Song of the Day: Thursday

I was out being family with some friends of mine in the area. I just realized this morning that I forgot about my FAVORITE Christmas song. So you get it today!

Most would say this song is not up to the standards of those Christmas classics that we all know and love. I agree! Instead this song is the epitome of the 80s. And, it makes me smile!

Song of the Day: Tuesday

This song has been in my head today. There are so many ironies about me posting it.

First, I don't really like rap music.  I know there is some assumption that as an African American woman, I like all Black music. Au contraire, mon frère! It is not so. I like all kinds of music! And, the folks who sing those kinds of music that I like, they don't all look alike. And they don't all look like me.

Second, I don't really like Hip Hop. My reasons? See the paragraph above!

Third, I knew the name of the artist, but I didn't really know the name of the song. So, the song is entitled, "My Life Be Like." I heard someone sing it a long time ago, over a decade. But, I'm sure she sang, "My Locks Be Like," as in hair. So, I, remembering the artist and what I thought was the title of the song. Luckily I found the right song.

And, finally, there is the fact that I really like this song that is HipHop/Rap and Christian.  Neither is my favorite genre. But, in general, if a music catches my ear, it doesn't matter its genre.

Song of the Day: Friday

Nelson Mandela died yesterday at the age of 95. I never knew him; I only knew of him. And, I don't know as much about him as I feel I should. What I learned, here and there, was from the music I listened to and the news after he was freed. There are so many dimensions of him that I have not yet seen and now he is gone.

I feel this ache at his loss. It's indescribable. Just that he is gone and we are empty without his presence. We have lost something, someone special.

This song reminds me of him. I heard that it was a song that stirred him. Me too. Rest in Peace, Mr. Mandela.

Song of the Day: Thursday

So, it's been awhile. Again.

I feel as if I'm on the verge of running. And, on the verge of standing up for myself. I've been looking for the open door, but before I can even find the knob, I hear that the milk and honey are drying up. Ugh!

I am aware that there are things missing from my life. I had hope. I have hope. I just try not to let it get out of hand. I don't want to set myself up for failure. I am cautiously optimistic. Or maybe optimistically cautious.

Anyway, in all of my thinking about being a wounded soul and wanting more than what I already have, this song popped in my head. It's a bit disturbing because I try not to listen to his music on a matter of principle. But the song seem to be the right one for today.

Song of the Day: Wednesday

It's been a long time since I've written anything. It doesn't mean I haven't been thinking in song. I've had things going on--including my fifth bout of a sinus/ear infection in just over a year!

As I am wont to do, I have been mulling over my Russian Five-Year Plan; this is a five-year plan which is changeable depending upon whether I meet my goal. Every good plan, IMHO, has a good exit strategy. I have been researching mine, but haven't found a suitable one as yet.

This song popped into my head tonight while thinking of my RFYP. Throwbacks from my childhood always make me smile!

Song of the Day: Tuesday

This is the second day of a slow work week. I've been a bit moody and making nouveau riche plans in my head.

For some reason this song's been in my head. Not the entirety of it! Just the line "Excuse me while I disappear!" I could hear Miss Ella singing it, but I couldn't remember which song it was.

I love her voice. She's totally unable to sound sad while she sings. She can present emotion, but not the down in the dumps, my-man-done-left-me sadness. But, she's such an effortless technician of the craft. I think that's why I love her so much. That, and she's so beautiful and comfortable in her own skin.

Song of the Day: Wednesday

Every night that I go to bed feeling blue, I wake up in a good mood, with an encouraging song in my head.  This is today's uplifting song!

Song of the Day: Tuesday

I've been addicted to a Korean drama since this weekend. I got rid of cable at the end of July and have been reading more and watching shows on my Roku. One of my Roku channels, Crunchy Roll, has this show "You're the Best, Lee Soon-Shin." It's the story of a young woman, whose father dies when she begins to pursue her dream to be an actress.

There are so many subplots, twists and turns in this show that it's crazy! But, it has reeled me in. Every night that I come home from work finds me sitting in front of the tv watching another episode. It's all in Korean with English Subtitles, but, I am so sucked into the drama that I feel as if I am fluent in Korean.

