Word has it that my European Release of "Mirror" will be in the hands of The Orchard very soon!!! Woo Hoo!!! Cool news to get while I'm feeling so out of it!!! But I did realize it's a leap year... and how do I know this? Today is Feb. 29th! haha And how I am spending this extra day? Recuperating...still! My jaw started showing bruises finally since the surgery this past Monday! Thankfully I've gotten this done and out of the way so I won't be going through this later on when I won't have the luxury of this much time away from singing. So while the powers that be, take care of business for me, I'm right here healing! Thanks for the love everyone! Rock your Friday out! xoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena~
2/29/08
Same
More of the same with me really. Each day there is some improvement with getting back to feeling like myself but I'm not quite there yet. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't bummed! I was up early today and caught some cold but fresh air while out to my doctor's appointment. It definitely perked me up at the time! eh, I wish I was able to eat foods that I like but since I can't chew it's soft things only. I generally refuse to eat anything from fast food restaurants but this whole week I've practically been living off of vanilla Frosty's from Wendy's! Soo good! haha ok well I'm feeling sleepy again so I'm gonna rest since I don't feel like doing much else. Thanks for your prayers and get well wishes everyone! Have an awesome day! xoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena~
2/28/08
Recuperating
I missed a whole day yesterday and today is already showing signs of slipping away. The medication I'm taking since the oral surgery is making me sleep a lot. There is no way I can open my mouth, let alone sing! I have little swelling but today I can feel the stitches (which is annoying) and my jaw aches. Life goes on though right? I'm trying to shake off this drained feeling but just in case I can't keep it together I wanted to write in my journal to let you know I'm alive and well...just recuperating! I hope your day is beautiful! Count me in will ya?! haha Best! xoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena~
2/27/08
Loupy
Call me loupy! haha Yeah pretty much I'm doped up on medication from oral surgery this morning! Actually the worst part is waiting for the numbing to go away. My diet so far has been a Wendy's vanilla frosty for breakfast and a yogurt for lunch! I've been resting in the recliner and haven't moved. My grandma dropped by and gave me a beautiful ring with pink stones and then my best friend has been keeping me company for the afternoon! My mom is waiting on me and since I'm not feeling too bad, I could feel slightly guilty! haha NOT! I expect more friends to drop by to wish me well later and I'm hoping I'm not in pain. Well everyone...it's been a fun day for me and I hope your day is too!!! xoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena~
2/25/08
Teeth
My nerves are kicking in big time today because first thing tomorrow morning I’ll be having my wisdom teeth removed. I’m dreading it. Why we have these useless extra teeth is crazy! Then to top it off I can’t eat solid foods for a couple days. I pray it goes smoothly and I can catch up on sleep, watch TV in real time and maybe even read a book! I pray it all goes smoothly. So today I’m gonna do everything I won’t be able to do for the next couple of days… like sing and dance and EAT! I hope your Sunday is super chill! Be happy! xoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena~
2/24/08
Honored
So I sit here multi-tasking, on my different music sites, answering emails and taking some calls from friends! I'm rocking out to one of my newest CD's - Criss Angel's Mindfreak Soundtrack! My fave song off it is "Die For Me"! I never use to listen to hard rock when I was younger. I was strictly a pop girl but when I hear all that's going on with the music that the easy listener probably misses...I just LOVE the passion and depth of the music! So, I really didn't want to drink Red Bull this early but since I don't drink coffee, I don't know what else I can drink to get pumped to start my day! In my private life, I've been asked by one of my best friends, Ashley, to be her maid of honor! I couldn't be more excited and truly honored! One of the most important days in her life and she asked me!!! =) I will be back tomorrow with another entry and in the meantime I hope your weekend ROCKS!!!! xoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena~
2/23/08
My DeLights
My heartfelt thanks to my DeLights that came out to my concert! (you know who you are!) Last night's show was awesome!! I’m in my element when performing and I loved meeting everyone that stuck around afterwards! Everyone at Skate Estate was VERY COOL and went out of their way to make me feel welcome and comfortable! Thanks for the dressing room…aka…the storage closet! Haha- just pickin’!!! I am so happy when I’m with my band, and my crew and I wish it was constant!! For everyone that does support me, it means so much to me and I can't thank you enough! I'm gonna take it easy today. We do have snow and the roads aren’t too swift to drive on so I’m glad it waited till the day after my show to drop! Have a fabulous Friday everyone! oxoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena~
2/22/08
GIG TONIGHT!
