I've never been much of a country music fan. I was raised on it. My dad is a musician. He plays the guitar, the fiddle, the mandolin and the banjo. That's how he and my mom met. He was in a band and was playing in a bar that she used to go to. Not that my mom's a lush or anything, she just liked to go and see the band play. I really enjoy bluegrass but just regular country music....I can take it or leave it. Well, this weekend in Nashville, John and Julie and I went to this little hole-in-the wall honky tonk. Sitting in the middle of the bar was a group of 4 singer/song writers. The tables and chairs were arranged all around them and man, those guys could sing! They each had songs they had written for different country music stars, Faith Hill, Brad Paisley and a couple others that I can't remember. One of them, Angela Hertz had a platinum record. I was just so in awe of their talent it gave me goose bumps and brought tears to my eyes. The name of this little dive was Douglas Corner Bar and Grill . The artists names were Angela Hertz, Wade Battle, Michael White and Aaron somebody. I can't believe I forgot his name! Some of their songs were, "I wouldn't waste a bullet" ( a love song. ; ) ) "How can something so small be so strong?","Little Freedoms". Love Love Love them. http://home.digitalcity.com/nashville/bars/douglas-corner-cafe/v-110878103

The conference was grueling. I hated it. It was fun to network. Surprisingly enough, I had a good time with John and Julie. I was a little worried about how Julie and I would carry on conversation for the entire 3 days since she is almost young enough to be my daughter but it wasn't a problem at all and I think we have become even closer friends. She is getting married in April and I was able to give her a few words of wisdom from our experiences with Chanel.

Speaking of Chanel, I was so proud of her for calling Rick for Father's day yesterday! I know the girls love him, but sometimes they are pretty self-absorbed to think about doing things like that. Even though Rick is not her father, it meant a lot to him that she called.

I spoke to my dad yesterday for Father's Day. We haven't been talking since vacation. We've both been a little mad at each other. But it was fine yesterday. The only comment he made was that it was good to hear my voice again. I want to have a close relationship with him, he just makes it hard sometimes. I understand that my parents won't be around forever so I want to enjoy them as much as I can while they are here.

Have a happy Monday.