I kept trying to guess where we were going. He had given me a few clues and I had narrowed it down to southern Europe. I thought it was Croatia and was convinced he was lying to me when he said that was not the location. Finally I guessed “Malta?!?!” and that was it! Malta! How fabulous!!! </p><p>And my friends…it was. It was such a beautiful and amazing place! In true Sara-Mae fashion, I spent hours and hours researching in the weeks leading up to the trip (once I knew where I was going!). I wanted to know all the great little spots. Malta was a place I knew almost nothing about, so I was intrigued to read about the history of this tiny island. 2022 had been incredibly difficult, and it was a much needed bright spot toward the end of the year.</p><p>We arrived in the evening, made our way to the Airbnb where we were staying (that was GORGEOUS), and started wandering around the steep streets of downtown Valletta. That first night, they had turned on the Christmas lights that were strung up everywhere for the first time and there was even a little parade. I remember hearing the marching band in the distance…I could hear them playing “All I Want for Christmas is You” and following the sound until we saw the crowd gathered and went to join. Then it was a traditional Maltese dinner (rabbit…it was delish, I don't care what you say) and time for bed after a long day of travel and the first little glimpse of Malta.</p><p>I absolutely loved Malta. The history is really quite incredible and I enjoyed expanding on what little I had learned prior to the trip. Trips to the Cathedrals, museums, and galleries were highlights, and so was just walking around, grabbing a ricotta pastizz (a delicious little bundle of flaky pastry and ricotta cheese, sold on almost every street corner every morning) and cappuccino and seeing what we discovered. Valletta was the most beautiful city I have ever seen. I also loved visiting the ancient walled city of Mdina, and of course dipping my feet into the Mediterranean. It was all so charming, it almost didn't seem real. </p><p>As if I wasn't already the luckiest little duck in all the land, I also got to experience a day in Rome and the Vatican on this trip. Mr. Adventure had been planning a day trip to Sicily (which is quite close to Malta and a popular destination by boat) but discovered that he could book us flights to Rome for a shockingly low price. So early one morning (like…3:00 am) we got up and made our way back to the tiny airport and flew to Italy, traipsed around the Vatican on a half day tour (wow. Just….WOW), ate some pasta, wandered to some major sites in Rome, and caught a few hours of sleep before hopping on another plane back to Malta for the last couple days. Then, a few cold, dark hours in old Frankfurt (and the most delicious schnitzel in my belly to warm me up) on a layover, then back home to Canada. </p><p>November 25th, 2022. The night I arrived in Malta.<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/415815/7fba8f8240f47bf66548327a1fd13350bdfdcdb9/original/20221126-121006.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p><p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/415815/2b68be94a256d253f25a30b85d41b73a6d3b9c42/original/20221126-122948.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p><p><i><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/415815/67ef08e2792a832fea7b950d26d968ae33d86e7b/original/20221128-101231.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/415815/0f1bae4a126f4f6ea9139ef6621b3e3c27b106bd/original/20221126-164155.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/415815/e8fa5f9c752d3258033b54c63a712acba680f765/original/20221128-103104.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_center border_" />2023</i></p><p>I have felt a little bit of sadness as I have been remembering all these trips. Iceland feels like a lifetime ago. Things ultimately didn't work out with Mr. Adventure of the London and Malta trips, and while it's for the best, I still feel sad. I think that's inevitable when you've spent a lot of time with someone and cared deeply for them. </p><p>And honestly? This year felt like a bit of a bummer, realizing that the previous two November 25ths were so darn magical. This year…it's pretty ordinary. But also not so ordinary.</p><p>My life is vastly different than it was a year ago. The relationship ended. I left my long time job and am living basically a totally different lifestyle. And loving it! Substitute teaching is actually the best (even though it can be pretty challenging and is definitely not for the faint of heart). I have been able to spend so much more time doing things that I enjoy, including making all kinds of weird and wonderful things that I am selling at markets. That's what I was up to today. I was in Cochrane at a lovely little market. I met some great people, got to chat with other vendors on and off all day, and had my proverbial cup filled up with beautiful and meaningful connections. </p><p>When the day was done and I was on my way back to Calgary, I had to pull over and marvel at the most incredible sky as the sun dipped behind the mountains. I stood on the hill, freezing in the cold wind, tears streaming down my face. Much like that night in a dark field in Iceland, on a different continent, breathless in wonder at a completely different but equally beautiful sight. Just because it wasn't a day of exploring in a faraway place, doesn't mean it wasn't a good day. </p><p>November 25th, 2023. Today. I'm alive. I'm growing. I'm grateful. </p><p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/415815/fc927e4197cf0ad7f5f194eb1ad6378ec94981c9/original/20231125-163856.