Goodbye 2021!

As we turn the page on yet another year, I find myself reflecting upon the whirlwind of emotions it has been. Wow! Where do I begin?!? 

The year commenced with a slow start and careful measures. We were still in the thick of it and there was no end in sight but only mere speculations. As the weather began warming up, so did our hopes for better days ahead. The vaccines became available and we were able to return to some semblance of normalcy. As opportunities arose once more, our hearts were bursting with excitement and gratitude. Moments of music and gatherings were precious, and careful, we were navigating the new « normal » with precautions, taking nothing for granted.

Often times, we were putting ourselves at risk. Promised precautionary methods were not always observed, sometimes very far from unfortunately. But once put in a situation, what can be done really? I came to terms with the risk that came with accepting a booking… I had to be prepared for the worst while hoping for the best of course. Besides, what was the alternative? Sitting the opportunity out and staying home yet again? A year and a half of that was already enough. And somehow this is what seems to be happening all over again. The year is ending with gig cancellations left and right. The arts are once again the first to be interrupted in their course.

Amidst it all, we have been very lucky to have been called to work in the first place. Some people lost everything. Some lost their loved ones. Some lost their lives. We were among the most fortunate ones.

This year was also filled with extraordinary moments of discovery, growth and beauty. Because there is always beauty amidst tragedy, just as the light seems to make its way through darkness, somehow. I was very fortunate to be in company of a real-life partner, with whom I got to experience living in the woods, playing music, cooking up a storm, taking a cross-country road trip, and who I was able to lean on during more challenging times. We also had 2 incredible hosts who helped us tremendously and we will be forever grateful to them.

This year also took the life of my maternal grand-parents. At which point I decided to take a hiatus from social media to preserve what was left of my sanity. I don’t know if this part has really been accomplished, ha! Overall, in a year filled with the highest highs and the lowest lows, I chose to focus on the positive, as my moto calls for. It was definitely not the year I was hoping for at the end of 2020 but no matter what, I end it with warmth in my heart. 

From a very out of the ordinary cross-country trip last Winter, to playing various Festivals, club dates and events, to the pleasure of reconnecting with friends, nature, with my family and my beloved Québec (at last!), I end it with cherishing the ability I had to experience all these moments wholeheartedly.

Goodbye 2021. You have been different.

As we begin another year with another surge in cases, I urge you all to take good care of yourselves and your loved ones. While it may be tough out there, make sure to enjoy precious moments and make the most of what you have. Please be gentle with yourself; that’s the best anyone can do in these times. Happy New Year, y’all!