Ahhhh..back home.. I just got back from a whirlwind trip to Memphis TN to join 2000 other musicians, music labels, festival booking agents, and anything else that could possibly have to do with the Folk industry. So, to say the least..i felt like a little pimple on the big butt of the world! How do you get yourself noticed? how do you maintain integrity and pride in what you do when there are a million others just like you out there. Well, let me tell, you...when you spend 4 days in a hotel with all of these people..your doubts run high and your encouragement runs low! Even the opening speaker Eliza Gylkinson - who I happend to be riding up in the elevator with says this conference can be depressing! and She has the utmost respect in the folk world! So..after that moment..i felt a little better. This journey I am on..nowhere was it written that it would be easy. Life just isnt easy. And the older i get, there's more proof in the pudding (what the hell does that mean anyway ha!). So I came home to my loving family..went thru all my contact information from the conference and realized I had gotten ALOT out of the conference. I took what was good for me, and left the rest in Memphis. I realized in my own little Jill Jack Camp that there were so many exciting opportunities, and avenues for me to go. I realized that God has a plan for JUST ME..and he has an individual plan for each and everyone of us. We can fight against the plan and make it really difficult for ourselves..or we can trudge along this sometimes really tough journey..grab those boot straps and move along on this dusty path - looking for signs - looking for direction, keeping our blinders on to not look back but just forward to the new experiences that await us and just embrace the fact that every experience is there for a reason. It doesnt always come wrapped in a pink bow or a green dollar bill, but it comes just the same. I am going to take the journey..walk with my head held high and just be so happy that God gave me a guitar, all 10 fingers to play with, a voice that withstands all the pollutants of this world, and a soul that is always thirsy and looking to be quenched.. Have a beautiful March everyone..spring is so close i can feel it... Much love

What a whirlwind of a year it has been so far! I know I haven't written in a dog's age. I usually try to write when I feel inspirational. And honestly, since New Year's Eve I hadn't felt inspirational. I spent New Year's Eve in ICU with my Dad. Isn't life so strange. It can take a turn when you least expect it! It just blows my mind that the ripple effect of one situation can move thru your entire life. Sometimes you just have to hold on so tight, even though the room is spinning (I always hated those tea cup rides!) and just know that no matter what happens..it happens, you are still alive, still breathing (well sort of) and the people that are my true friends and family are there to wipe my tears. The Ying and the Yang of the year so far has been incredible! One of the most exciting shows of my career so far was performing at the Ann Arbor Folk Festival. That is an honor in itself but the lin up was my ultimate dream come true. To be standing on the stage with Emmylou Harris, Shawn Colvin, Buddy Miller, Patty Griffin was mind boggling. I was like a kid with a crush..i could barely look at them, thinking that poof! they would just disappear and my i would be awoken from my dream. But as a very wise lady stated to me once - "honey, we all put our pants on the same way" Loretta Lynn 2007 Meadowbrook Show. I decided, during their set to really watch the interaction, the songwriter in them burst with passion and energy, and somewhere deep down in the pit of my stomach, I was proud! Proud to be a part of the circle, proud to be a songwriter, a creater, an artist. I move so much day to day, running like a maniac to be a good Mom, a good Daughter, a good wife, a good friend, a good business woman, a good band leader, that I don't ofent stop to just feel the musician inside myself. It kind of feels like an out of body experience when I look back to all the music I have written, created, performed, etc. because I am always moving forward toward the next challenge, the next good chorus, the next gig. So this night at the A2 Folk Festival gave me a moment of clarity. To truly enjoy my art. To be proud and to know that I can continue this journey for as long as I choose. It is up to God, of course, but as long as he keeps my lungs clear, my voice strong and the gigs coming..I will think of that night often and bring it forward to the present and share my gifts with you. Much love to all of you and stay warm. Jill

Wow so i go from not writing very often to back to back writing...ahhhh..so nice to have an outlet. I have kept a journal since i was about 9 years old. I remember sitting under a tree at our family cottage and writing in it. It was just a looseleaf folder, but as i got older, the sight of journals in beautiful bound leather would excite me and i would purchase those. And now look at me..i write a journal on line for many to see! ha! October is such a wierd month for me. And as I have been observing it seems to be a time of change for many. People seem restless, looking for change. Is it change of sesasons that cause this? Panic that winter is coming so we must move quickly before we all hibernate? Whatever the case may be, October is always a month of some sort of movement for me. It's almost an uncomfortable feeling...a feeling of a small panic that I can't get things done fast enough. I constantly say over and over again..one of my favorite verses of the bible "Be Still and Know that I am God"..because if I don't..I can't fall asleep at night. Musicians have a curse. I can't speak for other types of artists, but I am sure that the restlessness they feel is there also. It is a slow burning sensation that never goes away..it may lay dormant every now and then, but then you feel it start to simmer, than to boil over. It doesnt surprise me that Van Gogh cut off his ear..i mean don't worry about me..i keep the knives and scissors at bay ha ha! but it is this quiet insanity that if you don't express your art, it can literally eat at you day in and day out until you get it out of your system. I felt that way last week. I only had 2 weeks off from performing, but I had sleepless nights, panic attacks and question of self worth. All summer long I begged for time off, I prayed for it, my body craved sleep and rest, but then when i get this time, i can't relax! I finally wrote another song. I hadnt written one since August and it was freaking me out. Now mind you..some people write a song a year, but since I have always written song after song, a month span scared the daylights out of me! This song is the called the Child Within. It is a song basically about what I have written about today..trying to hush that child within that panics, that worries, that constantly is talking in your head! But at the end of the song..I tell that child to cry as loud as she can, run as fast as she can and stand tall..because time is fleeting..don't let fear, or self doubt stop you from figuring out your place in this world..everyone I MEAN EVERYONE! has a place in this world. Look around you when you are at the grocery store, or at the bank, or sitting at a red light..EVERYONE is SOMEONE..who has a purpose on this planet..big or small..but it's there...WHAT'S YOURS? much love to you this week....... Jill