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p><p>And who knows where I could end up on November 25th, 2024…</p><p>THE END</p><p> </p><p>*<i>but in the interest of manifesting, I would be completely okay with ending up in Norway, Portugal, or Austria. Just to put a short list out there. Okay, that's all. </i></p>Sara-Mae Dafoetag:saramaedafoe.com,2005:Post/72733682023-09-14T10:15:24-06:002023-11-25T19:42:39-07:00September Thoughts<p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">I tried to write on the day that contract teachers were back to work after the summer. I tried to write on the official first day of school. I thought I might write on my birthday, but none of those days afforded me the time or the focus or the desire. And that’s fine… no one is beating down my door or waiting on the edge of their seat for my blog posts. Mostly it is just a good way for me to process things and if someone out there wants to read along, welcome. </span></p><p> </p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">These past few weeks have marked a new beginning for me. Leaving my teaching position was a massive decision and a huge change. My feelings have been all over the map, but are mostly positive. I kept waiting for the waves of regret or fomo or sadness, but they haven’t come. It isn’t that I don’t miss it, it’s just that I don’t mind missing it. It was time for a change, I would even say it was long overdue. For some reason that was something I fought. I tried my best to quiet down the little voice in me that kept whispering that it was time to let go. Time to accept that I am not my job and my job is not me and I am not responsible for…well, anything really. </span></p><p> </p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">And while I am absolutely filled to overflowing with ideas and things I could do and might do and usually feel like I should do, instead I find myself being increasingly okay with quiet and stillness and just <i>being</i>. I am becoming more comfortable with asking myself what it is that I need, sometimes I even dare to ask myself what I <i>want </i>(gasp) and then…I do it. </span></p><p> </p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">I recognize that being a single person with no children affords me a great deal of flexibility. But also…not. Sure, there is no one else that I am responsible for housing or clothing or feeding (other than the cats…meow). But in the same breath, that also means that it <u>all</u> falls to me. There is no back-up, no shoulder other than my own to carry the load. Pros and cons, as with everything in life. </span></p><p> </p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">I really don’t know what this year will end up looking like. I realize now that I was trying sooooo hard to map it all out when I first made the decision. Like I knew there would be a massive hole in my life and I was trying to plan out in advance how I could fill it. But now that I am here, at the beginning, I actually like all this empty space. It isn’t so scary. </span></p><p> </p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">I like taking it slow. Watching and listening and thinking. If I had to guess, I think this year might be a time of unraveling all that has been so tightly wound in me for so many years. But, I don’t know that for sure and for probably the first time in my adult life, I’m okay with that. </span></p>Sara-Mae Dafoetag:saramaedafoe.com,2005:Post/72375292023-07-05T20:55:01-06:002023-07-25T16:59:13-06:00A New Season...<p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">I don’t even know how to begin.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">In some ways, this feels like any other year. It is in the first few days of the summer break from school. There is an exhaustion that settles into your bones in the last month or so of school. By the end of June, you find yourself barely hanging on. Dead tired but barely sleeping, physically depleted, emotionally drained, probably slacking off with the basics - eating well, exercise, self care…there just isn’t any energy left. If you haven’t lived the life of a modern educator this probably sounds dramatic or whiny. Trust me, it is neither. It is just the truth. Teachers white-knuckle their way through the tail end of the school year and drop their weary selves into July filled with hopes and dreams for the summer, but in need of some serious recuperation first. In the teacher-tired way, this summer is the same. </span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">But it is not the same.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">For 16 summers, I cleaned up my classroom and packed my things into cupboards and shelves, waiting for me to return to unpack and set up. Most years I would go and spend long days nearly alone in the school, taking advantage of the quiet, preparing my room and planning my upcoming year. I knew what I was coming back to and while I relished the time off, I also looked forward with excitement to the year ahead. </span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">This year I look forward with excitement to something entirely different.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">Over the last few years I could feel a shift happening within myself, a longing for a different life. Don’t get me wrong…I love teaching. I love the students, the connections, the magic of learning, the community, the silliness, the serious moments. I have wanted to be a teacher since I was little. I still remember how it felt to start university, to walk the halls as a practicum teacher and feel like I was so close to my dream, then to start out as a sub and then to get a contract position…it was exactly what I always wanted to do!</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">But it was only <i>some </i>of what I wanted to do.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">Teaching became my identity in many ways, and often to my detriment. It took up so much of my time and energy. Even when I wasn’t at school, my mind was there. In difficult personal situations it was an easy excuse, a place to hide. I could literally always have more school work to do, forever and ever, amen. But the problem with allowing my occupation to become my identity was that it forced me to stifle all the other parts of myself that exist. And because teaching requires a great deal of physical, emotional, and creative energy it meant that even as I tried to reawaken some of those parts, I just didn’t have anything left over.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">So I made a change.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">I remember how risky it felt to drop from full time to teaching 3 days a week. I remember all the things people would say to me about it. If you ever want unsolicited advice, just make a big job change and allllll kinds of people will share alllll kinds of opinions that you never asked for. I remember all the little comments like “oh it must be nice to have a long weekend <i>every </i>weekend”, as if I was sitting around doing nothing. In reality, I was trying to build another career, working my butt off, trying to figure it all out all by myself. And still delivering the music program to the entire school to the best of my ability, just jammed into three days a week. I am so glad I had the courage to do that six years ago. It was really hard and I don’t regret it at all.