We Dreamers Have Our Ways...

THIS ONE'S FOR YOU, MR.MANILOW!

2012-02-07T20:16:00.000-05:00

"Ok. I give. Uncle! I surrender...." You're not giving in, Barry....you're simply being human! If I could say one thing it would be this: please don't let worrying about the fans hanging in there with you even cross your mind because that's just not how we work! I can only truly speak for myself, but after 37 years, I am certainly not going anywhere! My thoughts, prayers and love and with you as you continue to recover from your surgery!

Forever - Rascal Flatts [HD][Lyrics]

2012-02-06T19:27:00.000-05:00

Barry Manilow Performing Live In Japan

2012-02-05T10:26:00.000-05:00

HAVE A WONDERFUL WEEKEND....

2012-02-03T08:52:00.000-05:00

Dream big! I know I do!

BLESSINGS....

2012-01-31T20:33:00.000-05:00

Today has been one of those days where you realize just how important the little things are and it fills your heart with overflowing warmth and love. I just feel so blessed to have such things in my life....all it takes is one moment to remind me of how lucky I truly am....

No star shines brighter.....

IN CONTROL

2012-01-23T18:14:00.000-05:00

Just because God allows you to walk into the fire doesn't mean that He won't be right there with you, walking you through it. He is always there, even when the winds of the storm are blowing. The hard part is being able to relinquish control and turn it over to Him even if we're in the midst of a storm that we can't see the other side of at the moment. That's what having faith is all about...believing even when you can't see it. All of this came to me in a sermon I tuned into this past Sunday....and by the end...after being told it's okay to stop fighting it and just give up control...when we've done all that we can possibly do...just let it go cause God is in control...for whatever reason, hearing this seemed to fill me with tremendous relief....I don't have to try and control it all...or win every battle on my own. I have a long way to go before I'll be able to say I've made this a lifestyle....but it's in my thoughts and heart now...and I'm hoping I can put it into practice at last. Maybe then, peace will come to my troubled soul. For that moment, I cannot wait!

Someone Who Believes In You - air supply

2012-01-21T06:16:00.000-05:00

" I Won't Be the One to Let Go" - Barbra Streisand with Barry Man...

2012-01-18T16:23:00.000-05:00

SHARING THE SUNRISE WITH YOU....

2012-01-18T05:56:00.000-05:00

Have a wonderful day!

The Jets - Make it real.wmv

2012-01-17T20:20:00.000-05:00

Dolly Parton - From Here To The Moon And Back - David Letterman 1-11-12

2012-01-14T15:39:00.000-05:00

"AND I'M DOING OKAY....I GUESS"

2012-01-14T11:25:00.000-05:00

"..I miss you just as much and I wish I loved you less...but this learning to live without you..god, it's driving me out of my mind..."

WHAT WOULD YOU ATTEMPT IF YOU KNEW YOU COULD NOT FAIL?

2012-01-09T19:12:00.000-05:00

A very dear friend of mine recently sent me this thought for the day and it took me two days to come up with an answer. I racked my brain, trying to come up with something grand...some larger than life goal that I'd never have the courage to attempt on an ordinary day. Alas, I kept coming back to this: If I knew I couldn't fail, I'd open up my heart, let someone see the real me one more time, and love again. That's almost a catch 22 answer because it's something I am very much able to fail at miserably and at this point in my life, I really have no desire to open myself up to someone again like I have done in the past....because I'm terrified of the past repeating itself and honestly, I don't think I would survive it again. It's a great question though...and it really made me think...so now I'll put it out to you...what would you attempt if you knew you could not fail?

Whitney Houston - Didn't We Almost Have It All [album version]

2012-01-07T18:45:00.000-05:00

HOW I WOULD USE MY LAST BREATH...

2012-01-05T21:39:00.000-05:00

"If I had to choose between loving you and breathing, I'd use my last breath to say I love you...."

