A Few 'Great Debates' For You!

I have been rather heavy and philosophical as of late. LOL, I am sure my next blog will be. But, I thought I would lighten things up just a little bit. I joked a couple of weeks ago that my posts here were becoming too life and death-related, and I was going to write about people I wanted to go out with. Well, I don’t know if the Internet has that much room – but it did get me thinking about celebrity crushes, and some of those great debates that people have gotten into from time to time. Television has been the medium where most of us developed our first crush. I am no different. To this day, I still can’t make up my mind if it was Linda Gray from ‘Dallas’ or Valerie Bertinelli from ‘One Day At A Time.’ (Incidentally, I watched an old episode of ‘Family Feud’ on YouTube the other night that featured the cast of both shows in an all-star celebrity square-off. All I will say is I would have loved to have been Richard Dawson!)

But, it occurred to me that there have been some great debates about beauty and attraction over the years.....Take, for instance.....

Ginger vs. Mary Ann / Maybe the ultimate debate among television viewers concerns itself with the classic 1960s series ‘Gilligan’s Island,’ in which Bob Denver was stranded with both Tina Louise and Dawn Wells on a desert island. Well, there were four others...but seriously! People were either charmed by the small-town innocence of Wells’ Mary Ann Summers or the movie star sizzle of Louis. e’s Ginger Grant. It has been the debate for the ages! But, most people I have talked to seem to lean toward Mary Ann, proving good always wins. While both were stunning, there was a sweetness about Mary Ann that Dawn Wells brought out beautifully. But, there were other debates...

The “Supernatural” Women / In 1964, ABC delivered one of its’ first major sitcom hits with “Bewitched.” The show starred Elizabeth Montgomery as newlywed Samantha Stephens, who was also....a witch. It’s interesting to note that most people’s thoughts of witches seemed to deal with The Wizard Of Oz before the show debuted. With a twitch of that nose, Montgomery charmed the world. The next year, NBC premiered “I Dream Of Jeannie,” which was the story of Larry Hagman’s Tony Nelson – who struck gold when he found a beautiful genie on the beach. A witch with a twinkle of her nose or a genie...without a navel? Ah, the debate has endured for five decades. This one is tough, as Barbara Eden was, and is , one of the most beautiful women to ever grace the TV screen. But, there was something about that witches’ dress. All I am saying.....

Those are two of the biggest debates, but there are others. In 1978, viewers got a taste of what happens in the world of radio with the debut of ‘WKRP In Cincinnati’ The show was more true than most might think. If you have ever worked in radio, you probably worked around a Les Nessman, Johnny Fever, Venus Flytrap, or a Mr. Carlson. And, you just might have worked around a Jennifer, played by the voluptuous Loni Anderson. But, as much of a sex symbol as she became, there was something about Jan Smithers, wasn’t there? Her character of Bailey wasn’t as in-your-face gorgeous as Anderson, but I know of many radio guys who admitted to a crush on Smithers over Anderson.

And, there were others.....Which ‘Hee Haw’ Honey was your favorite? (Gunilla), Favorite ‘Friend’ (I run the gamut here, sometimes Jennifer Aniston, sometimes Lisa Kudrow, but always Courtney Cox)....or which ‘Waltons’ sister did you like? (Torn between Erin and Mary Ellen, but have to go with Erin)..........

And, for fans of the male gender.....there are some interesting debates to be had.......Bo or Luke? Magnum, PI or Michael Knight of ‘Knight Rider?’ or going back to the 70s, were you a David Cassidy, aka ‘Keith Partridge’ fan, or did your heart skip a beat for the oldest of the boys named ‘Brady,’ Greg?

The cool thing is there are no right or wrong answers. And, at the end of the day, it’s a lot more entertaining of a debate than a political one, don’t you think? If nothing else, hopefully, I’ve made you smile a little bit this week....and brought back a cool memory of a poster you might have had on your wall!

A Facebook Explanation

Wow. What a week. It’s all good, but it’s a lot. That’s the story of the past few weeks. I feel compelled to explain a recent Facebook post where I asked for prayers. I will be the first to admit that I do this a lot. I tend to hit the panic button when things get a little uncertain, and I also tend to wear my heart on my sleeve – perhaps a little too much from time to time. But, that being said...that’s who I am – for better or worse. If things are bad, or I get upset...you’re going to know about it. I apologize if I talk too much...but again, that's just me.

That being said, I had a lot of people ask me about this particular post. It was actually the far extreme. Over the past few months, my career has really kind of kicked into a higher gear. That’s a good thing, for a lot of reasons. After driving my Jeep almost to the end of the line, I took the plunge and got a Nissan Versa Note. The difference in mileage is astounding, and it’s good to be able to drive something that has no memories of a past life. I thank God that I was able to do that. But, there is the paying for it. Sometimes, you have take a leap of faith. So, there. I did. Folly or Wise? Time will tell.

Have you ever felt like you were standing in the middle of a freeway – hoping you didn’t get your butt ran over? LOL...That’s kind of how I am feeling now. There has been so many work opportunities that I have been presented with as of late, and I have tried taking advantage of each of them. Some are part of my job, some aren’t. But, it’s not the time to say no. I have never been the best at taking imitative. Call it a mixture of shyness or just plain scaredy-cat, I never really had the confidence in myself until the past couple of years. I always looked at others as being smarter, more talented, cuter, etc, and never took advantage of some opportunities that I might have had in the past. Might my life have been different had I done that? Maybe, in some ways, but I am convinced that I am where God wants me to be right now.

Since January, I have been working as hard as I have ever done. (Once upon a time, I said this and someone replied ‘You’re not working any harder than anyone else.’ Maybe not, but let me repeat....I am working as hard as I have ever done before. There are days and nights that I feel I am going to go to sleep with my fingers on the keyboard, where I wonder if I can do it all – but I’m getting there. I’m eating, putting gas in the car, feeding the pets I have, and taking care of what I need to....and I’ve had a lot of help. Not naming names, but there are three houses that I am very blessed and fortunate to be able to stay at if I need to in Nashville if the schedule gets crazy. They know who they are, and believe me...I do.

So, when I ask for prayers about all this, just know I am a little scared of messing it all up. But, it’s without a doubt the most exciting time of my career. I want to be the absolute best at what I do – writing, interviewing, etc. With a little help from above, I’ve got this.

There are still others who are smarter or more talented than I am. But, I am trying not to sell myself as short as I once did. That’s a process I am trying to learn. As far as those who are cuter? Well, one thing at a time. I still hope that person is out there, because I never intended to be in my 40s still looking, but telling myself I am worth that is still a little tough. However, I am trying.