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">Now that season has ended.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">This whole past school year I knew deep down that it would be my last at this school. I fought with myself for months over it. I would switch from being so certain I would stay to being so certain I would go, often many times in the same day. It is really hard to walk away from a place that is a second home. It is familiar and comfortable, even in the midst of the chaos and the demands of the job. I don’t even want to describe how hard it was to tell the students. I have never made so many kids cry in my whole career.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">I knew it would be hard, but I also knew it was right.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">I am filled with uncertainty about what this next chapter will end up looking like. As usual I have about a million ideas, but as I have learned many times over…things rarely go the way I think they should. And I am sure that is for the best.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">So what now?</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">I haven’t walked away from teaching entirely. I will be on the substitute teacher list for the upcoming school year. It is a way for me to still be with students and be a small part of such an important thing (public education), but it affords me a great deal of flexibility that just isn’t an option as a teacher in a contract position. If the last few school years are any indication, there will be no shortage of subbing work if I want it. This sets my practical mind at ease, knowing I will be able to provide for myself. </span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">But that’s not all! </span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">After years and years and years of being asked, I have finally changed my answer to the question “do you teach piano lessons?” to “YES”! I am opening my own private home-based studio, Creative Minds Music & Arts! Stage one is private beginner piano lessons, Stages two through infinity are in the works! </span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">And of course…the main thing…</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">I am an artist. My soul shrivels up and dies a little each day that I don’t create. If I am not in a good mental state, chances are nearly 100% that I have been neglecting my creative self. For the past few years I have not done nearly as much songwriting and other forms of creative expression as what is currently locked up inside me. That’s okay…there are different seasons of life and they rarely look the same. But now I choose to enter a season where my art (in all its forms) is a priority. If not now, when? </span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">So I choose now.</span></p>Sara-Mae Dafoetag:saramaedafoe.com,2005:Post/72357422023-07-01T16:57:58-06:002023-07-05T20:53:23-06:002 Weeks until Leg #1 of Summer Tour!<p>Wow. July 1st already. I can't believe summer is here!!! </p><p>And the first little leg of my Summer Tour is just two weeks away! I'm heading to Red Deer on Saturday, July 15th where I will be playing at Sweet Capone's starting at 7:00 pm! I am so excited to devour some cannoli (summer flavour menu, I'm looking at you!) and share some tunes! Check out their Facebook page here; <a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.facebook.com/SweetCapones" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/SweetCapones</a>. </p><p>Then on Sunday, July 16th I will head to Sylvan Lake to play an afternoon show at Sweet Home on the Lake! Show starts at 1:00, so there's plenty of time to come and hear some music, grab a drink and snack in the cafe, and check out the boutique even if you have to make your way back to the city after a weekend of sun and fun. What a great spot! You can visit their Facebook page to find out more here; <a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.facebook.com/sweethomeonthelake" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/sweethomeonthelake</a>.</p><p> </p><p>Check out the rest of my tour schedule with plenty more shows coming up later in the summer and help me spread the word if you know anyone in or around these places! And if you call any of these spots home or your summer travels will have us there at the same time, I would love to see you! </p><p> </p><p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/415815/a67798cefc25e7326d52eedbf43676b52ed809ec/original/13.png/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Much love,</p><p>Sara-Mae</p>Sara-Mae Dafoetag:saramaedafoe.com,2005:Post/70815882022-10-14T13:36:18-06:002023-07-01T16:56:15-06:00One week until the SONGWRITER SHOWCASE, time for some Artist Introductions! <p>I am so excited about the showcase happening next week! I was feeling a bit stressed, but things are coming together and now I just can't wait! I wanted to introduce the two talented gentlemen who will be joining me on stage, <strong>Eric William Braun</strong> and <strong>SHADOWLIFTING</strong>! </p>
<p>I have wanted to be part of a Songwriters-in-the-round performance for ages, and since deciding to do it myself (why do I always feel like I need to wait for permission???) these two were the first artists who came to mind. I wasn't sure if they would be interested, so I just went for them and figured the worst that could happen is that they would say no. But...lucky me...and lucky you if you come hear them...they both said YES!!!</p>
<p>Here's a fun fact about Eric...he and I have actually never met in real life! We are currently only instagram friends!</p>
<p>I reached out to Eric when I was planning my mini tour for the summer. He was booked to play at some of the venues in Southern Alberta that I was trying to book, so I sent him a message to ask a couple quick questions. He answered my questions right away, and we ended up chatting a bit about booking shows, going on tour, and possibly trying to book something together. Things didn't quite line up for when I was on my mini tour, but as soon as I started planning this event I hoped Eric would accept and make the trip up from Lethbridge. </p>
