March 10, 2006

Hey Everybody. Hope everything is going well with all of you. I am definitely getting ready for spring as I am just a little tired of the cold. I think I am more of a summer guy. Everything is going well with me, stressful but good. The album is coming along great. I am nearly finished writing and we should be heading into the studio in a couple of weeks. We are planning for a summer release. I apologize for the long wait but I am determined to write the best album possible. I guess at some time I will have to just step back and be satisfied with what I have. I am trying to remember that this album is just a snapshot in time. This is where I am right now and the next album will be where I am then.

For the past few months Stevie and I have basically lived in the studio. I am very thankful to have Stevie involved. He has been so supportive and encouraging through this whole thing. He has taken the time over the past six months to help me develop as a writer and artist. It’s nice to have someone who really believes in you. I feel like this album is a huge step from the last one and am looking forward to all of your feedback. I have spent the last few months stressing over every aspect of the album. I now realize that I have a huge fear of failure which, on one hand has served me well, but it can also interfere with your life and health. I think one of the things that really put everything into perspective was the discovery this week that Mom was diagnosed with breast cancer. I have always relied on my parents to be there when I call home and unload. They are the one constant in my life-the two people who, no matter what happened, would be there to support me. I caught a glimpse of my world without my parents and it really scared me. Although at first it was very tough, seeing Mom’s strength throughout the diagnosis and surgery has given my whole family encouragement. When I heard the news I began reevaluating my priorities. I began to recognize all the little things that I worry about everyday are so insignificant in the whole realm of things. Nothing is as important as family and friends. So I called Mom Tuesday night and asked her to book me a ticket home for the weekend. I needed to see her and just be with family. It’s so difficult to deal with stuff like this when you are away. It has been so nice to see my Mom again. The surgery went very well and she is in great spirits. She is feeling strong and is very much back to herself. The other day she joked that she was finally able to lose those extra five pounds. We are trying to get her to relax and just take some time to herself which is proving to be difficult. She starts chemo in a few weeks which may be tough. Your thoughts and prayers are greatly appreciated.

The next big thing for me is the Junos. It is a real honor to be nominated and I am so excited to be heading to Halifax. Last year performing I was so nervous and stressed. This year I can just relax and enjoy the East Coast. I have been stuck in the recording studio eating pizza and take out with the guys so I am really looking forward to some Halifax landscape, fresh lobster, and maybe meeting some of the local ladies. Pamela Anderson is hosting which should be interesting. I can’t wait to meet her as she has a couple of attributes that I really admire. I would also like to thank all of you who have voted for me for the Juno Fan Choice Award and encourage you to spread the word. Hopefully I will see some of you at the Awards or the Juno fanfare. It’s been awhile since I have seen many of you and I’m definitely looking forward to it.

I am really pumped about this new album. It is going to be a whole new exciting chapter in my life that I am anxious to share. As we get ready for the CD launch, I will try to keep you involved and informed on the progress. Hope all is well. See you soon. Kalan