So, just know that I am blessed, fortunate, busy, and a little scared....but I wouldn’t have it any other way.... I don’t guess it would mean anything if I wasn’t right?

Mattie

Feeling kind of melancholy tonight. I just got off the phone with my father, and Mattie Bandy – my second cousin – passed away tonight.

Death has affected me on a lot of different levels over the past few years – and months. I have written about the passing of my pet dog Brownie, as well as Warren Medley just a few weeks ago. But, this one hits just as hard.

Mattie was the first cousin of my mother. Some of my favorite memories as a child were of trips to Mattie’s house in Centerville. It seemed that unless we went to see my father’s side of the family in Illinois, we went to Mattie’s for Thanksgiving and Christmas. I rememeber the smell of a turkey dinner combined with the heat of her old electric heater while laying on the couch watching the Cowboys on turkey day. Sweet person as she was, Mattie had a (semi) smart-aleck sense of humor. But, she was a Clymer, after all....and If anything else, my mother said what she thought, so they did fit together. (I just realized that I am doubly cursed on the smart-aleck side of things. I have Clymer and Dauphin blood flowing through my veins. Wow....)

Mattie had two husbands and two children pass away before she did. I wasn’t alive when her first husband passed away in the mid 60s. But, she married after him to a fine man named RG. They had a daughter named Connie, in 1966. Again, I was yet to have been born at this time, but I have seen pictures of her. Just a beautiful little girl. Blonde hair and Blue eyes. I wasn’t there, but I bet she was spoiled by her parents – as well as just about everyone she came into contact with. I know my parents were crazy about her, as she charmed my father as well. Before she was three, she passed away in January of 1969.

I’ve written a lot about some of the struggles I have had in my life – particularly the past few years. But, how one survives burying your own child – who never had the chance to grow up, I don’t know if there is any greater pain than that. But, she persevered. She and her husband became parents once again, to Caren. She was a great mother, and I’m sure she was grateful for that second chance at that. Caren graduated from high school in 1987, and RG passed away from cancer a couple of years later. Then, in 1995, Caren died. I remember Mattie’s grief at the funeral home just like it was yesterday.

I always considered Mattie almost like an angel. I would go down to Centerville and visit her every now and then from that point on. Then, in 2005, Mama died. I remember those visits picking up with greater frequency. If anyone knew how it felt to lose someone you love, it was Mattie. I wanted to learn from her how you got past those feelings. One day that winter, I was at her house, and we were talking about death when I got the answer. You don’t. Though it had been close to forty years since little Connie had died, her tears flowed and her voice broke just like it was only yesterday. You adjust. To some extent, you maybe even heal. But, you never forget.

Whenever people want to attack Christianity, it amazes me that some think that Christians live in somewhat of a bubble and just accept anything that happens in their life in the name of faith. Trust me when I tell you that being a Christian is not easy. Faith is something that is learned, and doesn’t happen overnight. But, the life of Mattie Bandy was one that taught me a great deal about patience. I don’t know that I have applied it as well as I need to, but her life was a lesson in it everyday. Though it’s a sad night in the ‘Ville, somewhere there’s a pretty big reunion going on tonight – and two women might be talking about a shopping trip up yonder. Also, there are probably a few dogs that will be happy to see an old friend! And, that is not a bad thing at all!

A Reflective Week...

The past has been on my mind quite a bit over the past couple of days. With the passing of Warren Medley, I have talked to quite a few of my former co-workers at WDKN Radio. Many great memories were brought up over the past few days – some I had forgotten about, and some I never will. To be honest, it’s the most that I have gone down memory lane concerning that time period of my life in a long time. I guess you could say I have tried to distance myself from that era. The closing of the station in 2009 knocked me for a loop in a lot of ways, but I have written – and talked about that extensively over the years. Common knowledge, you might say. But, over the past couple of years, I have become friends with many of the staff there, including Freeman, Kenneth, and have known people like Dale Turner and Richie G for a few years. They are doing a good job for the community. Life goes on, and I know I wouldn’t be who I am today for those letters not being a part of my life.

I had forgotten how much fun that job was to me. I had no idea that when I walked into Jackie Rhodes’ office for the first time in 1991, that I would be blessed to have the career that I have enjoyed so much. Whether it be the morning show, ball games, Old Timers’ Day broadcasts, or Swap and Shop, it was some of the best times of my career – and life. I learned everything on the fly – which is pretty rare. Hank Walker trained me on the board, Gordon Rhodes taught me not to sweat the small stuff – and it’s all small stuff in radio, and Ken Loggains showed me how to “Act like I’ve been there before,” but most of my radio career was an on-the-job education.

In reminiscing about the past over the last few days, it’s occurred to me how many of my best friendships or relationships I have made because of working at WDKN, and later WNKX and WQSE. I was joking with Kristy Owings the other night that some of the stuff that went on behind the scenes needs to be in a book. And, some doesn’t. If you’ve ever worked radio, you know that you find humor in some very strange things. Hey, when you read funeral notices four times during the first two hours of every day you need any lift you can get! But, I am so mindful of people that made an impact on my life.....names like Joe Webster, Dot & Dusty Rhodes, Earl McCollom, Bill McCullough – whom we lost recently, Kip Reynolds, and others like them. I will leave some out, so I am not going to list everybody I think of. And, the listeners, names like Sidney Pullum, George Hall, Polly Brown, and for years, my Thanksgiving Day didn’t start right unless I had breakfast at the home of Mary Baker in Vanleer.

I am humbled at what God has allowed me to do in my career. To be honest, music is about the only thing I think I could do. Fix a car? I can screw up putting air in a tire. Woodworking? If you ever run into George Dufty, my Shop teacher – ask him about my expertise with a saw. Get ready, because he’s going to laugh! I am very blessed to be able to do a little radio still, and a lot of writing. I don’t take it lightly. I’ve found over the past couple of years, that I have become very competitive about it. I don’t like it when another writer beats me on a story. I want to be in the mix on every media day I can. Last summer, when I was in the hospital, I turned in about ten stories that week. I am still trying to earn that Billboard byline – but you won’t find anyone else with a stronger fire than mine.

I do wonder if that focus has cost me a little. I had dinner with one of my longtime co-workers and his family the other night following visitation for Mr. Medley. He and his wife were talking about knowing all the lines of a Disney movie that their children have watched over a hundred times. At that moment, I started to have a different definition of what success meant than I had before. I have been blessed to have been a father for the past seven years. Again, I learned on the fly, and there are a lot of regrets I have about how some of that has turned out. But, I haven’t done too bad. There are some decisions I wish I had back, but you live and you learn. In that moment, the interviews and the pictures I post on Facebook didn’t seem to matter too much. Success was a lot different than I thought.

