Lyrics

I'm not sure about you readers, but music is a huge part of my life. Whenever I am stressed or upset, I turn to my iPod. The same goes for when I am happy or content. My iPod is somewhat of a "saving grace" for me and I think that has something to do with my upbringing.

I always grew up with music blaring throughout the house, whether it was the old vinyl records my parents had from their childhood, or those square things we used to call "cassette" tapes ;) My father is a connoisseur of music and is notorious for cranking the volume until we can't hear the thoughts in our own heads. I am happy to report that I have taken that trait from him. I would much rather listen to music with the windows down while driving, then hold a conversation with someone. Now don't get me wrong... I enjoy having meaningful conversations with others, but if a good song is on the radio, that is usually priority :) I think lyrics sometimes say so much more then than chatter.

I can recall many times where I was either humiliated with music, or where music was used as an educational tool in my childhood. One instance I will share is this: my very first car... a white pontiac grand am, did not have a working gas gauge. One day, I found myself on the side of the road and couldn't figure out why. Well, I came to find that I was out of gas. I had to call my dad and tell him the story. He chose to wake me up the next morning with "Running on Empty" by Jackson Browne. Now, if none of you have heard this song, you need to YouTube it and listen. I will never forget the sight of my dad singing along with Mr. Browne - with the biggest "shit grin" on his face - or the instant smile that comes to my face whenever I hear this particular song.

Another memory I have - along with my siblings - is the infamous "Name that Tune" game. While driving in the car for longer periods of time, dad would put in his favorite music and quiz us on the lyrics of each song. We would have to listen to every word and answer questions afterwards. We also got high fives and bragging rights when we would be able to answer the "who sings it" question first. These trips went by so fast and it was because we were so occupied with music. There are so many memories I have growing up with music - and they all give me a perma-smile :) I also personally enjoy the variety of music I was introduced to as such a young girl. I am proud to know every single word to a song sung by Journey or Chicago. I am also fortunate that music is a love that Marcus and I share... and it makes those long drives go by so much faster ;)

I will never forget exactly where I was when I first heard "Life in a Northern Town", or the feeling I get when any REO Speedwagon song comes on my iPod or the radio. There are certain songs that give you a certain feeling that is indescribable, and the greatest part is - NO ONE can take that feeling away. Music is one of those things that gives me a sense of contentment and that is something I will never take for granted. 

I encourage you to think back on songs that have given you feelings or memories you will never forget. Cherish those memories and feelings. They are no one elses but yours, and that is a beautiful thing! Feel free to comment and share :)