Twenty-Six

I turned twenty-six years old a few weeks ago. I have much to be thankful for! Here are a few things my twenty-six-year-old self is into these days:

1. My favorite celebrity, Erin Oprea. She is a #girlboss at her finest and has inspired me to LIVE healthier. Examples: staying active, celebrating a healthy lifestyle, enjoying treats in moderation, taking beet juice shots (!), the occasional tabata (how do you pronounce it though?!) and being realistic in regards to health. Put forth good efforts and don’t beat yourself up for taking a break or having a treat.
2. Fayetteville, North Carolina! I visited my friend Victoria and her baby daughter for a quick trip. I. LOVED. OUR. TIME. TOGETHER. And, green grass was cool to see as well.
3. I’m still Maren Morris’s #1 fan. I love her in that new hit song The Middle; and she recently released Rich as a single (IT. IS. A. JAM!) and she’s marrying Ryan Hurd really soon (#GettinMurd, and no I did not make up that hashtag). You go girl, stay beautiful, don’t change, etc.
4. The Psalms (from the Bible). I’ve been reading a Psalm a day and WOW. There is some really good stuff in the Psalms. The Psalms allow me to reflect on the character of God; he is unchanging in character and his love is unfailing. Also, Psalm 33:6 says, “The Lord merely spoke, and the heavens were created. He breathed the word, and all the stars were born.” (Listen to a related song, So Will I, as recorded to Tori Kelly. SO GOOD on SO MANY LEVELS.)

Country Favorites: Summer 2017

Even though it’s technically still spring, summer music is undoubtedly here.

Some of my favorites:

• Body Like A Back Road (Sam Hunt) Talk about one of those instant feel-good jams. Goin 15 in a 30, I ain’t in no hurry, Imma take it slow just as fast as I can.
• Craving You (Thomas Rhett & Maren Morris) Two of the top most popular country artists collaborating. What a beautiful thing!
• Happy People (Little Big Town) This song has the best vibe and super solid lyrics too. Personal favorite line…Happy people don’t fail; happy people just learn.
• The Fighter (Keith Urban & Carrie Underwood) Am I the only one who has a significant urge to kick-box when I hear this song? I’m still thinking about a full out routine to go with the song…
• For Her (Chris Lane) Maybe the most adorable song ever-check it out.
• Greatest Love Story (LANCO) This song is the first LANCO song I ever did hear and let me tell you they just might become a favorite of mine. If you have not yet heard this song, check. it. out.
• No Such Thing As A Broken Heart (Old Dominion) Another extremely catchy song with excellent lyrics.
• Round Here Buzz (Eric Church) This is a JAM! I have heard really great things about Eric’s Holding My Own tour and I just just imagine him singing this one live.
• You Broke Up With Me (Walker Hayes) One of my gym buddies caught me jammmmmmming to this tune last week in my car…I had no idea he was driving in the lane next to me… The tune/lyric combination is on point. Do yourself a favor and listen to this one.

CMA’s 50, Reviewed

Is today Christmas? I woke up with the same giddy excitement for the 50th CMA show!

So it’s not Christmas but I do have TONS of snacks, sparkling grapefruit water (I really went cray-cray on that impulse buy) and not-gonna-lie I’m wearing the same dress I wore to my sister’s wedding. (WHO SAYS YOU WON’T WEAR YOUR BRIDESMAID DRESS AGAIN? I’LL GIVE YOU AN OCCASION.)

Let me recap for you the first ten solid minutes of the CMAs in one sentence. Basically anyone who has been involved in country music for over 10 years sang a medley of all-time hits, including Reba’s Fancy, Randy Travis’s Forever And Ever, Amen and Alan Jackson’s Don’t Rock The Jukebox.

Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood are singing “the election is lasting, forever and ever.” Clever start to the hosting intro. (And I mean… amen. Pun WAY intended.)

Entertainer of the Year nominees are mentioned, Carrie Underwood’s one of them. Brad proclaims, “#ImWithCarrie.” Love it.

Aweeee you guyssss! Five of our Olympians from this year are giving the first award tonight for single of the year. They look adorable all dressed up. My money was on Chris Stapleton, Nobody To Blame. The adorable Thomas Rhett is the winner, though, and he and his wife both look so happy about it. I’m happy too.

Home girl has taken the stage! (I should specify… this is Kelsea Ballerini.) She’s singing Peter Pan – a slow version with two people dancing in the background. She looks sincere and has such solid stage presence. PS, the people dancing are aerial dancing (is that even a term?) Read… one or both of them are regularly… not on the ground… I love the creativity and level of entertainment I felt from this performance.