But, on the way home, I did something rare- I cut myself some slack. I realized that success is a relative term – to each person. I have been blessed with so many great relationships – including a soon-to-be 16 year old that calls me “Dad” that doesn’t have to, families – blood, surrogate, and church, than I could ever imagine, and a career that I absolutely love and cherish. No, it hasn’t turned out like I thought so far, but that’s not to say it won’t. Maybe that special someone is right around the corner. I hope so. I want to write many more stories in my life, but I hope there’s a little bit more to my story than that. Maybe it will work out a little differently next time! But, in spite of those feelings of doubt and fear, I look back on my life so far – and see a person who is most richly blessed, and that qualifies as a success, I think. If you’ve been a listener, a reader, or have listened to me through some of those worries and fears, I thank you for being a part of my story. Here’s to the best being yet to come!

The Week Is Almost Over.....

When I was much younger, there was a famous commercial that featured a beautiful woman getting into a hot tun uttering the immortal phrase “Calgon, Take Me Away.” Well, I don’t know if I need the bath, the Calgon...or the beautiful blonde, but I need to escape this week. It has been a very emotional past few days.

First of all, like a lot of people here in Hickman County, I was saddened to learn of the passing of Marshall Leathers on Monday. Since I moved back to Hickman County a couple of years ago, I had gotten to know him and his wife Louise at Church. He and I had several conversations about old-time music, particularly folk artists like Pete Seeger and Bradley Kincaid. He was fine at Church Sunday night, and gone twenty-four hours later. You never know.

Wednesday, I received word that one of my family members was ill in the hospital. Not going into the details right now, but things don’t look good. So, I went to the hospital to see them. It was an emotional night, to say the least. Say a prayer for God’s will for this person. They are very special to me, and represent a lot of who I am and where I come from. So, if the week had ended at 7:15pm on Wednesday night with me somewhere between Waverly and McEwen, that would have been fine with me. But, the phone rang once more. It was Donnie Craig, one of my best friends in the world – who happens to be a Baptist preacher. The reason I qualified his profession is that you don’t expect to hear from preachers at 7:15 on Bible Study night. And, just like longtime DCHS coach Jerry Pearson told me about hearing the phone ring at 1am, when you do, the news isn’t usually good.

And, it wasn’t. He had called to inform me of the passing of Warren Medley. If you’re not from Middle Tennessee, you might not know the name. But, from 1956 until just a few months ago, Warren could be heard each week on the airwaves of WDKN in Dickson. I had the privilege of working with Warren from 1991-2009, and kept in close contact with him since then. He personified all that WDKN was to me, but more important, he was a good friend and influence on how to live your life. In his 91 years and 50 weeks, the impact that he had on Dickson County and the surrounding area can’t be underestimated. His radio career stretched from the days of AM only to broadcasting on the Internet, and from Eisenhower to Obama. That’s a pretty impressive feat, but more impressive was the man himself. Saturday mornings in Dickson County won’t be the same.

So, it has been an emotional week. Work has been as busy as it always is, and I’m grateful. Though sometimes the work load is heavy, it gets my mind off of things, and I needed that a lot – especially this week. More coming up this weekend, including the definition of success - it might surprise you!

Six Days Till 40....

Well....Six Days Till' 40.

This week has been one of those soul-searching weeks. Next Monday will be the big 4-0. What is known as mid-life. It’s funny. Even though time stands still for nobody, we still think of ourselves as young and vibrant – even in the face of aches and pains we didn’t have at 20 years old.

But, time does go by. I told myself that I wasn’t going to let it get to me too much. And, I have done pretty good with that line of thinking. Being 40 doesn’t represent the beginning of the end for me. That being said, it does make you think.

I write a lot about some of the struggles I go through sometimes. Some of those are financial, some are emotional, and some – well, they are a little bit of my own doing. But, over the past few weeks, I have been reminded that they are nothing compared what several in the community I am living in are going through. And, as I have gotten older, faith has kicked in a bit. God leads you and provides when you don’t see it coming – if you believe. He is good. I believe in him, so it’s going to be ok.

This week was a great example of life in my world. Monday was an incredible day. I had a chance to visit with Paul Martin, who plays in the Fabulous Superlatives band of Marty Stuart. It was a great interview, and was a reminder of why I love what I do. I will never say I am the best writer, radio person, or anything else I do, but nobody appreciates it any more than me. I was literally on cloud nine when I left. Then, I met a couple friends of mine for a few minutes in Hendersonville before I started home. I am not naming names, other than to say that if you would have told me I would have an afternoon like that ten or fifteen years ago, I would have laughed. Whether it be a recording artist, or an 80 year old farmer in Burns with a big nose and overalls that goes by the name of “Haystack,” I am blessed to have the relationships I do. But, I was on a high. And, then....I looked at the phone. There was nobody to tell about it. I mean, sure, I could have called quite a few friends. But, that special someone who knows what the day meant...isn’t there. That’s not to say that she won’t ever be. Again, it’s faith. LOL...I have a little bit more faith that my money needs will be met than finding love again, but I haven’t given up – totally. I hope that I am in a phase right now of totally realizing that you can be whole without someone. I’m closer than I was a year ago, which is a good sign.

That’s not to say that there haven’t been chances the past few years. It’s just that I don’t want to date just to date for show, or to prove to myself I can date someone. To quote the title of one of Jo Dee Messina’s biggest hits, I want to “Burn,” and I’ve only felt that way three times. The first time, I didn’t know what it was and it spooked me. The second time, well...just wasn’t meant to be, and the third time, I was a little scared, and there were a few obstacles – like about ten hours. But, it felt great to feel that spark again – even if it never caught a total fire. It taught me that it is possible.

But, I am not looking for anyone to feel sorry for me. I have a lot of friends – male and female – who aren’t with their Romeo or Juliet – and I don’t think any less of them, so I’m ok. More than anything else, I just wanted someone to know that this week has been a great one. From a 25 minute interview that turned into a three hour conversation to an interview today with one of rock music’s legends to discovering a new talent for the very first time, it’s all a reminder of why I love what I am so blessed to do. Granted, I may have my days of moodiness about life – Valentines’ Day is coming up, after all...but life at 40 isn’t bad at all. And, since I really didn’t start living until I was in my late 20s, who knows what’s around the corner?

