Thanks for the kind words about my writing and Raina’s music. We were really lucky in that we come from parents who encourage us to follow our passions and do the things we love, even if there isn’t a ton of money in the offing.

We all realize that the fact that Raina was a finalist for the contest was an enormous honor, and I don’t discount the reality that she had to have been pretty talented in order to have been selected in the first place. It’s just that as her sister, I wanted her to win. I accept that she didn’t, and I know that the judges made their choices based on experience and expertise, but I still wanted her to win. I know that it doesn’t really matter, and that her career will continue to move forward regardless of a contest. I just think she’s a phenomenal musician and I’m stunned when others aren’t rendered speechless by her gifts. But then again, I am her sister and so I may be just a little biased.

Anyway, I do actually appreciate the reminder and I wish you the best of luck with your own musical career. Thanks for leaving a comment!

I am a novice folkie/songwriter myself and last year I submitted a couplbe of original songs to the Kerrville New Folk competition. I did not even make the final 32 and I learned that many, many others, including many now famous sucessful musicians did not either. I became part of the Kerrville losers club which is not a bad group to belong to…the point I am trying to make to you is that the fact your sister made the final 32 means she is very, very good. Please consider that a great acomplishment. If you check out the six winners (via their websites) you will see that they are all ececptionally good and advanced in their craft. Not to say that your sister is not doing well. It seems to me that she is getting gigs and is getting known. She seems to have a flair for marketing herself. The button “Raina Loves You” is a good example. I’m sure she will do alright and your support to her and your enjoyment of her energy is way cool. All the best. bob.