Rut

Main Entry:
3rut
Function:
noun
Etymology:
perhaps modification of Middle French route way, route
Date:
1552
1 a: a track worn by a wheel or by habitual passage b: a groove in which something runs c: channel , furrow2: a usual or fixed practice ; especially : a monotonous routine

My Top Ten Favorite Songs

A little late, but I think Jacob will understand. ;-) This is in no particular order. It was VERY hard to narrow down a list. But I owe this to Jacob!

10. Over the Hills and Far Away - Led Zeppelin
I have often said that this song would be played in my wedding. A non-traditional choice, I know. I love Jimmy Page's guitar style; the intro remains one of my favorite. It's haunting, it's beautiful, it's upbeat, and it rocks. I've heard it a zillion times yet I still crank the radio if it happens to be on.

9. Jolene - The White Stripes
This is my favorite White Stripes song ever. Originally a Dolly Parton song, Jack White's version is far superior. Extremely haunting and emotional. Jack's voice is penetrating. You can literally FEEL the lyrics as he sings them. Just one of the many reasons I consider The White Stripes one of my favorite bands. Amazing song.

8. Because - The Beatles
Do I really need to explain myself here? The Beatles rock, period. I could've picked any Beatles song, really, but I just love this one.

7. Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young - Suite Judy Blue Eyes
Love this song, especially the version from the Woodstock album. Download it. Better yet, watch the performance from the film. Classic.

6. Weezer - El Scorcho
From arguably Weezer's best album Pinkerton, although at the time probably the least popular. This is probably the most different-sounding Weezer album. I've got a soft spot in my heart for the old Weez. Reminds me of driving around with my BFF in the fall. Fun song. Gosh darn you half-Japanese girls!

5. The Who - A Quick One, While He's Away
A rock opera of mini proportions! Listen to it.

4. Badly Drawn Boy - The Shining
Classic BDB. Reminds me of a cold day, sipping hot tea or coffee and reading a good book. Lovely, lovely song. He has so many good ones but this is probably the best introduction to his music.

3. Simon and Garfunkel - The Sound of Silence
Another song that doesn't require much explanation. One of the more defining songs of the '60's. Never gets old.

2. The Strokes - Reptilia
With so many amazing Strokes songs to pick from, how do you choose just one? I'll tell you how: see them in concert and try not to freak out when they play this song. Great video too. One of the better bands I've seen live. Ever.

1. The Shins - Kissing the Lipless
Also difficult to pick a favorite Shins song, since I love them all. But after much deliberation, I chose Kissing the Lipless. Every time I hear it I get transported back to the very first time I heard it and knew I was hearing something great. Their music and lyricism is very unique and special.

There is no way I can limit my top songs to a list of ten, but I gave it a good try. I'd like to hear what you think of this list as well as your top ten songs.

New Starts

I'm not gonna lie: I've made some PRETTY STUPID decisions in my life. Sometimes we make decisions out of ignorance, laziness, or thoughtlessness...and sometimes our decisions are made out of life circumstances that our beyond our control. The point is, YOU and I are the only ones who can make our own decisions. Once the decision is made, there's no turning back, and we have to accept the consequences that follow our actions.

In my case, there was a certain amount of wallowing that I had to do. I've been through a really dark period of my life, and I survived. Sure, I made a mistake, but that mistake doesn't have to define who I am. It's up to me now to create a new start for myself. Life situations that arise are just a small part of a bigger story. I'm determined that this isn't going to be something that weighs me down for the rest of my life...it's part of me, but it's a part of me that is stronger. I feel like I know myself better. I've been given perspective. I've broadened my horizons outside of what I know. God has been with me every step of the way, I've felt His guidance in every decision I've made this past month or so. My faith is stronger, I turn to Him now more than ever.

It's going to be a good second half of the year, I can feel it. I'm ready.