<p>I have been listening to his songs and video clips from live performances and cannot wait to hear him live! </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/415815/33a73d8e7fe4db5f602e52b19f89a58e460f2dc1/original/img-20220930-114110-599.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em>There is an intersection where the imaginative and the real world meet. At this intersection is where you’ll find Eric William Braun. The idea that the creative world holds just as much truth as the objective world is an idea that Eric holds near to his core being, and it’s an idea he hopes to be able to share with the world. And it’s an idea that starts with honesty. Through songwriters such as John Mayer, Jason Isbell, Chris Stapleton, Ray Lamontagne, and countless others, Eric has found a truth that forms the core of who he is as an artist: It’s not about saying something, it’s about having something to say. That truth translates to his guitar playing as well. Through his guitar, Eric seeks to speak those feelings that we have a hard time putting into words. John Mayer, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Brad Paisley, Keith Urban - these are artists who have done it so well, and Eric hopes to continue that tradition. Truth and creativity meets meaning in everyday life. Imagination and objectivity. The bridge between those two realms. That’s the legacy Eric William Braun strives towards.</em></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a contents="Click here to check out Eric's music!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.ericbraunmusic.com/social-media"><strong><em>Click here to check out Eric's music!</em></strong></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p>And next up, my friend (on Instagram AND in real life!) Chris Regnier who makes beautiful music under the name SHADOWLIFTING! </p>
<p>I believe the first time I met Chris in person was actually at my show back in June. He learned about my show through my lovely friend, and I learned that he was also an artist. A few weeks later, I got to hear Chris play live and so enjoyed the experience! </p>
<p>Great vocals, the perfect guitar accompaniment, a blend of familiar covers and fantastic originals, and a warmth and authenticity like I haven't seen or heard from very many artists. I knew Chris was someone I wanted to collaborate with, and was so thrilled when he agreed to be a part of this event! </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/415815/f0ef52013f7fe2b0be85510ca47e3551cfcca749/original/310631776-1151471812457676-1425834111718419809-n.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_none" alt="" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em>SHADOWLIFTING</em></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em>A musical project in its infancy created by Chris Regnier (that's Ren-yay), a slightly travelled, Alberta-born human being who now resides in High River.</em></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em>Raised on a diet of Beatles, Fleetwood Mac, KISS, and Prince; Chris is currently a well trained circus lion with aspirations of becoming a successful caged bird. In either case, he is confident in knowing which side of his bread gets buttered.</em></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a contents="Click here to check out SHADOWLIFTING's Music!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://music.youtube.com/channel/UC3R6sN5GTNX6GJa6wvZFU7g">Click here to check out SHADOWLIFTING's Music!</a></p>
<p>Seriously. These two....I can't wait!!!!!!! </p>
<p>I hope to see you there! <a contents="Click here for more details!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://saramaedafoe.com/songwriter-showcase-october-21-2022">Click here for more details!</a></p>Sara-Mae Dafoetag:saramaedafoe.com,2005:Post/70728182022-10-01T21:13:25-06:002022-10-14T12:59:05-06:00LIVE MUSIC Announcement! <p>I am so excited to start spreading the word about my next live music event! This one has been a long time coming. </p>
<p>For the last few years I have been a huge fan of the Songwriter Circle, or Writer in the Round style of performance. A few songwriters share the stage, taking turns singing their songs and giving the audience some background on where the song came from. It is a live music listening experience unlike any other, and just might be my favourite type of show to attend. I have applied to be a part of various events like this over the past few years and none of them have panned out. So I decided to make my own! I am feeling all the anticipation both as a performer, so excited to have another chance to share my music, but also as a fan and supporter of two incredible Alberta musicians with whom I will share the stage! Watch this space over the next little bit for an in depth introduction to <strong>Eric William Braun</strong> and <strong>SHADOWLIFTING</strong>! It is sure to be a wonderful night!</p>
<p>So, if you are in or near the Calgary area please mark your calendar for <strong>Friday, October 21st, 2022</strong>! </p>
<p>There will be more details coming soon, and the best way to make sure you don't miss a thing is to sign up for my email list! <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/415815/81c76c34c8fafd154aab64fe1909f2fcb3e51286/original/ss-facebook.png/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Sara-Mae Dafoetag:saramaedafoe.com,2005:Post/70287012022-08-01T20:22:12-06:002022-08-05T03:03:29-06:00Mini Tour THIS WEEK!!!<p>Hello friends! </p>
<p>I can't believe it is already August. Anyone else feel like July was gone in a blink? </p>
<p>I am feeling excited, jittery, unsure, nervous, proud, and a whole lot of other things. This week I hit the road for my first ever mini tour. It has been a tough journey, I'm not going to lie. </p>
<p>I've been thinking about doing this for a very long time. I started the planning phase months ago and have lost count of the many hours that went into this mini tour. While part of me wishes that I had more than 4 stops planned, I am also grateful for something small to get me started. I have made some great connections, even with places that are not on this year's tour schedule. I feel like seeds have been planted and am hopeful that it will grow in the future. </p>