ok, so i saw this quote on the board of my first weight watchers meeting..i know, you are all saying..weight watchers..but being as happy as i have been i have put on some unwanted pounds...i would love to say i am 20 years old and i can just jump on the treadmill and it will disappear in a week..but unfortunately i am no longer 20 and i cant run on the treadmill due to arthritis in my knee ha ha! so anyway..getting back to the quote i have chosen for this journal entry..it fits my mood as of late. The economy in Michigan sucks. I don't need to tell anyone that. This trickles down all the way to the pockets of the musicians. Bars stop the live music immediately when things are not looking so good. It makes sense, but it is a bummer for us. but i also feel this is an opportunity for me to do what i have been wanting to do. The bar circuit is a real tough road, and i have been doing it, for what feels like forever. As an independent musical artist who writes her own material, I have to psyche myself up big time to perform at the bars. If i had a dollar for everyone who screamed out bobby mcgee during my shows i would have alot more money in my pockets ha! I love performing with my band. The energy is so awesome. I also love the intimacy of performing solo, or acousitcally with billy. I guess where I am going with all this verbage is I have been doing more house concerts - it is an incredible feeling when you travel to another state - not knowing anyone and you sell out the shows - it maybe 25 - 50 - 100 or so, but the bottom line is you are meeting new people - new ears to hear the music and I am out of my safe zone. I hate living in a safe zone. Where you just play the same gigs over and over with no challenge ahead. This is not to say that i won't continue to play for Detroit fans. Absolutely I will! But in this State's economic situation, i would love all of you who are reading this to consider house concerts. They are all over the country and michigan is one of the last ones to truly embrace the idea. Think about it.. you ask friends and family (number depends on your house) every body donates $10, you just provide lite snacks, and everyone can bring drink of choice and the musician puts on 2 55 minute sets. It's an awesome time. No smokey bars, no sports tvs to distract attention, and you get a personal one on one with the artist. for more info go to www.concertsinyourhome.com just to give you more of an idea. On other news..It's been a rough week of disappointments. A couple of months ago I met with the Director of the Movie the Stretch Marks and she had stated that after talking to casting directors in L.A. that she felt it would be better if they go with a bigger name for the movie. I struggled with the news at first, but felt that everything happens for a reason. Carrying a movie is a huge responsibility and i would have been heart broken if it failed. So i understand. They are still using my music in the movie.. But speaking of music in movies.. This week at the Emagine Theatre they are doing a screen showing of the film Fork in the Road (go to http://aforkintheroad-themovie.blogspot.com/ ) where I will be witnessing my first film acting debut and also my music! I am excited and scared! but it will be awesome i am sure. I am working on the idea of an acoustic record. I am taking it slow and expect to see some of the new songs on my website. Especially "Live LIke There's No Tomorrow". People have been requesting that song for awhile now. I am also in the process of doing a video for it. Also the long awaited Jill Jack Live DVD should be out sometime this year..sorry for the delay..problems when I am in Detroit and the Production company is in Nashville..ya live and ya learn! much love to everyone and remember if you want the same results, keep doing the same things, if you want different results, change, change, change...it's a beautiful thang!!! see you soon! Jill

Well now that I have had a chance to get home and get caught up on things (ha! not hardly..but can't blame a girl for wishing can ya!). As most of you know..I got married almost 2 weeks ago! It was as many of my friends are saying a fairty tale wedding. To start off, the day was one of those most beautiful Michigan days that make you realize that you are so lucky to live in Michigan. The sun was beautiful, skies sooooo blue...and no humidity! We got married on a sunday afternoon..oustide with white chairs lined along either side of a cobblestone walkway where my daughter Emma walked down as my maid of honor to Israel Kamakauio'ole's version of Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World.. ok...Neither I nor Em cry alot..polish tough blood I guess.but we were losin it! Then it was my turn..gulp! I just took a deep breathe and I just couldnt believe how everything looked so beautiful..all my closest friends and family were there..and I walked down to "Home" by Chantal Kreviazuk and then the tears flowed..I looked at my man Roger and life just floated by..not to sound corny or wierd..but I swear..i didnt feel anything but the love of God, Rog, my family and friends and life was just so darn good. The ceremony was awesome and Our Pastor Pam Pangborn performed the most meaningful ceremony I have ever witnessed. We then all went into the Longacre House - which was where the ceremony took place. It is a 1869 old Mansion - we used the living room with the huge fireplace to seat about 70 some people..the Library was set up as a bar - wonderful bartender and great staff - especially Gloria who was our coordinator for the day and just kept the ball rolling. After the festivities my friends and some of the family went back to my parents house where we sang with the radio ha! opened presents and ordered pizza (thanks to Emma). Two days later Rog and I were off to our honeymoon in Riviera Maya, Mexico! Wow - such a beautiful place - so romantic and just great to exhale and chill out (well not really chill as it was about 95 - but by a pool with these drinks called Miami Vice - you really don't feel the temps!). I have had alot of requests to put pics up of my wedding. Michael my wonderful photographer took 1,000 pics and he still has to do whatever it is photographers do..so hang tight..we probably will put one or two on the site. We came back on Monday and I was back at the performing again by Wednesday - it was at the Detroit Zoo where I saw so many of my loyal fans, and alot of new ones too! Thanks everyone for coming out! It was great to see the boys in the band (you should have seen them all in suits at my wedding..hot hunks ladies - those boys can clean up!). My schedule is not totally up to par..gotta get everything in order. I wrote two songs today..ahhhhh...I think it was the fact that my wedding planning is done, no gigs this weekend (what??!!) and i just felt so at peace. I definitely want to take some quiet time to get back to writing. I am also playing around with the idea of writing a book. That will take a lot of time and planning..so dont go looking for that toooooo soon! Much love to you all - and thanks for all your well wishes and prayers for a beautiful wedding day..it was magical..the best word...magical.. Have a great weekend - I know I will! Jill