Olivia Newton John is part of the group – who knew, she was 1979’s female vocalist of the year? Song of the Year will be announced. Tim McGraw wins with Humble and Kind. The song writer, Lori McKenna, gave the sweetest thank you speech about how this song was a prayer she wrote for her children, and how she writes songs for Tim McGraw because of Faith Hill. Faith is (adorably) crying at her seat. I LOVE MOMENTS LIKE THESE.

Jason Aldean is singing “Brand New Man” with Brooks & Dunn. Jason’s voice sounds great with Ronnie and Kix in this classic performance.

Dierks Bentley and Elle King are singing “It’s Different With Girls.” I love this song and they’re performing a classic, sweet version of this song.

GUYS MY OTHER FAVE IS PERFORMING! Maren Morris is singing My Church. Her hair is way curly, “fro-ed out” even. She’s got a little church choir behind her, and she’s wearing a trendy black dress. She seems real happy and comfortable rockin’ out to her first hit.

Let me take a minute to say, Carrie Underwood has been dressing to honor each decade. Everyone knows she’s like model-level beautiful so she looks amazing in each dress. #GOALS.

Jennifer Garner is giving the award for New Artist of the Year. Kelsea Ballerini, Brothers Osborne, Maren Morris, Old Dominion, and Cole Swindell are all nominated. We have some great new artists! Side note, she is rocking her outfit. Maren wins! Hooray sista, I am PROUD O YOU. She’s way humbled and emotional. Last year she was watching the CMAs at a bar and here she is today. CRYING up a storm and thanking her favorites. She is a wreck and I absolutely love her perfectly flawed thank you. Maren, you have arrived my friend.

Brad Paisley straight up admitted that Carrie is doing one of her “legendary outfit changes” and I love that.

Garth and Tricia are singing a tribute medley. Watching the crowd react to each song introduced is really fun. Words to explain the way this audience is receiving the performance: giddy excitement, sentimental tears, true appreciation.

Oh snap, Carrie Underwood is looking SASSY singing Dirty Laundry. She literally is crushin it tonight.

Faith Hill is giving out the next award, for Album of the Year. Nominated: Black (Dierks Bentley), Hero (Maren Morris), Mr. Misunderstood (Eric Church), Ripcord (Keith Urban) anddddddd Storyteller (Carrie Underwood). Ok, I am WAY surprised. Eric Church is the winner! Mr. Misunderstood is a solid album though, so I’m happy with him. Eric mentioned that he presented his album last year at his performance at the CMAs and I totally remember that.

Little Big Town is singing their new song, Better Man. Fun fact, Taylor Swift wrote this song! Listen to the lyrics and you will believe it.

Miranda Lambert looks like she 100% knows what she’s doing. She’s singing Vice… acapella for the first several measures and completely on key. I actually love her very simple hairstyle.

Matthew McConaughey has taken the stage! (Alright alright alright!) He’s introducing Tim McGraw who is singing Humble And Kind.

Brad Paisley sang with the Oak Ridge Boys.. until commercial break… It was a nice moment of fame for them.

Cue the happy tears, Alan Jackson is singing Remember When. He looks completely authentic. Clips from CMA shows are being played overhead. Don’t mind me while I sob on my couch. George Straight has entered the stage and he’s singing Troubador, with Alan still on the stage too.

I have no clue who the couple is currently on the stage, announcing the next award. They did give the score to the World Series though (and I must admit I’m pulling for the Cubs, even though I’m a pretty serious Brewers fan). Vocal Duo of the Year goes to Brothers Osborne. I’m shocked because I was expecting Florida Georgia Line to win. Side note, turns out Brothers Osborne are brothers… 😉

Keith Urban is singing Blue Aint Your Color. The performance is very classic. I’ve noticed a theme of authentic, slow, serious songs tonight.

The award for the Vocal Group of the Year is up next.Awe, Little Big Town wins! I love them so I could back this any day.

The time is here. BEYONCE and the Dixie Chicks have taken the stage. They’re singing “Daddy Lessons.” Out loud, I meaningfully said in a confused tone, “I like this.” We have fiddles, a harmonica, your classic guitars and the Dixie Chicks harmonies. This dynamic girl-power collaboration is now singing “Long Time Gone.”  My roommates have really good opinions and they say this was the “best. collab. of the night.” They have some credibility and I have to say it was an unforgettable performance.