This song is the theme song for the show. The only thing I can tell you is that "Molla" is K-Pop (Korean Pop) slang for "I don't know." The usage is informal so don't get yourself in trouble saying this to your granny!

Song of the Day: Monday

This song has been in my head for a few days. It's a nice flashback to my childhood in the 80s.

I've been thinking about how to handle my career and my future. My usual way to handle things is to hold on tightly and try to steer things the way that I want them to go. There is no symbiosis with the car. There is no union with the road. There is just me forcing my way. This song reminds me that there is a different way.

In race car driving, there is a mantra (I think) to hold onto loosely to the steering wheel. You have just enough control to steer the car, but not so much that you can't react and compensate for the bumps in the road. This seems to be good advice in life. I've just got to remember not to let go.

Song of the Day: Saturday

Yesterday was hard. I was tired and moody. I came home and sat in front of the tv watching a Korean comedy with English subtitles. Funny and uplifting. Sorry of. Unfortunately I was too tired to do much of anything else but go to sleep.

I woke up refreshed this morning. Sort of. I'm sure I can sleep a bit more, if I tried. But, it's my last Saturday before I travel so I need to make it productive.

This song has been in my head this morning. I like Train. I was disappointed when Pat started to show his age. I saw him at the Midtown Musicfest quite a while ago when they were just coming out. He was HOT! But this look is age-appropriate and it suits him.

Song of the Day: Thursday

So, after yesterday's poopy face meltdown, I slept. And, when I awoke this morning, I was instantly happier. Amazing that I am so resilient. My dad once said that I was always happy and smiling when I was little. Good to know that, even through life's ups and downs, I haven't lost that.

As I headed out to work, I stopped in my leasing office and this song was playing on the radio. Normally the cheery happy-sappy love songs make me sick. But, this one was so filled with hope that it just seemed right. Beside, I like Canadians!

Song of the Day: Wednesday

Today I got a chance to meet the amour of a friend. Nice. Really she is. She's just not me. And I was disappointed. It made it so real. The only single, marriageable man that I'd consider is unavailable.

It's hard not to take it personally. I had a bit of a Neruda moment: "Another's. []He will be another's." I took today to pout in bed and read. No dinner because I wasn't hungry. And I called a friend to whine and moan about it.

I got a wake up call about what life could be. I will be content to live my life, but I am still disappointed.

So, this song by Adele tonight.

Song of the Day: Tuesday

All summer I've been hearing Robin Thicke on the radio. His song is rather catchy, but once I realized how rapey and misogynistic the lyrics were, I stopped listening.

Yesterday, a friend posted this parody on FB. It's a smart response to Thicke's song. I got pulled from YouTube for doing what men do all the time: it "made" men into objects for the sake of the parody. YouTube eventually put the song back up, but never did tell the creators why it was pulled except that it has been flagged as inappropriate. I like it!

Song of the Day: Saturday

This song has been jostling around in my head for most of the week. Normally I don't enjoy Christian music. Too much sickeningly sweet happiness, in general. But this one has stuck with me. It's got a bit of a hook that has embedded it in my brain. Interesting that it just popped in my head again this week.

Song of the Day: Thursday

Not sure why, but this song was in my head as I fell asleep last night. It's definitely a bit moody. But, that pretty much every thing by REM--even their happy songs!

Song of the Day: Friday

The weekend is finally here! I don't get a long weekend for Labor Day because I volunteered to go in on Monday, but I do get two days off from.

I ran a few errands when I left work today. One of the local radio stations has "Totally 80s" weekends. This song reminded me of my childhood and how music was so magical and fun.

There was so creativity and imagination in these videos--at least to me as a country girl who grew up with with bad tv reruns from my mom's childhood. Just the idea of dramatizing a song with a video was so new and amazing to me. Even looking at it with adult eyes and seeing how cheesy every thing is now.

Song of the Day: Tuesday

There is a boy that I like. Actually he is a man. The only problem is that I know he likes me...as a friend. But, I'm not sure if he is interested in more. I certainly am interested in more.