Just a few deep thoughts from a shallow (at times!) mind. Good night from here!

Clearing The Air!

Well, Championship Sunday is one week away. In about 168 hours from the writing of this, we will know which teams will make it to the Super Bowl. Before I say anything further about that, I feel I need to clarify some recent posts I have made on Facebook concerning the favorite college team of several of you - the Tennessee Vols.

For the record, I am not a fan of the school - save for Pat Summitt and the Lady Basketball team. They have always been the epitome of class and sportsmanship, and Summitt might very well be the best coach to ever do it in the college ranks. But, Vols fans can get a little crazy sometimes.

In the days when they were great, their fans weren't satisfied with beating Coble State Community Basketweaving Tech  - or any other team besides Florida they played in September - 45-10. It had to be worse. Then, on the post-game of the radio broadcast, their fans would always - after a rare loss - say 'We just ought to fire Phil Fulmer.' Hmm...how did that work out?

And, Fulmer was a part of it too. He's a class individual. Don't get me wrong. He represented the school well as a player and a coach. But, remember he got the job when Johnny Majors was out sick. Fulmer stepped in and delivered some big wins during the 1992 season, and replaced Majors the next season - as it should have been. It was Fulmer's time, and history bore that out. But, I would always get lectured at Church by people who were Vols fans about how my favorite team, the Dallas Cowboys, did Tom Landry wrong in 1989. 

That was when Jerry Jones bought the team, and his first act was firing Landry and bringing in Jimmy Johnson. Was the move ill-timed? Yes, and twenty-five years later, Jones would likely tell you that was his greatest regret - the way it was handled. It was Johnson's time, just like it was Fulmer's. However, I have never heard one Vols fan talk about Majors being done wrong. So, there I said it. Again, both moves were the right ones, but could have been handled different. 

More importantly, I love to pick at UT fans because it's fun....(Smile, Candi!) There's really no ill will meant, as much as I am just a smart aleck. So, what does this have to do with the NFL?

Really, not much - in my mind. But, Denver - one of the four teams left standing - has a QB named Peyton Manning. Simply put, when his career has been written, there may not be a better QB in the history of the game. But, because of his Vols pedigree, there are more Colts and Broncos fans in Tennessee than you can shake a stick at. But, (yes, I am saying this!) Manning is class. He never beat Spurrier...but he's class. I hope he's able to get a Lombardi trophy for the Broncos, because the Colts had made the decision that he was old news. (For a lot of reasons, stories like Manning as a Bronco and Favre playing well as a Vikings QB really make me smile. Sometimes, people do have more in the tank than their teams think!) 

I get the Manning-love, when it comes to Peyton. But, Eli? As in Ole Miss? As in never worn UT orange or running through the "T." He's a great QB - tough for me as some of his greatest moments have been against the Cowboys, but why a Vols fans considered his wins over the Pats as "victories," I don't understand.....But, I digress. Vols fans, don't hate me, I just love needling you. For what it's worth, I think Butch Smith will prove to be a good hire.

So, oh yeah, back to next week....Here's my early picks....

NFC Championship: Seattle 16, San Francisco 14
I really am not looking forward to this one - either way. Not because of any ill will towards either, but they are just boring. San Fran has more offensive fire, but when they play each other, it's usually a defensive game that just puts one to sleep. At the end of the day, San Francisco has the better team, but Seattle is at home....so there's my pick. You don't beat Seattle much on their turf.

AFC Championship: Patriots 38, Colts 35 - Do you remember 1992-1995 when the 49ers and the Cowboys games were better than the Super Bowl? That's the way I feel about this one. These are the two best teams in the league, with the two best QB's and a coach in Bill Belichick that might very well be the best to have ever done it. Hate them, like them, whatever, Tom Brady and Company seemingly get it done. I think that's the difference. It's going to be close, historic, epic, and likely better than the Super Bowl, but though I would like to see Manning in the big dance one more time....I think New England is the more complete team.....but it's going to be close....

OK, those are my thoughts. Who do you think goes to New York for the Super Bowl? 

 

A Few Words To Live...And Hope By

We tend to change as we get older. I know I have. Some changes have been for the better, but there are there are times that I think I have regressed as a human being over the years. I'm just being honest.  Aside from writing blogs and making an occasional post on Facebook that talks about personal stuff, I don't really talk to a lot of people when I get upset. I figure that people have heard it before, and everyone has problems - and there are people with a lot worse ones than I have. Again, I know that this week. I've talked to them!

That being said, this is my blog - and you can choose not to read it - LOL.....,so this is my place to vent. It's just been one of those weeks where you want to scream and pull your hair out - which incidentally, is a lot less of a problem for me than it is for others. (See? I am looking at the bright side!)

I am just tired of struggling as much as I do. Then again, I know we all are. But, there have been a few times this week that I have thought about crawling in a hole and staying there awhile. But, I didn't. There are at least two reasons for this. One, I'm a ______ (fill in the blanks, but I will say scaredy-cat, and it's been too cold in the dirt!) 

Secondly, there's another reason - faith. As I have written before, since moving back to Tennessee in August 2011, every time the going has gotten a little rough - God has stepped in and shown me the way. He was there before then, but I was a little too blind to see. (That sounds like an "Amazing" song idea!)....I'm not standing on a pulpit saying how great and noble I am - I'm not. I am far from a Bible scholar, and my mind isn't always focused on the things it should be. But, I do listen and observe more than I used to, and I know there's a higher power. I take comfort in some of the great lessons I have heard over the past few years - whether it be Devin Pickard, Rodney Rochelle, Matthew Hiatt, James Hinkle, Danny Turner, or Donnie Craig, and every now and then I'll hear a verse that makes me think. Case in point:

Jeremiah 29:11-14 / For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, and will bring you back from captivity.

Philippians 4:6-7 / Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And, the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 

Again, I'm not a preacher. But, it says nothing in either of these verses about needing to worry and fret. In fact, quite the opposite. So, I'm going to try not to do that. God has always been there, and he will now. Besides, another verse in the Bible says he knows the number of the hairs on my head. (He doesn't count very high, at least in my case!) It's all going to be ok. Patience. Faith. I think I can. I know he can. 

Well, closing for the night. I am not trying to be haughty or holier than thou. I am a Christian, but my batting average isn't the best sometimes. But, if there's anyone out there who has had a week like I have - or worse, there's a few verses that show there is hope.....Food for thought!

The Titans Search Is On!

