I am absolutely floored by all the talent I've already seen in just the first few days at CMC. Let's start with the other students here: AMAZING. Seriously, you should hear these guys. There's guys who sound and play like Jon McLaughlin, girls who can compete with Martina McBride, and so so much more. It's crazy! We've only played a preliminary artist showcase night, and even with all the mess ups and mishaps its so obvious there's so much talent.

Then, there's the actual celebrities or professional songwriters and artists we've met. Sunday, Kelly Clarkson just walks out on the stage at CMC and sings back-up with Jill and Kate, one of the headline bands for the night. The other day we were informed Amy Grant was downstairs doing a press conference or something, today we were at the house of Reggie Hamm, the guy who wrote the song David Cook sang when he won American Idol. The professors have played with major bands, and even the musicians we've met who haven't made it "big" are so talented....its crazy. This city really is just so full of music EVERYWHERE. It's awesome. I'm so excited for when we visit the Bluebird Cafe and other open mic venues.

It's gonna be full of ups and downs, but I'm so excited for this semester! I'm definitely learning what the music industry is really like, and honestly, I don't think being a full time artist or songwriter is something I would want as my career. But I do see how its affecting my passion to have a ministry in music even if its not "big," as well as my love for songwriting. I don't know if I'll stick to being in any part of the music industry, but this semester is still so amazing. I'm growing so much in my music, but even more as a person. It's amazing what leaving your safety-zone can do to build character. It's challenging, but I know its so good for me.