The world when I was 13 wasn't truly driven by tabloid magazines and social media and reality shows. I was able to have a little more of a private life.

I went through that stage every teenager goes through: Who am I? What am I? Where do I fit in? In my case I had to deal with newspapers saying I looked fat or tired or my hair was a mess. People always criticize: they either love you, or they don't. But you have to block that out and concentrate on the work. And I feel I am doing good work, and I'm finally getting to see who I really am.

I think singing traditional country is wonderful, because I'm bringing it to my generation and to the younger kids.

Living life, I mean, my two stepsons, my husband, I think every day - today interaction inspires me - as far as music goes - inspires my art.

I never really had any friends my age. I've grown up in the adult world all my life.

I know you can't go back, so I try to do all the things other teenagers do.

I'll get into conversations with other people, and all of a sudden they will say something that sparks that... either the titles to me, or just the conversation itself will spark an idea for a song.