I’m a music buff, no doubt. I was raised around music, played a musical instrument in school and was in plays as a child. I have always loved singing and I can thank my mom and dad for my voice. I can sing on key and can carry a tune. I was raised with everything from show tunes to Billy Joel and James Taylor and have grown to develop a love for all kinds of music. But one style that I’ve never really explored is country.

I had the opportunity recently to listen to some country music. It was so inspiring that I found myself getting a bit choked up. The messages were basic and clear but profound at the same time. Songs about going for it all, living your dreams, living as if it was your last day on earth. Loving like there’s no tomorrow, putting in a hard day’s work, appreciating your roots no matter what fame and fortune finds its way to you. After listening to a few of these songs, I found myself wanting to sing, but unfamiliar with the words, I could only listen and tap my feet. I will though, as I’ll be doing some downloading onto the ipod and you can bet in a few days, I’ll be belting these out with the best of ’em.

Inspiration is always all around us. You just have to open your eyes and heart and let it in.

Running this week has been slow. I’m nursing my right shin so my runs have only been Monday and Wednesday. I will try for a long run today or tomorrow.

Peace.