Winter Solstice approaches and once again I am reminded of the gifts that winter can bring – cold crisp days, wild and windy days, opportunities to stay in by the fire, times to slow down and reflect on the year coming to an end and the new year that waits just around the corner!

2011 has been an interesting year for me – devoting more of my time to the subject of music and mindfulness (more to follow on this subject in the New Year!). I have had the opportunity to slow down somewhat and take stock. For someone who has always been a busy bee, this has been a very valuable experience and I look forward to sharing all the creative possibilities and connections that will evolve from this quieter time that I have chosen to embrace over the last few months – it has been a time of seed sewing which I hope will bring new possibilities in the new year.

For those of you looking for lovely musical Christmas gifts I am delighted to say that I have made a contribution to Secret Garden’s new album Winter Poem which has just been released. It was a pleasure to work with Rolf Løvland, Fionnuala Sherry and Brendan Graham again on the beautiful song Mary’s Lament which I think rests gracefully amidst all the other wonderful tracks on the album.

For those of you in Dublin, I will be presenting an evening of reflection and song on December 21st. Places are limited so do book soon if you would like to attend!

Wishing you all deep peace as 2011 draws towards a close and hoping that 2012 brings you many blessings,

Fionnuala