CRICKET CRAZY COUNTRY 🏏

 

The 'T20 World Cup Final' got over by around 11.30 pm IST, last night. The extremely loud celebrations on the streets though, went on till way past midnight, with all the 'Ganpati Band' dhols and drums, making their presence felt, (two months in advance). 

The chanting and cheering, just went on and on and on, for many hours; long after the match was over (far, far away, on a completely different continent). But here in Mumbai (and I'm guessing, in the rest of the country too), the crackers, the people riding through the streets on bikes, shouting out slogans and yelling, and the 'absolute euphoria' just kept going, well past midnight (till about 1.30 am), when I could finally fall asleep, because the noise outside, reduced.😴

That's what 'Cricket' does to people in India. It just brings out the 'patriotic fervour' and the 'madness' in everyone, like nothing else can. Of course, winning a 'World Cup' in any Sports Tournament or Championship, is a matter of great 'Pride', for every citizen of the winning nation, whether they're an avid follower of the Sport or not. Even the most critical and sceptical ones, wouldn't be able to escape feeling, just a little bit of 'Joy', when their Team, is on the winning side.😊

The fact that it has been quite a few years, since the last time India has won an International Cricket World Cup, made the result much sweeter. 

Of course, lots of people (including me), have been ardent admirers of Rahul Dravid for decades. To see him, end his term as a 'Coach', on this happy note, just made everyone 'Smile'.😄

...and yes, Virat Kohli has also left an indelible mark on the 'Game of Cricket'. To achieve another milestone (to add to the list), in his last game, will also be something to remember.👍

There was a time, when we used to watch a lot of 'Sports' at home. My Mother and Grandmother were both 'Athletes', right through their school and college days. I've seen a few old black and white photographs, of my Mum on winning podiums, when she represented her school and college in Athletics and Basketball; and of my Dad playing Billiards, when he was working abroad. 

Somehow, I didn't inherit the 'Sporting Genes' though (In just the same way, that I didn't inherit the 'Cooking' and 'Dancing' genes, from the two of them).🤷🏻‍♀️ I did try my hand at Athletics and Basketball in school, but that didn't go very far.😊

However, each time there was a Cricket Match, I guess like every home in India, no one moved from the front of the TV, (for fear of being blamed, for anything that went wrong in the game, because they had moved).😂 Every Cricket match, Tennis Tournament, Football game (when it happened at earthly hours), and even the events at the Olympics, were always watched, by my parents...So, I watched too, even though I wasn't as keen and interested as them, about Sports.

Once my Dad passed away and my Mum got sick though, we watched lesser and lesser Sports. I guess, the IPL was the only Tournament, that we followed year after year, with her cheering for KKR (because she liked Ganguly) and me, always on the side of Dhoni and CSK (because I think, he was the most Intelligent Cricketer and Captain, Indian Cricket ever had.) I used to also enjoy watching Anil Kumble, Rahul Dravid and Sachin Tendulkar, back when they used to play.✨️

That whole lot of cricketers, gradually retired, one by one. Maybe that was also a reason, why I slowly didn't watch or even follow, as much Cricket, as I did before. 

Later, between juggling work and my mum's illness, I really didn't have the time to spare, to watch those games. Once she passed away too, I slowly lost interest, in many things, that I used to enjoy doing before; especially things that the two of us, used to do together.😢

It will be six years, since she has gone, in a few months. Time really has wings. I don't think I've watched a single Cricket match or any Sport, since those years, when she got very sick. Not on purpose though. I just haven't felt like doing a lot of things, over the last few years.😞

I do try and follow what is happening, especially on days like yesterday, when India was in a Final; but it's more like 'keeping track of the Score online', rather than 'actually watching the game'. 

Last night, was one of those days, when the screaming and yelling from passionate 'Cricket Fans' in the neighbouring building, during the last three overs, forced me to go online, to check out the 'Live Score'...And then, I kind of stayed glued to those 'Live Updates', till the last ball of the match; after which, all hell broke loose and everyone on the streets, went absolutely berserk.🤪

But that's how much the 'Sport' means to people, in our 'Cricket Crazy Country'. It even makes people like me, (who've been 'hibernating' for a few years, or who've been on a bit of a 'Sabbatical from Life in general', for a long time); wake up and remember what it used to be like, when as a 'Family', we would all cheer in one voice, and 'Bleed Blue' together, on days like these. 🏏🇮🇳

MUSIC TRAVEL LOVE 🎶

These fours Canadian siblings called 'The Moffatts' had some really popular songs, when they sang together, in their younger days.

Today of course, the identical twins among them, Clint and Bob Moffatt, make these great videos of 'Cover Versions' of songs, with really awesome backdrops, in fabulous very scenic locations across the world. 

This was one of their own songs, (when the four brothers performed as 'The Moffatts'), which was recorded again last year, by 'Music Travel Love' (Clint and Bob).

MISS YOU LIKE CRAZY 🎶

- Music Travel Love

I love most of the songs, sung by 'Music Travel Love', often collaborating with other artists in different parts of the world too. 

It's also good to see them doing a few songs with their brother Dave Moffatt, (who makes his own music videos too) He is the fraternal triplet among the three of them.

STILL THE ONE 🎶

- Music Travel Love (ft. Dave Moffatt)

Scott, Dave, Clint and Bob Moffatt

ON A RAINY DAY ✍️

 

Quiet days,

Silent nights,

Just stillness all around;

Wondering eyes,

Confused minds,

Almost sinking, Nearly drowned.

Restless hearts,

Wandering thoughts,

The four walls hear every word;

Strange deductions,

Insane conclusions,

This world - Absolutely absurd.

