I'm sitting on the bed (with the electric blanket on), looking out the cottage window at icy Welsh fields. A murder of Crows is busily flapping about on the bare branches of the chestnut tree. I've just thrown crumbs and seed outside for the Robins. The log fire is crackling away noisily, comfortingly, downstairs. What a year this has been. I feel very calm, grateful and happy. I'll be performing less in 2011. I felt like I was burning out and losing the joy. I will still have a few gigs - and I'm looking forward to them very much - but my main focus for 2011 (musically-speaking) is to work on material for a new CD. I already have the bare bones of the song list and CD theme, and even the skeletons of some songs. I'm excited and energised, and enjoying throwing myself into thinking of lyrics and melodies. This CD will be full of night-time: owls, moths, stars, lullabies, haunted staircases and ghostly wraiths in the moonlight, highwaymen and banshees. I feel inspired and refreshed, and full of wild ideas. Thank you for your ongoing interest and support. I wish you all the best for the season, Take care and be happy :-) Beck xxx