Woo Hoo!!! I'm back on that roller coaster again! LOL I also feel like I'm on a race against time today! So much to still do before my show! On top of that, I'm beginning to feel jittery! I really hate that! haha I'm doing my hair now, then make up, nails, warm up my voice, rehearse the piano, get dressed, making sure everything is cool with the outfits, maybe eat something and then head down to sound check in just a few hours!! Yikes!!! All in all it's gonna be a good time and once I get started I will be relaxed and in the zone for the night. I had a really nice write up in todays "Good Times" too so I'm happy! My producers favorite rock band on the front of the paper, FOO FIGHTERS, and I'm inside next to SNOOP DOGG! So cool! ok everyone I truly hope to see your happy faces tonight at Skate Estate! You do not have to skate! haha I won't be! xoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena~
2/21/08
Hi everyone! Hopefully you caught my piece on the news last night! Short and sweet I must say! I sang a song that is not on either of my releases called "I'll Let You Know"! I actually had to edit the word "hell" out and replace it with "trouble" which wasn't a big deal and it worked out alright. Just not as edgy! I was prepared with a second song at the piano but since you only have about 5 minutes to do an interview plus a song, time ran out. When I first arrived, there were some technical difficulties setting up the sound but thankfully it all worked out by the time I went on! There was some annoying feedback but hey, that's live TV people! haha Promo for my show at Skate Estate tomorrow night, Feb. 21st was important and that was accomplished! Anyways, today I have to stop by Skate Estate to check out some things and then later I have my final rehearsal with my band. After that I believe we are going back up to skate estate to start setting up. Lots to do, but I'm getting excited to perform again! It's been awhile!! Enjoy your day rocks everyone!! xoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena~
2/20/08
News Channel 34 Tonight at 6 PM ^see photo's above^
Today is the day I'll be on Newschannel 34 once again to sing and promote my upcoming show! Come out to the Oakdale Mall to see me live and in person or you can just catch me on TV between 6:15 to 6:30 PM tonight in the comfort of your living room!! Seeing the TV crew in person is a blast and proof how tiny they really are because on TV we think they are much larger and taller! So, I'll be rehearsing and getting ready this afternoon. Thanks for the love and support! Hope your day is cool and maybe I'll see you at the mall! oxoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena~
2/19/08
Prima Donna
Lots happening with me and it's keeping me very busy! Mostly preparation for my upcoming concert at Skate Estate. I have rehearsals, radio, TV, emails, etc. and my mind is racing with what to wear and how to wear my hair! haha yeah Vanity! My favorite sin! I don't just throw on a pair of jeans, put my hair is a ponytail and just show up to sing! I'm involved in every step of the way! I haven't quite earned enough credits to be a prima donna! haha I'm especially looking forward to this show because of the relaxed atmosphere but make no mistake...it is a rock and roll performance as great as any concert you would pay 3 times as much for someone famous! Gotta get back to work here so enjoy your Monday! Be happy! =) oxoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena~
2/18/08
Doing What I Gotta Do
I've had a busy weekend! How bout you? Sorry for the late entry today. I had an extra practice with my band so we will be ready for my gig this coming Thursday night! Speaking of which yesterday's meet and greet was totally awesome and my newest fans are sweeter then candy! The kids and the parents were very cool and of course John at Skate Estate is a funny guy indeed! I'm looking forward to rockin' with my band since we have been in a holding pattern for some time while the newest guy learned all my songs. I really hope the crowd packs in but if not... whoever is there will get my best! There are radio announcements for the show airing now on STAR 105.7 and I'll be on NewsChannel 34 TV this coming Tuesday also promoting. I have posted photos from both Meet + Greets in the picture section in Live Shots! Check em out! Thanks everyone for all that you do for me and I promise to always give 110%! oxoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena~
2/17/08
Meet & Greet Today