Calm demeanors,

Troubled souls,

As human as it gets;

Soothing strains,

Soulful refrains,

The waves, and glowing sunsets.✍️

SEEK AND YOU WILL FIND 🎶

 

Two beautiful songs, released in the same year, by 'The Seekers'. Both went on to become very popular. 

Simple melodious tunes and meaningful lyrics, make lovely, unforgettable songs...and people like us, who love the old melodies, continue to listen and enjoy them, even decades later.😊💕

A WORLD OF OUR OWN (1965) 🎶

I'LL NEVER FIND ANOTHER YOU (1965) 🎶

A HARMONIOUS REMINDER 🎷🎻

...Because we often need to remind ourselves of this fact, every single day. Even when we know that it's only a song, it is just reassuring to say this to ourselves. It's like giving yourself a warm hug, whenever you need it.🎶

There are a few songs, which truly have that magical effect on people, every single time you listen to it, even without the lyrics. 

I picked this version, because I loved the harmony between the two instruments.🎷🎻

YOU ARE NOT ALONE 🎶

- Michael Jackson 

I just happened to pick this song today...and then, a few moments later, I realised that the 25th of June, was also coincidentally, the day when Michael Jackson died. So, I thought I would add a little anecdote about that day; because it's something, that I will never forget.😔

Although I like lots of songs and many singers, I used to listen to and love, quite a few MJ songs, when I was younger. I still remember, how I found out that Michael Jackson had died. It really came as a shock to me, as it did, to practically the whole world.

I had just finished taking the attendance in my class, early on that 2009 June morning, when a little boy in Class 6 (who was a huge MJ fan, and who remained one, till he passed out of school) came up to me and said, "Miss, did you hear that MJ has passed away. It was on the news this morning, before we came to school." 

My instant response was, "What Nonsense!" But he persisted, "No Miss, it's true. It was on TV."

Imagine getting through a day, of facing class after class, and trying to concentrate and focus, when your day begins, with totally unexpected and unbelievable news like that.

I guess, we just feel a very different kind of 'Connection' with some 'Celebrities', especially the Musical ones. We may have never met or seen them. They may live continents and oceans apart from us...And yet, (in some strange way), the music and the songs they sing, make us feel like we know them.

...and their sudden disappearance from our lives, really hurts like nothing else.😢

ALL THE THINGS YOU ARE (1973) 🎶

- Michael Jackson

(Didn't know there was an MJ version of this song, till I heard this just now.)

So many years later, I still miss MJ. Just imagine how many more amazing songs, he could have sung; if only the many personal and emotional struggles, of living a life of stardom, constantly in the spotlight, hadn't got in his way.

YOU'VE GOT A FRIEND (1972) 🎶

- Michael Jackson

I love this song; and it's so great to hear it today, in that young (but amazing) MJ voice, from way back in the 70's. 

I'LL BE THERE (1970) 🎶

- Jackson 5

What a 'Superstar' Michael Jackson was, even as a child, in those 'Just Call My Name and I'll Be There', Jackson 5 days.✨️❤️

(These videos have been uploaded on an MJ fan page and another page on YT.)

HERE TODAY AND GONE TOMORROW ✍️🎶

 

The Unpredictability and Uncertainty of Life, is brought out perfectly, through the Lyrics of this song, by the Ray Conniff Singers.

Life really doesn't give us much of a Choice, in the way it turns out for each of us. Happy or Sad, whether we like it or not, we just take it as it comes, and try to 'Go on Living' anyway, 'One Moment at a Time'; because, there really is nothing we can do, to Change the Story, that has already been written for our lives.🤷🏻‍♀️

HERE TODAY AND GONE TOMORROW 🎶 (Song Lyrics)
- Ray Conniff

I came to you in dark despair,
I needed someone who would care.
You held me close against your heart,
I felt a warmth, right from the start.

Then one day, He took you away,
Why did it happen, who can say?
Now all that there is left for me,
Is just a precious memory.

That's Life, That's Life,
You take the Joy, you take the Sorrow.
That's Life, That's Life,
You're here Today, and gone Tomorrow.

My Life has crumbled, since you've gone,
But somehow, I must carry on,
The pain I feel, I can't describe,
I can't forget you, though I've tried.

Each night, I say a little prayer,
That when He takes me, you'll be there.
Together, once again we'll be,
I'll live again, my memory.

That's Life, That's Life,
You take the Joy, you take the Sorrow.
That's Life, That's Life,
You're here Today, and gone Tomorrow.✍️🎶

(The pictures and the Lyric Video, that I found online, have been uploaded by various people.)

LEAPING LIZARDS 🦎

 

I've never been a pet-friendly person or an animal lover. I guess, my parents were not really fond of pets; and so, we didn't ever have any at home. Probably that's why, I wasn't ever inclined towards, having animals in the home. My grandparents and a few of my cousins, did have dogs and cats as pets; which meant that I wasn't too keen, on visiting them often either. If I did, I was very vary of their pets (especially the dogs), the whole time, that I was in their houses; and I usually, kept my distance from them, as much as was possible.🤪

While dogs and cats, are creatures that almost become members of the family, in homes that love animals; there are some 'creepy-crawlies', who often come into our home and occupy it, as if it is their own. But most of the time, they invade our personal space, without even being asked to. These are my least favourite creatures of all. Even though, they may be a lot smaller, as compared to dogs and cats; the way they suddenly creep up on you, and dart around, all over the place, always irritates me.😱

As long as my parents were around, I could comfortably scream and jump onto the bed, till my dad, and later my mum, found a way to drive them away, or make it known to them, that they are most definitely 'unwelcome guests'. From the time, I have had to start doing what my parents used to do, myself; it has been one of the toughest struggles of my life, each time one of these creatures, decides to make their way, into my life.😰

Somehow, lizards have a way of showing up more frequently, once the monsoon sets in. I presume, they want to be away from the rain, and so seek shelter, in any home, with an open window or balcony. 