Love Never Fails

2012-01-04T16:13:00.000-05:00

The Ultimate Barry Manilow~ Somewhere Down The Road

2012-01-03T09:26:00.000-05:00

JANUARY 1, 2012...

2012-01-01T09:28:00.000-05:00

I have to start this off by saying that I don't think I've ever felt the pain of being so completely lonely as acutely as I did last night...on New Year's Eve. As I watched the sun set for the last time in 2011, it all felt so final for me...but here I am...I woke up this morning...so I guess it's not over for me quite yet. I don't know what the future will hold for me, but I am reaching deep down inside of myself to find that tiny flicker of hope that will keep me looking forward. It has nothing to do with all that I have around me....I have all the material things I truly need to live my life. It's about what fills my heart....the pain of having it broken and watching my dreams fade into the past. Still....it's all good. I've always been a dreamer and that will never change...I will find my dreams again...I know I will. So...I'm going to go stand outside with the warmth of the sunshine on my face...close my eyes....and thank God for all of my blessings as I tell myself He's not done with me yet. I'm sending out my fondest wishes to all my readers across the world for all the best that 2012 can bring you. Happy New Year everyone! Good luck as we begin this new chapter....

Barry Manilow: It's Just Another New Years Eve

2011-12-30T18:35:00.000-05:00

Martina McBride My Valentine w/ LYRICS

2011-12-30T06:28:00.000-05:00

England Dan & John F. Coley - Broken Hearted Me [w/ lyrics]

2011-12-27T14:14:00.000-05:00

i still believe in loving you ( lyrics ) - sarah geronimo

2011-12-26T19:46:00.000-05:00

TO THOSE I CARE ABOUT WHO ARE SO FAR AWAY FROM ME TODAY....

2011-12-24T09:03:00.000-05:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS

I am blessed to be able to spend Christmas with my family and for that I am grateful....but I'm sending this heart-felt wish filled with all the love I have in me out to those I care so much about but cannot be with over this special weekend. We may have so many miles between us....or other seemingly insurmountable obstacles keeping us from being together....but I am always with you in my heart. Merry Christmas, my special friends....

WHAT I'M GRATEFUL FOR....

2011-12-19T17:58:00.000-05:00

I suppose if there is any one time of year that should be spent counting all of your blessings, it would be now....Christmas. I am one who truly does try to find those little blessing in each day, but there are times when that light seems to flicker on the verge of going out...and I really have to reach deep within myself to find the courage and strength to go on. I do know that I am very blessed. I have 3 wonderful, healthy children; a family (as dysfunctional as it may be) who is close by; a couple of friends whom I cherish. I am able to keep the roof over our heads and food on our table...for now, anyway. My overall health is good, despite a minor heart-related issue that gets the best of me sometimes. Yes, I am truly blessed and I do thank God for those blessing every day. My list of things that I am grateful for wouldn't be complete if I didn't add that I am still able to love someone unconditionally....no matter what....or how hopeless it seems. After all, that kind of love doesn't live for oneself....it lives for another. As the new year approaches, I always find myself wondering what the future may hold in store for me....and I wonder if I'll be able to meet those challenges and be the person I need to be. It's so much easier to see our failures than it is to recognize our successes....and perhaps my greatest hope is that somehow, I will still be that light that brightens someone else's day. To all those who still take a moment each day to come here and read my words, may you have a blessed holiday season and may 2012 be your best year yet...God bless...

Where Does the Time Go

2011-12-15T05:48:00.000-05:00

THANKS FOR ALL THE GOOD TIMES...

2011-12-12T19:30:00.000-05:00

TILL WE MEET AGAIN, MR. MANILOW.....

HEADING TO VEGAS

2011-12-09T02:15:00.000-05:00

Well....the time has finally arrived for me to head to Vegas to see Barry's final 3 shows....and I do so with so many mixed emotions. I can't wait to spend time with my friends....but I could wait forever for the magic he gives us in each show to end. I know when one door closes, another one opens....here's to hoping the future will be brighter than ever! Thanks for the memories, Mr. Manilow....let's make a few more this weekend....

