The Sounds of Silence

 

A beautiful and haunting song that is very relevant to our world today.  Admittedly, I had not paid much attention to the lyrics before, only the melody but when I really listened to the song, I found it very profound.  Enjoy!

Quote of the week

 

I came across this quote earlier today and it really rang true for me.  I have absolutely no qualms in admitting that I have taken many big steps in the wrong direction.  I still do, though not as big as the ones I used to make.  Still, it's the small steps that mean the most and I always find myself taking those small steps these days. As a whole, I love the direction that I am going in.  Very Grateful for that!

Christmas shopping has commenced

 Here we are, halfway through August.  It's hard to believe that summer is almost over.  At least it feels that way.  I suppose my time clock is still on school time.  The beginning of school always meant the end of summer, so I still think of it that way.  Ah, well.  Anyway, here we are in the middle of August and it's time for me to start my Christmas shopping.  "WAIT!!" you say.  It's too early for that!  No, it is entirely not too early for that!  As a matter of face, I'm behind compared to some of my friends.  

So, why start shopping this early?  There are several good reasons for that.  One is money, which seems to be answer to almost every question in my life these days.  LOL.  If I start now, I will not end up spending a lot of money at one time.  Yes, I will probably spend the same amount, maybe more, but at least it won't all be leaving me in one big chunk.  I can keep up with my shopping and still pay my bills...at least sort of.  Actually, I've been doing pretty good with that but that's for another blog.

Another reason is that over the next few months, there will be some incredible sales going on.  Both online and in retail stores.  You can find great deals on lots of things this way.  Back to school sales can provide great stocking stuffers.  Then there will be all kinds of upcoming sales:  End of Summer, Labor Day, Halloween, Veteran's Day, Thanksgiving, Black Friday.  Pretty much, if there's a holiday for something, there will be  sale.  And many online websites such as Amazon and Etsy have their own random sales all the time.  

And, lastly, I enjoy the art of gift giving.  I love going on that hunt for the perfect Christmas gift.  Something that is unique and fits the receiver perfectly....at least in my mind.  And this Christmas, I am hoping to go all out.  Lots of gift giving is in store from under our tree.  Hopefully we will be able to celebrate with family again this year.  Even if we can't because of the status of society, I will be prepared to provide at least a moment's happiness for the people I care about.  That's what gift giving means to me.  Providing joy.  That's what it's all about.  

I've already started actually.  Right now, there's a basket behind me full of things that will become artistic masterpieces of wrapping paper and too much tape sitting under the tree.  And, yes, I am keeping a list so I can remember what I've purchased  LOL  And now, it's time to look for some good deals for Christmas!

Cheers!

My Best Girl - Mame

 We have a local radio station that plays all kinds of fun stuff....jazz, easy listening, beach, folk, showtunes, hymns.  It's right up my alley.  The other day I got in my car from work and a song from Mame was playing.  It got me in the mood to listen to it when I got home.  It's one of my favorite scores.  There's really not a dud in the whole score.  This song in particular is one I love.  It's another one of those songs Mom and I used to play and sing at the piano.  Good memories of good times!  Enjoy!

Quote of the week

Not just kids, but all of us!

My Funny Valentine - Linda Ronstadt

This is my favorite version of this Rodgers & Hart classic.  I grew up listening to it with Mom.  Then a few years ago Michael got me a double cd set of Linda and the Nelson Riddle Orchestra singing songs from the American Songbook.  It's a wonderful collection of great songs and it was fun to hear this again.  Enjoy!

Quote of the week

 

In this world today, kindness is something that we just cannot get enough of.  There is a lot of kindness in this world, that I believe wholly in my heart.  I just do not think that we are exposed to as much as we need to be.  Most of social media focuses on the bad, which has always been there and, unfortunately, will always be there.  But my challenge for you all today is to start focusing on the kindnesses in the world.  It will make a difference!