Wow! I have had a whirlwind of gigs, etc. After beeing down with bronchitis for 2 months I jumped in full force with shows. I performed in Ypsi to a standing ovation crowd..big shout out of thanks to Billy and Mark Iannace who joined me for the Crossroads concert. Then off to another wonderful experience. The Carrick run Nor'Eastr Festival in Mio. I performed 5 different times with all different setups - solo, duo , full band and I closed the show out with an impromptu of all any musicians who would come to the stage and sing harmonies, play fiddles, mandos, guitars, banjo's..you name it they were there! We had beautiful weather all weekend and my aunt and uncle came up with their RV and fed the band! Great cooks..even a bandmate spent the night on their couch! This week is a bit hectic. I am trying to take one day at a time so i dont have a mega anxiety attack. I have my first shoot for the movie Fork in the Road which I portray a waitress. Small bit part (thank god!) to get my feet wet for the next movie I will be shooting end of this year The Stretch Marks where I will have the lead role. so breathe and breathe i shall! Tomorrow I will be heading to the State Capitol to testify in front the the House Commerce Committee in support of the Campaign for Smokefree Air in Michigan! I always say..everything happens for a reason! that is why i was stuck in the house for 2 months with bronchitis! You can always turn a bad experience into something good! God has a plan..if you want to make him laugh..tell him yours ha! I will be alo passing out Smoke Free Air window clings at my shows so grab one to support this great cause. I have alot on my plate, but I am surrounded by people who love and support me. This summer is going to be soooo busy..but the most beautiful day of all will be my wedding day. I will be getting married this summer to the most wonderful man on the planet! There are people out there who support you and believe in you and accept you for who you are -I never really knew that until I met my man! So to get me thru this crazy schedule..I just hold on to the thought of our wonderful wedding and oh yeah!!! the honeymoon..whoooo hooo! can't wait for that either! a beach and NO GIGS! I wish love and peace and peace of mind! to you all this summer. Enjoy every minute of it! Much Love - Jill

It's been a bit since I wrote..and since I have emerged from my bed after 7 ungodly sick days due to Bronchitis (a singer's best friend NOT!)..I thought I would write. This weekend was a bummer. I had to cancel my show at Memphis Smoke and once again retreat to the couch with cough medicine and a killer heating blanket. Health is such an amazing thing, and when you don't have it, it truly forces you to let go and you have to give in to the fact that you have no control over anything except which side of the pillow to sleep on! So I do apologize to those who came to the show..I have never..in 12 years canceled a show at Memphis Smoke. I have sung thru strept throat, the flu, deaths in the family, etc..so this was a really uncomfortable feeling for me..but my sister yelled at me and said "you have to take care of yourself..Shit..Eric Clapton canceled his Palace show!" I couldnt even imagine how that would feel ugh! Today I actually got out and saw the Sun! and got to experience my first "read thru" of a movie script. During my acting classes at The Purple Rose I met a Director who asked if she could use some of my music in her upcoming indie short film. I was really excited to do this. Then she asked if I would be in the movie also! So now I will have two movies (independent) under my belt in the next two years. It is such a different world, as I have said in previous journal entries. But it is so exciting to do something new. I love my music and that is who I am, but isnt it nice to expand! I have to feel fresh things in my life. I need challenges..but after being sick for the last two weeks..it was nice to step out of the running in the mad race of life and just sit out for a little while. Whether I knew it or not, I guess I needed a break and my body was screaming for it. I have never slept so much in my life! But now on the road to recovery and this week I will be on Channel 7 promoting the Detroit Music Awards that will be held at the State Theatre on April 20. I would like to say thanks to everyone who did vote for me. I had a writer from a newspaper ask me if it ever gets boring. It definitely always feels good to receive nominations and awards..but it is really fun to think back to that first nomination or the first win. It's been a long run in Detroit and I look forward to sharing the music in other parts of the country. Thanks for watching my back people! Much love and Happy Spring.. Jill

What an amazing time I have been having of late! Since I last wrote, I have had 2 acting classes and 1 rehearsal of my first scene for the class! My first class I was so nervous..my heart was in my throat the entire time! I couldn't breathe and totally knew that I would forget my monologue. I chose a monologue from Butterflies are free..it was kindof a tongue and cheek choice as the character's name was Jill and she was talking about marrying a man name Jack. To say the least, I blew the monologue due to nerves..the director asked me to sing..ahhhhh my comfort zone! He said he learned alot about me from just that moment..ofcourse not telling me what he learned about me..which ofcourse I obsessed about til 3:00 in the morning! The next class was great and now I am starting to feel the groove of it. I have been cutting Jingles for LIttle Ceasars and just been having some awesome solo acoustic shows all over Michigan. The arts are really where I just feel so at home. To trust yourself is the hardest thing sometimes. All these experiences cause me to jump into the fire and just believe that I will be alright. I have learned so much about myself in the last couple of weeks. One thing I totally learned is that I have been spoiled the last couple of years, being extremely comfortable on stage (which I know I have earned due to the amount of gigging and persevering) but when I was thrust into a "non-comfort zone" it was a great reality check that I have so much more to learn about life. The options are endless! Isnt that exciting! I mean, I am 44 years old and every now and then I think I know everything (ha ha) and I love to get that reality slap in the face that says "wake up girl...life is just beginning..again, again and again!" To be humble enough to realize it can be a human sacrifice at times, but let me tell you..it feels so refreshing and innocent feeling...scary but inviting. I wrote a new song a couple of weeks ago stimulated by a bartender at one of my gigs who stated this wasn't her first rodeo.. The song suits me well these days. It is called "This Ain't my first rodeo"..I love being this age. I have lived thru so many "rodeo's" and yet as I wrote in the chorus "it ain't over 'til the fat lady sings"..I have yet so much more to experience..so many more suprises.. Wishing you a plentiful amount of suprises on your journey..think outside the box and enjoy... Much Love to All Jill

