"Have the best time today sweetheart," I said, hugging Sutton before I headed off to an anniversary event at Luke's family charity event, "text me when you wrap up today!"
"I will mom," Sutton smiled, "thanks for getting up so early for us." She patted Izzy who was munching on a treat from Sutton's hand.
"You're so welcome." I gave her another hug for good luck before heading to Brett's Barn. It was the last day of Sutton's six week competition series and she was only one blue ribbon short of taking the first place shot for the entire series. I texted Hunter quick before setting off for my performance.
J: Sutton's at the barn. I wish I could be there!
H: We will cheer extra loud for her today. Have fun!
I smiled before turning the key in the ignition.
"Welcome Jenna," Caroline, Luke's wife greeted me at the gate, "come park over here," she pointed toward a big blue barn, "and the event is taking place in the tent." She smiled and waited for me as I parked. On the way up to the white tent she briefed me on the agenda for the day and when I will be playing. "I have been such a big fan of yours for so long, and I know Luke is really proud of how much effort you put into your music."
"Your husband is seriously amazing. He has been so supportive and I've been really lucky to learn from him." Once we crossed the gates into the white tent, the day became a whirlwind, rubbing elbows with so many familiar faces. My time came to perform and I met Kyle side stage. We were welcomed with a warm applause and a speech from Luke.
"This next artist, Jenna, is truly that. She is a big team member of the label, the charity and she has worked so hard to over come many challenges in her life. I know Jenna's nephew has a rare condition called Angelman's syndrome, so being here today at Brett's Barn really hits close to home for her." I nodded as he looked over before talking a bit more about the charity. "Please put your hands together again for Jenna everybody."
On that note, Kyle and I took our spots. I started off with the title track, 'The Journey', before playing a few other songs off the upcoming album. I couldn't help but smile as we received a wonderful applause and headed off stage. The event wore down and as I headed back to the car, my phone began to buzz.
"Hey baby girl, how was the show?"
"Amazing mom! I wish you could've seen Izzy, I think she really tried her heart out today."
"That's so sweet Sutton. Did you place?"
"Yeah, we came in second today. I had one fault for time actually, there was a tricky part of the course. Dad recorded it."
"I'll have to see when I come home. I'm just leaving now, I'll be home in an hour." I wrapped up my call, turned the key and headed out of the gate.
YOU ARE READING
From the Ground Up
FanfictionAnother year of growing pains sees the Hayes through the ups, downs and twists of the industry. All the hard work comes to a grinding halt when the world is forced to shut down.