But, from the moment they are first spotted, till I can find a way to drive them out of my life, they cause, so much of discomfort and unnecessary stress. I can't jump on beds and scream anymore, because I have to do what has to be done, to ensure that they are gone forever; but how much my pulse races and I'm sure my blood pressure rises too, till that target has been achieved.🤦‍♀️

So often, I wish they would just stay away; or visit other homes, where there were more people to be entertained by their unwanted antics, and to chase them around. They sure do cause a lot of turmoil and upheaval, in the life of a person, who isn't much of an entertainer at all, and who definitely doesn't enjoy, her solitary existence being disturbed, by these totally 'uninvited visitors'.🦎

SONGS THAT MAKE THE WHOLE WORLD SMILE 😊🎶

 

It's supposed to be 'World Music Day' today - 21st June. I actually didn't know, that a day like this even existed, till a couple of years ago. But apparently, this day was founded way back in 1982 in France; and people in many parts of the world, celebrate this day, with music events and just by coming out and singing or performing on the streets.😄

For people like me, every minute of every day, is filled with 'The Sound of Music', in some way or the other. So, having a specific day, to 'Celebrate the Joy that Music brings to all our Lives', just gives us 'one more reason, to listen to another song'.🎶

I heard this song on 'Jukebox Jammies', a few years ago; and I think, it is such a great song. Sung by 'Mr.Music' himself.😊 Carlton Braganza, sure is one living, walking, talking 'Music Encyclopedia'. I owe a lot of the increase in my Music Knowledge, over the last four years, to him. So, this post on 'World Music Day', is for a person, that I consider to be 'My Music Teacher'.✨️

'Thank You Carlton for Singing countless Songs, that have Made the Whole World Sing'. Always Grateful for the 'Endless Stories' (which I always enjoy hearing), and for the innumerable 'Musical Memories'.🤗❤️

I have shared this song before, on my blog. But, 'World Music Day', just made me think of it again.😊

I WRITE THE SONGS 🎶 

- Barry Manilow

(This video is from a performance on the Graham Norton Show.)

FILL MY HEART WITH SONG ✨️🎶

 

There are a few songs, that you can listen to 'ten thousand times'; and still, press that 'Repeat' button, to listen to it all over again.😊

For me, this is one of those songs. I can never get tired, of listening to it. Each time a singer, puts out their version of the song, I find myself 'magically drawn, to both the Music and the Lyrics'.🎶✍️

'In other words', I just 'Love the Song'; whoever may be singing it.❤️ 

Of course, when a singer with a lovely voice, like Jada Facer, (who I discovered some time, last year) records a beautiful acoustic version of a song (that you always enjoy listening to); you have to listen, and then share it too.😊

Coincidentally, I have also been seeing the 'Almost Full Moon' (peeping in and out, from behind the dark rain clouds), over the last few nights. So it was a 'happy surprise', earlier this morning, to discover that Jada Facer had posted this Cover, just a few days ago.✨️

'Fill my Heart with Song,

Let me Sing Forever More.'🎶

YOU DECORATED MY LIFE 🎶

One of my all-time favourite Kenny Rogers songs. I think the lyrics are so meaningful.✍️

YOU DECORATED MY LIFE 🎶 (Song Lyrics)
- Kenny Rogers

All my life was a paper,
Once plain, pure and white,
Till You moved with your pen,
Changin' moods now and then,
Till the balance was right.

Then You added some Music,
Every note was in place,
And anybody could see,
All the changes in me,
By the look on my face.

And You decorated my life,
Created a world,
Where Dreams are a part.

And You decorated my life,
By paintin' your Love,
All over my heart,
You decorated my life.

Like a rhyme with no reason,
In an unfinished song;
There was no harmony,
Life meant nothin' to me,
Until You came along.

And You brought out the colors,
What a gentle surprise,
Now I'm able to see,
All the things life can be,
Shinin' soft in your eyes.

And You decorated my life,
Created a world,
Where Dreams are a part.

And You decorated my life,
By paintin' your Love,
All over my heart,
You decorated my life.✨️❤️

I am also sharing a beautiful Instrumental Piano version of this song, by my wonderfully talented friend, Ben Fernandez.🎶

HOW DEEP IS THE OCEAN? 🎶

 

HOW DEEP IS THE OCEAN? 🎶 (Song Lyrics)
- Barbra Streisand and Jason Gould

How much do I Love You?
I'll tell you no lie
How deep is the ocean?
How high is the sky?

How many times in a day,
Do I think of you?
How many roses
Are sprinkled with dew?

How far would I travel
Just to be where you are?
How far is the journey
From here to a star?

And if I ever lost you,
How much would I cry?
How deep is the ocean?
How high is the sky? 🎶

A Mother and Son Duet - The Story behind the Song.

(The Lyric Video which I found on YT, has such lovely family pictures.)

THE GIRL IN HER MIRROR ✍️

 

What has made her, who she is?

Why does she do, what she does?

How did she become, this person?

Her Life once was, 'All Abuzz'.

When did she turn into, a 'Lonesome Stranger'?

Will she always, stay this way?

How can she explain, to someone else?

She honestly knows not, what to say.

Where has 'The Real Her' disappeared?

Why did she, run away and hide?

How can anyone, untangle the knots, join the dots?

When she never reveals, the 'Truth' inside.

Was it the 'Roller-Coaster', called her 'Life'?

Did those 'never-ending crashing waves', take their toll?

How did she lose interest, in all the things she loved?

She used to be, 'The Girl in Complete Control'.

The 'Questions', now aimed at her constantly,

The 'Answers', she has none; that's a Fact.

One foot in front of the next, One step at a time,

Lacking 'An Aim, A Focus' - She is so easily side-tracked.