This song seems appropriate for lovers angst.

Song of the Day: Sunday

I haven't been sleeping well the past week. Some of it is hormonal. Yea! Some of it is stress from various factors in my life. Yea! I've been getting more sleep than normal, but it's fitful at best. I wake up with a headache  (migraine) and fall asleep with a migraine. I find myself clenching my teeth and my jaw at random times during the day and no amount of trying keeps me from doing it again.

I'm doing my best to avoid the death spiral of "Is this all there is?" I'm hopeful that things will get better that something great is waiting on the other side of this THING. But, it's always hard to be cheerful in the midst of a funk.

This song has been on my mind today. I like Regina Spektor. I'm not sure why. I just do.

Song of the Day: Saturday

I was up and out of the house early today, running errands. Pretty nice to be be on target for the things that need to be done.

For some reason, I  had the urge to listen to John Mayer. I really like his music, even though he is a bit of a douchebag. But all douchebaggery aside, this song is one that stuck with me throughout the day.

Song of the Day: Friday

Today is one of those days that went from sugar to sh!t pretty fast. And, surprisingly, I handled myself well. I cried...a couple of times. But as sh!t was going down, I somehow had my wits about me. I asked intelligent questions, took notes, kept it together until I had my door closed and a sympathetic ear on the other end of the line. Not sure how I have other than the fact that I have been praying more.

I begin and end my day with prayer and drop it in once or twice in the middle of the day when I remember. Could that be what happened in my private hell on Friday? And, I know that things are going on to rattle my cage because I am trying to un-bollocks myself when it comes to relationships.

My general habit, when people hurt me, is to shut them out. It makes sense to stop the hurting. But, when I reviewed the days goings-on I recognized this as an opportunity to shut people out and I just brushed it away. Kinda cool!

Anyway, here's a song to Our Lady who watches over us.

Song of the Day: Thursday

Earlier this week I was feeling a bit retro. Not sure why. I played this song 4 or 5 times in a row. It definitely shows my 80s roots. I wouldn't have it any other way.

Song of the Day: Wednesday

The week has moved along at an awkward pace. I returned to work today and was just a bit of a zombie. No light, little joy. I think I laughed at a couple of things that people said, but mostly I kept my head down and tried not to think about how much I'd rather be in bed. Insomnia. Depression. Funk. Either and all seem to be the correct term.

This song has been playing in my head today. It's a bit awkward because the meaning behind this song is not what I mean. I just like the chorus: "It gets better. It gets better. It gets better. We'll get better."

Song of the Day: Tuesday

I have had a rough couple of days. Monday night I couldn't fall asleep. So, interspersed with my attempts to catch some Zs, I read. Next thing I know it's 5am and I'm still awake. I only got two hours of sleep. I stayed home from work hoping to get caught up. And again I could not sleep until the afternoon where I got three hours and seemingly ruined myself for the night. I did get to sleep, fitfully. I don't know how much sleep I got because it's best not to count when one has insomnia.

Anyway, this song seems apropos.

Song of the Day: Monday

Tonight I got off my duff and went for a walk. It's been a while since I've actually done any kind of physical activity and the scale has shown me that my body is not happy.

While I was walking, this song kept popping in my head. It's weirdly appropriate. I've begun reading a book about how we close ourselves off when we've been hurt. It is a bit mind-blowing and oddly apropos for this period of my life. One way that I do it is that I avoid difficult conversations when I worry how people will respond.

Tonight I put on my big girl panties and made the call. The person was not available to talk, but I've still opened the door for the conversation.

Song of the Day: Sunday

I'm Back! It's been a long time since I've been on this blog. I do apologize to my one follower: sorry! It's been a rough few months, but I have resolved to write again.

It's actually only been in the past week that songs have been blaring insistently in my head. And, today I have finally picked up my computer to share with you.

This song has been playing in my head tonight. I find it rather ironic because it's a break up song. But, what sticks with me is her assurance to him that she will be fine once "he" is gone. My favorite parts? "I've got my feet on the ground and I don't go to sleep to dream" and "This mind, this body, and this voice cannot be stifled by your deviant ways...."