Saturday morning, there was a lot of grumbling going on in the mid-state.. The headline of the Nashville Tennessean made it appear that Mike Munchak would be back for a fourth season coaching the Tennessee Titans. Well, by 3pm that afternoon, it turned out to be quite the opposite. Since then, a lot of people have been very critical of writer Jim Wyatt. If those people bothered to READ the story, you would have seen that the story was factual. Typically at newspapers and websites, the person who wrote the story is not the one who writes the subject header. So, there. Wyatt's story was very much dead on. Munchak met with Titans brass on Friday, and from all accounts, it appeared that they wanted him to stay  - providing some changes were made to the coaching staff.

That's where things got interesting. The coach felt that to fire certain members of his staff would be detrimental to his teams' chances of building on their 7-9 record this season. The fact that some of those coaches - such as longtime Titan / Oiler Bruce Matthews are his friends had some bearing on his thought process, I'm sure, but I have to admit my respect for the coach wanting to stick to his plan - job or no job - went up a little bit.

I can't say that I was a big fan of Munchak's coaching style. But, he has always been a class act, and I hope he lands on his feet. (Of course, he will land with $ 3 million in his pocket NOT to coach the Titans next season, so it's not all bad!) I think we in the Nashville market were spoiled for years by the stability under Jeff Fisher.

OK, before you insert your comments about "Stability? You mean 8-8 every year?" I will cut you off right now. Bill Cowher, Jon Gruden, or any of the "Superstar" coaches that come up each January regarding possible openings couldn't have done much better with some of the hands that Fisher was dealt with. 

Was I a Jeff Fisher fan? Heck yes. Back in 1997, I was PD at WDKN in Dickson, and I lobbied hard for the station to become an affiliate of the then-Oilers. I will never forget how hard Fisher worked to promote the franchise. Sure, he coached the team, but he was the best PR person the Titans had. He had that unmistakable charisma that you just admired and respected. Most women over 35 thought he was the greatest thing since Tom Selleck, and just like with "Magnum," men didn't seem to mind. He worked the franchise, and possessed a degree of fire on the field that Munchak just didn't have. That's not a knock, as much as it is just a statement on his coaching style being different from Fisher, who was such a good salesman he could ALMOST make me a fan of the Philadelphia Eagles, with the key word being "Almost."

So, where do the Titans go next? The name Ken Wisenhunt has been mentioned quite a bit. Currently the OC at San Diego, he has that pizazz that I think would spur some excitement down at LP (Larry Petty) Field. He's been to a Super Bowl as head coach of the Cardinals. Then, there's James Franklin. He has done wonders with the fortunes of Vanderbilt, but has never been involved with an NFL franchise. Then again, the next coaching star has to come from somewhere? And, there would definitely be excitement if Franklin moved from West End to the River. I don't know. One name I have not heard would be Saints DC Rob Ryan. He has the fire, but have his defenses been that great until this season? He is a country music fan, which would be a plus. Maybe the Titans could lure former DC coaches Jerry Pearson and Jackie Bledsoe to co-coach the team. I can't guarantee the record, but a Mike Keith coaches show with either would definitely be entertaining! Just my two cents, which has declined to a worth of one and a half....I'd love to hear yours!

The Excitement Of A Snowfall

First of all, thanks to everyone who responded to my post regarding Brownie. Pets are a special part of all of our lives, and we were blessed to have her as a part of ours. Writing this in Hickman County tonight, as there is a little bit of excitement in the air....as IT'S SNOWING! (Not simply in Waverly, where students in Dickson would always start rumors that it was snowing - in hopes that schools would let out early!)  It's amazing. It doesn't matter if you are a child or an adult. Driving in the snow is kind of a cool experience. And, there's nothing like being out of school...I remember calling WDKN like crazy as a kid, bugging Bill McCullough to death, asking if there was schools in Dickson County. LOL - You know what they say about paybacks? I got mine, for sure! I remember one night during my first season doing DCHS Basketball back in 1995. Coach Eve Hamilton and I were discussing the snow outside during the game - and I said 'As a teacher, I bet you hate that!" I'll never forget her response - the moment where I realized teachers were human - "Heck no, we want out as much as the kids."

Tonight, pulling into the Shell to put some gas in my car after Church, my mind went back to January 1985. I was in the fifth grade at the time. I went with my Dad to Dickson to Super X. (Wow, I am old.) It started snowing while we were in town, and snowed and snowed and snowed. I don't recall how many inches, but the temperature got down to -17 that next morning. For those that might recall, we were hit with so many snows that year that we had to go to school on Saturday three straight weeks - unless you were a sudden convert to Seventh - Day Adventist - like one of my friends (who shall remain nameless!). Looking back, I don't think anyone minded too much. Heck, I wouldn't mind going back to fifth grade for a few Saturdays now - or permanently, for that matter. This adult stuff kind of reeks sometimes!

To be honest, the thrill of seeing it snow kind of wore off. The temperatures are going to be very cold over the next couple of days, and I'm not as young as I used to be. Never thought I would say this, but bring on spring! Hunker down, and stay warm!

RIP, Brownie, 1998-2014

November 8, 1998. It was a Sunday afternoon. The Dallas Cowboys were playing the New York Giants. (It may sound strange, but the Cowboys are somehow linked to the timeline of my life. For the most part, from 1998 on back – that was a good thing!) My mother and I drove out to Lyles to pick up a new dog – a Shitzapoo (?) named Brownie. I remember on the way home she didn’t dare get out from under the towel that my mother had with her. Needless to say, the dog lost its’ shyness pretty quick.

She became the apple of everyone’s eye. Her most prominent sitting position was right beside my mother in her blue recliner. But all three of us had our special moments with her. She was an amazing dog – but, as you can imagine – nobody thought of her as an animal.

To say she was spoiled would be like saying Highway 48 has curves, or Beyonce is kind of attractive. It would be an understatement. I don’t know how many trips I took (even to Walmart) between 1998 and 2006 when I didn’t bring back home a squeaker toy. Typically, she would play with it for thirty seconds, then that was it. And you didn’t dare recycle them. She was way too smart for that! She also ate plenty of human food – turkey from the Thanksgiving table – and microwavable popcorn – one of her favorites. She loved to chase the school bus in the afternoons. I remember seeing Randy Tidwell drive 51 down the road, and her running back and forth until the bus got out of sight – the wind blowing through her hair. 

Over the past fifteen years, she was one of my best friends. If I was down because of my job status or dating status, she was there. But, losing Mama in 2005 was something that I don’t know if I could have gotten through. I remember one time around Christmas, the day was particularly rough. She jumped on the couch with me, and let me cry.

