These are the songs that completely define me -- some are old classic favorites, others are newer songs I've discovered that really speak to me right now.



Little Motel
I love most of Modest Mouse's stuff, and I actually think that this album is by far their worst. However, this song made me cry the first time I heard it. Some see it as a break up song, but I think it's more of a love song in general. It will always remind me of the Summer of 2007 -- probably the most defining summer of my life -- and riding around in the car with friends, thinking about the future. It's melancholy and yet somehow hopeful at the same time -- perfect songwriting. Also, there's one lyric in the song that seems almost prophetic, and sometimes when I hear it, it stops my heart. My boyfriend and I have a daughter named Stella, which means "star."

"A shooting star landed directly on our broken down little car."

The District Sleeps Alone Tonight
I've loved this song since the first time I heard it in 2005. It speaks to that feeling I've always had that I don't really fit anywhere. Its driving beat is perfect for listening to when you're in your car, driving and thinking.

Built This Way
This song is kind of downer, but I definitely relate to it, especially in my darker moods. It's actually inspiring -- makes me think about the negative things I do, and whether or not I will ever have the strength/courage to better myself.

Sleeping Lessons
It's hard to pick my FAVORITE Shins song, since I love this band so much, but there's a line in this one that pretty much sums up my life - "A thousand different versions of yourself." AWESOME.

Mandolin Rain
This song reminds me so much of being a little girl and driving in my parents car. It's beautiful and sad and so very '90s pop ballad. It's perfect!

Linger
My favorite song by one of my all time favorite bands. I still get it stuck in my head all the time. It's a great love song because it doesn't hit you over the head with pain/anguish, like a lot of newer songs do -- it's subtle, yet you can feel the heartache.

Society
This song was written for what I think is probably the best film of all time, "Into the Wild." I like it because it not only totally sums up the movie, and makes me think of it every time I hear it, but it's also relevant OUTside the movie -- it stands alone.


Sunset Blvd.
Words can't describe how much I love this song. It's so uplifting and I love Scott Grimes' voice. The tune is so catchy and every time I listen to it, I feel a little bit inspired.