Well, today I embark on yet another interesting chapter in my life! Acting classes!! ugh...I am so nervous...but I am always nervous about something..so why not something new! What a whole different world acting is next to my crazy comfortable music world. It's really exciting to venture into something you know absolutely nothing about (except as a witness in a movie theatre). For those of you who don't know, I am going to be the lead in a feature film that will start filming in 2008. To be good at anything takes preparation...so..alas..acting classes. I am really excited about checking out the Purple Rose Theatre, and already the people there have just been so warm. Just like I would have pictured it. I have to do a 1 minute comedic monoluge..totally memorized..omg..half the time I dont even remember my name, but thanks to the assistance of Emma and my man Rog...I have learned the monologue (and so have they! ha ha!). So..I will keep you posted on how the new endeavor is going. Keep an eye on my website as there will be updated benefits for the film company One of Us which is a non-profit organization. The Live DVD should be wrapped up in a month or so. I'll keep you posted on a release. I am also working on the soundtrack right now for the movie..so everyone say a BIG prayer that the creative God above sends down some awesome material! Also say a prayer for Billy and Emma. They both will be having surgery. Billy's is tomorrow and Emma's is Thursday. Billy's is on his shoulder, torn rotater cuff...Em is an ACL tear..same surgeon doing both (billy the ginny pig..if the doc does well then I will take em in just kidding!) Everyone hang in there the sun is out today and hints of spring aren't too far out of our reach! much love - Jill

Good morning to all...it is a very cold morning..even though I swore Chuck Gadica said it was going to be in the 50's this week, I haven't quite felt it.. I haven't written in my journal in forever...so sorry to all that read it. I just like to write when I feel inspirational. And I hadn't quite felt that way, so I chose not to. I am sure there are many of you out there dealing with ailing parents. My mom had back surgery a month ago and she was put in a nursing home for rehab. Wow...that's a trip. The thing is, I actually worked in nursing homes on my summer breaks when I was a kid, as my dad is a doctor, so i was surprised at my reaction. I guess seeing a loved in there is just totally different. And I also think, I am 20 years older then I was when I worked there...so it made me think of getting old myself. The funny thing is, I was like...ok...so let's say I get really old and can't live in the comforts of my own home...being the forever optimist I thought...well..I know what I would do..if God willing, I still had the use of all my limbs, and my fingers weren't too arthritic...I would be like...did you ever see the movie Cocoon? There' s this one elderly woman who got everyone to jazzercise...that would be me..and then I would put on concerts with other elderly musicians...hell..for all i know billy might even be in there and we could jam..if we remembered the lyrics to anything by then..we'd have the nurses type the lyrics out in font 82 and we would be alright.. In all seriousness...I kept hearing that WHO song in my head...hope i die before i get old..but you just don't know what you might miss.. I saw these two..old..i mean really old..people sitting in the communal dining room and they were snuggling on eachother's neck and were holding hands...my dad said that they probably met in the nursing home...so ya just never know.. My life is so blessed with love, great friends and family, including one amazing kid..thru this holiday season I continue to thank God for everything I have. In a society where it seems to be the view of have not's..I just notice that when I really start counting my blessings and truly be thankful for them...i am overflowing with peace... Much love and Merry Christmas, Happy Hannuckha (billy how do you spell this?) and Happy every other Holiday that is shared this time of year... Jill Jack

A fan named Brian Forsgren drew this:

and now is going to make t-shirts up to wear this Saturday to my show at Memphis Smoke (where we'll be video taping live). awesome job Brian!

This is a quote from Eleanor Roosevelt. I loved that woman! Her quotes are amazing to me. As I sit here on my couch with sniffles from yet another cold! I look at this quote. I think of all the hidden fears I have in my life. And how I have had thru these years barrelled thru alot of my fears..like walking thru a fire without getting burned. You learn alot about yourself when you force yourself to do things that scare you. Heading to Nashville last week and facing the schedule I had in Nashville and when I got home..it kept me up a few nights let me tell you! But there is always this little fighter inside my soul that tells me to keep going, to keep, keepin on. Head forward and don't look back. Thank God that little fighter is louder than the constant nay-sayer that is always talking in my head also! The ride on the plane to Nashville was like something out of a dream. First of all ~ i was in the NWA inflight magazine and I was excited to see it while I was sitting on the plane. I got on early to board my guitar..and then the girl I was rooming with in Nashville boarded the plane and I whispered to her "check out page 40 of the NWA magazine" and she yelled out "Oh my god are you in it?" which caused everyone to look up and then ask a bunch of questions. Thank God she did that because the woman sitting across the aisle from me was Pam Lewis - the woman known to have started with Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood bringing them to stardom. She was such a cool lady. easy to talk to - we laughed and talked about life, our backgrounds, where she had been and what she has done, and she was genuinely interested in my career. She started rattling off a ton of people to call while i was in nashville and also people in Detroit that could help me too. I said "ya know what's wierd about this whole thing is I was supposed to be sitting in another seat but the baggage man moved me up 9 rows" and she said " too wierd because they moved me too!" So we both believed in fate, and in signs..She took me under her wing for the rest of the week and introduced me to a broadcasting company, and another artist who asked me to join him on his showcase at BBKings! Jamie Sue Seal is the one I have to truly thank...she was the one who asked me to come out to do the Showcasing at the Americana Music Association Conference. We got to share the stage with the great Ron Block of Allison Krauss' Band and Will Kimbrough from Rodney Crowell's band. I got to chat with people like Alejandro Escovedo, and got to see practically everyone I love at the Ryman Auditorium for the AMA Awards! Especially Buddy Miller jammin on his guitar. My music felt at home with the Americana family and I am just so blessed to be a part of such a great association! I flew home excited and anticipating a pretty busy weekend with the band. We had a great show at Fishbones in Detroit, got up early to be on Fox 2 Sunday Morning ugh! to promote the Ferndale Food and Fine Arts Festival that we performed later that afternoon to an amazing BIG crowd that showed up! And now this week - another fun filled week where i get to visit the big stage again at DTE (Pine Knob to the die hard fans hee hee!). Please come out to the show on October 7th where we will be taping the show to use for a Live DVD/CD. It will feature some of the new tunes that you have been requesting I record - Especially "Live Like There's No Tomorrow". Hope to see you all there and thanks for all those who sent their prayers and best wishes for my trip to Nashville - God was listening! Much Love Jill

