Heading out tonight with Doyle Dykes for our first string of shows in 2011!  I’ve had a nice, long break, but I’m definitely ready to get back out there.  Our trip has actually been delayed twice now due to snow and freezing temperatures, an unusual thing for us southerners!  The snow has been beautiful, but I must admit that I’m ready to trade it in for some sunshine.  We’re off to California for several shows in the L.A. area.  Our first stop will be the Taylor Guitars stage at the NAMM Show for the release of a new Doyle Dykes Signature Model guitar called the “Doyle Deluxe.”  I haven’t even seen one yet, so I’m very anxious!

I’ve been planning and preparing to get back in the studio next month.  Although getting to this point has seemed slow, I can see now that the timing is perfect.  It’ll be the right people, the right songs and the right place.  I’ll keep you updated.

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season.  This Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s were the most special I’ve had in a long time.  I spent Thanksgiving in Idaho with Jake and his whole family.  I was hoping for snow and boy did we ever get it – every day for like 5 days straight!  I went sledding for the first time – so fun!  Then Jake spent Christmas with my family, and Christmas with the Dykes family is definitely an experience!  Music time this year was so much fun with Jake and my Dad’s mom being with us.  Then Jake’s family flew in and met my family for the first time- a really special thing for us all.  I was so bummed that I had to take them back to the airport on New Year’s Eve.  I don’t think they were quite as excited as I was when their flight was cancelled, but they made the most of it, and I got to bring in the new year with my new family.  The blessings I’ve counted from 2010 only lean to bigger things in 2011.  It’s going to be a good year for the Dykes family.  My Dad is releasing several projects including his first book and a TV show.  My brother Caleb’s band is really taking off and will be releasing their debut album.  And I’m getting married to a guy I can’t imagine my life without.

It’s a new year and another opportunity to make the most of it.  Enjoy 2011.  Be blessed and thanks for checking in with me.

Haley