Mentor, Guide, Teacher, Encourager, Friend,

To so many, she once was 'All of that and More';

Today, each moment, she has to pick herself up,

Her own Motivator lost - It shook her to the core.

She often talks to, 'The Girl in Her Mirror', 

And reminds her, that this 'Life Goes On',

Her 'Reflection' - Disinterested, Listless; She still convinces it,

"There must be a 'Purpose' - You're still here, after all have gone." ✍️

CAN'T SMILE WITHOUT YOU ✨️❤️

 

For all 'My Reasons to Smile', who are far, far away; both in this world, and the next.✨️

Wherever you may be, 'I Miss You', more than you know.❤️

CAN'T SMILE WITHOUT YOU 🎶 (Song Lyrics)
- Barry Manilow

You know, I can't Smile without you,
I can't Smile without you,
I can't Laugh and I can't Sing,
I'm finding it hard to do anything.

You see, I feel sad when you're sad,
I feel glad when you're glad,
If you only knew, what I'm going through,
I just can't Smile without you.

You came along, just like a Song,
And brightened my day;
Who would have believed, that you were part of a Dream,
Now it all seems, light years away.

And now you know, I can't Smile without you,
I can't Smile without you,
I can't Laugh and I can't Sing,
I'm finding it hard to do anything.

You see, I feel sad when you're sad,
I feel glad when you're glad,
If you only knew, what I'm going through,
I just can't Smile.

Now some people say, Happiness takes so very long to find,
Well, I'm finding it hard, leaving your Love behind me.

And you see, I can't Smile without you,
I can't Smile without you,
I can't Laugh and I can't Sing,
I'm finding it hard to do anything.

You see, I feel glad when you're glad,
I feel sad when you're sad,
If you only knew, what I'm going through,
I just can't Smile without you.✨❤️

(I watched a video of my friend Meldan D'Cunha, singing this song, at one of his 'Karaoke Nights' in Soul Fry, Bandra, yesterday. So, was reminded of this song.)😊

RAINY MOOD SWINGS ☔️🎶

It has been a really, really 'Hot and Humid Summer' this year. During the past week, Mumbai has seen a few, very heavy 'Pre-Monsoon Showers', complete with 'Thunder and Lightning' too.⛈️☔️

Of course, these June rains have been more than welcome, after we've all got completely drained out of energy in April and May, because the temperature has dropped to some extent.

But so far, the rains and the clouds, have been having a lot of 'Mood Swings'; almost 'appearing and disappearing' whenever they feel like. The sun and rain, seem to be playing 'a game of Hide and Seek', with all of us.🌦

'To carry an umbrella, or not to carry an umbrella (each time you step out),

That is the question'. 🤔🌂

The Weather, somehow tends to always have a direct impact and effect, on our mood and behaviour as well, doesn't it? 

Waiting for this rather 'erratic and irrational' weather, to just decide what it wants to do. Hopefully then, it will quit playing these silly games, and just do what it is meant to do, during this season; so that we too, could stop being so thoroughly confused.🤷🏻‍♀️

Meanwhile, I'm sharing two 'completely polar opposite' songs, about the rain.🌨

SINGING IN THE RAIN 🎶

- Gene Kelly

CRYING IN THE RAIN 🎶

- The Everly Brothers 

A LITTLE BIT OF LYRICAL NONSENSE 😊🎶

This is why I Love Music.🎶 

One moment, you can be listening to the saddest, most lonesome songs, that tug at your heartstrings, and even make you cry. 

The next minute, you can come across, absolutely random songs like these. Lyrics that may seem so silly and quite nonsensical as well; and yet, a little sweet.😊

YOU'RE THE CREAM IN MY COFFEE 🎶 (Song Lyrics)
- Nat King Cole

You're the Cream in my Coffee,
You're the Salt in my Stew,
You will Always be My Necessity,
I'd be Lost without You.

You're the Starch in my Collar,
You're the Lace in my Shoe,
You will Always be My Necessity,
I'd be Lost without You.

Most men tell Love Tales,
And each phrase dovetails,
You've heard each known way.
This way is My Own Way.

You're the Sail of my Love Boat,
You're the Captain and Crew,
You will Always be My Necessity,
I'd be Lost without You.

You give life savour,
Bring out its flavour,
So this is clear, dear,
You're my Worcestershire, dear.

You're the Sail of my Love Boat,
You're the Captain and Crew,
You will Always be My Necessity,
Like a Restaurant with a Recipe,
You're the Lace in my Shoe,
I'd be Lost without You.✨️❤️

A BUSHEL AND A PECK 🎶 (Song Lyrics)
- Doris Day

I Love You, a bushel and a peck,
A bushel and a peck,
And a hug around the neck,
A hug around the neck,
And a barrel and a heap
A barrel and a heap,
And I'm talkin' in my sleep,
About You, About You.

'Cause I Love You, a bushel and a peck,
You bet your purdy neck, I Do.

A doodle oodle, ooh doo,
A doodle oodle, oodle, ooh doo.

I Love You, a bushel and a peck
A bushel and a peck,
Though you make my heart a wreck,
Make my heart a wreck,
And you make my life a mess,
Make my life a mess,
Yes, a mess of happiness,
About You, About You.

'Cause I Love You, a bushel and a peck
You bet your purdy neck, I Do.

A doodle oodle, ooh doo,
A doodle oodle, oodle, ooh doo.

I Love You, a bushel and a peck,
A bushel and a peck,
And it beats me all to heck,
It beats me all to heck,
How I'll ever tend the farm,
Ever tend the farm,
When I wanna keep my arm,
About You, About You.

'Cause I Love You, a bushel and a peck
You bet your purdy neck, I Do.