It has been such a long time since I have entered anything into my "jill's journal"...my apologies truly! My schedule has been jam packed with such great shows. The month of July and August was a blur! I am not sure where to begin...so I guess I will start with what is most fresh in my mind...Loretta Lynn. As I sat watching her, my eyes filled with tears. Here is this woman who has recorded...I think I read...70 albums! Could you imagine! Especially when fans usually ask me when they see 6 sitting out at a table..."which one is your best?" ha! Opening up for Loretta was such (not to sound cliche) an honor. I mean, this woman has been everywhere and has really lived the life. The one thing I loved the most about her show is that she was surrounded by family. She had her daughters singing with her, her granddaughter, and her son. The band was awesome and her relationship with her audience...it was like she was sitting in each and everyone of their living rooms just singing any song they wanted to hear and chatting away. When I started this career, I had been in alot of bands. One of the things I had made a mental note of is never to get the "Rock Star" mentallity. It felt stupid to walk around and go "oh yeah man, I am in a band". I just wanted to sing, I just wanted to connect with my audience. And most of all it was way too much work for me to try to be a "Rock Star". I just wanted to be me. Stay real. I have said so many times..and as corny as it may sound...I love people. I love meeting people. The human race is so interesting to me. Everyone is so different, but yet we all are looking for the same thing. Contenment, Love, Peace, success and the small little joys that come along..you can read it in a person's eyes when you shake their hand..if you are looking close enough. I watched these people watch her. I felt the warmth of her audience as I walked on that stage at Meadowbrooke. They embraced me with Love and encouragement..which just helped me shine all the more. I am truly blessed. I have experienced so many things I always imagined but you never know what will come to fruition and what won't. But I do know this much, the stage makes me so happy. It calms me. Performing is something I need, and to know that I could do this until I die..what more could a girl ask for. Thank you Loretta Lynn for opening my eyes to an even bigger future. Much Love to all of You ~ Jill

Quote from: Theodore Roosevelt. This is an amazing quote from Teddy don't you think? One thing I am always at battle with myself is to put my head down..sometimes way down in the sand and tell myself that my dreams are too big, too hard to reach, to tiresome to achieve. But the restlessness inside me won't be still...won't remain silent for long...so I pull my head from the sand and dust myself off and hit the road. The road of my dreams, the journey that God expects me to take, demands that I take. To grab hold of the dreams as if they were a shooting star and I was holding on to the tail of that star going for the ride of my life. I know I always write about how short life is and how we really need to do all we can with the gifts God gave us while we are here. Well, it just can't be said enough. I have to admit, last night at my gig...I was tired...i mean, really tired. And i have been fighting this stupid bronchial asthma thing or just plain allergies ~ don't even know! but all i know is I had to sing 2 hours to a couple of hundred people and act like my lungs were working. I kept tensing up and the more I tensed up the worse it got and i just couldnt get into the music as much as I wanted too. Then it dawned on me...stop fighting it...stop trying to control it...ease up...look at the beautiful sky, the kids running around freely dancing to the music...the older man sitting with his eyes closed swaying to my songs...and peace came over me, gratefulness came over me, and I thanked God for another glorious gig! Thank you all for continuing to support me and the boys. I currently hired an assistant...Maren..she is a beautiful human being with a great zest for life and has the best sense of humor! We are working together to create a tour in the fall..it's time people...I will continue to be a Detroit mainstay, but it is time...keep us in your prayers as we approach this endeavor. It is going to be the time of my life...again! Much Love to all of you...