<p>And, of course I am very excited and grateful for the four stops I have planned! I appreciate venues taking a chance on someone they don't know! I will bring my very best to the audiences at every place along the way. </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/415815/45d6b7bdea0bfdd25757fec04a4c792f7cc605cd/original/1.png/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Here are the details for each stop on my mini tour!</p>
<p><strong>BROOKS, AB</strong> Brooks Farmers' Market, 201 1 Ave W</p>
<p><em>Thursday, August 4th, 2:00 - 6:00</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>BROOKS, AB</strong> Piston Broke Brewing, 350 9 St E</p>
<p><em>Thursday, August 4th, 7:30 - 9:30</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>MEDICINE HAT, AB </strong>Moose & Squirrel Bistro, 651 2 St SE</p>
<p><em>Friday, August 5th, 7:00 - 9:00</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>LETHBRIDGE, AB </strong>Lethbridge Handmade Market, 3401 Parkside Dr S</p>
<p><em>Saturday, August 6th, 1:00 - 3:00</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Help me spread the word by sending this to any friends and family you may have in the Brooks, Medicine Hat, and Lethbridge areas or of course stop by if you are in any of those places yourself! </p>
<p>Thanks everyone, and see you on the road! </p>
<p>Sara-Mae</p>Sara-Mae Dafoetag:saramaedafoe.com,2005:Post/69972622022-06-19T12:04:59-06:002022-07-19T11:53:42-06:00It was a lovely night!<p>Two weeks ago I returned to the stage for the first time in a very long time! On Friday, June 3 I celebrated the 5th Anniversary of my first album, "Flourish" and shared songs from my latest release "Letters to Ben" for the first time live and in person.</p>
<p>It was a lovely evening, truly. I do struggle a bit with nervousness before performing, but I am usually fine once I start. I could not help but recall the night of my first album release concert 5 years prior and how terrified I was. In the time between completing sound check with the band and the show beginning, I was experiencing more stage fright and self doubt than I ever had in my life! The jitters I felt two weeks ago really paled in comparison to May 31, 2017! Both nights really did turn out just right, as I got to do what I love surrounded by family and friends. What a blessing! </p>
<p>So much has changed in the few years since I'd put on a concert (my last would have been my Christmas album release in November of 2018). What did not change was the beauty and magic of connecting through the power of music. If you were present with me, thank you so very much for sharing your time and attention that night. It was an honour to sing for you. If you were unable to be there, I truly hope to share my stories and songs with you when the time is right. </p>
<p>I have been working hard, trying to put together a mini-tour for this summer. If you have a place for me to play (a living room, a concert hall, a church sanctuary, a backyard, a coffee shop...) please do reach out and let me know. Once I have more details in place, I will be sure to share them here. </p>
<p>If you are not already connected through my email list, that really is the best way to stay in the loop! </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/415815/aaa4e8d143d28e54df03ce763a833aa3512bb440/original/received-722006405890336.jpeg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpeg" class="size_m justify_center border_none" alt="" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/415815/713418af20f04d1f0fd3bcbaa0c14c2e44d429da/original/received-532178355303440.jpeg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpeg" class="size_m justify_center border_none" alt="" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/415815/9d264241b2251a91d128ac7492089ec8e2a43422/original/20220605-183631.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_none" alt="" /> </p>Sara-Mae Dafoetag:saramaedafoe.com,2005:Post/69619892022-05-07T21:54:55-06:002022-06-18T23:26:35-06:00Calgary Concert Announcement!<p>Hey friends!</p>
<p>If you haven't heard yet...I am FINALLY returning to the stage after what feels like a VERY, VERY long time. I have not had a show (aside from some Christmas gigs a couple of years ago) in over 3 years. I am thrilled to announce a concert to celebrate the 5th Birthday of my first album! It's hard to believe, but Flourish is turning 5 this year! </p>
<p>It's the perfect time to get together to share some songs, stories and laughs, and a chance for me to share songs from my EP "Letters to Ben" for the first time, live and in person! </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/415815/762b899668de4330a7ba447c5fb2eba49b8be22e/original/calgary.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>I will post again with a few more details closer to the concert, but for now if you are in the Calgary area, mark your calendars for <strong>Friday, June 3</strong>rd! </p>
<p>I hope to see you there!</p>Sara-Mae Dafoetag:saramaedafoe.com,2005:Post/66761982021-07-01T15:13:29-06:002022-04-19T13:23:07-06:00With a Heavy Heart<p>July 1st used to be a day of celebration for me. More often than not, it was the very first day of my summer off as a teacher. After ten months of work much harder than I ever bargained for, it was that first moment to relax and recharge. It was filled with the excitement and possibility of what the coming weeks could hold. Some years there were vacation plans, or boxes piling up as I prepared to move to a new home. July 1st was a great day.</p>
<p>As a proud Canadian, July 1st was also a chance to celebrate my country. I loved making plans with friends to take in whatever Canada Day festivities might be going on - concerts in the park, BBQs, fireworks. It was a day filled with everything summer should be. </p>
<p>Two years ago this day took on a very different meaning for me. July 1st, 2019 was the day that my dear Ben was taken from this earth. A dark shadow covers this day as I remember him and think of the pain his family and friends have experienced since he died. This year is especially significant, as I spent the last year making music to honour him. He has been on my mind every day. Now that the songs are out in the world, I hear myself telling the story, sharing Ben with others. </p>