A doodle oodle, ooh doo,
A doodle oodle, oodle, ooh doo.
A doodle oodle, oodle, ooh doo,
A doodle oodle, ooh doo, doo.😊❤️

(The videos of these songs, have been uploaded by other people on YT.)

OUR DAILY 'BREAD' ✨️❤️

 

This was a Group, that I was introduced to, when I was in college. A friend back in Xavier's, used to love their songs, and he would always speak about the music by 'Bread'. 

The lyrics and the soulful melodies written by the Singer/Songwriter David Gates and performed by his group 'Bread', are really 'aimed straight for your heart'.❤️ Songs that make you 'feel every word', as if they were written 'Just for You', are truly the most beautiful songs.🎶😊

LOST WITHOUT YOUR LOVE (1976) 🎶 (Song Lyrics)
- Bread

Lost and all alone,
I always thought that I could make it on my own;
But since you left, I hardly make it through the day,
My tears get in the way, and I need you back to stay.

I wander through the night,
And search the world, for the words to make it right;
All I want, is the way it used to be,
With You here, close to me,
And I've got to make you see.

That I'm Lost without Your Love,
Life without You, isn't worth the trouble of;
I'm as helpless, as a ship without a wind,
A touch without a feel,
I can't believe its real.

And someday soon I'll wake,
And find, my Heart won't have to break.

Yes, I'm Lost without your Love,
Life without You, isn't worth the trouble of;
All I want, is just the way it used to be,
I Need You, here with me,
Oh darling, can't you see,
If we had Love before,
We can have it back, once more.❤️

The first time I heard this song 'If', was when my college friend Vivek Antonio, sang this song, at either the Malhar elims, or probably at a Talent Contest in Xavier's. That is close to three decades ago now...But I still haven't forgotten, the way he sang this song.🎤🎶

Some songs are just 'Magic'...And when amazing Voices sing a beautifully written song, they just enhance that 'Magic', and take it to another level.✨️😊

We didn't have digital cameras back then. So, I don't have the song, recorded in Vivek's voice. But a few years ago, two of my super-talented friends, Neuman Pinto and Beven Fonseca, recorded a 'Cover version' of this song, which is also really lovely. So, am sharing that one today.💞

IF (1971) 🎶 (Song Lyrics)
- Bread

If a picture paints a thousand words,
Then why can't I paint you?
The words will never show,
The You, I've come to know.

If a face could launch a thousand ships,
Then where am I to go?
There's no one Home, but You,
You're all that's left me too.

And when my Love for Life, is running dry,
You come and pour yourself on me.

If a man could be two places at one time,
I'd be with You,
Tomorrow and Today, beside You all the way.

If the world should stop revolvin',spinnin',
Slowly down to die,
I'd spend the end with You,
And when the world was through,

Then one by one, the stars would all go out,
Then You and I, would simply fly away.✨️❤️  

SAINTLY NAMES ✍️

 

Lots of people give their children 'Middle Names', based on the 'Feast of the Saint' which was closest to their birthdays. My Brother and me also got our 'second names', because we were both born on the Feast Days of 'Special Saints'. 

So, I was named 'Francesca' because I was born on the Feast of St.Francis of Assisi; and Nathan's middle name was 'Anthony', because he was born on the Feast of St.Anthony of Padua.😊 

More than it just being a tradition, I think some parents hoped, that their child would imbibe some of the 'good qualities' of the Saint, who they were named after. In Nathan's case, he didn't really get a chance, to be around long enough to do that.😢

Every year on the 13th of June though, I always wonder about the kind of person he would have grown up to be, if his life hadn't been cut short, so abruptly. How he would have looked, the kind of things he would be interested in, the talents he would have had, who his friends would have been...My 'Imaginative Mind' always wonders, about so many different things.🤔

Nathan would've been 41 today. I only got a chance to celebrate 6 of those birthdays with him, because he left us just a few months before his 7th Birthday; but every year on this day, I remember...

...because 'Memories', even when they are only a few, make you feel 'Closer' to the person, more than three decades after they've gone too. Some 'Love Stories' just live on Forever (at least, in our Hearts).✨️❤

(Had posted this on FB two years ago, on the 13th of June' 2022. Lots of 'FB Memories' to read today, because I always post something on this day, every year.

The pictures with this post, are probably the cover pages of Children's Books. I haven't read any of the the three books, but I liked the pictures. So, am sharing them here.)😊

LIFE AS WE KNOW IT ✍️

 

Flashback weeks

Lonesome streaks

Reflection time

Memories sublime

Restless hearts

Broken parts

Repetitive scenes

Silent screams

Aimlessly afloat

Rudderless boat

Unfinished tales

Forgotten trails

Wandering minds

Unexpected finds

Derailed tracks

Fractured cracks

Strangely confused

Hopelessly bemused

Human Life

Joyful Strife ✍️

A SIBLING WORTH REMEMBERING✨️❤️

One of my favourite 'brother-sister' musician partnerships, was Karen and Richard Carpenter. This sibling duo, known as 'The Carpenters', gave us so many, many beautiful songs, way back in the 70's. I love quite a few of their songs; and the whole world, still joyfully listens to and enjoys, their very popular melodies, even five and six decades later.😊

Karen Carpenter sadly left this world, at a very young age. Somehow, that makes me think of my own brother. He would have been celebrating his Birthday, in a couple of days. There are many different things that I dream of and imagine, about what my life would be like, if Nathan was still around. Among other things, I often wonder what it might have been like, if the two of us, had been able to make music together, like they did...🤔

...Just Wishful Thinking!🤷🏻‍♀️

Whenever something is on my mind for a while, I usually like to write about it. So, I thought I would post two of my favourite songs, by 'The Carpenters' today. I love a lot of their songs; but these two, have such beautiful words.✍️

I HAVE YOU 🎶 (Song Lyrics)
- The Carpenters

I have always been a Dreamer,
Followed visions of my own;
I was Born to Belong, to the Lines of a Song,
And make them my Home.

