Today we talk with Faith Hill about everyday things like raising kids, enjoying life in Nashville and loving cashmere. Right now, she and her husband Tim McGraw are in the middle of their Soul2Soul tour at the Venetian in Las Vegas. She is one busy lady and we are so grateful she took time out join us today on StyleBlueprint!
How has being raised in the South affected your outlook on life?
I think being raised in the South has made me appreciate the value of a neighbor. One never meets a stranger in the South and you are always welcome for dinner…or supper.
If you could pick another career, what would that career be?
This is fun to imagine. I love architecture and design, so I’m certain it would be related to those fields.
With your busy career, how do you balance your professional life and your family? And how do you intentionally connect with your children and husband?
How does any working mom do it? I try my best to stay on top of things. Procrastination is my enemy, and when I do procrastinate, it comes back to me in spades, like a house of cards crumbling to the ground. Post-It notes and calendars are prominent in our home. I wish I owned stock in Post-Its.
We have family dinner together and most of the time breakfast as well. I try hard to let the kids and my husband know I’m interested in what they are telling me. It isn’t always easy because my mind is usually full of multiple tasks. It’s a work in progress, but I realize more and more each day the value of being present for my family…quality conversations and laughter, lots of laughter. Conversations in the car have become pretty invaluable, especially with two teenage girls.
What advice would you give someone trying to follow their dream as a singer in the music industry today?
The most important thing I would say to anyone trying to find their place in this business is first you have to work really hard; there is no substitution for hard work. Music has to be in your soul. One cannot chase the dream of being famous…you will be greatly disappointed. Stay true to who you are and what you are. Don’t settle for anything less. Being nice and STAYING nice and respectful is the only path. Sing, sing, sing every chance you get. Practice does make perfect, at least that is the closest you will come to perfect.
What’s the best life advice you’ve ever been given?
Stand up for what you believe. Follow your gut, which most of the time is your heart talking. This has been my hardest lesson. I have given this advice and not always followed it myself. The truth is, there is no other way.
When friends travel in from out of town, where do you like to take them to “show off” Nashville?
If we ever leave our home, we take them to Cheekwood or The Station Inn, and if there’s time, we drive out to Leipers Fork.
What is your favorite thing to cook for company?
It’s hard to beat a good roasted chicken with fresh vegetables and rice. If our guest has never had a real authentic Southern meal, then I will bring out my mom’s iron skillet, share the vegetables from my parent’s garden and throw down a massive Southern meal.
Off the top of your head, what would be the perfect 10 (or 15)Â songs to have at a dinner party?
To be honest, and I’m embarrassed to say, I have never made a playlist for a dinner party. Usually, we just hit shuffle on our player and let it go to town. We have a very diverse mix of music…Loretta Lynn, Merle Haggard, The Eagles, Led Zeppelin, Prince, French singer Edith Piaf, Coldplay and on and on.
What books are currently on your bedside table or Kindle?
I just finished a book called Look Again by Lisa Scottoline. It’s a must read. I am fifty pages into Fall of Giants by Ken Follett; this one may take a few months.
What’s your favorite luxury or or indulgence?
Cashmere sweaters. I have a couple that I’ve had for over 10 years. They are better with age, for sure.
What things are always packed in your carry-on bag that make travel easier?
A pair of socks, hand lotion, moisturizer for my lips, a notebook for sketches and ideas, and a blanket that Oprah gave Tim when he was on her show many years ago. That blanket has been to Australia, Europe, all over the US, the Caribbean…I love it.
If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would that be and why?
I would be right where I am at the moment…at home with my family.
Any New Year’s resolutions or big plans for 2013?
I want to be better about packing my suitcase. I always wait until the last minute. After all of these years, I should be good at this one thing. My parents are incredibly organized when packing. They pack their suitcases a day or two before a trip then load the car the night before their departure.
Excluding God, family and friends, what 3 things can you not live without?
Moisturizer, water and my notebook.
Thank you, Faith! To find out more about her upcoming tour dates and music, visit her website:Â www.faithhill.com.
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