Kenny Chesney is receiving the third ever Pinnacle Award. I’m so happy for Kenny and proud of all he has done for country music. One of my favorite life moments thus far was watching Kenny perform live at Country Thunder several summers ago. KENNY, U DA MAN.

Thomas Rhett is singing “Die A Happy Man.” We have another heart-felt performance delivered by Thomas who already won an award tonight for this very song.

Chris Stapleton is performing “Seven Spanish Angels,” which I believe was by Ray Charles. I am remembering my complete confusion last year when he won so many awards. And here we are today with Chris as another household name in country music.

Luke Bryan has taken the stage, and he’s singing Move. I’m honestly thrilled to hear a party song as we have experienced a lot of the sweet-serious songs tonight. Luke Bryan will always come through for a good time.

Lee Greenwood is singing “I’m Proud To Be An American” with Brad and Carrie and absolutely everyone at the CMAs. I LOVE AMERICA, AND I LOVE COUNTRY MUSIC.

Florida Georgia Line is singing “May We All.” I’m looking for you, Tim McGraw. AND THERE HE IS! Tim has joined Tyler and Brian on the stage for the second half of the song, and I loved the solid performance.

Vince Gill is on the stage to present the Female Vocalist of the Year award. He also announced that the Cubs are up 6-3 and I’m gathering that a majority of the crowd is pulling for Chicago tonight. Carrie Underwood is tonight’s winner! I would like to personally congratulate Kacey, Maren, Kelsea and Miranda as they were also nominated for the award. All five of these women are doing amazing things for country music.

Eric Church is singing Kill A Word. Eric is an incredibly talented singer and I will always appreciate his work.

Dolly Parton is now being honored. She is definitely iconic. Jennifer Nettles and Pentatonix are performing Jolene. (CUE ALL THE EXCITED VIBES!!!!!!!!!!!!!). I. loved. their. performance. BOOM. REBA has entered the stage. She’s singing Dolly’s “9 to 5.” Now we have Kacey Musgraves singing “Here You Come.” Kacey is crushing this sweet performance and Dolly appears to be very pleased with the performance. Carrie Underwood and Martina McBride have joined the stage singing “I Will Always Love You.” (Carrie and Martina, would you pleaseeeee collab more often?!). Jennifer, Carrie, Martina, Kacey and Reba are all singing and I am shivering and have tears with all of the emotions. The performance was sweet, special, beautiful, and altogether lovely. The Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award is given to Dolly. “I would’ve cried but I didn’t want to mess up my eyelashes.” Gosh Dolly, some things just never change!

Sharon Stone has taken the stage to award the Male Vocalist of the Year. Nominees are Dierks Bentley, Eric Church, Tim McGraw, Chris Stapleton, and Keith Urban. Our winner is Chris Stapleton.  Again, all five nominees are phenomenal, but since I never lie I will admit that Chris would not be in my top four preferences for this award. Nevertheless, Chris is WAY talented and he gave a very nice speech, so kudos to you my friend.

Now it’s Brad Paisley’s turn to perform. He’s wearing jeans and a cowboy hat, and he’s singing Today. Country history clips are being showed on screens behind Brad, which contributes to the sentimental touch of this year’s show.

Taylor Swift is back at the CMAs! She is presenting the award for Entertainer of the Year! Nominated: Garth, Keith Luke, Chris, Carrie. The 2016 Entertainer of the Year is awarded to Garth Brooks. Garth is our winner and he gave a very classy and heart-filled thank you acceptance speech.

Carrie, wearing a beautiful black dress, and Brad, wished our viewers a final good night.

The current score of the World Series is 6-6 so while the CMAs are over, American TV has more history to be made tonight! Goodnight all and thanks for reading the post!

Were you surprised by the performances and award winners? I’d love to hear in the comments.

August Health Tip

I’m back with the Popsugar Easy Health Resolutions but everything I have to say today will fall under a single topic. Watch how my brain works here:

• Tip encourages readers to try veganism for a day
• I associate Carrie Underwood with vegans
• Carrie Underwood is #goals when it comes to nutrition, health and fitness

Need I say more? Carrie Underwood is a healthy eater, she works out, and she looks amazing! Oh, and she has a fitness line too.

I recently learned that Carrie Underwood actually stopped being a vegan while she was pregnant, and I’m not sure if she has returned to veganism.

As far as exercising, I learned that Carrie is a fan of Tabata which is apparently a form of HIIT.

Here’s a picture from Carrie’s own Instagram account. I think this picture is perfect because it shows off (1) how fit she is and (2) a swimsuit from her own brand.

