Since I have been here, part of being a good friend is supporting Maria in all of her music ambitions. I don't really mind doing it because I love music and enjoy myself whatever the circumstances. I have the best time for one of two reasons, either the music is so bad, and you think "your mama lied to you," or it is phenomenal! A lot of the time there are very talented musicians, so it is good. This last Thursday we went to a song-writers competition at a local restaurant. (That is the other cool thing.. in Nashville there is live music everywhere, in the most unexpected places.) Maria and her co-writer got second place and will go back to the semi-finals next month. If they win, they get all kinds of things like money and studio time.. its very cool. Anyways.. here are some pics from that night...

oh, and you can listen to the song, "Who I Am" on Maria's myspace page.. http://www.myspace.com/marianoelmusic
don't mind the steel guitar, we are gonna convince Donny to take it out!

Maria on stage.


Us at dinner.


This little boy is gonna be a star, he told everyone to "quiet down, because his song was awesome."


Maria and her co-writer, Donny Sawyer.