This afternoon from 1-4PM, I will be doing a Meet & Greet at Skate Estate and selling tickets to my show Thursday, Feb. 21st. Whether you skate or not it's $10 to get in! Buy a ticket from me today and get my EP FREE!!! You don't have to skate and actually skating will only be from 6-7PM and then I start performing with my full band at 7 PM till close at 9PM!! All games and concessions will continue but since my band and I will actually be on the skating rink we have to hold off the skating during my performance! No I won't be on wheels even though I would love to know how to skate. I need lessons and a cush for my tush! LOL Skate Estate is a fun family place and everyone at Skate Estate has been super cool!! It's winter break next week and school's out so grab a friend or two and come join in the fun!!! Alrighty, everyone have a great weekend! I'm off to the meet & greet soon! oxoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena~
2/16/08
School Days
I was up really early for a speaking/singing engagement this morning at my old high school. First period class baby! By 8:35 AM I was talking about what it's like to have a music career and by 9 AM I was singing! haha I loved it! Strangely enough I had anxiety walking into the high school but it quickly passed once I found my comfort zone with speaking about what I know and love! My anxiety was a really just a throw back to all the pressure of being a student dealing with homework, grades, and drama. The things I do not miss. I have a lot of pressure with my music career but it's contained and controlled and if something doesn't work out, a failing grade isn't attached! haha I am no longer forced to be in a boiling pot of teenage angst so I don't have that drama. Having said that, I really enjoyed the exchange today. Tonight I will be rehearsing with my acoustic guitar player and tomorrow I will be at Skate Estate for a Meet & Greet from 1 to 4 PM. Drop by to meet me and when you buy a $10 ticket to my concert on Feb. 21st you will get my EP, "The Way You Look At Me", free!!! Love to see you!!! oxoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena~
2/15/08
OXOXO
I brought my band and the rest of the guys at the Mansion a tupperware filled with sugar cookies I had baked and decorated special for each and every one of them! However they couldn't touch them until after band practice! So picture this...... heavy metal guys eating pink & white heart-shaped sugar cookies! hahaha I love it! yeah if you didn't know...the coolest guys ever that back me up are hard core metal guys at heart! They don't diss my kind of music because they know great music, is great music no matter what the genre! Plus they are pro! Well I hope all you lovers have a Happy Valentine's Day! All my friends and fans are my Valentine's! And I love you all!!!! oxoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena~
2/14/08
Can't Fight Mother Nature
The snow came and it was only a big deal if you had to drive in it or shovel it. I was able to view it from my window wrapped up in a cozy blanket and just smile at how pretty it was. I was with my laptop and kitty trying to catch up on myspace while watching my fave shows at the same time! Schools are closed today and now that messes up my speaking gigs I had scheduled this Friday. Now instead of the kids being entertained for one period they have to play catch-up with assignments. They have a week off from school next week, which is why I planned my show at Skate Estate next Thursday on the 21st! Tonight I have band practice and the snow better not mess that up for me! haha Well I have much to do so sitting here much longer is not an option! Hope your have a rockin' day wherever you are!!! xoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena ~
2/13/08
Today's Deal
The deal today is snow is on it's way and the freezing temps are bitter enough to keep me from wanting to go anywhere. My voice lesson is still a go and I won't miss that even if I have icicles hanging on me! haha I've been having some internet problems today too but don't know who gets the blame for that. Usually the cable company is the chosen one! I'm going on piano for a bit and then I think this afternoon might be a good time to bake cookies because the oven will keep me nice and toasty! Thank goodness for DVR's cuz tonight's television is rockin' out with my fave reality show BIG BROTHER, plus American Idol, Biggest Loser and J.Dickinson. It's a sh*tload of TV for one night and impossible to watch it all. Did I mention I hate cancer?! Well I do. The end. Have an awesome day! xoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena ~
2/12/08
After-Thoughts
I'm buggin' today. I need to find a part-time job because the one I have, (which suited my schedule quite well), is about to end. Nothing official has been said to me but the handwriting is on the wall that the place will be closing soon. Until my music career actually brings me an income, I must do the JOB. My satisfaction isn't found in money but I NEED IT! haha I know what I'm doing and I know what works for me. So what if I belong to the starving musicians club?! hahaha I'm kidding!!! I couldn't be in a better place with my music career and I know how lucky I am. ok cool..I'm done buggin'. My focus is my music and the rest is an after-thought! Everyone have a great start to your week ahead! xoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena ~
2/11/08
Oh Canada!