This One’s For The Girls

I am feeling very clever about this post title, obviously referring to the Martina McBride hit from 2003. In reality, this post is for the current women of country music.

I should recognize the ladies like Martina, Faith Hill, Sara Evans, and Gretchen Wilson who rocked country music in their prime (literally). But I felt like we went through a stretch with a very few females on country radio.

Don’t get me wrong, we were all good with Kenny Chesney, Tim McGraw, Brad Paisley, Keith Urban, Big & Rich, the list goes on . . .

But now, the ladies are BACK, and dare I say better than before?

Check them out:

This photo is from Carrie’s instagram account. I am biased, but I think Carrie makes for a very fine cheesehead!

First up, an obvious one: Carrie Underwood. Carrie has been around the country scene for quite some time (I was in high school when she won season four of American Idol). When I think Carrie, I think #goals . . . and vice versa. From her adorable family, to her super healthy lifestyle and CALIA fitness line, to all of her music, Carrie is theeee woman. I love her newest album, Storyteller. One of my favorite songs on it is a hidden gem called Relapse. It’s so dramatic but Carrie’s talented vocal chords are totally right for it.

On a scale of 1-perfect Miranda is nothing less than a 10! I love this instagram picture she recently posted.

Miranda Lambert absolutely must come second on this list because she is my other role model of sorts. She has the perfect way of being girly and tough at the same time and I love that about her. Miranda consistently keeps it real with her songs and her style. Platinum is the name of Miranda’s newest album; it’s also the name of my favorite song on it.

Kacey definitely has a unique style. I love that she often wears boots.

I got to see Kacey Musgraves a few months ago, and have really come to appreciate her as an artist! I love her entire album, Pageant Material. Kacey is an exceptionally clever song writer, and a talented singer too. One favorite song of hers is This Town, although picking just one favorite was tough!

I love this picture from Kelsea’s instagram.

My girl Kelsea Ballerini is near and dear to my heart. I got to see her (FO FREE!) last summer, I bought her album, and I feel like I was among her first fans. I think that Kelsea is adorable, classy, and significantly talented! Besides her singles already released to the radio, I totally love her song Yeah Boy.

This picture, from Maren’s instagram account, makes me want to see Maren live!

My very newest favorite female country artist is a lovely lady named Maren Morris. So far her only song on the radio is “My Church”but she has other great songs too like Drunk Girls Don’t Cry. I am so excited to see what this girl is going to do!

Live From My Living Room: ACM’s 2016

Any country party beginning with Luke Bryan is sure to be a good party. And that’s exactly what’s happening tonight. He’s singing “Huntin’, Fishin’, and Lovin’ Every Day” and he’s wearing a baseball hat. I’m so glad to see Luke rockin’ his super-country roots.

Luke just announced his co-host Dierks Bentley, and Blake Shelton shows up on the stage! I’m legitimately not sure if this is a prank because Luke’s lookin’ a little shocked.

Now it’s Blake Shelton’s turn to sing for real. Props to the lights guy because absolutely everything and everyone appears to be in black and white besides Blake. He’s singing “Came Here To Forget” and, honest moment, he has AGED.

Luke and Dierks are finally together on the stage and they are looking VERY GOOD in suits. I think Blake Shelton is having some #probz letting go with the hosting thing.

We’re getting a bunch of shout-outs dedicated to Chris Stapleton here -Charles Kelly (from Lady Antebellum), Thomas Rhett, Jason Aldean, even Carrie Underwood chimed in.

Old Dominion is the new vocal group of the year, and they’re singing Snapback.

Kenny Chesney is up, singing “Noise.” He’s staying true to himself in jeans and a cowboy hat. Side note shout-out to Kenny’s bass player, a female #girlboss.

Jana Kramer and Von Miller announced Song of the Year. Nominees: Burning House, Girl Crush, Nobody to Blame, Raise Them Up, She Don’t Love You. Chris Stapleton wins with Nobody To Blame. I think he deserves it but I would have loved Cam to win that one.

Cassidy Pope and Chris Young are singing “Think Of You.”These two make a good duo! Cassidy Pope is wearing a tight and sparkling gold pantsuit. 10 points for her blinged-out microphone box matching her outfit though. They ended the song with a hug which was perfect and adorable.

Chris Janson is announcing the campaign Fight Hunger. Here is the link in case anyone wants to check it out.

The next performer, Eric Church, is looking classic as always. He’s singing “Record Year” which is turning into a jam-sesh featuring some artists who recently passed away.

