This week the website and newsletter begins it’s eighth year. Little did I know back at the end of 1996 how long and how far this journey would take me. Little by little the website started building momentum and I can happily say the most hits I’ve ever had was last month. The average hit count is now 95,000 a month. There are now 2 websites that offer the essays and music… AviatorRecords.com, and the new site, JenniferAvalon.net. This journey has not been easy, but each step forward has brought a smile to my face. The newsletter is sent out every two weeks to over 65 countries around the world.

Like any endeavor, there are those who offer help and support, and those, unfortunately, who will do anything in their power to try to stop one. I believe I am an open-minded person, and like many, feel many topics are open for discussion and compromise, but before me I do see a line drawn in the sand that I will not step over. In this age of “political correctness” having a strong point of view could be considered a statement from the stone age….but I am a firm believer that not everything that comes into one’s mind is right. Like a kid in a candy store, when a child eats a certain amount, they get sick. Just because we can, doesn’t always mean we should.

The essays and music are free to all. This model I will do everything in my power to continue. Yes, the website does not run for free, and I wholeheartedly appreciate those who have donated over the past year, towards it’s upkeep. Recently I opened a CD store on the website, where those who want finished copies of the albums can purchase them, for a price of $6.95, total. If you think this is a way to get rich, you’re wrong…the purpose of the store is in answer to those who do not have weekly Internet access and wanted to have copies of the music for their homes, work, and transportation. The music and essays are still free to be downloaded. Nothing has changed. If you would like to donate, that’s fine. If not, that’s fine too.

In the coming year I plan to add many more essays, and a new album in the Fall of 2005, where each month, starting in January, a new song will be premiered from that forthcoming CD. I have also accumulated many songs over the years which will also see the light of day, under the banner of “Early Avalon.” Many who have heard my earlier songs have asked me if I will ever release songs like, “I Still Care,” and “You Can Count on Me.” Rest assured, they are forthcoming. They were staples of my earlier performances.

Once again, I would like to thank you for your continued support. Love has many ways of expressing itself, and this, I know, is one of them. Each year, for us all, there are moments of joy, and tears of sadness, but this week being Thanksgiving, it’s important to count our blessings.

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours,

love, Jennifer Avalon
© 2004 Jennifer Avalon