So the other day I got an offer from the Toronto Exclusive Magazine Awards Online that I couldn't refuse! It's such an honor and I'm so thankful for their support! If you wanna check out my profile and the rest of their website, click on the links below! I hope to visit Toronto someday soon! Anywho, I got up so late today since I didn't get to bed until around 5 am! I know, I know, why go to bed at all when it's already morning?! Well that is cause there was lots of hard work to be done in the studio last night. Even though we lost track of time, we actually got more done than planned, which is great because it puts us ahead of the game. Today I'm excited to say I will be eating my pancakes and relaxing my booty. Not sure exactly what I will do, but looks like there is a crazy snowstorm outside so I may be stuck inside! Tonight is the Grammy Awards so of course I will be tuning in! Ok off to the kitchen I go to help my mom make pancakes and eggs! Yay! Hope you all have a restful and enjoyable Sunday!! xoxo
http://www.torontoexclusive.com/magazineawardsonline/recording-artist-listings.html
http://www.torontoexclusive.com/magazineawardsonline/profile-Dena.html
Always Love and Music, ~Dena ~
2/10/08
Free Time
Last night I felt really good about rehearsal. Each time gets better and that is so important! Couple more practices and my guitar player should know all my songs. Then maybe as he masters those we can work on some covers that I use to do. I was supposed to work this morning at my side job but after getting my start time bumped back by 2 hours with the first call, the 2nd call came and cancelled it all together. So, looks like I have more free time during the day to do what I want. My horoscope tells me to take a day off, but I don't want to do that. Later I will most likely be headed into the studio again to work on some new songs. The one place where creativity flows and genius happens! Tomorrow will be my day of rest instead! If nothing else I hope your Saturday is fun! xoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena ~
2/09/08
Good Mix
Yesterday was a good mix of business and pleasure. Worked all day on my music and then at night I got to go out and have a nice dinner and relax a bit. Salmon baby! Mmhmm. Today is a no meat day so maybe I should have saved it for today, but that’s ok! I can eat fish everyday! Today I’m gonna work out as much as I can since I’ve missed the past couple of days as far as cardio goes. I always feel better about myself when I exercise. It’s definitely a natural high and afterwards I have these cravings for healthy food! I’m gonna get some groceries with my dad but I will be picking up real food…not cookies and chips! haha Later tonight I have acoustic rehearsal with my guitar player. Awww another weekend is here. Hope it’s a good one! xoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena ~
2/08/08
Natural High
I enjoyed my day yesterday so much. One of those REALLY feeling good days. Band practice was interesting to say the least. I was on a natural high. Not sure if my band can claim the same?!? LOL It's funny too cause I was fasting and didn't eat dinner. Usually I'm terribly grumpy when I don't eat, but last night was the opposite. The band was mellow but I was jumping around doing some old cheerleading moves. Before I started taking singing seriously, I was a gymnast and cheerleader, and I danced too for 15 of my growing up years! Ahh memories! I'd love to get my stretch back and to be that limber once again! Who knows, I could potentially add it into my live show one day! With a little retraining I'd be back on that bike again in a flash! I'm still in that mellow but excited happy state and I'm gonna sing and practice piano this afternoon. Keep it real everyone and stay happy! xoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena ~
2/07/08
Ash Wednesday
Yesterday when everyone was talking about Super Phat Tuesday, I realized that it was going to be Ash Wednesday today. Always something! I can't believe how early it is this year. I think the Easter Holiday is the only holiday that hops around the calender like a bunny rabbit! haha So anyway, I've decided to give up the 3 P's for Lent. Pancakes, Pasta, and Pizza. Basically because those are my favorite foods. It's gonna be tough that's for sure, but I can do it! Today is a busy day and I'm lovin it! I went to Church for mass/ashes and I'm only back home briefly. I will be driving my grandma to her eye doctor appointment soon. It's quite scary for her and I want to be there for support. I know I would be terrified of gettin a needle stuck in my eye! Eeeks! After that I will be heading up to the studio to rehearse with my band all night! So while some people whistle while they work... I sing! You can't hear me but that's what I'm doing as I'm writing this! haha Have an awesome day everyone! xoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena ~