Dierks Bentley is up next performing “Somewhere On A Beach.” Observation: his guitar is 100% for decorative purposes in this song. Observation 2: Things are a little awk because nobody knows the words to the song yet. A bunch of ladies are swaying in the background…

Cam is up next, performing Burning House. She is beautiful with her classic blonde curly hair and a simple dress. I like the arrangement she put together for this show. Normally I’d say this song is too sad/slow for an awards show, but it’s such a popular and loved song that she pulled it off.

Miss America and Jake Owen are performing the next song together. TWO. GOOD. LOOKING. PEOPLE. right here. Single Record of the Year nominations: Burning House, Buy Me A Boat, Die A Happy Man, Girl Crush, I’m Comin’ Over, and Take Your Time. The winner is Thomas Rhett with Die A Happy Man. He gave a real cute thank you speech acknowledging his wife first. #goals.

Jason Aldean is singing “Lights Go On,” and I’m thinking it’s new because I don’t know it yet.

Garth Brooks was video-recorded in to do an announcement for the ACMs. Album of the yera nominees are: I’m Comin Over (Chris Young), Montevallo (Sam Hunt), Mr. Misunderstood (Eric Church), Tangled Up (Thomas Rhett), and Traveler (Chris Stapleton). With no surprise, Chris Stapleton wins with Traveler.

Cole Swindell is singing an acoustic version of You Should Be Here, which is so fitting and so sweet.

Brett Eldridge is singing “Drunk On Your Love” while walking down the aisle with flowers. He handed out five flowers to the luckiest five ladies ever.

Keith Urban is performing “Wasted Time.” He looks classic in black pants and a t-shirt. Props to the stage crew because there were flames and wind on the stage. Talk about a hot performance 😉

Little Big Town is up next with a big band crew on stage with them. They’re singing “Stay All Night.” I will always think that Karen and Kimberly are among the prettiest singers ever. I will admit that I’m not 100% sure about Karen’s black and mesh star-patterned pantsuit. I can fully support Kimberly’s pink tasseled dress. THIS IS WHAT I LOVE ABOUT THE ACMS. I love that LBT just performed a song from their album with a total fresh take.

Let’s all have a mini freak out sesh because KELSEA BALLERINI IS PERFORMING! She’s singing “Love Me Like You Mean It.” She’s wearing a blue romper and heels. She looks comfortable on the stage which is so impressive since she’s so young and new. Kelsea paused for a quick second to sing to her new single, “Peter Pan.” She also clipped an long blue skirt extension onto her romper. BRB while I continue drooling because I haven’t seen Nick Jonas in ages and he looks amazing in his leather jacket. Nick played the guitar and sang and I am in happy shock and satisfaction reflecting on this amazing performance.

Little Big Town announced Tim McGraw next, singing Humble and Kind. The crowd is waving their arms wrapped in glowing bracelets. Tim appears to be surrounded by fireflies; it’s magic. Everyone knows all the words to Humble and Kind. I can hear the crowd belting out the lyrics. What a powerful, moving performance. People are dressed up on stage, representing various cultures and occupations. I can tell that Tim is deeply moved by his own song.

Charles Kelley is singing “Lonely Girl,” and he definitely is displaying a new side of himself with a patterned short-sleeved collared shirt and to background singer-dancers. Charles is one talented dude, but I’m not the number-one-fan of his solo career.

Martina McBride and Darius Rucker spoke to honor the life of Joey Feek. The crowd regognized her life with a very nice applause. Then, Martina and Darius announced the Vocal Group of the Year nominees: Eli Young Band, Old Dominion, Little Big Town, Zac Brown Band, Rascal Flatts. LBT is the winner and I continue to be so proud of them.

TIME TO GEEK OUT BECAUSE CARRIE UNDERWOOD IS RELEASING HER NEW SINGLE, CHURCH BELLS. I love this song. In a word, this performance is creative. Carrie looks so tough. Lights are shining everywhere. Carrie’s wearing strappy black heels and a silver dress that could have also been used in the Hunger Games (this is meant to be a compliment). The stage is covered with smoke and staircases. CARRIE UNDERWOOD IS REALLY GOOD AT HER JOB.

We have Kiefer Sutherland announcing the female vocalist nominees: Kelsea Ballerini, Jana Kramer, Miranda Lambert, Kacey Musgraves, Carrie Underwood. (Can they all win? I LOVE ALL OF THEM.) Miranda Lambert is the winner. LOVE. HER. She looks really good in black and silver.