<p>It is the first day of my official summer off as a teacher. That has not changed. But this year the relief of the school year ending is intensified. This school year was like no other. Teaching has never been easy, but this year teachers carried burdens much heavier than a typical year. We navigated crippling restrictions, head-spinning changes, unreasonable expectations. Personally, I spent the last ten months pushing a cart into fourteen different classrooms to teach, exposing myself to every single person in the building, trying to run a music program in an elementary school with a longer list of things I was not allowed to do than what I was allowed to do. I have never been teacher tired quite like this. </p>
<p>Today I have no energy for celebrations. Even as Covid restrictions ease and we are allowed to gather and be together in a way we have not for many months. Today I choose to stay home, alone with my thoughts and memories and tears. I might sit at my piano and let the music soothe my heart. I might sleep. I might do nothing. I am just holding space...for my own grief and exhaustion. For the grief of so many in this country right now.</p>
<p>It is still "Canada Day". Today is the anniversary of Canadian Confederation. While I love this land and consider myself fortunate to have been born here and live my life here, I recognize that this day is not a happy occasion for all. There is a dark history in this place that has been ignored by the majority for far too long. As more and more children are found in unmarked graves all over the country, I pray that steps would be taken by all of us to accept this shameful truth of what our country was founded upon and to move toward actual reconciliation. It is not enough to say "it's in the past" or "I didn't do this personally" and shrug it off. We must recognize the legacy of racism and work together to dismantle it. White Canadians like myself must take a hard look in the mirror and shine a light on the prejudice living in our own hearts, as well as the way our privilege allows us to turn away and stay silent. We must honour the voices of survivors and let them speak. We must be willing to hear the hard things.</p>
<p>So my heart is heavy today. And that is ok. I know that it is healthy and good for me to take time and make space for these hard things. I am choosing kindness and compassion for myself. I am looking at my messy house and my dirty dishes and saying "it's ok". I have no plans. My to-do list will wait. I have lots of plans and hopes for the summer. But not today. </p>Sara-Mae Dafoetag:saramaedafoe.com,2005:Post/66698332021-06-25T10:28:35-06:002022-05-23T05:22:59-06:00"Letters to Ben" Available NOW!<p>I almost can't believe it, but today is my EP release day! "Letters to Ben" is finally available to stream and download everywhere. I am mailing out a few dozen CDs to people as soon as I am finished writing this. Now anyone anywhere can find these songs and listen to my story - to our story. </p>
<p>The mixture of emotions is overwhelming. One minute I am happy and excited, the next I am filled with sorrow, tears of disbelief streaming down my face...still trying to understand how all this happened. Why all this happened. </p>
<p>Though there is a long list of "business" things for me to do as I navigate the world of being an independent musician, today I am choosing to follow my heart's lead. I am stopping and sitting, letting the tears come, letting the excitement bubble up. I want my music to do well. I want it to be heard and enjoyed and to spread as far as it can. But I can only do so much and today I need to allow myself to sit with my thoughts and feelings and just be. </p>
<p>When I have released music in the past, I have put on album release concerts. I have had all the excitement and nervousness of planning and putting on an event, of sitting at a piano on a stage in front of an audience and sharing my songs for the first time. </p>
<p>This project is SOOOOOO different, for so many reasons. The world is different. I'm different. I want to share these stories with you in person. I want to see the understanding in your eyes as I sing about my grief and it connects us as you reflect on your own. I want to tell you the stories...how these songs came to be. I want to tell you all about Ben...this person who had such an enormous impact on my life. </p>
<p>I have announcements of podcast interviews and blogs and videos and merch and all of those things. They are coming. But not today. Today I hope you will take some time to sit and listen. Listen to the songs. See who is brought to your mind...how these songs connect to you and your story. Where there is grief, allow it to come. When there are tears, let them fall. When a smile or a laugh comes, enjoy it. </p>
<p>And if you are so inclined, send me a message and tell me about it. Tell me about the person you are freshly grieving, or you lost long ago. Tell me about the person who is still alive but is far away from you now. Tell me how you feel when you remember that special moment when you met someone who changed you. </p>
<p>hello@saramaedafoe.com </p>
<p>I'm here. I'm listening. </p>
<p>💚 S<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/415815/5059a7eea205a1dd3b3e790f45017394d2e9fbe0/original/letters-to-ben-4.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_none" alt="" style="margin-right: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" /></p>Sara-Mae Dafoetag:saramaedafoe.com,2005:Post/66567352021-06-11T12:34:45-06:002022-05-20T08:56:33-06:00New Song - "Impossible" Lyric Video!!<p>Hey friends, </p>
<p>It is a big, messy, emotional day over here... I can hardly believe that it is release day for my single Impossible". More thoughts on that in the days to come. But for now....here is my Lyric Video! A labour of love!! </p>
<p>I hope you enjoy it, please like, comment, share, and subscribe. Your support is much appreciated! </p>
<p>💚 S</p>
<p><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="8hz6a_vRaec" data-video-thumb-url="https://img.youtube.com/vi/8hz6a_vRaec/mqdefault.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8hz6a_vRaec?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="180" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></p>Sara-Mae Dafoetag:saramaedafoe.com,2005:Post/66507562021-06-05T18:58:26-06:002023-12-10T09:54:15-07:00Release of "Letters to Ben" is COMING SOON!!!<p>Hello Hello!</p>
<p>Somehow it is already the month of June and I am just DAYS away from releasing the first song from my upcoming EP, "Letters to Ben"! I can hardly believe it!</p>