 I moved out in April 2007. But, every time I would go over to the house, I would pick her up and love on her. Funny, a couple of people that I became involved with over the years didn’t like the attention I gave the dog – as I hated to leave her by herself if I was the only one at the house. They’re long gone – but she remained!

 As I went through a divorce a couple of years ago and was in a state of flux for awhile, I would sometimes dogsit at Dad and Marcia’s. It was an emotional time. But, I always had an ear to listen. 

You know where this is headed. Brownie went from this life to the other side this morning. Mama used to say because she was so feisty that she was sent tumbling from the “Hole In The Floor Of Heaven,” a reference to the Steve Wariner hit. (Yes, Dallas Cowboys and Country Music. I know.) Well, she earned her wings. I hope she’s up with Mama chasing a school bus, and eating all the popcorn she wants. My heart, though hurting, breaks especially for my father and Marcia – as tonight will be the first time in years they’re there but she’s not. They have given her the best over the years, and I am grateful to them for that – and the love they have for all animals and me. 

My favorite author of all time is Lewis Grizzard. On the back of The Last Bus To Albuquerque, a book published after his passing in March 1994, there was an illustration of him holding his typewriter while walking into the pearly gates, and all the dogs he had were running out to greet him – including his beloved “Catfish,” who died a few months before he did. I can only hope that is how it is for all of us – to be greeted by our furry friends. If that’s not what you believe, well frankly I don’t give a …. In my mind, it wouldn’t be heaven without them. No pain, and popcorn all day. LOL...Sounds good! Brownie, I miss you! Even though there was that one time you bit me on the nose, I will let it slide!

Goodbye, 2013!

In just a few short hours, 2013 will be nothing but a page in the history books. I guess like most years, you could say it was a mixed bag. Don’t get me wrong, there was a lot of good in 2013. I got to erase a few names from my interview bucket list. Got to talk and do stories on Kenny Rogers, Reba McEntire – two of my all-time favorites. One day, I found myself at the home of Vince Gill and then, an hour and a half later, Steve Wariner. Talk about an unforgettable day! The job took me to some pretty cool places – Vegas to cover the ACM’s, Oklahoma to see Roy Clark on the 4th of July, back to Vegas to see Faith and Tim, and Chicago to see Trace Adkins. I consider myself to be very blessed to get to do what I do. As someone who kept to himself in his bedroom reading Country history books and Billboard Magazine – I am humbled and don’t take one day, one trip, one single interview for granted. I love what I do. I need music in the same way I need oxygen. That sounds like a dramatic statement, but it’s the truth. To be able to communicate my love of it – whether it be through writing about it, talking about it on the air, or a simple conversation, I consider that to be the one thing I know that I know how to do. There’s others that are better, but nobody loves what they do anymore. I have also been able to keep in close contact with a lot of my friends in 2013, and to even develop a few more friendships. That’s not an easy thing for me, given my tendency to shy away and be a loner, but I am glad I have done it when I have. 

On the flip side, there’s been the health. Seven days in a hospital in May / June was not how I planned to spend CMA Fest Week. And, I have nobody I can pin that on other than myself. I had to look at myself in the mirror over that one. There were reasons, sure, but I realized – or am still realizing that depression is something that I am going to have to deal with until I have front row seats to the George Jones / Conway Twitty / Patsy Cline show. One thing I have learned is that I’m not the only one. So many of you deal with your own issues, and as the old song says, “Some Days Are Diamonds, Some Days Are Stone.” The only way I am going to stick this thing out, and come out on the other side – is by taking care of myself. And, I’m trying. It’s day by day. But, the good outweighs the bad. 

So, 2014. It’s human nature this time of year to say “I’m going to do this differently. I resolve to do this more or do this less.” But, by January 15 – we’re usually back to who we are. I HOPE I can get ahead a little bit financially. Though, you do what you have to do to get through with each day – whether Dave Ramsey agrees or not. I HOPE I can be a little more positive and forward in my thinking – though I tend to curl up like a ball sometimes if the least thing goes wrong. I will tell you that just like 2013, I plan on working – a lot. I hope I write as much next year as I did last year. I want to knock a few more names off my “Dream Interviews” list. I hope that my job (s) will allow me to travel more. There’s still nineteen states I haven’t visited. And – I haven’t been to Southern California since 2005.....or Dallas – except for a layover since 1998. I plan on trying to take advantage of every career possibility I am presented with that I can do...and I want to grow as a Christian. 2013 was one of growth for me. I have learned that God has a way, and if you trust in him, it will all be okay. Would love to fall in love again in 2014....(or heck, 2013 – there’s still a few hours left), but that’s actually not something you can control. It just “happens.” I don’t understand why it’s slower for me to happen than others, but I guess it will be worth it in the end. Not going to swear off Chinese food – totally, though I have cut down, the Dallas Cowboys, or anything like that.....Plan on trying to be a better person, son, father, pet owner, “Dallas” watcher than I was this year – and that’s all I can promise.....Hope all of you have a great New Years!......See you in ‘14!

Just A Request.....

..Over the past four years that I have written this blog, I have probably been guilty at times of writing a little too much. From losing a job to going through a divorce, I do tend to wear my heart on my sleeve. This is one of those nights. 

Whenever I have gotten down – about whatever, I have always been able to hit the road and try to outrun whatever it was that was bothering me. That might mean a trip to Denny’s to work and people watch, a trip to the record store,or just a run to Dollar General (Hey, I live in Centerville. The options aren’t plentiful past 8pm), 

But, for the month of December, it’s going to be a little bit different. Tomorrow, barring something unforseen, I will be going into a couple of walking casts. That’s due to a couple of spots I have on my feet that just won’t heal. We’ve tried a lot of things over the past few months, and this is something that was advised to me a couple of months ago. So, as I said – barring something I’m not expecting – I will be in walking casts for the month of December. I will still be able to get around, just no driving.

 Those last three words are the ones I have a problem with. There’s a part of me that wants to chicken out tomorrow, but there are many of you that would kick my backside if I did that, and with a busy 2014 around the corner, I want to get it taken care of so I can get around as good as I can. It’s for the best, but I am a little scared, to be honest.

 Scared of what? If the walls of this house get a little lonely - or the ghosts talk a little loud – I could always just say ‘To heck with it. I’ll go to Walmart.’ Having to plan things out a bit is going to be rough. Though, I will say, many have offered to get me where I need to get to. And, there are actually a couple of trips on the calendar for the month, so it’s going to be alright. I hate that I am probably going to miss some Christmas celebrations / parties, but the trade is worth it. It’s got to get better. I love my life and my job too much to do them at 45%.