Well...God made them come true. It has been amazing month. I can't tell you how blessed I feel and how I am trying my hardest to keep my feet on the ground and keep my head out of the clouds...that's what friends are for! I went out to dinner with them last night. My closest dearest friends...the ones I write about alot (our chickfest vacations). We have know eachother for over 20 some years and if you want to be grounded - hang out with the ones that love you - the ones that remember you at 15 - the ones you can totally just let your hair down and be stupid if you want to! I can't get over the success of the show at the Ark. My trip to Nashville was also such an amazing experience. I flew out by myself and arrived in Nashville on a Friday afternoon. It was a beautiful sunny day and took a cab to the historical Union Station Hotel. My room was cozy and the hotel was magical. I was so excited to "not be working" that I ordered room service!!! and a movie - chilled out til my good friend Jamie Sue Seal called and we went out to see an incredible songwriter Radney Foster at a club called 3rd and Lindsley. It was a great show...I sat at the bar and just watched this band unfold into some great material and realized how blessed I was to be able to play music too...what a life! The next day I woke up and walked down Broadway...this strip is just kicking with music coming out of every venue. I went in to Ernest Tubb's Record Store. It had a rustic smell to it...photographs of a very young Loretta Lynn, Patsy, and so many others it was so moving to see all these hard working, busting ass women...It gave me so much emotional juice to store in my bones...to know that you just keep going - keep perserveering. I realized as i was walking down the street that my pace was slow and steady. At peace. It felt so good to walk the streets of Nashville. I met up with Julianne and Greg from Redhill around lunchtime and we had a great time sitting at...shoot...can't remember the name of the restaurant..but we were outside high up looking over Broadway. Great view...when all of a sudden I see this cowboy...but wait...a very dark haired, bearded cowboy walking down the street with a beautiful woman..oh...do my eyes truly see - It was Billy Brandt doting an awesome cowboy hat and Nicole, his girlfriend, looking hot as usual. I noticed that they had the same kindof peaceful laid back walk now that they had a chance to walk the streets a bit too. We all had a nice chat. I ended up going to church at St Mary's the oldest church in Nashville. It was so beautiful. That night I went and saw songwriters and bands at a place called the French Quarter. It was great to see the diversity. I went home kindof early so that I could get a good night sleep before the BIG show at the Bluebird. I was so nervous for that show. The next day my good buddy Tony from Detroit came by the hotel and took be by the Bluebird - I needed to know what time I was going on...but no luck as no one was there. But I got to see the place before I had to perform, so that eased my nerves a bit. When we finally did get to the gig (early!) I found out that I would be the 8th songwriter out of 9! But it was fine by me and we had an amazing time on that stage! I just sang my heart out! A fan and so much more of a friend Jill flew in from Detroit to surprise me...Her family is from TN and they were all there! so it was a warm cozy vibe in the room. my favorite to perform. We went out that night all of us to celebrate - and then I had a big meeting with Sony Monday morning before I was to head home...It was a TRIP! to walk thru those doors! Seeing all these great artists photos on the wall. I had to go thru a few doors to get to my destination. I would like to give a shout out this great guy who was one of the assistants...he said "can I get you anything while you wait" and all I could get out my mouth was "oxygen". He said..."oh, that's easy...just take a deep breath in and let it out..you'll be fine". And with that I was whisked into another office area and then finally to my destination with a wonderful A&R guy. What a warm and friendly person he was. It was a very successful meeting and I don't want to jinx it so...let's leave it at...keep praying...cause things are looking good. And back in Detroit I came...had a wonderful time on WCSX with my great friends Stewart Francke and Frank and Matt from the Wrenfields. Then the Detroit Music Awards...another jittery night! But I settled in and had an unbelievably successful night - Billy won right off the bat!!! Folk instrumentalist...do you know how much this guy practices a day??? ok do I ever pick up my guitar except to write and perform live - so GREAT JOB BILLY BOY! I went on to win 5 out 6 and I just took it all in. It feels good after you bust your ass. This isnt an easy life - but no one has it easy. I am so blessed to be able to continue to do this in Detroit. The fans and other musicians were so kind to me at the awards. It was so great to feel the Detroit community and the bond that we all have. It was a magical night. Hoedown tomorrow and the Pistons beat the Cav's so I am resting better! one more game right? So God has been so good to me. I am sure if you come to a show...you might just see my feet leave the ground a few times...I am flying on a magical trip and trying to enjoy every moment of it and still know the importance of life...Family, Friends, Give more, expect less, remove hatred - send out peace, Love like there is no tomorrow. Much Love to all of you - Jill

I read this quote the other day in a magazine. It was a quote from Joel Osteen a very inspiration preacher. It is sometimes hard to be who you are. Looking around and seeing others and comparing yourself. But these words meant so much to me as I approached my show at the Ark this weekend. And waht a show it was! I realize that in my own quirky way I am an overachiever. But I don't think that necessarily that is a bad thing. I wanted to sell out the show. It wasn't sold out...but boy was it packed. I had to force myself to stop focusing on the non-sellout issue and embrace the fact that the Jill Jack Band put on one of the best shows they have ever done. I love my band - oy the drama, the tension, the personalities, but once we step out onto that stage we become one. A unit that is so strong. You can feel the love between all of us and the team work it takes to get this machine off the ground and into the stratosphere that only musicians understand - then we grab a hold of the hands of the audience and take them for the ride of their lives. It was a beautiful night - My daughter Emma walked on that stage with so much more poise at 14 then I have ever had and the confidence of Aretha Franklin. She got her first standing ovation ...and I saw that look in her eye...the one that gets me out of bed everyday to do this musical journey and I though uh oh! And as Ron, my drummer put it, "as a father figure I don't want you to go into this business...but...you got the goods girl". And with that I know I lost my little one to the music business... God blessed us last night, in all our craziness at soundcheck. We rocked the house and it was another dream come true. Much love to all who came out to support such a magnificent night!! Everyone have a great week - pray for me in Nashville next week... Much Love - Jill

On the road again...actually just got off the road! And what a trip! You know those lists that you always see floating around somewhere...telling you the things you should do in your life to make it better...like travel somewhere you have never been once a year? Well that's what I am trying to do. I actually would like to squeeze in about 3 places a year...if that money tree leaves would fall more often I would! But I just took the most beautiful trip to South Carolina. I had never been to the Carolinas, never driven that route before. Oh how beautiful. I stuffed two teenagers (one was mine and the other - her friend) into my Dad's Suburban-thanks Dad! and off we went with MAPQUESTand a compass...nothing like really handing the wheel over to God! I want to be a spokesperson for mapquest. It worked right down to the centimeter of a mile I swear! On our way down, my daughter and her friend played DJ and much to my surprise had some amazing selections of music. Well rounded and diverse - so hats off to them. During the travels I actually realized how much of a multi-tasker I am...I was driving with my knee (sorry dad) and playing percussion with my left hand and foot and writing (on the back of the mapquest directions) a new song...singing (while some other band was blaring thru the car stereo). The road always helps me write...it is so freeing. Thank God it wasnt a long song, trying to drive a Suburban with just your right thigh thru orange barrels in Ohio can be peereeetttty tricky! We got to our destination - Myrtle Beach and for some reason I thought I would have the beach to ourselves (forgetting that there were actually other people on spring break as well). So once I got over my shock that I would be surrounded by teenagers and...well...just people in general...I rented a cabana with two chairs, sat out looking at this amazing ocean and thanked god for getting us there in one piece! Every morning I woke up...made coffee OF COURSE! and took it on the beach and went for the most beautiful walks. The sun was perfect everyday. I didn't answer my phone calls (sorry all of you who called and said...I know you are on vacation but...)sometimes you just have to totally check out ya know? So a whole week of beautiful beach, swimming in the ocean, reading on the beach, etc...and then the drive home. It was a beautiful drive home...I could have lived without the last hour or so...something about the Ohio turnpike at midnite just doesnt float my boat. But I made it! and now back to this whoaaaaa! schedule of mine! There is a buzz...I feel it...don't know if I am ready for it...but I feel it. Never quite ready for it...but just jump on the train...hold on tight...and everything will be alright (sounds like a new song eh?)... Much love to you all and hope to see you at the Ark in Ann Arbor on the 29th of April...don't want to miss it...I have one of my really good feelings on this one! Much Love - Jill Jack

