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Music is always present in our lives. Much as movies have soundtracks, I don't think I am alone when I say that songs remind me of people, places, and events that make up the history that is mine. As a relatively young person, I know that when the Dave Matthews Band comes on, I will be transported back to high school. When I hear Bone-Thugs-n-Harmony, or Lauren Hill, I remember meeting my husband in college and dancing together to our favorite songs. I can still taste the artifical vanilla sweetener he use to put in our coffee as we listened to the gentle strains of "...wake up, wake up, wake up..."

Someone once said "Music is what feelings sound like." This is so true! People are drawn to music because of the way it makes them feel, and also because it helps to know that other people have felt the same way. What better feeling is there than to hear some lyrics set to music that you completely understand?

Music can inspire joy, worship, dancing, and ecstasy as well as cause a release of tears, pent-up frustration, or anger. Just as there is a season for all things, there is music for all things. What better gift to give than one that allows you to feel so deeply?

Right now, I am enjoying the early months of motherhood. It has been overwhelming, exhausting, but moreso thrilling, and filled with joy and pride. The little miracle that is my daughter constantly reminds me of life's most precious pleasures, and there is music that will remind me of these days. Sarah Machlachlan and Willie Nelson both sing "Rainbow Connection," and these songs are vital in getting my little one to drop off to sleep. "La La La La Lemon" by the Barenaked Ladies is a fun playtime song, and "Rubber Duckie" by Kelly Hogan cracks us up every bathtime. When I hear these songs in the future, I know I will be transported back to the feelings of these fleeting days of infancy.

Just as I have strong associations with music that reminds me of my daughter, I also associate so much with my grandmother. She is aging, and fighting a losing battle against Alzeheimer's, and it saddens me to think of the vitality she use to have. However, the things that are crystal-clear in her memory are the songs she use to sing in the USO. These songs were the backdrop of my childhood with my grandma, and still bring back such fond memories of staying at her house, eating pancakes and grilled cheese sandwiches, seeing her fall asleep in the rocking chair, and playing cards. Hearing "Playmate, come out and Play with

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