 I do want to ask that you keep me in your prayers over the next few weeks. Hopefully by 2014, things will be back to normal. I can imagine that there will be a few more blog posts this month, so please indulge me. But, as someone who fights depression, this is going to be a little bit tough of a month. However, this is my chance to handle things in a different way than before, and maybe being still – or a little more still – for a few weeks will be a good thing. We will see. God is good, and he has plans for me that I have no idea about, so it’s time to trust. So, if you want to invite me out at night to ride around and look at Christmas lights, I might take you up on it....and some Nuts and Bolts....AKA Chex mix.....wouldn’t be sneezed at, either! In all seriousness, thanks for your support!

2,922 Days Later, I Still Wonder.......

It is a melancholy day.

Now, wait a minute. I see what’s going on in your mind. ‘He’s going back to puddleglum again.’

And, you would be wrong. Well, sort of.

As I sit here in one of my favorite “hotspots,” AKA Denny’s – somewhere in Kentucky as I am headed from one story to another, there’s a lot on the mind today. Heck, I’m even drinking coffee. (I used to think you had to be old to drink coffee. 39 isn’t quite as old as it used to be!)

Actually, today is the type of day I absolutely love. It’s on the cold side, and very overcast – with the clouds resembling a huge snow drift somewhere. Christmas is just around the corner, as evidenced by the small stack of holiday CD’s I need to listen to for review – though until Kenny and Dolly’s “I Believe In Santa Claus” first plays, it’s still not the holly and jolly time of year.

Today marks eight years since my mother passed away. In that time, there have been so many changes. Though you never “get over” it, you do put a loss – even of that magnitude in its’ proper place. But, what I am asking myself today is what would she think about some of the changes in my life – where I’ve been, where I am, and where I’m going. (If I had the answer to the last one, I would be happy!)

I have written at length about the changes in my life. And, to be honest, even most of the bad ones I wouldn’t change. I have learned some lessons that hopefully I can do some things different on down the line. I just got off the phone with a young man who is a lot taller than I am who calls me “Dad.” (And, I’m proud and glad he does, though he loves to shine bright blue light savers in the back of the car at night while in Burns a little too much – making me think the cops are behind me!) That’s a pretty good thing. Again, not all the changes in my life have been bad!

At this point four years ago, I thought my career was just about over. Now, here I am doing what I have dreamed of all of my life, and feeling blessed every moment I am doing it. It’s ironic how things happen when you least expect them to.

But, there have been some bumps along the road that I haven’t handled well. Health is one, but I am trying to take better care of myself from a blood sugar standpoint. There are some other battles right now, but I am getting through them – one day at a time. That’s the only way I have learned how to do it. Not going to say that I handled things smartly, but I am where I am. (That’s my way of saying “It Is What It Is” - which I still don’t exactly know what that means!)

There are other parts of my life that I could do better with. Finances being one of them. Again, one day at a time, I guess. Between Obamacare and that car that I am probably going to have to get in 2014, I am a little scared to death right now of how I am going to make it. That being said, since September 5, 2011 – and I made an nine-hour, overnight drive to Tennessee that brought me “home,” God has taken care of what I need. Though, sometimes, I have this fantasy of being ‘The Gambler’ coming up with the winning card at the last minute that solves all the ills in the world, I think – while that happens – it’s all about survival – one day at a time, and through Him, I have been able to do that. (Some men compare themselves to The Godfather. I compare myself to Kenny Rogers and JR Ewing, I guess!)

The personal side still gets me down. But, I will take blame for some of that. There are two sides to every story, with truth somewhere in between. But, that’s not what that statement is about. I learned some things that will hopefully make me a better partner for the next woman – when that comes along. It doesn’t have to be tomorrow, but being alone in the Fall is not a good feeling. I am going to have to actually develop courage, though. I have interviewed just about every artist in the business, became friends with some of Nashville’s most legendary figures – but asking someone out? Talk about being scared! A publicist can say no. Sometimes, that is their job. Five minutes later, you’re over it. But getting rejected on a date? LOL....That stays with me longer than getting turned down for advertising. (There is a reason I am not full-time in radio anymore!)......

I haven’t done the right thing each and every time in my life. But, I have tried to more often than not. One day at a time, I have tried to be the best I can be – to all I can be. I know sometimes, despite the best intentions, that’s not good enough. I know of at least one person who I hurt pretty badly over the past few years. (I’m sure there are more, but I know of one) But, all you can do is try, and if you’re not given a chance to make it right – you just have to move on. But, overall, I’m in a pretty good place. I love what I do, who I do it for and with, and have a great family unit around me (Friends included in that mix, including a few little furry friends who don’t recognize the importance of sleep at night when they want their cat food!).....God is good!

Still, a “Mama’s Boy” wonders.....What would Mama think? Overall, I hope she would be proud of things, but maybe the proudest of knowing where I’m going. I hope!

Well, I guess I better cross the state line. This self-examination might be appealing to me, but my waitress is another story. On the road again!

A Couple Of Angels!

I spend a lot of time on this blog writing about either my career or the ups and downs of being single. This week, I wanted to shine the spotlight on a group of special people that deserve a huge pat on their shoulders for making this past Sunday night a memorable one.

Not too long ago, two women by the name of Emily Strope and Michelle James started an organization in Jackson, TN called Downtown Dogs Group. It is an animal rescue organization. They have devoted countless hours in saving and enriching the lives of our canine companions, helping many of them to find homes. Anyone who works with pets has my ultimate respect. I don’t consider animals to be less than humans – by any stretch of the imagination. All of the pets that I have had over the years have been not “just like family,” but have been family. I could tell you many occasions when an animal has gotten me through a tough period or moment in my life. I can also tell you the times they have made me laugh. In the past two years of my life, there have been several lonely moments – all made better by the personalities of several furry friends of mine.

But, back to Emily and Michelle. Not only have they given of their time and energy, but also their own finances to keep the Downtown Dogs Group running. A few months ago, some of their friends decided to give them a helping hand by planning an event called Bone Appetit! A celebration of all things southern, the event featured many talented musicians, as well as food from some of the greatest chefs in the mid-South, including the Peabody Hotel’s Andreas Kisler. The music was first-rate – and the food? Wow. Personally, I can’t say that I have ever been more impressed with a food spread since the first time I had lunch at Oma Pickard’s house in Centerville! Fried Chicken. Catfish, and some of the most unbelievable brisket that I have ever had. I went down to Jackson to cover the event, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was southern hospitality at its’ finest!