Do you ever feel like you are just floating thru as a spectator of your own life...watching it unfold in front of you. Sometimes in awe of how things work out? That's how I feel lately. I think, mainly, I credit it to my faith...we really don't have control of what happens to us, we can get in the way of it sometimes, or alter it, or just plain screw it up, but for the most part - if you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans (great song by a guy named Billy Mann). I have been pushing my record now for 5 months. There is still so much I have to do. Sometimes I feel that life is just a "catch up" game...and my bed feels so good...that sometimes I miss the "race". Isn't everyone just trying to find balance? What we need in life - like oxygen and water - is love, contentment, passion, drive, and a smile to get you thru it all. I am my biggest critic, a bit of an overachiever who constantly is restless. But yet, my bed feels so good that sometimes the race doesn't interest me. When I woke up this morning, the sun was shining thru my window - a beautiful glow, I was looking at the palm of my hand, realizing that noone has the imprints of my hands, that we are all such unique individuals, that the lines I traced on my hands all made me who I am. My own pace, my own agenda, and God's plan to mix it all up and leave me waiting, hoping and all the while still at peace, knowing that no matter what happens in life...I will be alright :) Much Love to all of You in Your Journey...

Although I was very happy to see 2005 go...I didn't make any resolutions for 2006. I mean, I did have goals that I wanted to reach, and personal achievements on the emotional side, but I figured...well it's only February..I've got time. But something surged in me and I got moving. Like God was pushing me along, even though my couch felt realllllly comfortable for the month of January! I had a flood in my house last week, and a good friend of mine, Mitch, told me that metaphysics says a flood in your house represents a "cleansing"...God knows I needed a "cleansing". Since the flood so many of my goals have come to fruition. I had to go to rehearse with David Mosher for my show in Toledo, and as I was driving back to Detroit, I was stuck at a light. I looked around, I love Ann Arbor (that's where David lives) and I looked to my left, and there was the Ark - just kind of staring at me. I said, soon my friend, I will play there, and then I had a flood the next day in my house, and the Ark called the same day (get it ...flood...ark...do you see the connection Noah??) I was so baffled, and happy. And then last night I got an email that I will be performing at the Blue Bird Cafe in Nashville. I don't have a confirmed date yet, but I know that will be a Sunday Night Songwriter Showcase, so I will definitely have it listed on my schedule! Life is so full of ying and yang, my mood swings have been like that too! So many changes in my life, so fast, I guess as you get older that's what happens. I just thought things slow down for a person as they get older, but boy was I wrong! I am so blessed with so many really truly good people in my life, and the ones that weren't good for me have fallen away. Sometimes you just don't know they weren't good for you until they are gone. I guess what I am truly saying here is EMBRACE your life - put your arms around it, good, bad and indifferent! It's what makes it your life! Wish me luck in Austin! Much Love to you ALL -

Happy New Year! 2006...that sounds strange to me. But I don't think 2005 ever sounded right either! As I sit on my couch in the most comfortable clothes I own, my voice is hoarse, my body sore, I don't feel as "reflective" as I have in past New Year's Days... I have to be honest. I usually am very nervous performing on New Year's Eve. It is always this overly anticipated night to have "fun" or feel different than another night. I feel responsible for the fans. Like, if I don't do well, that is their first memory of the new year. So all day yesterday, my energy level was off the charts. I had a huge buzz going on in my veins. I tried to nap before the show, didnt happen. When I got to the gig, I felt better. Cool vibe of people in the room. Some very familiar fans, some new fans, some fans I haven't seen in awhile. The band was so good. We tried a bunch of new stuff, We jammed and had family and friends around us...so as midnite approached, I closed my eyes, said a prayer and said goodbye to 2005. I welcome 2006 with hope and courage and not too long of a to do list, but hope that I can truly enjoy the journey this year with grace, dignity and strength. Bless all of you - Happy New Year...

I just got back from a beautiful weekend up north. Billy and I went up a day early and learned a bunch of new tunes and I got to catch up with some dear friends who live in Charlevoix. I have decided to embrace winter this year. This is a new one for me!! But a young friend of mine sent me an ecard with a beautiful message about the gift of being able to see the miracle and beauty of nature, the backdrop of winter and how it is like a work of art. So I took a different approach as I was walking in the snow this weekend - instead of grumbling about how cold it was, I chose to observe the snowflakes, feel the crispness of the wind on my face and it was refreshing! It was actually very energizing. Watching the white caps on Lake Michigan and the silver of the sky - it was as if life was dormant, yet peaceful...taking a break from the hustle and bustle of spring and summer and just hiding under the blankets of snow and resting. Thanks to everyone who came to see us at the Noggin Room. It was a great audience and we really enjoyed ourselves. We threw in some of the tunes we learned over the weekend to a very receptive audience and I thank you. The year is coming to an end. So much has changed in my life in one year. That's one of the reasons I picked the quote above...It wasn't a perfect year, but life isn't perfect, it had so many surprises, so many great memories, travels, challenges, triumphs, love, loss, creative goals that were met. As we drove home today, back downstate, the snow falling so peacefully, I smiled at the thought of a lyric I wrote in the song Miss Emmy Lou - "another road ahead, the highway seems so long, watch the trees go by..." Still on a road, still on a path, the road is long, the journey still the experience, the destination unknown... Much Love -