Song of the Day: Thursday

My best childhood friend just lost her husband today. Devastating and unexpected. I mean, no one really expects people to die in spite of the fact that we all will some day. But, there is a difference between a long terminal illness and an infection that turns septic and snatches a life.

I'm heartbroken for her. I can only imagine how she feels. And this is just a few years after her father died.

They have a 5 year old daughter. And there were plans to adopt other children....

Anyway, this song seems appropriate. Blake and Miranda wrote it and Miranda sang it, but I like Cassadee Pope's rendition.

Song of the Day: Thursday

Tonight I went to the Holy Thursday Mass in Chicago with friends. A good Mass. Beautiful, actually. But there was something missing for me.

This song popped into my head during Mass.

Song of the Day: Tuesday

Tonight I celebrated Passover with some friend and family, new friends. It was as good as it always is. Even better. It was nice to be surrounded by people who either got the Passover or who were excited to learn about and celebrate it--even though we mostly were Catholics together tonight.

I got a chance to talk to a young woman who converted to Judaism. She has a compelling story. And, in talking to her, I could see her reasoning for converting. It resonates some with my story; choosing a place to belong where you are accepted for yourself and where you can be at peace with God. I want that.

Anyway, this song kind of speaks to that conversation we had.

Song of the Day: Sunday

I've been moody today. I think I move through the day as if everything is fine when I know that I am not doing the best. There are these issues that bubble deep down inside that I should address, but I ignore them as much as I can.

I think the saddest thing was hanging out with my friend and her family. All of her children were home for the weekend and they were happy to see each other, even with all of their little quirks and the ways that their parents want some things different for them than what they have chosen. I don't really have that. And at dinner tonight, another friend brought over their 9 day old baby. And, I don't have that either.

These are the times when I think, maybe I shouldn't have broken up with that guy, then maybe I'd have someone. Or, maybe I shouldn't be so picky, then I'd be with one of those guys who was interested in me when I was growing up. These are ridiculous thoughts because who knows how well these relationships would have turned out. And, had I made those choices, would I be the person that I am now and have the friends and experiences that I currently have? Probably not.

Anyway, this song, seems appropriate for my moodiness.

Song of the Day: Saturday

No Myth by Michael Penn.

Song of the Day: Friday

For the past few weeks I've been listening to flamenco. Specifically, I've been listening to Ojos de Brujo and the Gipsy Kings. My internet station generated other songs for me based on these two bands. And, it's been good. But in the middle of the week, I felt the need for a change.

I arrived at work on Wednesday and needed a change; this song was in my head. I love Juanes. just something about him and the way he sings speaks to me. When I selected Juanes, this song is the one my station played first. Maybe Pandora does know me....

song of the day: thursday

Today hasn't been the most uplifting day. I had a medical appointment this morning. My practitioner asked a very direct and personal question that upset me. She wasn't mean; it just was an uncomfortable question.

At work I found out that I didn't get a grant that I applied for--one that I spent, maybe, too much time working on. I kinda feel like I wasted my time. And, since I was already on edge from the morning--like I had a headache all day because I needed to cry--it really pissed me off!

This is on top of it being abuse awareness week on a few blogs that I follow. Hearing how other people suffer just makes me angry. Really Really Angry!

This song seems appropriate.

Song of the Day: Wednesday

I had wine at work today. Interesting. We had a pinot gris, a cabernet sauvignon and a shiraz. The pinot Gris was a bit acidic. The cabernet sauvignon was a bit oaky. Ick! The Shiraz was okay, but a bit too warm, but good.

Nice to drink at work, but I had a headache a bit later. Not enough water or something.

Anyway, this song has been in my head. Damned commercial.

Song of the Day: Tuesday

i am moody today. something i read reminded me of someone who hurt me. i channeled it well. i stopped by the library to pick up some items. i came home and wrote a poem. then, i worked out. it felt good to sweat; it felt good to move my body and stretch and push myself past what i thought i could or wanted to do. i want this to be my way of caring for myself when i am hurting. it's better than gorging on junk food. although junk food has a special place in my heart.

I've been singing this song since I got home. it reminds me of this song by Alanis Morissette. It's been a strange mash-up in my head. Good for letting out pent-emotions.

Song of the Day: St. Patrick's Day

Today I spent St. Patrick's Day with my friend L. I kindly invited myself over for a St. Paddy's Day meal. As did another friend. L made it into a small dinner party.  We had corned beef, cabbage, Guinness onion soup, Colcannon made with kale, Irish soda bread, salad, and chocolate mousse for dessert. So good!!! Afterward, I sat around and talked to the family--especially L.

This song is on my mind.

Song of the Day: Friday

For the past couple of days, I've been thinking of this song. I woke up singing it and sang it during my morning ritual until I left for work. How Weird!!! 

I found it ironic that, while watching one of my shows, this song popped up.

Song of the Day: Thursday

I'm feeling a bit down. Today is one of those days where I've been sabotaging myself. I went vegan for lent. But, it's Pi day so I brought pie to my colleagues at work. And then I had some pie. I am feeling the effects even now.

It may take me some time to recover. There's a reason I'm eating vegan. Dairy causes migraines and I'm lactose intolerant. I got a headache a bit after eating pie. Ugh!

Anyway, this song is a lullaby for me as I comfort myself through this bout of self-sabotage. I love the Dixie Chicks. This is my kind of country.

Song of the Day: Wednesday

Today is a good day for Catholics: we have a Pope!

I am excited. He's a Latin American Jesuit with a heart for the poor. He chose his name in honor of St. Francis of Assisi.

Sounds great! But already the murmuring has already begun. One of which is that he might be to intellectual to be relatable.

When I heard this statement, this song came to mind. I love Bonnie Raitt and how appropriate as our theme song for this Papacy!

Song of the Day: Tuesday

Today was a rough day. I woke up at 5am. Kinda nice because I could check on my lunch that was simmering in the slow cooker. But it was also not the best since I had trouble getting back to sleep. I listened to an evening meditation cd that lulled me to sleep. Afterward I turned on NPR very, very quietly in the background and fell asleep. The next thing I knew, it was after 9am and I was about to be late for work.

I quickly got up, got dressed, packed my lunch and jetted to work. As I was about to park, I realized that it was Tuesday. On Tuesday mornings I don't go straight to work. I go to my allergist first. So I turned around and showed up late for my standing appointment. I went to work afterwards.

I didn't stay at work. I went home early. I was having trouble staying awake so I decided to do that at home rather than work.

This song seems both appropriate and ironic at the same time.

Song of the Day: Monday

This song is in my head. Feel good 80s music with big hair is a good way to end the day.

Especially since I'm a bit apprehensive because the College of Cardinals go into the Conclave to choose a Pope. Who knows what will happen in there or what the result will be. So instead I will focus on a baby-faced Axl Rose.

Song of the Day: Sunday

Today has been a calm day. I woke up with the urge to do laundry and dishes--after I adjusted all of my clocks. I stayed in, avoiding the weather. I called my grandmother and had a short and frustrating conversation. And my friend V called tonight.

All evening I've had this song in my head.

Song of the Day: Saturday

Today I spent the day with L. We started by walking her dog. We then went shopping before going back to her house. I promptly began cooking for Ladies' Night part II.

A came over to join us. We had West African Peanut Soup over rice and Frozen Sangria. We watched "A Walk in the Clouds" and "Happy Feet." Tonight was my first time watching "Happy Feet" and though A and L were very loud and obnoxious during the viewing, I really enjoyed it. I want to see it again--without the chatter.

Since watching that movie, this song is in my head. Although in the movie, it's a bit different. Either way it's Prince and this is a good thing.

Song of the Day: Friday

Tonight my friend L called Ladies' Night. Her other half is out of town for the next week so we all congregated for dinner and drinks--really strong tequila, triple sec, and lime juice also known as Margartitas.

Dinner was great. Soft tacos. They had Shrimp and spinach with the fixins. For me, vegan's delight: Lentils and potatoes with tomatoes; pickled carrots, jalapenos, and garlic; tofutti sour cream; peanuts; and, a bit of cayenne. Everything was served on a tapioca tortilla. Nice and Yummy!

Anyway, this song seemed appropro since the call went out. (Sorry about the plaid outfit!!!) Luckily, tonight was just round one!

Song of the Day: Wednesday

Wednesday was a good day. I got lots of sleep on Tuesday night. I felt really good, but groggy--like I could have slept much longer--when I woke up in the morning. And the day felt good, if long.

This song stuck with me throughout the day. I know it as a Buena Vista Social Club song, but I like how different the Gipsy Kings version is.

Song of the Day: Tuesday

On Tuesday, I started feeling spacey and queasy. Sleeplessness does that to me. So, I came home, worked out, showered, had dinner and passed out around 9:30pm. I woke up some time in the night to turn off the bedside lamp and didn't wake again until morning. I't was about 7:30am when I turned on NPR, but I was awake long before that. It felt good to sleep and I still felt a little sticky--like I couldn't lift myself from the mattress--when I got up at 8:45am to get ready for work. I spent about half an hour digging my car out from the snow.

Anyway, when I got home from work, my downstairs neighbors were playing this song. Pretty cool! And, definitely glad I wasn't trying to sleep while it was on. I used to think this was CeeLo. Glad to be corrected.

Song of the Day: Monday

I stayed home today. I didn't get much sleep last night. Saturday night I fell asleep for good around 8:30, after falling asleep watching a half-hour show that I'd DVRed; I woke up a couple of times during the night, but didn't wake up for good until 7:30am. I thought I was just catching up on sleep. So, when I went to sleep last night, I did not anticipate still being awake at 4am.

I read as is usual for my bedtime routine. And when I laid down, sleep would not come; actually I felt myself jerking awake whenever I started to drift off. I eventually turned on the radio since that sometimes puts me to sleep. BBC was on. Next thing I know, it's about 8:30am and I haven't slept well.  

I stayed home to try to catch up on some sleep, but I couldn't sleep. Again! I ate, showered, changed the sheets on my bed and watched a bit of telly. I also read.

So, tonight I hope to get some decent sleep. I am hoping that I am not in my insomnia phase. It would suck if I am since I am not the nicest person when I don't get enough sleep.

So, today's song: Tear You Apart by She Wants Revenge. Not sure why I've never posted it on here, but it was in my head today.

Song of the Day: Sunday

Tonight has been a night. I spent a bit of time thinking and praying, crying and mourning.

On Monday, the College of Cardinals of the Roman Catholic Church will convene to begin discussion about the issues that the Church is facing and what the Church needs in a Pope. After their discussion, they will eventually select our next Pontiff. Until then we are Pope-less (Sede Vacante).

For my part, I am partially optimistic. I am hopeful that our next pope will address the scandals that have rocked the Church--mainly the child abuse and cover up. I really want to see the Church and its leadership do right by the children who were harmed. I want an apology. I want changes. I want it made right. So that nothing like this ever happens again: the abuse or the priest shuffle and ass-covering.

But the cynical side of me is not holding my breath. I know that the kinds of things that need to happen to begin to address the harm done will tear apart the Church in such a way it will take a while rebuild. Not to say that we should protect the Church over children. I would never, ever say or imply something as wicked as that. But, I am realistic about how hierarchy works. It will take some deep honesty and humility to activate the root-level change that needs to happen. Considering how things have been handled so far, I am not at all hopeful.

So how does one respond when one's Church does not live up to the ideals upon which it was founded? I am not free to leave yet. I have no place to go; no other place where I'd want to worship. But without change, I cannot see myself raising children in such an environment. And, while I know that the I would be raising a family in a local Church where I would have more oversight, I am still not quite willing. Some of it is that I don't want to commit myself on that level; but I am not yet free to leave.

This heartbreak song, seems somewhat appropriate for my current angst. It helps that it's Adele. She's quite good at communicating so much emotion with they turn of a phrase.

