I enjoy listening to a broad range of musical genres and the songs that I have written reflect my appreciation for only a small number of them. Some of my songs are based, in part, on my life experiences, but most are about fictional characters. The songs in this compilation run the gamut from quirky and upbeat to blue and whimsical. All my songs touch on our fundamental needs, desires and flaws - the tortured but resilient human condition. All songs are written and sung by Valerie Rourke. Other performances are by: Dennis Elliott - fiddle (4) Keith Horne - bass (1 and 5) and pedal steel guitar (5) John Gonzalez del Solar - ukulele and bass (3 and 6) Justin Laughter - banjo (2 and 4), and ukulele and vocals (7) Gerry Laverty - guitar (1 and 5) and harmonica (1) Brian Phelps - guitar and bass (2, 4 and 7) Valerie Rourke - kazoo (3) Freesound.org (Samulis) - tubular bells (2) Production and arrangement by Valerie Rourke. Mixing and mastering by Bill Leverty. Recording by Dennis Elliott - fiddle (4). Recording by Bill Leverty - vocals (1 through 7), guitar (1 and 5), bass (1, 3, 5 and 6), steel guitar (5), ukulele (3 and 6), harmonica (1), and kazoo (3). Recording by Brian Phelps - guitar and bass (2, 4 and 7), banjo (2 and 4), and ukulele (7). Photography by Kenneth Howard. Makeup by Tara Howard. Graphic design by Terry Douglas. Acknowledgements: Making this compilation of songs was a humbling experience for me. I am truly grateful to the many people who helped me pursue my passions and make an enduring dream a reality. My deepest and heartfelt thanks goes to my family and friends for their encouragement; to the very talented musicians who performed on the songs recorded for this compilation; to the creative and skillful engineers who recorded, mixed and mastered the songs; and lastly, to my husband for loving me just as I am.