If I were a Playlist (Eve Edition)

Hey Friends!

Ever tried to explain who you are in just a few words? It’s like trying to summarize a whole season of your favorite TV show into a 30-second trailer—it’s impossible! Growing up, whenever someone asked me to tell them about myself, my brain would freeze, and I’d instantly feel this wave of panic. All those big accomplishments and life hurdles just seemed to get reduced to a few basic adjectives. So, as we’re still kicking off 2025, I thought I’d share who I am—through the songs that have shaped me. These aren’t in any particular order, just what comes to me when I think of myself in a musical nutshell!

#1: Who I Am by Jessica Andrews
I can still remember belting this song at the top of my lungs with my two older siblings. We were always the trio of chaos, and this song was our anthem. The older I got, the more I realized how much I connected to it. Growing up, I looked just like my dad, and as a daughter, that felt kind of strange—like I was a mini version of him. But now? Now I’m proud of it. I see more and more of him in myself every day.

#2: When I Get There by P!nk
The first time I heard this song, I broke down in tears. I think it hit me because my dad and I shared a love for rock music—we’d send each other new bands or songs almost every day. It was our thing. Losing him was something I never imagined, but this song gave me something to look forward to: the thought that one day, we’ll be reunited. The rock jams continue, even if he’s not physically here to share them with me.

#3: Shut Up & Dance by Walk the Moon
Let’s be real: this song never fails to get me dancing. Doesn’t matter if I’m in a bad mood or the day’s been terrible—this song is like hitting the reset button. No more bad vibes, just joy. And my sister Sara and I? We’ve had more impromptu dance parties to this song than I can count. The world could be falling apart, but at least we’ve got this beat!

#4: Sympathy by Goo Goo Dolls
Okay, confession time: A Cinderella Story with Hilary Duff was (and still is) one of my absolute favorite movies. I may have been three when it came out, but that didn’t stop me from obsessing over it. I even had a pair of pink Converse, and I’m saving them for my future kids. And let’s not forget about Chad Michael Murray—he was the heartthrob. So, every time I hear this song, I’m flooded with memories of my childhood and that feeling of having everything ahead of you.

#5: Somewhere Over the Rainbow (Israel Kamakawiwo’ole version)
This version of the song has always felt like a warm hug. It has this calming, peaceful vibe that I just can't get enough of. For years, it was my alarm clock song. It’s the perfect way to ease into the day—like watching a sunset and just winding down. Definitely a song that reminds me to breathe and take things one step at a time.

#6: Ladies in the 90’s by Lauren Alaina
Alright, full disclosure: I wasn’t technically born in the 90s, but my mom sure was a fan, and she had me rocking the 90s country vibes. Every time this song comes on, I feel like I’m 5 years old again, running around with my sister's hairbrush which was my creative microphone, pretending I’m the country star of the year. It’s a time machine in a song, and it just makes me happy.

#7: The Only Exception by Paramore
I’ve been a Paramore fan since forever, thanks to my older siblings. This song has stuck with me because, well, love can be a little intimidating as you grow older, right? But sometimes you find someone who’s worth the risk. This song is my hope that when I find that person, they’ll be my only exception. It’s a bit of a reminder to let my guard down when the time’s right.

#8: Haven’t Met You Yet by Michael Bublé
Ahh, classic Canadian artist—yes, I’m not at all surprised, haha! But seriously, this song has a special place in my heart because it always makes me think of my Nana. She was obsessed with Michael Bublé—like, unreasonably obsessed. Anytime I hear him sing, it’s like she’s right there with me, tapping her foot to the music, waiting for the moment we finally meet "the one."

#9: Jersey on the Wall by Tenille Townes
A few years ago, I lost a childhood friend, and grief is such a strange beast. Losing my dad in 2021 was one thing, but the way grief hits when someone else passes? It brings all those feelings back. But this song has been comforting—letting me know it’s okay to feel the heaviness. It’s a reminder that even though the pain may not go away, it's okay to carry it and honor it. These songs are my way of keeping the memory alive.

#10: Little Wonder by Rob Thomas
I’ll never forget the first time I saw Meet the Robinsons. If you haven’t seen it, please do—it’s a quirky, heartfelt kids’ movie that’s actually kind of profound. This song is the perfect summary of life. It’s not always a straight line—it’s a maze of twists and turns. But that’s what makes it beautiful, right? Every little wonder, every unexpected turn—it’s what makes the journey worth it.

And there you have it! A little snapshot of me, told through the soundtrack of my life. Maybe now you’ll understand a bit more about the real me. I’d love to hear what songs have shaped your story, too—drop them in the comments, or let’s chat about it next time!

Never Forget to Stay Warped and Twisted as Ever,

Eve