Sam Hunt is singing “Make You Miss Me,” and he’s playing the piano too. Sam is wearing a white track suit with a baseball hat and white shoes. There’s a bunch of lights shining on the piano. The performance is simple and classic but I’m okay with that, because #SamHunt.

Thomas Rhett is performing “Die A Happy Man.” Keeping things very classic and simple, Thomas gave a very sweet performance. The camera showed a teary-eyed Mrs. Rhett. He’s a happy man, and she’s a lucky lady.

Miranda Lambert is singing “Tush” with ZZ Top and his very long beard.

Nancy O’Dell announced the nominees for the ACM Male Vocalist of the Year: Jason Aldean, Dierks Bentley, Eric Church, Brett Eldredge, Chris Stapleton. No surprise, Chris Stapleton takes another award.

Kacey Musgraves took the stage to announce Katy Perry. Can I say, she looks hilarious in a country costume with giant star earrings. Katy announced a trailer for Dolly Parton’s movie, “Coat of Many Colors.” I didn’t realize that Jennifer Nettles played a role in that movie, but now I reallllly want to see it.

Dolly has joined the stage with an extremely sparkling suit (I would expect nothing less).

Dolly Parton and Katy Perry are singing “Coat of Many Colors” together followed by a duet of “Jolene” and “9 to 5.”

Florida Georgia Line is performing “Confession.” The stage is filled with trees, smoke and lights. I think green rain is pouring down behind Brian and Tyler. …

Chris Stapleton is back on stage, this time to perform! He’s singing “Fire Away” with his wife (props to my roommate Megan for that fact).

Tom Hiddleston announced Entertainer of the Year. Nominees: Jason, Garth, Luke, Eric, Miranda. Jason Aldean is our Entertainer of the Year!

I am satisfied with tonight’s show. I love country music. I LOVE AMERICA!

February Vibes | My Update

We are almost through the short month of February! WINTER IS ENDING! MY BIRTHDAY IS COMING! EVERY LITTLE THING – IS GONNA BE ALRIGHT (that last phrase is intended to be read in song).

Here’s what I’ve been into this month:

Listening To: Carrie Underwood (Heartbeat); Kacey Musgraves (the whole Pageant Material album); Justin Bieber (even I am a Belieber these days and I can’t not sing “Love Yourself” aloud at the gym).

Wearing: ALL THE VESTS and ALL THE BOOTS. Basically, if it’s among my warmest wardrobe options, I’m wearing it.

Watching: Prison Break (what?) and The Bachelor. How’s that for a combination?

Reading: 2 Samuel (from the Bible) is the only book I’m reading right now. I really admire King David. He was quite the humble guy even though he had a lot to boast about! I will admit, there’s some weird stuff in this book as well.

Doing: working! exercising! meal-prepping! spending time with friends! exploring milwaukee! getting excited for my birthday!

Here’s to maximizing each day (and a shout-out to February 29 for existing this year)!

 

Jam Sesh : What I’m Listening To

We have made it to November and I’ve found myself enjoying some new songs in this small window of November where I’m not allowed to listen to Christmas music just yet. Click on the links to listen to some GOOD MUSIC.

Top Favorite Song Of The Week:
HOUSEFIRES II: Good Good Father. If you can only listen to one song on this post, make this be your choice. Talk about a beautiful, true, wonderful song!

Favorite Song On A New Album:
CARRIE UNDERWOOD: Dirty Laundry. Everybody knows Carrie is one of my all-time favorites and this song on her newest album does not disappoint! I love how this song is catchy, sassy, clever AND a great showcase for Carrie’s talent.

Favorite Pop Song:
ADELE: Hello. I’ve always appreciated Adele but this one has spoken to me louder than Adele’s own voice in the chorus. As an added bonus, it’s hilarious at work trying to answer the phone in the same tone as the song. #iDareYou. I know I’m not the only person who’s fanatic about this song; I’ve caught other people jammin to this hit (no judgment)!

Favorite Country Song:
THOMAS RHETT: Die A Happy Man. Two of my favorite friends are serious Thomas Rhett fans so they knew about this song ASAP. They shared it with me and I, too, can feel the love. What a good one!

Favorite Guilty Pleasure:
THE WEEKEND: Can’t Feel My Face. Because every time this one comes on I just want to sing and dance and my mood shifts to a happy-funky vibe. #SorryNotSorry

Favorite Christmas Song:
PENTATONIX: Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas. Guysssss I’m sorry; I cannot resist a little Yuletide spirit! And what’s more cheerful than an acapella holiday fave?