When The Good Times Come Again

2011-12-08T07:28:00.000-05:00

Unchained Melody - Righteous Brothers

2011-12-07T05:38:00.000-05:00

Richard Marx - Right Here Waiting For You

2011-12-04T13:56:00.000-05:00

REASONS...

2011-12-03T22:18:00.002-05:00

There are so many reasons why I should go....but one very good reason why I won't...

I'LL GO

2011-12-01T20:06:00.001-05:00

"How can I miss you if you don't go away..."
...and if I go...
("just remember I love you and it'll be alright....")

Anything For You-Gloria Estefan

2011-12-01T14:35:00.000-05:00

Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word -- Joe Cocker

2011-11-29T08:47:00.000-05:00

I HAD THE 'BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE'

2011-11-24T13:23:00.000-05:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL

2011-11-24T09:27:00.000-05:00

It is on days like this one that I feel such gratitude for all my many blessings: my family, my health, and for the simple fact that I've got a roof over my head and good food on my table when I know so many do not. I'm grateful for the friends that I have....and for those who use to be a big part of my life. I'm grateful for the doors that God has opened for me over the last few years, even though watching some of them close has been so very hard for me. I tend to begin my journey into what might lie ahead for me in the coming year, and I can only hope that it will be filled with good things and that maybe, just maybe, I might finally find my purpose in this world. I am filled with gratitude but also a twinge of the sadness that comes with missing those very dear to me that I cannot be with, but I am also thankful for all the wonderful things that have filled their lives and for the happiness I've felt because of them. So, as I gather with my family later on this afternoon, I will enjoy our time together and I'll also be with those I love, who are so far away, in my heart. May your blessings be abundant and your love and laughter endless. Happy Thanksgiving!

It Is You (I Have Loved) Dana Glover

2011-11-21T20:25:00.000-05:00

ONE LAST TIME....

2011-11-20T15:39:00.000-05:00

I will say up front that up until last weekend, I'd pretty much given up on being able to make it back to Vegas to see Barry's last shows at the Paris. As I often did, I was online looking at the available seats and something prompted me to buy one of the few remaining seats for that December 11th show. I did so knowing that I had 72 hours to get a refund. One thing led to another and a friend of mine graciously extended me the offer to share her room, which cut tremendously down on the expense of the trip. The timing also coincided with me having made my final car payment, which opened up a way for me to pay for my airfare. Now....I can't help but believe that God had a huge hand in this because it all fell together seamlessly...and things like that don't usually happen to me.....but maybe, for whatever reason, I'm supposed to be there. It will be bittersweet as we say goodbye to an "era" almost....but what a ride it's been! I am hoping Barry will bring his show back to Florida or somewhere really close so I'll be able to see it again...but if not, I'll always be grateful for this door that's been opened for me and has allowed me to be right where I was longing to be...at the Paris Las Vegas, with my friends and with Barry...one last time....

TODAY....

2011-11-17T10:06:00.000-05:00

"So now I come to you with open arms...

hoping you'll see what you're love means to me..

open arms..."

I DO....

2011-11-15T15:22:00.000-05:00

"and I need you......"

"AND I WONDER...."

2011-11-13T17:38:00.000-05:00

AND I WONDER EVERY NIGHT IF YOU MIGHT JUST MISS ME TOO...

THIS ONE'S FOR YOU....

Brenda Russell - Get Here

2011-11-12T10:20:00.000-05:00

Peabo Bryson - If ever your in my arms again (lyrics)

2011-11-11T16:49:00.000-05:00

SOME GREAT MEMORIES

2011-11-06T16:02:00.000-05:00

In lieu of Barry's Vegas shows coming to an end after December 11th, I took the time to go back through all of my many photos from the days gone by at the Hilton. So many wonderful things happened there....my life changed, in fact. At any rate, I'm feeling more than a bit sentimental right now as I sit and wish I could be there for that last show....the thing is, in my heart, that's exactly where I'll be that night...hope you enjoy my memories.....