Song of the Day: Saturday

Yesterday I went for a walk and ran errands with my friend L. She is outspoken and rowdy like I like my friends. She took me to one of the best crack stores in town. It helps that my money goes to a good cause but I now have a philanthropic excuse for buying books that I don't need. I did well, though. I bought 6 books for just over $9 (I got a 10% educator discount). Not too shabby!

While out and about, I subjected L to the Wicked soundtrack. She and her husband are going to see it here on opening night. And, she doesn't like Kristin Chenoweth. Something about her speaking voice and the strange juxtaposition between her and Adele at the Oscars: Kristin is about 4'11' in stocking feet and Adele, who unshod is about 10'" taller and carrying post-pregnancy weight. I had to do my best to make her like the original Glinda. Didn't work and she'd heard the soundtrack before.

This is my favorite song on the soundtrack. Every time I hear it, I tear up. I think it touches something in me, this desire to move beyond the limits other people set for you, to exceed all expectations for yourself. The waterworks generally begin at "So if you care to find me...." And, it seems not to matter who is singing the words, although my preference is Idina Menzel.

Song of the Day: Friday

On the way home tonight I was listening to the 80s station.  This song came on, reminding me of my teenaged years. Alex from "Family Ties' falling in love. I think it was even in "Roadhouse." Luckily the song survived being in such a crappy movie.

Song of the Day: Thursday

Today was a bit of an odd day. It's felt like the longest day in the world in the longest week. But surprisingly, Thursday snuck up on me. I've spent all week making final edits on a grant essay. I think it's almost done. It has to go in tomorrow.

My assistant went for a walk at lunch and came back light headed. We sent her home. I have had stomach troubles all week. I'm sure it has something to do with my diet, but not sure what it is. I went home early and skipped out on free dinner. ugh.

Anyway, this song has been in my head all week. But, I finally remembered it to post. My little brother A played it for me and it got stuck in my head.

Song of the Day: Wednesday

Today in the bathroom at work I overheard a conversation. One woman said that she thought that all the nice guys have crazy girlfriends. When her friend made noise of protest, she clarified that she meant crazy ex-girlfriends. She proceeded to list guys who had crazy exes.

While this conversation happened I was tucked away in a stall. When I stepped out, the protester made noise of embarrassment. While I was amused by the conversation, I could hear this song in my head.

Song of the Day: Monday

I have no song for today. Sorry!

Song of the Day: Sunday

Today's song will seem rather self-serving considering the name of the blog. But these things do happen.

Song of the Day: Saturday

Today, I received a significant shock. I was running errands around town and listening to the radio. I had tuned in to a station that plays 80s music all weekend. To my surprise, they began to spin this Milli Vanilli song.

Anyone who grew up in the 80s or has watched any sort of retrospective on a music television channel know that the two men who claimed to be the lead singers of Milli Vanilli were actually just models who lipsynched and danced to the music. When the truth came out, their Grammy was revoked, the band was reviled and many of their fans considered a fraud suit to get back their money.

After the furor died down, I never really heard anything about or from Milli Vanilli except as the butt of a joke. So, imagine my surprise when an 80s station actually plays their music.

The music was good and catchy for its time. Pop had its heyday in the 80s. And Milli Vanilli (the band not the two faux frontmen) was really really good. They looked good, sang catchy tunes, and presented us with fashion and dance moves that are only questionable in this day and age.

Hearing Milli Vanilli again was wonderful, if surprising. After I got over the shock of hearing them again (I thought for sure all of their music had been burned and they'd been banned from radio), I realized how much I liked their music and how catchy and upbeat the songs were.

Good News

Tonight I saw my "little brother's" girlfriend in a musical play called "Good News". It's set in the 1920's before football is the national pastime, before men could make a living playing football.

Meghan Cowden was Carol Lane and very good. Actually everyone was very good. I usually hate school productions because they are flat and I can't understand a thing anyone says. They were all having a good time. For the most part everyone could sing and dance. Meghan's little brother Nicholas choreographed the musical and the dancing was good, fun and high energy. So glad I went.

There were a number of "popular" sayings that originated from this musical. "The best things in life are free" and, "Life is a bowl full of cherries" are two of them. However, this musical reminded me of the song "Sing, Sing, Sing, Sing" originally performed by Louis Prima in 1936 but made popular by Benny Goodman.

Song of the Day: Thursday

Today was a bit kick back. I'm moving slowly between projects at work, which is good. I've had a headache all day. Ibuprofen did not help at all.

Music did ease some of the pain. I have bee listening to my Spanish music station. Ojos de Brujo, Gipsy Kings, flamenco, tango and its derivatives. Good stuff that helped me focus and kept me upbeat.

I was surprised to see Las Ketchup in the mix. They are know for this Spanglish pop song from 2002. Apparently they are the daughters of a flamenco musician. The chorus of the song is a mangled rewording of this song. "Aseraje" is the Spanish approximation of "I said a hip hop...."  Interesting.

Song of the Day: Wednesday

This morning as I was making my green smoothie I began to sing this song. I'm not sure what triggered it. I just remember thinking that I wanted someone to feel for me the way the Big Bopper felt about the girl in this song.

Song of the Day: Tuesday

I woke up in a pretty good mood today. It helps that I got to sleep a little bit longer. Even the snow on the ground didn't get me down. Or the driver's side door freezing shut; I eventually got it open.
I found myself singing this song this morning. Been a while since I've had Rage Against the Machine in my head. "'I won't do what you tell me!"

Song of the Day: Monday

Today I woke up singing Vampire Weekend. This song is apropos since I had a doctor's appointment that was a waste of my time. So, I started my work day and week tired and in a pissy mood. Great song for this.

Song of the Day: First Sunday of Lent

Today was one of those days in which I awoke with a song in my head. It was an upbeat tune by an alternative female singer. Too bad I can't remember what it was!

So, instead, I present you with one of my favorite Florence + The Machine songs. This song is one of my faves because it's kind of an encouragement not to be afraid. I like those kinds of songs

Song of the Day: Saturday

Today I woke up with another Fun. song in my head.

Song of the Day: Friday

I left work early to return to my cave. I am home in bed with a killer sinus headache. And I really have not motivation to do anything until it goes away.

Despite this pain, I woke up with this song in my head. Muse is so dramatic like me, I guess. Might explain why one of my friends introduced me to them.  Happy Friday!

Song of the Day: Valentine's Day

Today was an okay Valentine's day. I woke up with a migraine and a sinus headache that made my head hurt if I tilted the wrong way or thought too hard. Not fun! On the plus side, I forgot it was Valentine's day and therefore did not feel depressed for being single this year.

Anyway, since it is Valentine's Day, I thought this song would be appropriate.

Ash Wednesday

Today I woke up with a bit of Fun. in my head. Nate Reuss is a compelling way to start the day: "No one's ever gonna stop up tonight!"

Song of the Day: Fat Tuesday

The Lenten Season is upon us. Many of us are scrambling to figure out which habit we will pick up or what we will give up as we prepare ourselves for Easter. And as we approach the beginning, the Pope resigns and we are faced with another conclave that will select another Pope for the Catholic Church.

This is a tense and confusing time. Most people thought Benedict would be Pope until he died, just like Blessed JPII before him. There are those who feel abandoned. But, then there are people who look to the future with optimism. I am one of those.

Nothing against our Pope, but I am hopeful for our next Pope. Maybe this Pope will look more like our global Church, i.e., Latin American, Asian, or African. Maybe there will be a change in how the Church responds to the abuse scandal. Maybe the Church will move toward health and holiness that honors Christ. The possibilities are limitless.

I am not naive. I know what I signed up for in becoming Catholic. I know that I may be hoping in vain. But I think its better to hope in vain than not to hope at all.

This song that was in my head this morning. I love Ellie Goulding. She has a candy floss voice and more talent than she knows what to do with. This song seems appropriate for today, the beginning of Lent, and our upcoming search for a Pope.