Thank You

It has been one of the greatest joys of my life writing and recording this new record. I have always had a passion for music and songwriting. But this is the first time I truly feel like a musician.

This last year was one full of change, adrenaline, mistakes and ultimately growth. Many things in my life fell apart and I was one sad girl for a while. But the most beautiful thing happened when my comfort zone shattered — my family and friends picked me up and carried me through. And music became my new comfort, just like when I was 14 and writing my first songs.

I like to describe this last year like being in a foxhole. Everything was moving fast; it was happily chaotic and sometimes terrifying. So I just hid out for a while, let myself live in the uncertainty and emotion. In that time I wrote more music than I have ever written. Then I did something that still shocks me. I emailed my favorite producer of all time Neilson Hubbard, and asked him to work with me. Well, he said, of all things. YES.

My lesson after it all is to take the risk. Ask for help. Brave the fear of rejection.

I would not have been able to do any of this without so many people. So here’s my attempt to properly thank you all.

Lane, thank you for being such an important part of my life. It was wonderful and you are wonderful. I owe you so much.

Andrea, your strength and example has changed me for the better. Let’s drive off into the sunset in your Subaru one day.

Lisa, my Jobin, it is true that we are one soul in two bodies. We are crass but sometimes sophisticated. We are independent but sometimes we are head cases. Andre/Elsen forever.

Lori, even though I’ll never go on American Idol, I know you’re still my biggest fan. I’m so glad we decided to be friends in college, no one else would have liked us. But together, we’re pretty great.

Kristen, you give me tough love and throw my lyrics in my face. I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Jenna, you and I are kindred spirits. Hopeless romantics, self-help readers and sometimes basket cases. You have been a blessing to me, here’s to many more happy hours.

Megan, even though you embarrass me in public places occasionally, you are truly one of the most understanding and insightful people I know. Thank you for letting me open up to you.

Rachel, Cindy and Amanda, you are new friends that I felt instantly comfortable with. I officially give you groupie status, thank you from the bottom of my heart. I’ll learn some Toni Braxton and 504 Boyz soon.

Nick, Anna, Monet and Anne — Our summer by the Hopkins pool will be some of the best memories of my life. Thanks for letting me go a little out of my mind whether drinking champagne on the 4th of July or storming a street dance.

To my design team Erin Smith, Kristen Lynn and Molly Roark. You make a short girl from Nodak look pretty damn good. I am so impressed and indebted.

To my band, Cassidy, Grahame, Bonnie and Keith. You make sad girl music rock.

Neilson Hubbard, you genius.Thank you for opening your Nashville arms. You made my dream come true. I hope we can break more hearts in the studio someday, over some Diet Dr. Pepper.

Eric Ostermeier, my guru, my friend. You gave me my start. I could cry just thinking about your kind email that said “let me help you, let’s record your music”. There’s a special place for you in my heart. Love always — Brynn Tiger.

Dad. Boys may come and go, but I know I’ll always have you to take me to movies and to tell me that I’m the prettiest girl. Miss you.

Kerry, you’re my big sister and you’ve seen, heard and done it all. No matter what I have done, I know you’ll always be there to talk me through it, without judgement. That has meant so much to me, especially lately. I love you all the way to damn Alaska. Tell my nephew I’m the best aunt.

Lindee thank you for pulling me out of some pretty deep holes. Thank you for forcing me to play blackjack and bingo. For your unwavering support at all of the shows and for taking care of the kitties, even though you don’t love Joey. Little sister, you acted like the big sister right when I needed it.

Brett, You have blown me away with such genuine support for my music. I never could have guessed you would be the one to help me find music again. But it turns out you were the exact person I was supposed to meet.

Mom, This record is yours. We both know you made this happen. You are the bravest and strongest woman I know. I know I’ll never be tall like you, but I hope someday I can be as selfless as you. I’m a lucky daughter.

To everyone beyond this, friends and family in Williston, everyone who listens to the music and has shown support. I am honestly humbled.