Best laid plans:

I had every intention of posting today about our recent vacation to Texas, but when I read the front page of the local newspaper this morning I just had to give a plug to an extremely talented teenager from our town.

The headline read:

And Then There Was Two...

Van Arnum Advances to CMT Music City Madness Finals

I don't know Macy at all, but I know her paternal grandparents very well; serving in the local fire department with her grandfather Bruce, and serving on the local school board with her grandmother Judy.

Macy's Dad, Brian, encouraged her to enter this CMT contest because he recognized her talent. She followed his advice and now she has made it to the finals. It's one of those precious, once-in-a-life-time, moments in the life of a teen, her family, and her entire community. Even though the contest allows you to vote a gazillion times or even twice that amount, Macy's talent is what has gotten her to this point. I've watched and listened to her video at least a dozen times and she has an amazing voice and she has the perfect poise and demeanor to hold your attention while she spins her tale of teen summer love. In addition, besides singing a very engaging song, she wrote the song herself. She also taught herself to play the guitar.

I'm always awed when a young talent gets recognized and opens up what here-to-fore seemed like impossible opportunities. It's even more awesome when it happens to a small town person. And it's spectacular if it happens to your hometown. Both finalists are young, small town girls and they can bask in their success and remember that who ever wins, they both overcame great odds to to get to this point. Personally, I think Macy is the more gifted voice, but I'm very prejudiced. Regardless, she will be recognized, and I feel that the music world is going to open up for this engaging young lady.

GO MACY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! #1

If anyone wants to compare the two finalists and perhaps vote here is the site:

http://www.cmt.com/interact/music_city_madness/

Maybe tomorrow I'll get to tell you about Texas. ;)

Newspaper article below: