Yesterday was my first day on site at Nashville's annual CMA Fest. I volunteered as a CMA writer to cover the event without knowing exactly what I was getting myself into.

I had heard stories about what the event was like and the level of dedication country music fans have. But it truly hit me as I began walkingthe sidewalks ofBroadway.At 11 a.m. on the first day of the festival, which I might add was a Thursday, the area was already packed with people of all ages. I had arrived thinking there would only be clusters of peoplescattered around the areaand that no one wouldshow up until the nightly concert at LP Field or arrive on the weekend days. I was really wrong about that.

The excitement of these fans was tangible everywhere I went. They were eager to stand in a line wrapping around the Convention Center to get an autograph from their favorite artist, despite the fact that it was 90 degrees outside and everyone was dripping with sweat. The cowboy hats were not saving anyone from the effects of the blazing sun.

Later in the afternoon I had the opportunity to attend the the Celebrity Close Up session at the Ryman, featuring Gretchen Wilson, Randy Travis and Taylor Swift. Forgetting that the seats were assigned, I arrived an hour before the show's start time. Apparently so did many others. The lobby quickly filled up as the line began trailing out the doors. All of us continued to stand in the cramped, yet thankfully air-conditioned, lobby until theyopened the auditorium doors shortly before the start time of 1:30 p.m. According to the friendly security guard in the lobby,we had been left standing outside longer than originally planned because the host, Lorieann Crook had been running late.

Thougheveryone seemed to enjoy the conversation sessions with Wilson and Travis, as seen in their laughter and applause, the excitement reached a new level when the young Swift came onto the stage. Many used the opportunity to yell their love for her through screamslike "Mexico City loves you!" It's so funny how she has charmed audiences of all ages and backgrounds. I have to admit that I love her along with the rest of them. Her music is definately fun, but it's really her enthusiasm and willingness to meet her fans on all levels that draws us in. During her time on stage, Swift made a little girl's day as she complimented the girl's "You rock Taylor Swift" sign and pulled the girl on stage for a hugging photo session. It was truly an "aw" moment for everyone in the audience.