2/06/08
Super Tuesday
I have yet to vote but I will be going out shortly! It's so exciting, really! This will be one of the coolest times in my history to reflect back on with my children and grandchildren some day when I tell them for the first time ever, the democratic primary race included the first woman and first black man. I have a voice lesson today but nothing else yet scheduled. That doesn’t mean I won’t be busy…just not scheduled! haha Alrighty, I have to throw some clothes on and get to the polls! Hope your Tuesday really is super! xoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena ~
2/05/08
Half and Half
While the Giants were winning the Superbowl, I was at the movies to see THE EYE! It was a pretty good movie and I only jumped a couple times. There was only like 6 other people in the theater! haha I decided to get back on the green tea train again. I was drowning in it a while back and then I just didn't want it anymore. Today I'm half and half with splitting up my time working and cleaning. It's kind of been a thinking day so far too...and to make sure I don't over think I'm gonna get busy! Also I'm gearing up to vote tomorrow in the Primary's (my first time) and I'm very excited about it! Hope your week is starting out great! Stay happy! xoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena ~
2/04/08
Synergy
Last night was another long night in the studio. Definitely accomplished a lot! My producer and I worked hard on a new song that has been in the works. I'm very excited about the new material we've been coming up with! It's definitely bringing my songwriting to a new level. We have this remarkable synergy! Simply put...we click! Today my pops and my street team leader are out working hard promoting my upcoming show at Skate Estate on Feb.21st! Pretty much everything I do is a team effort. Without the help and commitment from family and friends it would be much harder for me since I am a solo artist. Soo, obviously today is superbowl Sunday, but I gotta admit I am not a football girl. If I had to chose a team though, I'll definitely be rooting for the Giants to win! Gotta stay true blue to my NY teams! I do enjoy the funny commericials during the superbowl and the entertainment part. Hey, it'd be an honor to sing at the superbowl someday! Anyway, I'm gonna enjoy my day off! All you football fans enjoy the game! xoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena ~
2/03/08
The Journey Continues....
Long hours of rehearsal with my guitar player is bringing really great results. I'm pleased. I worked the job for 3 hours this morning, filling in for someone else. I ran some business errands too and now I'm about to catch a nap. I never liked naps but recharging my batteries is so necessary to keep the quality of my performance up with the many hours of practice and rehearsals I'm putting in. So, first a nap and then a Red Bull! haha I shall fall asleep thinking of song titles and lyrics I wanna put together. I know my songwriting partner and I have the drive, the passion, the talent and the determination to make rockin' music...and so the journey continues! Really, if you can find something you believe strongly in and care about and it will motivate you to heights unknown! Bounce that negative out of your life before it drags you down! Hope your Saturday is awesome! xoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena ~
2/02/08
February Begins
What is up with the crazy weather this week?! Another day of ice and snow. Everything is pretty much closed so we are all locked inside our house and have been given warning to avoid driving. I still have acoustic practice tonight set up with my guitar player though so I'm looking forward to that! Should be a long one! WOW! I have just be happily interrupted here while writing my journal with some very exciting news!!! I wish I could share it with all of you but unfortunately I have to keep my mouth shut for now! hehe All I know is I'm keeping everything crossed, so if you all would do the same for me, I would be ever so grateful for that! I'm going to hang with my younger bro since his classes were canceled this afternoon and then later it's time to kick into work mode!! Hope you all have a wonderful Friday!! xoxo
Always Love and Music, ~Dena ~ Sept. '08
2/01/08
~ Past Journal Entries ~
Aug. '08
July '08
June '08
May '08
April '08
March '08
January '08
Nov. '07
October '07
Sept. '07
August '07
June '07
May '07
April '07
March '07
February '07
January '07