Emily and Michelle would be the first to tell you this was a group effort, and many people came together for this great cause. But, to Emily and Michelle, I say thank you. I have a habit of getting very attached to animals. For years, at Christmas, I would take toys and treats to the local Humane Society. I would watch these dogs play with them, and cry all the way home. And, though my home life isn’t as neat as it would be if I didn’t have my cats....it wouldn’t be with living if I didn’t at the same time. Even those 3am wake up calls where I get lightly scratched in the nose to get up and feed them....they are still my babies.

I can only imagine how emotional their jobs are. I can also tell you that both of them are more man than I am, because there are moments I know I couldn’t handle. You gals are a couple of angels on this earth. Thanks to Madison County for coming together and helping you out. It was a great night for a great cause. But, then again, who can resist the charms of our furry angels.....or for that matter, a call from Libby Murphy? God bless you both, and all who contributed to this event...

www.DowntownDogsGroup.com

Gloria Estefan. Really?

(Sitting at Subway on a Friday night in Centerville wondering why we park on driveways....and drive on parkways!)

Tonight is one of those rare nights for me. There’s nothing pressing that needs to be done – right at this moment. Though it’s a Friday night, I covered my football game last night, and though I could get my articles done for the week after next...lol...that’s what the weekend is for. Friday night in Tennessee during the fall – a pretty nice place to be.

As I write this, this is one of those nights that I have no idea what my fingers will type. I drove to Nashville earlier to pick up some mail. You ever have one of those times when every song you hear just hits you? Tonight, it did. It’s about an hour and ten minute drive from Nashville to Centerville, and between the new CD’s that were sent to me and the tunes on Sirius – I heard some great ones. Biz Markie (You might be surprised to know I know who that is!), Carly Simon, Pink, and even a new song called “Popular,” that even though I will be 40 years old in a few months....I actually liked. Then, Sirius Love Songs played “Here We Are” by Gloria Estefan. Seriously?

OK, let me explain. That song has no personal significance to me as far as a moment in time with someone else. But, a Gloria Estefan love song – on a cool fall night – hits me much the same way a Karen Carpenter classic from the 70s does. Gorgeous...Stunning....but also Really? LOL.

As someone who is single, I can lure myself into not thinking about my romantic state for awhile. But, sometimes you hear a song, and it hits you. It’s not all bad, though. I guess it gives you something to dream about.

I have wrtitten before about the fact that for years I judged myself on if I was seeing anyone. Thankfully, I don’t do that anymore. But, I gotta admit life is a little more excitement filled when there is that someone special in it.

The difference between now and then is I am beginning to understand you have to be happy with yourself in order to truly make someone happy....Wait a minute, did I say that? Wish I had known that in 1996! And, you can’t force it. I mean, you can dress decently, shave when you need to, and stuff, but typically, the woman of your dreams isn’t going to be waiting in the Buck Owens section at Ernest Tubb Record Shop....But, oh, if she were!.....I have shown a willing nature at not doing relationships the right way for whatever reason in my life.....so next time, I am going to let it happen naturally. I don’t like being alone. But, I can handle it. That’s different.

I do believe that she is out there. Who knows, I might even know her? No, that’s not a veiled attempt to say something without saying something....or then again, maybe it is. Only my brain knows for sure. But, sometimes you’ve gotta wait.

Still, a Gloria Estefan song on a fall night with a breeze in the air – not a good thing for the single person. On second thought, maybe I do need to go write an article for three weeks from today.....Good night from Subway!

If You Happen To Be In A Bookstore.....

If you go to a bookstore this week, pick up a copy of Billboard Magazine. I shouldn’t have to tell you that, of course. For over a century, Billboard has been the foremost musical publication in America. (Biased? Who me?) But, this week’s issue (dated September 28) is pretty important to me. I have a story inside – with an interview of Kenny Rogers, focusing on his upcoming album – You Can’t Make Old Friends.

Though the majority of my work for Billboard has been in the digital sector, I have been blessed over the past couple of years to have landed a few pieces in the print edition. But, if you know me, this one’s special.

More than any other musical artist, Kenny Rogers was the one who inspired me with his body of work. Go back in time with me to the late 1970s. Some of my earliest memories of records were watching the clouds on the United Artists label go around and around while I listened to songs like “The Gambler,” “Lucille,” and “Daytime Friends.” His music was a huge part of the soundtrack of my youth. Show and tell at Burns Elementary? I took my Kenny Rogers records. (Even though one day, I thought about taking my I Want To Be Like Mr. Tidwell When I Grow Up T-shirt. For the record, I’m still trying that one too!) When I was in middle school, there was a fashion line at J.C. Penney of Kenny Rogers dress shirts. Yep, I was the only one at JES Middle School who had them....(I was so much of an individualist back then!)

But, it was listening to those records that lit my fuse as a music fan. I became a fan of other artists, sure, but there was always something special about when Kenny Rogers released a new record - even to this day.

Since going to work for Billboard, I wonder sometimes if I act professional enough. I post a lot of Facebook pictures whenever I meet someone in the industry – legendary or newcomer – and I’ll be honest when I say I don’t see a lot of my fellow writers doing the same thing. But, I can’t help it. I’m a fan. I wouldn’t be doing this for a living if I didn’t have the passion for it. To be a part of telling the story of the artists I get to cover is an amazing feeling – one I don’t take lightly. But, yeah, there was a kid who spent his $ 10 a week on casssettes and records at Wal-Mart as a kid, who begged his father to take him to concerts at night when it meant another ride back to Nashville after a long day’s work – I now know how those trips to Music City add up. So, if I have ever offended anyone with that I apologize. But, trust me when I say, I don’t mean it that way. A new artist, Tyler Farr, put this in perspective last week. During an interview, he talked about taking all the pictures he could with artists he was getting to meet...because you only get one time around. So, let me say I am serious about my craft, but I also love my craft, as well.

Back to the Billboard issue this week, I do hope you will seek out a copy of this one. I have to get one or two myself. This one is as much a tribute to my parents as anything else I have ever done. So many times in my life, people would ask ‘I know you love listening tp music, but what are you going to Do for a living? They always believed. And, though I am little worse for the wear, and have traveled through a few roads I didn’t plan on nor did I expect, I am getting to do what I love to do. And, by the way, Kenny’s album is really good. You need to buy it on October 8!

Later this week, I will tell you about another country artist that inspired me recently in a different way......Stay tuned!