CMAs 2015 Reviewed

CMA 2015 awards have begun!

The opening sketch is a tribute to Star Wars and they just made a joke about Garth Vader. This. Is. Awesome.

Hank Jr. is singing with Eric Church. #HankAndEric is literally hashtagged on Hank’s guitar. Love it! Visualize: a bunch of old guys in aviators, with the American flag in the background; this looks real fitting to kick off this year’s country awards show.

John Mellencamp is singing “Ain’t That America” with Keith Urban. My roommate wants to know who did John’s hair. I want to know how Keith is so PERFECT all the time. As an obviously perfect segue, Keith has busted into “John Cougar, John Wayne, John 3:16.” Keith’s wing-man’s harmony is not quite on point though. On another note, Megan is sue she has the same outfit Keith is currently wearing – a scoop neck white tank top, a black blazer, and black skinny jeans. Classic for either gender, I guess.

Carrie and Brad are back on stage. THEY JUST SAID CRAY-CRAY and NAY-NAY! And threw Josh Duggar under the bus. I love when Carrie and Brad sing little jingles together. I had to hold my breath when they talked about Blake and Miranda (Love you both #4eva) but we are off to a good start.

Single of the Year goes to: Girl Crush! Little Big Town wins a big award and I am so happy and proud of them! The band looks awesome and they are so happy. Other thoughts on this moment: I’m not surprised this song won, Karen gave a great speech, and Kimberly has a very muscular back (YOU GO GIRL).

Next up is a performance by Zac Brown Band. ZAC BROWN IS NOT WEARING A HAT! Zac and his bald head are on center stage singing a song I don’t know- Beautiful Drug. I am liking what I’m hearing.

Kenny Chesney’s performance is next. He has a beach vibe on stage which is so perfect for him, the King of Summer. Kenny’s wearing a classic outfit of gray pants, a black polo and a standard Kenny cowboy hat. He’s singing “Save It For A Rainy Day” and it sounds good. I am convinced that Kenny’s having the time of his life on stage right now.

Sign me up for #SamHunting. I have such a real crush on him. He’s wearing a black shirt with a white collar, though, and it kind of looks like one of those priest outfits. Even so, Sam, you are rocking the priest look. I swear he knows he is adorable; he has this smile between phrases. You can “Take My Time” any time.

Song of the Year: Girl Crush wins again. This time we are honoring Liz Rose, Lori McKenna, and Hillary Lindsey.

Quick shout-out to my favorite so far of Carrie’s outfits. Her dress is beautiful. It’s long, flowy, and a very dainty light purple color. Carrie tweeted earlier today that she has TWELVE outfits for the day.

Little Big Town takes the stage, this time to perform. They’re singing “Girl Crush” and their outfits are weird. Picture a lot of shiny silver and black sparkles and that’s their outfits. Their harmonies are on point, though, and that’s what we’re here to care about.

New Artist of the Year: Chris Stapleton. I WANT A RE-COUNT! Literally my last choice AND I don’t even know who he is. What does he sing? And that is a terrible hat. I would have preferred any of the others (Sam Hunt, Maddie & Tae, Kelsea Ballerini, Thomas Rhett).

I have been waiting for this moment! Carrie Underwood is performing “Smoke Break.” She is wearing fringe and over-the-heel boots, which is so 2015. She blows me away every time she performs. Talk about a girl crush. Per usual, Carrie looks AND sounds flawless.

Mystery Man/New Winner Chris Stapleton is singing “Tennessee Whiskey” with JT himself. Didn’t see that one coming. You know what, though? They rocked it, so good for them. Our featured unlikely duo is now singing “Drink You Away.” The performance is heating up and everybody’s loving it.

Florida Georgia Line is performing “Confession.” The song is new to me and I like it. The stage is set up like a dusty old church; their outfits look like they just walk of The Hunger Games which even includes Brian rocking a feather necklace (?). Shout out to Tyler for rocking the man bun though (side note, I googled to see if “man bun” was supposed to by hyphenated).

Dynamic Duo Of The Year goes to FGL and I am a happy girl. Way to go!

Eric Church is singing a brand new one-Mr. Misunderstood. I think this song is perfect for this rebellious rockstar. Eric’s wearing a leather jacket, aviators and jeans-staying true to his classic look.

Thomas Rhett is playing “Crash and Burn.” He has a cool back and white stairwell vibe going on complete with dancers and HEY WAIT Fall Out Boy is totally dueting this up with Thomas right now. The duet has shifted to Uma Thurman.