I believe in Happy Endings,
Though I've only known a few;
For as rare as they are, like a bright falling Star,
I found one in You.

Sometimes,
All the world can seem so friendless,
And the road ahead so endless,
And the Dream so far away.

Sometimes,
When I'm almost to surrender,
Then I stop and I remember,
I have You, to save my day.

Often my Imagination,
Has me reaching out too far;
When I fell, you were there, with your hand in the air,
You knew from the start.

Sometimes,
After all, you've done to save me,
Through the Love you freely gave me,
Every step along the way.

Sometimes,
People ask what keeps me going;
And in truth, it comes from knowing,
I have You, to save my day.

Sometimes,
Feeling helpless, when I held You,
Wishing Words would come, to tell You,
I have You, to save my day.✨️❤️

YOU 🎶 (Song Lyrics)
- The Carpenters

You are the one, who makes me Happy,
When everything else, turns to grey;
Yours is the Voice, that wakes me mornings,
And sends me out, into the day.

You are the crowd, that sits quiet,
Listening to me,
And all the mad sense, that I make,
You are one of the few things, Worth Remembering...

And since it's All True,
How could anyone, mean more to me than You.

Sorry if sometimes, I look past you,
There's no one, beyond your eyes.
Inside my head, the wheels are turning,
Hey, sometimes I'm not so wise.

You are my Heart and my Soul,
My Inspiration,
Just like the old Love Song goes.
You are one of the few things, Worth Remembering...

And since it's All True,
How could anyone, mean more to me than You.✨️❤️

Yes, both these Songs are very meaningful. But, another thing that I enjoy doing, besides listening to lovely songs, is to hear the 'Stories behind the Songs and the Singers'. So, it was great to discover this video of an interview today, with Richard Carpenter, from a 'Morning Talk Show'. 

It would have been so amazing, if Karen Carpenter had lived longer, and had sung a lot more songs; but she sure has lived on, in so many of our minds and memories, for a long, long time, through her Voice and her Songs.😊🎤🎶

(The videos posted, have been uploaded by various people on YT.)

I REALLY DON'T KNOW LIFE AT ALL 🤔

 

I think everyone has played that game, at some time or the other, where you look up at the clouds, and try to imagine or guess, what each one 'almost looks like or resembles'.🤔

The interesting part about that game, is that the 'Clouds' keep changing their shape, constantly, as they keep moving, and are blown in different directions, by the breeze. Wherever the wind blows, they go; and as a result, they never stay the same.

I listened to this song today, that kind of draws a comparison between 'Clouds, Love and Life'. I have heard other versions of this song before, by other singers; but today, I found this nice duet version. I also read the lyrics a few times today, more closely.✍️ 

Like any poem, the words of this song, can be interpreted in a number of different ways. In fact every line, can be understood differently, depending on one's state of mind, at the time.

But I guess, the one thought that seems very clear, is that no matter how much experience one may have, 'Love and Life' will always be like 'Illusions', that we can't really figure out - As Complex, Complicated, Ever-Changing and Difficult to Interpret and Understand, as the 'Clouds' in the sky.

...and just like the songwriter, I guess every single one of us, can only say, 'I really don't know Clouds, Love or Life at all.' 🤷🏻‍♀️

BOTH SIDES NOW 🎶 (Song Lyrics)

- Josh Groban and Sara Bareilles

Bows and flows of angel hair,

And ice cream castles in the air,

And feather canyons everywhere,

I've looked at Clouds that way.

But now they only block the sun,

They rain and snow on everyone;

So many things I would have done,

But Clouds got in my way.

I've looked at Clouds from Both Sides Now,

From up and down and still somehow,

It's Cloud's Illusions, I recall;

I really don't know Clouds at all.

Moons and Junes and Ferris wheels,

The dizzy dancing way you feel,

When every fairy tale comes real,

I've looked at Love that way.

But now it's just another show,

You leave 'em laughin' when you go;

And if you care, don't let them know,

Don't give yourself away.

I've looked at Love from Both Sides Now,

From win and lose, and still somehow;

It's Love's Illusions, I recall;

I really don't know Love at all.

Tears and fears, and feeling proud,

To say, 'I Love you' right out loud,

Dreams and schemes and circus crowds,

I've looked at Life that way.

But now old friends are acting strange,

They shake their heads, they say I've changed,

Well something's lost, but something's gained,

In living every day.

I've looked at Life from Both Sides Now,

From win and lose, and still somehow;

It's Life's Illusions, I recall;

I really don't know Life at all. ✍️

PEOPLE WHO NEED PEOPLE ✍️

 

One day, you're given a 'Special Gift',

And you presume, it will 'Always Be There';

Like a 'Lifeline', that you firmly hold onto,

You carry it in your Heart, everywhere.

Like 'Life Support', that keeps you alive,

Like a 'Crutch', you can't walk without,

Constantly reaching out, for that 'Helping Hand',

It will 'Always reach right back', you have no doubt.

The People who 'Have People', are truly Blessed,

From their Happy point of view, every moment is just great, right now;

The People who 'Need People', still struggle everyday,

Hopelessly wishing, their 'Lifelines' stay around somehow.

If Life was a Story, more simple than complex,

We'd already know, what every new chapter holds in store;

But the 'Uncertainty', that each unknown Tomorrow brings,

Makes us cling on to Yesterday, even when 'The Past is a Closed Door'. ✍️

RECESS-TIME 😄✍️

 

The 'Summer Holiday Break' is the only one month in the entire year, when teachers can actually 'breathe in peace'. The only time in the whole year, when there are no back-breaking deadlines and corrections, no endless late nights working, no countless lesson-planning, and no alarms to wake you up, at unearthly hours. The vocal chords, neck, back and feet of every teacher, get a much-needed break. The ears actually hear the 'sound of silence'.😊

Since I haven't been in school, for a couple of years now; this is also the month, when I get a chance to catch up, with a few of my close 'Teacher Friends', who were my colleagues, for two long decades. 

