It seems the older you get, the faster time flies. Six months on from surgery, I have made progress, which is so amazing, but I am impatient. It’s so great to be playing shows again, but I wish had more strength in my hand to play more cleanly. Of course, I keep reminding myself that those are unrealistic expectations right now, but still I have them. This makes playing live a challenge, but a worthwhile one.

Last night, I played a Martin Girls (with Anne Marie Menta) set at Cantean Coffee Shop in Hamden, CT. We shared the stage with Shellye Valauskas and Dean Falcone, who played a mostly original folk-pop, acoustic set. It was a sold-out show, which sounds great, and it was, but it’s a very small venue. I am grateful for the fans who supported us and bought tickets. The venue was a sweet little coffee shop with delicious food and beverages. The owners were gracious and welcoming. I highly recommend it.

I always wonder how my fingers will do before I play. Warming up is essential, especially now, and sometimes it’s hard to apply heat and do the kind of stretching I need to do. Sometimes hot water will take the place of a heating pad and that is what I employed last night. It seemed to work, because I did not experience any pain before, during, or after, just some stiffness, which is a usual companion when I play.

That’s a win in my book. I’m so happy to be able to play, and I’m so thankful for those who continue to believe in me and are moved by the music. Check out the Shows tab for what’s coming up next. Hope to see you all soon.

Shannon McMahon

Sold Out Show