<p>Here's what you need to know...</p>
<p>The song "Impossible" will be available on Friday, June 11th anywhere you stream or download music! The lyric video will also be available on Youtube! </p>
<p>If you are a Spotify user, you can pre-save the song which helps me out a lot! <a contents="Click here to pre-save on Spotify!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://show.co/TtcpBZL">Click here to pre-save on Spotify!</a></p>
<p>The full 5 song EP will be available on Friday, June 25! </p>
<p>The best place to keep up to date with all the details is Instagram @letters_to_ben or on Facebook at <a contents="https://www.facebook.com/saramaedafoe" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/saramaedafoe">https://www.facebook.com/saramaedafoe</a></p>
<p>Thanks so much for following along and I can't wait for you to hear the new songs! </p>
<p><span class="font_regular"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/415815/9f98310ecb29c689e0376a621ee09a1b290edb7c/original/ltb-copy.png/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_center border_none" alt="" /></span></p>Sara-Mae Dafoetag:saramaedafoe.com,2005:Post/65661582021-03-05T15:00:22-07:002023-12-10T09:32:17-07:00Hello March!<p>I'm sure I am not the only one wondering where the last year went. March of 2020 was when things really changed here in Canada and it is crazy to think that a whole year has passed. Time has done that strange thing where it seems to both crawl slowly and fly by all at once.</p>
<p>I have been back at school since September, teaching in-person music classes with significant modifications. It has definitely been the hardest year of my career. I have the desire to continue working on my own music, but find that the demands of my job paired with the emotional burden we are all carrying right now is too much. I have struggled to find the energy and am trying to be kind to myself and not put so much pressure on myself all the time!</p>
<p>Though I am not sure how things will go, I feel that it is the right time to get back to it all and am gearing up to release my EP, "Letters to Ben". If you have not already checked it out, visit the <a contents="Letters to Ben website" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.letterstoben.com">Letters to Ben website</a> where I will be posting more about the process of finishing this project. Please also follow me on Instagram @saramaedafoemusic and @letters_to_ben </p>
<p>I hope you are all doing well and staying healthy! </p>Sara-Mae Dafoetag:saramaedafoe.com,2005:Post/64870712020-11-27T15:57:45-07:002022-05-21T03:09:10-06:00Happy Birthday to my Christmas Album!!!<p>Hello!</p>
<p>I cannot believe that it is already the end of November in the CRAZIEST YEAR EVER! </p>
<p>Today just happens to be the 2nd birthday of my little Christmas Album, "Unexpected Hallelujah"!!!</p>
<p>I was hoping to celebrate starting last night by kicking off my Christmas performance season. I had arranged to perform a number of times at a great event on a beautiful stage playing an incredible piano.... and then new restrictions were announced by our provincial government and those plans went out the window. </p>
<p>Despite being VERY disappointed, I am trying to keep it all in perspective. Easier said than done, as I'm sure you know. So I thought I would list a few of the WONDERFUL things floating around in my mind right now... </p>
<p>♡. My song "Emmanuel (God With Us)" is already on the air again this year in a number of places! If you have a Christian radio station where you are, feel free to request it! </p>
<p>♡. I have really amazing, beautiful memories of my album release concert on this day 2 years ago!</p>
<p>♡. Soon I'll be able to wear the "All the Jingle Ladies" sweater I picked up in the summer at a thrift store! Yes, it has actual jingle bells on it! </p>
<p>♡. Not having a bunch of performances means more pajama and Christmas movie time for me...</p>
<p>♡. I'm healthy. I'm exhausted (public school teacher in a pandemic is no joke, people!), but I'm healthy! </p>
<p>♡. I'm working on a Virtual concert video and planning some fun things for my social media leading up to Christmas. Everything might be different this year, but what did Buddy the Elf teach us, class?? "THE BEST WAY TO SPREAD CHRISTMAS CHEER IS SINGING LOUD FOR ALL TO HEAR."</p>
<p>♡. Despite all the many challenges, 2020 has been a year of unexpected blessings. God is good. </p>
<p>So, there you go! Tell me...what are some positives in your life right now? </p>
<p>Keep an eye on my social media for my virtual concert and other shenanigans coming soon! </p>
<p>Sending love and warm holiday wishes...</p>
<p>💚 Sara-Mae</p>Sara-Mae Dafoetag:saramaedafoe.com,2005:Post/63883912020-07-27T12:00:33-06:002023-12-10T11:43:09-07:00New Music is in the works!<p>Hello friends!</p>
<p>It has been a while... thank you so much to those of you who were able to tune in to my Facebook Live concert back at the end of May. I wanted to celebrate the third anniversary of my first album, "Flourish" and since I couldn't perform for you in person a virtual concert was the next best thing! If you missed it, or if you would like to watch it again head over to <a contents="my FB page" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/saramaedafoe">my FB page</a> and check it out! I would love it if you would follow me there, on Instagram @saramaedafoemusic, and of course right here on my website (you can even join my mailing list!).</p>
<p>Like the rest of the planet, this has been a really weird season for me. I work as an elementary school music teacher, so needless to say the whole pandemic shut-down definitely has taken a toll. I am grateful to have stayed healthy and have only gone moderately crazy from spending so much time alone! </p>
<p>I had gone to visit my amazing producer and dear friend Steve at the beginning of March and we had planned out the basics of my next project. Then everything shut down, so plans had to be put on hold. Then in June, we were able to make a plan to gather the band safely in the studio (yay isolated recording rooms!) and we got started! I will continue to share a bit about this new project right here, but for more details please follow along at <a contents="www.letterstoben.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.letterstoben.com">www.letterstoben.com</a> and on Instagram @letters_to_ben. </p>