Well, a day late and a dollar short! But it does come from the bottom of my heart! Happy Thanksgiving to one and all! I woke up yesterday morning and the snow was blowing - talk about white squall! I don't know about you, but there is always this weird anticipation for me when it comes to the holidays. The days designated - most likely - to be surrounded by family. Years of tradition, years of memories, baggage, all sorts of emotions run thru me. I woke up...as I was saying...laying in my peaceful blue bedroom, feeling very cozy and melancholy. I was reflecting on the name of the holiday that I was about to jump into. Thanksgiving. I made a list of all the things I could be thankful for. Sometimes it is easier to see what we don't have, than what we do have. So, number one on my list was Thankful for Thanksgiving! That day forced me to make a list! Then I woke Miss Emma up (my very groggy teenager) and had her do the same. Our lists were similar, but different and in different order of things of importance. Then we got dressed and went to my parents where the ladle has been handed down to me to officially take over Thanksgiving dinner from my parents who for some 40+years have always cooked at their house. (ok, so they couldnt totally let go of it! It was still at their house, but I did the cooking) withy my 4'11" mother standing over me every inch of the way hee hee! As the day unfolded and all anticipation dissipated, I had a very mixed emotional feeling of exhaustion and peace come over me. Tummy full, dishes done, I had experienced another holiday full of memories, baggage, and tradition (some new ones!). This is life. I wish you all love, peace of mind, patience and an inner-strength this holiday season. May all your wishes come true... Much Love~

"Your best will depend on whether you are refreshed in the morning or tired at night. Your best will be different when you are happy as opposed to upset, or healthy as opposed to sick. Under any circumstance, simply do your best, and you will avoid self-judgement, self-abuse and regret." Don Miguel Ruiz. Hi there! I am feeling much better than the last time I wrote, although the last 4 weeks could have been one of those tacky country songs, love lost, pappa sick, cat got run over by a truck...swear! all these things happened, but...time heals. I didn't try to be wonder woman. I just took care of my parents, did the best I could with what energy I had left for my child and tried to cheer up my dog, Charlie who lost his best friend Prescilla (my cat!). Mortality is all around me...facing it that is. Which brings me to the quote of the day (above). No regrets people, but don't expect the world of yourself if you are down. There are degrees of doing your best. Be kind to yourselves...gentle at times when you are weak - it's ok! And then when you feel stronger - watch out!! I believe we are on this earth but just once...make it count - in little ways and BIG ways when you feel like it! Much Love!

Today is ...I am not sure! No, seriously, it is Sunday, Oct 23, 2005 at 8:32p.m. I was reading over my last email. What a difference a day or two makes. Life is soooo interesting. It throws you curves when you least expect it. Sometimes you just have to hold on, 'cause the rollercoaster of life is so unexpected and you are not sure if you are going to go up, down, curve to the right or left. So, ya just hang on and sooner or later the ride slows down and you take a breath. Thanks to everyone for the emails about my father. He was supposed to go in for a hip replacement on the 18th, but due to a fever and high white blood cell count, they canceled his surgery, sent him to emergency, and low and behold he had a small (mini) heart attack. After a cardiac cath they found he had 95% blockage in the main artery! Thank God for fevers!!! God works in mysterious ways. After a very long week at the hospital we brought him home today. Thanks for all who understood why I was unable to make my gig on Friday. Hope to see you all at Memphis Smoke in November and Billy and I are still doing our Wednesdays at Danaher's. Hold those that are dear to you close... Much Love

Wow! Wow! Wow! I am FINALLY sitting on my couch and taking all of what happened over the weekend in...allowing my body to relax, I am so at peace, so content and so happy!!!

As most of you know, my cd release concert was this weekend and it was a SMASHING! success! We sold out within 30 minutes and the crowd was just amazing. Everything was perfect. So many people came out of the woodwork to help me on this. It was a huge undertaking for me, from renting the Baldwin Theatre, to getting a liquor license, insurance, bartenders, ticket booth people, merchandising people, etc...I figured that if I don't make it in the music business, I could probably form my own promotional company hee hee!

I have to be honest, I wasn't ever totally sure I could pull it off! But I kept "believing" and praying alot! I just kept my stride slow and steady going forward and keeping negative thoughts at bay (but they sure liked popping into my head around 3 a.m. every morning for the last 2 weeks prior to the show!) I am happy to say that I woke up at 3:30 a.m. this morning just reviewing the show and embracing it with a smile!

I have the most talented musicians playing with me. It was so fun to look around and see them all just jammin and having a good time. John Lahtini wild man on pedal steel, Roscoe White on Guitar, the ultimate producer/bass player Nolan Mendenhall, my time keeper Ron Pangborn on Drums, Dale Grisa giving us that warmth you only can grasp on keys, Tim Clark and Greg C. Brown bringing in the gospel feel with their unbelievable vocal talents! and last but not least Billy Brandt who has been there from day one on guitar - Billy's own signature style that no one can copy.

My plan is to continue to raise the bar, demand more of myself, get my music out there...and I hope that you are all there with me, as so many of you were on Saturday night...enjoy the ride...here we go!

Lots of Love to you all -

Quote of the Day - Your mind will play tricks, but the way you feel in your heart, in your gut,is the truth. -- Don Miguel Ruiz

The reason I chose this quote is because I could relate so well to it today. The last couple of months, actually the last year, I have been trying to tune my head out and really just listen to my gut instincts...Planning my cd release concert has been rewarding and trying. Instinctually I knew I had to make it a very special night. For the fans for sure, but also for myself. Having performed 5 cd release shows in the past at great venues like Memphis Smoke and the Magic Bag...I knew I still had to do something different. Something that would challenge myself. I have to push myself constantly so that I don't fall into a repetitive pattern. Change is scary, difficult at times and is definitely not the easier road to take. But I knew, as I stepped on to the Baldwin Theatre Stage this week to plan out the production of the night, I knew that my gut told me this was the right venue, that it was what this cd deserved. A theatre, with no sports tvs to compete with, no battles or wars with other distractions. Just a great night of music to be had, to be heard, and I cant wait! I do hope you all join me the night of October 8 for a beautiful experience of some of the most talented musicians in Detroit and to share my new music with you. It will be my honor to perform for you!

See you there!

Peace to you and yours always