These are only a few of many....but they all hold a special place in my heart....thanks for the memories, Mr. Manilow....

"I DON'T KNOW MUCH....."

2011-11-05T13:27:00.002-04:00

"Look at this face, I know the lines are showing. Look at this life...still don't know where it's going. I don't know much, but I know I love you and that may be all I need to know...."

ONE DAY.....

2011-10-30T21:01:00.000-04:00

It's been said that spending time on the Appalachian Trail "changes you and it fixes you," so one of these days, I might just disappear into those woods and surface some almost 2200 miles later in Maine because God knows I'm in need of some serious "fixing."

WOULD WE?

2011-10-25T09:45:00.000-04:00

"If we had the chance to do it all again, tell me...would we? Could we?"

.....I would without a doubt!

ALL I CAN DO....

2011-10-23T15:08:00.000-04:00

Some days, all I can do is close my eyes and try to catch my breath.....

IN THESE TIMES OF CHANGE, "THIS ONE'S FOR YOU"

2011-10-16T11:20:00.001-04:00

Hard to believe I've been posting on this blog since September 16th, 2007. Were did the time go? Looking all the way back, I realized that my very first post, "The Way We Were," still rings true today. I ended that post on a positive note, cheering the future and all that was to come. Now, 4 years later, I still can't believe all that that "future" had in store for me when I wrote that post. Here it is, 4 years, 1 month and 1 day later and my life has changed in so many ways. This blog has been about music and what it means to me. It's been a way for me to work my way through some very difficult times in my life. It's been a place where I've expressed both my sorrows and my joys. I've written for everyone. I've written for someone very specific. And then, I've written just for me. Today, however, what I'd like to do is write and dedicate my words to two very special people who have been such an important part of these last 4 years.

To Suzanne....my one real friend: I never will forget the day you walked into my life. I was standing in the M Store at the Vegas Hilton with the person I'd traveled with and without notice, you walked in. You'd come all that distance to surprise her, and in the end, our friendship surprised me. I remember sitting at the Paris, sharing a crepe and talking about Barry and many other things. I remember how you stepped up, with the help of 2 wonderful people, and stayed an extra night to simply be there for me when I was having a hard time. You didn't have to do that. You'd only just met me. What followed were times that will live in my heart forever. I've always been an extremely guarded person but you went the distance and stuck with me till I learned it was okay to trust someone and open up. I shared my most secret dreams with you....I shared some of my most life-changing experiences with you....we had good time and bad, but you were always there. I never took you for granted....I guess I just never really knew what to do to be your friend. We've had our disagreements and even walked away from each other for a period of time, but I always came to you, asking you to take me back because I was lost without you there. Times change. Life moves on....sometimes we move on with it and other times we're the ones who get left behind. There doesn't seem to be any room for me in your life now, but that's okay because I will always have the lessons you taught me in my heart. I've never had a friend like you and I probably never will again....I will always be out here, wishing you well and hoping that life treats you kindly because you certainly deserve it. I will always be grateful that you took time to care and be my friend.

To Barry....the one who has been my life-long inspiration: With all the rumors floating around about what lies ahead for you...and us, your fans....in the future, I can reflect back over the last 7 years particularly...but also all the many other times I sat out in that crowd....with a mixture of sadness and tremendous gratitude. Because of you being in one place, I met someone who changed my life....I met so many wonderful people whom I'd never have known....and that includes you. Never in my wildest dreams did I ever really think I'd have the chance to talk to you or share a few special moments with you on your birthday. I came to see the person you are, not just that larger than life image that filled that stage all those years. Your music has been part of my life for over 36 years...there hasn't been a time that I can remember when it wasn't there for me in one way or another. I've cheered for you. I've cried with you. And yes, I've even become a better person because of you, following your inspiration. It seems now that the rumors are true....you're leaving Vegas to pursue other interests which I'm sure will result in many wonderful things for your fans. My only regret is that I will not be able to return to see the show one more time before you go.....I was planning to next summer. Still, I can't thank you enough for all the wonderful memories you've given me by being there as long as you have. I wish you all the best in whatever you pursue....may all your dreams come true. You certainly have made so many of mine do just that.....and your music will always be the music of my life.