Even though, we do try to meet a few times, during the academic year; their hectic work schedules, make those meetings extremely rare...and if they do happen, they're kind of 'rushed'; and most of the time, the conversations on those days, only revolve around 'everything happening in school', because that's how a Teacher's Life is - 'School, literally becomes our Life'.🤷🏻‍♀️

When teachers catch up during the month of May though, the mind is completely relaxed and at ease. Yes, 'School' still does come up in the conversations (because that's just how it always is, with Teachers everywhere); but when we meet during this one month, we actually 'get a chance to unwind and talk about, so many other little everyday things, happening in all our lives', as well. 

As teachers have 'the luxury of free time', during the month of May, (which is unheard of, during the rest of the year), these 'crazy multi-taskers', can really 'chill', and do 'absolutely nothing', without feeling guilty or wondering about, how many hundred more jobs are still incomplete, and still have to be done.😊

Over the 18 years, that I worked as a 'Secondary School Teacher', there were numerous occasions, when people would say to me, 'How lucky you Teachers are! You get a whole month off every year, and to add to that, it's Paid Leave.'🤦‍♀️

When I was a fairly new teacher, I used to actually defend everyone in the Teaching Profession, and try to explain, that it was an extremely well-deserved, and very justified, much-needed 'Break'.

With experience though, I learned to just ignore, that 'obviously ignorant and misinformed statement'. I would only reply with a rather 'sarcastic, knowing Smile'...And, if I did respond; my answer would be, 'You have to actually live in the same house as a Teacher, to understand how 'Lucky', they really are'.🙄

That was something, I once said to a 'Journalist Friend', whose wife also happens to be a Teacher. As a Journalist and News Editor in several of the best Media channels and websites, over the years; there is no doubt, that his work is quite demanding, and an extremely high-pressure job too...But he still felt, that the job of a Teacher, came with its own set of issues and problems, which those on the outside, would hardly ever see or realise.

He also did share, that he had stopped saying a lot of things, that others tend to grudge those in the teaching profession for, (probably things like this 'one month May vacation', and for all the other 'public holidays' they got, all year round), a long time ago. He added, that he realised a lot of things, about the actual situation of a Teacher, after being married to one, for so many years.😄

I do miss a lot of things about being in school, especially how I got so many opportunities, to use my 'Creativity' and my many 'God-given Talents', in multiple ways every single day.

But, after two years of being away from it all; my 'Stress-levels' have decreased tremendously, a number of my 'chronic health issues' have improved, my voice (which used to be hoarse all year round) can now actually be heard, I don't have to yell and scream my lungs out, (almost at the risk of getting a heart-attack) all day long, I can eat proper meals and on time, I can sleep peacefully for longer hours, I don't have to set an alarm every morning and rush through my entire life, day in and day out. I am also thankfully far, far away from over-involved parents, arrogant millennials with rather disruptive habits, and peacefully at a distance, from all the regular unwanted craziness, that happens in any organisation.🤪

But I do think of the kids often; and more than that, I miss my close Friends, who were really my 'Family', for two long decades.

That's why, I'm glad I got a few opportunities, to spend two or three 'almost entire days', with a couple of them, over the last two weeks. I guess, my mind has been at ease, for quite a while now; but there's nothing more calming and relaxing, than spending time 'catching up with old friends'. It's just 'Extra-Special'.🤗❤️

...and to still be able to spend these moments together, during this 'Free Month', definitely makes me feel really 'Lucky', to have been a Teacher.✨️✍️

WINDOW IN THE WALL 🎶✍️

 

I love Olivia Newton-John. Her voice and the innumerable songs she has sung. But even more than that, I admire her for how she bravely struggled with Cancer for many, many years, and 'kept singing through it all'. The fact that she also helped countless people, through her Cancer Foundation, is so special too.✨️❤️

I especially like a lot of the songs, that she recorded in the last few years of her life. So many of them, are very 'Inspirational' and have beautiful messages. This is one of those songs, with lyrics that speak about how 'a little Love and Hope, could change the world'.🎶

A lovely duet, that ONJ sang with her daughter Chloe Lattanzi, which was released, just a little over a year, before she passed away.💕

If I was still in DB, I would have probably found a way to use this song, at some time or the other, together with a skit or a play, because it has a really nice message.😊

WINDOW IN THE WALL 🎶 (Song Lyrics)

- Olivia Newton-John and Chloe Lattanzi

Has this world forgotten how to Love?
Are we blinded by the hate we let inside?
No one's givin' in or givin' up
The lines are drawn and there's no compromise.

This isn't who we are
It's time for us to start...

Looking for a window in the wall
Maybe we can see the other side;
And find we're not so different after all
Looking for a window in the wall.

Sometimes hearts can grow as cold as stone,
Then become the borders we can't cross;
The fertile fields of Trust, where Love had grown,
Slowly start to die when Hope is lost.

That's where we are right now
But we can turn it all around by...

Looking for a window in the wall
Maybe we can see the other side;
And find we're not so different after all
Looking for a window in the wall.

We're waging war, we've died enough
Fighting for everything but Love.
It's time to Heal
To Turn the Page
Too much to lose, so much to save
We have to Change.

Looking for a window in the wall
Maybe we can see the other side
And find we're not so different after all;
Looking for a window in the wall
Looking for a window in the wall.✨️❤️

(I had shared this song on FB, last year on the 19th of May' 2023. Read that post again today. So, am sharing this song here, because I really like it.) 