You have got to be freaking kidding me; Album of the Year goes to Chris Stapleton. But who is Chris Stapleton?

Kelsea Ballereini gets a quick second on stage. I can’t tell if she’s wearing a romper or a dress but it’s a high-low ensemble, and she’s singing “Love Me Like You Mean It.” She looks beautiful and so natural on stage.

Brad Paisley is rocking “Country Nation” as his voice sounds perfect and a set of bleachers behind him are filled with college mascots. In typical Brad form there is a lot of guitar playing. Brad is wearing a football jersey himself.

Blake Shelton is singing “Gonna” and he’s all dressed up in a white shirt, black vest and black tie. He cleans up NICE. Not to be critical, but Blake’s performance was very nice without any WOW factors.

We are graced with an excerpt from Maddie and Tae’s “Girl In A Country Song.” I can’t believe how confident these ladies are looking on stage. I’m also laughing at Tae’s name embroidered on her guitar strap.

Can I be honest? I miss the OLD Luke. Tonight he is singing “Strip It Down” and his hair has gel in it and he’s wearing a collared shirt and dress pants. LUKE BRYAN, I MISS YOUR BASEBALL HAT AND JEANS AND ORIGINAL SONGS. I mean I’m not hating what I’m seeing/hearing but I truly miss the old you.

The Vocal Group of the Year award goes to Little Big Town! I am so proud of them as a dedicated fan from the beginning.

My home girl is performing! Miranda has a blonde-pink ombre hair style with a jean jacket and black skinny jeans. Her guitar is pink, too! She’s singing “Bathroom Sink.” I am surprised by the song choice but Miranda can seriously do no wrong.

Jason Aldean is wearing his typical cowboy hat and short-sleeved plaid button down. He’s singing “Gonna Know We Were Here.”

I love Kacey Musgraves. She is singing “Dime Store Cowgirl.” A daring and unique performance, Kacey has a cartoon vibe of a slideshow background. She’s wearing a sparkle leotard and white cowboy boots. Her voice sounds like honey and her stage presence is nothing short of lovely. She has five men in her band, all wearing pink suits with sparkle collars. I’m serious, though, it WORKS.

Dierks Bently is singing “Riser” with Lindsey Stirling (my roommate had to introduce Lindsey to me; sorry I’m not extremely rounded when it comes to violinists).

Female Vocalists of the Year Nominees: Kelsea Ballerini, Miranda Lambert, Kacey Musgraves, Carrie Underwood, and Le Ann Womack. Tonight’s winner is Miranda Lambert! MY GURL! “Little Red Wagon” is playing in the background and Miranda’s wearing a casual outfit. She gives a really simple and humble thank you speech.

Brooks and Dunn and Reba are performing together. They’re performing “Why Haven’t I Heard From You.” Reba is truly adorable, for a lady I can’t stand! Looks like we have a mash-up because now Brooks and Dunn have taken the lead with “Play Something Country.”

Male Vocalist of the Year Nominees: Dierks Bentley, Luke Bryan, Eric Church, Blake Shelton, Chris Stapleton. Chris Stapleton won and he might be as dumbfounded as the rest of us. I’m not sure at this point, if I’m more angry or confused by the way Chris is sweeping up these awards. I mean good for him but this is seriously not right.

Entertainer of the Year Nominees: Eric, Kenny, Miranda, Garth. The winner is Luke Bryan. Awe, he seems so very happy so I’m happy too.

Closing thoughts: I enjoyed the show minus a few unexpected award winners. And that’s a wrap!

On Carrie Underwood’s Upcoming Album and Successful Career

I am freakin’ out, people! Carrie Underwood is releasing a brand new album THIS WEEK! And if that’s not good news enough, she’s including a duet with Sam Hunt! #WhatMoreCouldAGirlWant?!

I admire Carrie Underwood because:

• She gives off a down-to-earth while also being super-woman vibe.
• She inspires me to “Stay The Path” in fitness.
• She’s beautiful!
• I was one of the 5 people who watched and ENJOYED her version of The Sound of Music (people gotta appreciate!)
• She is an amazingly talented singer
• She + Brad Paisley are amazing co-hosts for awards shows.
• She has such a cute family!
• I watched her become famous beginning with her season of American Idol (so I feel like we “go way back” or something).
• Her duet “Somethin Bad” makes me believe she’s friends with my other home-gurl Miranda Lambert

Cheers to all the other Carrie Underwood fans out there!

xoxo, sarah