<p>Stay safe everyone, and keep watching for more! </p>Sara-Mae Dafoetag:saramaedafoe.com,2005:Post/63546142020-06-15T19:58:19-06:002022-07-19T11:53:42-06:00I want to know about YOUR music listening habits!<p>Hey friends!</p>
<p>If you follow me on social media, you may have heard my exciting news.... I am back in the studio working on my next project! Hooray!!! I will share some photos and such soon, but for now I need your help! </p>
<p>The music industry continues to evolve and with it so do consumer habits. I have created a short survey on this topic that should only take you a few minutes to complete, if you are so inclined. It is anonymous; I'm not asking for any personal information at all. I am just curious about the music listening and purchasing habits of people in my network. </p>
<p>If you have a few minutes to help me out I would greatly appreciate it!</p>
<p><a contents="CLICK HERE to take the survey!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://us16.list-manage.com/survey?u=ce5d3ce71847527718dcf9426&id=7c15d2982f">CLICK HERE to take the survey!</a></p>Sara-Mae Dafoetag:saramaedafoe.com,2005:Post/62617012020-03-25T13:48:14-06:002022-05-23T01:40:28-06:00Checking in... <p>So...how is everyone doing? For real? Over the last couple of weeks things have changed so drastically. I am so tired of all the posts about this virus. I know it is important for people to be informed, but I also think that too much information (and too many opinions) can just end up fueling panic. </p>
<p>SO THAT IS NOT WHAT THIS POST IS ABOUT. </p>
<p>How are you coping with all of this? Any strategies to share that are keeping you sane? Anyone need to chat or vent? </p>
<p>Personally, I am doing ok. Not great, not terrible...just ok. I tend to spend quite a bit of time alone in my home anyway, so that isn't entirely new to me. I have many hobbies that I enjoy so I have no shortage of things to do. But....this sucks. I don't like to be told I have to stay home and be anti-social, I want staying home and being anti-social to be <em>my choice. </em>; )</p>
<p>In all seriousness though, as a deep feeler and an empath I am very aware of the emotional climate in the world around me and I feel overwhelmed and exhausted by all of it. I am processing through art and music, and trying to balance rest with productivity. Not an easy thing to do, and I'm sure you can relate. My diet, which is dreadful most of the time is somehow even worse... yikes! And with nothing but time on my hands, you'd think I could muster up the energy to be at least a little active...but that's a struggle too. </p>
<p>Right now I am just trying to be kind to myself. The whole world is going through a strange and terrible time. It's ok if it's hard. It's ok if it's confusing. It's ok if I eat dry froot loops by the handful right out of the box. Right?</p>Sara-Mae Dafoetag:saramaedafoe.com,2005:Post/61318372020-01-18T13:20:21-07:002023-12-10T11:59:21-07:00I can't call it Writer's Block...<p>I did some writing today. </p>
<p>It has been a while. Not because I haven't had ideas. There's no shortage of those. Is that what we mean when we say "writer's block"? That we haven't got any ideas? Or we can't find a way to articulate the ideas we do have, so they remain locked inside?</p>
<p>I started to ask myself "why do I avoid writing?", as if I didn't already know the answer.</p>
<p>And avoid writing, I sure have. For months and months, except for a few little tunes squeaked out here and there. The ideas come, and they come often. In fact, I have so many scraps of paper, so many thoughts scribbled down, I can hardly keep up with them. Organizing them seems impossible. Lyrics and chord progressions and melodies, but only bits and pieces. I guess I should give myself a tiny bit of credit...writing down the fragment of an idea has got to be part of the process, hasn't it? The hours I've spent distracting myself with other projects or zoning out by consuming the stories of others...I don't know if that can be counted as part of the process. Maybe. </p>
<p>I have rarely found the desire or the discipline to sit down and do the work, despite the fact that the desire to have these songs out of me is very much alive. And yet, knowing I have songs to sing and that writing them will heal me and that sharing them will nourish me just hasn't been motivation enough. Why???</p>
<p>I HAVE BEEN HERE BEFORE. </p>
<p>And I think that's why I avoid. I have been here before. Though I know the benefits, I also know the process. I know the pain. I know that when I find a way for all the hope and heartache and longing and lament to exist in a song...that when I finally wrestle it out of myself...that when I scrape up the money and pay to record it...when I quietly open my hands and let it go into the world...that's it. I have no choice but to let go. </p>
<p>The song will still be mine, but it also won't be. It will be anyone's. It will be yours, if you want it to be. And while that is just about the most beautiful thing in the world, it is also the most difficult. </p>
<p>I've had a very specific project started for many months now. I have a clear vision. I have more than enough to say (too much, in fact). I am confident enough in myself and in my abilities as a writer to just let the songs be what they are...I'm not interested in trying to turn them into something else...something that will sell or sound like anyone else. But...</p>
<p>Writing them will eventually mean letting them go. Letting the songs go will mean letting go of the person they are about. And there it is. Why do I avoid writing? Writing is letting go. Letting go hurts. </p>Sara-Mae Dafoetag:saramaedafoe.com,2005:Post/59970852019-12-08T19:27:07-07:002022-05-31T05:09:14-06:00Welcome to my new website!<p>Confession time: I am TERRIBLE at the internet. Like, so bad. </p>
<p>If you and I have ever had a conversation about anything internet related, I probably <em>acted </em>like I knew what you were saying, but I was probably faking it. </p>
<p>I started up my website a few years ago and somehow fumbled my way through making a semi-functional site. However, as I have grown as an artist and in my career, I tried to expand that same website and really struggled! </p>
<p>But I finally sucked it up and spent some time making a new one...and well, here we are! </p>
<p>Hope you like it! Feel free to look through and let me know what you think! </p>
<p>?Sara-Mae</p>Sara-Mae Dafoe