THERE IS LOVE ✨️❤️

 

'The Wedding Song' by Noel Paul Stookey (1971) - I didn't know, that was the name of the song, till I heard it on the 'Golden Girls' show on Jukebox Jammies, three years ago. Carlton Braganza had done a whole bunch of songs from the year 1971, in that online session; and this was one of them.🎶

I had sung this song numerous times before that, with my choir, but I always knew the name of the song as 'There is Love'.💕

Someone had once picked it, for a Wedding Mass that we had sung for; and since that time, we all loved the song so much, that it became a common choice, for many, many Wedding Masses, over the years.😊

This is a lovely instrumental version of the song; but am posting the words of the song below. It's such a beautiful song. Was a really good surprise, to hear it on JJ, back in 2021.❤

A couple of days later, Carlton recorded the song, by adding some harmonies, and posted this video. It was great to hear the song, with two Carltons on one screen, which everyone really liked.😊

FB Memories has been reminding me of these posts, for the last couple of days. So, I thought it was a good song, to add to my 'Jukebox Jammies Memories', here.🎶 As compared to the large number of favourite songs and happy memories that I have, from four years of listening to JJ, I still haven't posted a lot of songs from the show, on my blog. I guess, I need to slowly start adding a few more JJ songs, to this section.✍️

WEDDING SONG - THERE IS LOVE 🎶 

-Noel Paul Stookey

(Song Lyrics)

He is now to be among you at the calling of your hearts

Rest assured this Troubadour is acting on His part.

The union of your spirits, here, has caused Him to remain;

For whenever two or more of you are gathered in His name

There is Love, there is Love.

For a man shall leave his mother and a woman leave her home

And they shall travel on to where, the two shall be as one.

As it was in the beginning, is now and till the end;

Woman draws her life from man and gives it back again.

And there is Love, there is Love.

Well then what's to be the reason for becoming man and wife?

Is it love that brings you here or love that brings you life?

And if loving is the answer, then who's the giving for?

Do you believe in something that you've never seen before?

Oh there is Love, there is Love.

Oh the marriage of your spirits here, has caused Him to remain

For whenever two or more of you are gathered in His name

There is Love, there is Love.✨️❤️

THE CAREGIVER'S TEARS ✍️

 

When you see that same pain,

That left you feeling so empty and lost,

Rolling down from another person's distraught eyes;

You want to say, 'I really know that pain' 

But then, you don't.

When you see that same anguish,

That tore your heart and mind apart,

In those helplessly confused, almost garbled words;

You want to say, 'I've felt that anguish too' 

But then, you don't.

When you see that same strain,

That squeezed out every ounce of strength from you,

In her almost mechanical 'auto mode', highly skilled actions;

You want to say, 'I know, cause I'm often still right there' 

But then, you don't.

When you see that same stress,

That made you lose your sense of balance,

Not knowing if you're coming or going, every single day;

You want to say, 'That stress is Real, Ask me!'

But then, you don't.

In moments, that unexpectedly bring you face to face,

With a kind of replay of your own story, in another's strife;

Every wound is re-opened, Every memory refreshed,

Your own arduous journey, is just suddenly brought back to life.

And although you know that you've literally,

'Been there, done that, got the T-shirt', so to say.

You are still left completely silent and speechless,

Because you also know, 'Each one finds their own way.'

There's nothing I could say to help, but 'Listen',

As those 'Healing Hands' wiped away her own tears;

And I sadly pondered over how, even a 'Health Care Professional',

Struggles with those same, very human 'Caregiver's Fears'.😢

(I wrote this after an experience that I had, on this day last year, on the 1st of June' 2023. 

I have always had the deepest respect for all doctors, nurses and those who work in hospitals and clinics. Maybe because, I have spent lots of time in hospitals, over the last decade or two, and observed how they work. Despite their own struggles and trials, they still continue to work and give selflessly everyday.👩‍⚕️🧑‍⚕️

However that day, was the first time, when I saw a Doctor shed a tear or two, while she was attending to me. I guess, the fact that she was a friend, and because she knew 'My Story' also, is probably what made her feel a 'Connection', or just made her feel comfortable enough, to let out some 'unexpressed emotions'.

I didn't say or do anything, other that 'Listen', as the tears overwhelmed her. I was 'Just There', in that moment. I don't know if that helped her to unburden, just a tiny bit of the anguish and stress, which she was going through or not. 

But, I know what she was feeling. I know what led to that unexpected outburst; because I've been there too.😔

Looking back on this incident, a year later, I really hope, that my presence in her clinic that day, comforted and helped her, at least for those few brief moments.)✨️❤️

NOTHING'S GONNA CHANGE MY LOVE FOR YOU 🎶

 

If I had to live my life, without You near me

The days would all be empty

The nights would seem so long...😍

If the road ahead is not so easy

Our Love will lead the way for us

Like a Guiding Star...🌟

I'll be there for You, if you should need Me

You don't have to change a thing

I Love You, Just the way you are.💕

Just a few of those lovely words of this song. One that has been popular for years and years, and is still loved. The moment you listen to it anywhere, it just makes yous 'Smile'.😊

NOTHING'S GONNA CHANGE MY LOVE FOR YOU 🎶

- George Benson

Special songs always bring back memories. This is one of those Nostalgic Songs.✨️❤️

(I had shared this as a post on FB, a few years ago, on 15th May' 21. Saw that post again today. So, decided to re-post it here, since I love this song.)🎶

I'M GONNA LOVE YOU THROUGH IT 💞

Every little sharing, interspersed with this lovely song, from those who have experienced how Cancer invades the lives of not just the person, but their entire family; makes this song so much more meaningful.🎶

Very special to hear different people, speaking about their 'Support System' and the 'Care-Givers', who were always there and loved them through it all.✨️❤️