I said earlier today on another site that I felt like I needed to say something and maybe now, I have. I have no idea if my words will even be seen by those I'm posting them for....I can only hope so. I'll end this post by quoting these lyrics: "This one's for you, wherever you are...to say the things I should've said, things that you should know....I don't even sing it well, I try but I just can't...and I wonder every night if you might just miss me too....I sing for you"

HE MAKES ME SMILE....

2011-10-13T11:43:00.000-04:00

Hope he does the same for you....Moses (now almost 14 weeks)

I WALK THIS WALK FOR ME

2011-10-04T11:48:00.000-04:00

My Movie

2011-09-29T17:10:00.000-04:00

Air Supply - I Can Wait Forever - Live

2011-09-25T18:48:00.000-04:00

SOME THINGS

2011-09-25T17:44:00.000-04:00

I know without a doubt that some things just are. There's not always any rhyme or reason to it. It's often times illogical....seemingly impossible...and yet, it is. No matter how many negatives come against such a thing, it lives on....it lasts...it's in it for the long haul. It's not co-dependent on anything else....it exists just because it was meant to be....and you often find that you can't imagine your life without it there...even if that doesn't fit the ideals of those around you...or walk the fine lines of convention. No...these things are simply meant to be and resistance is futile. Some things are just meant to be...some things will always be...

Celine Dion - I want you to need me

2011-09-25T13:57:00.000-04:00

GROWING UP

2011-09-22T09:17:00.000-04:00

Moses is 11 weeks old now! Hope he makes you smile like he does me :)

NO COINCIDENCES...

2011-09-18T09:19:00.000-04:00

There are no coincidences in our lives....no "lucky breaks".....it's all the goodness of God. We see this goodness every day in so many of the little things around us but the key is to not get so caught up in the day-to-day stuff that we miss what God is trying to show us. Every event....every person whose path crosses ours....it's all part of God's plan for each of us. If you can have faith where you are right now, God will open those supernatural doors and the light will come bursting through. ~paraphrased from Joel Osteen's sermon

Have a blessed and beautiful day....be grateful for those "little things." :)

OUT OF ALL THE WORDS...

2011-09-16T08:29:00.002-04:00

Out of all the words available, sometimes these are the only ones that will do: I love you...

Have a wonderful weekend everyone...

MIGHT MAKE YOU SMILE

2011-09-13T09:41:00.000-04:00

Thought I'd share a couple pictures of my family's new addition, Moses....a 9 week old yellow lab. Having a baby in my home again after so many years is keeping me busy to say the least! Hope he makes you smile :)

SEPTEMBER 11, 2011.....10 YEARS AGO OUR LIVES CHANGED FOREVER

2011-09-11T10:53:00.000-04:00

Like so many, I can remember exactly where I was and what I was doing on September 11, 2001. It was a sunny almost fall-like morning and I was at the feed store with a couple other employees. Without notice, our then general manager came running up the stairs shouting "someone flew a plane into the Twin Towers." What unfolded next were moments of sheer shock and horror as we all stood around the TV, watching the frantic reports that came filtering in as the live footage screamed before us on that screen. I will never forget the way Peter Jennings tried so bravely to explain the events to us.....but he was rendered speechless and in tears as he watched the first tower fall...and then the second. It was beyond anything I could have ever imagined. We watched as the reports came in from DC and of the brave people who fought to keep that plane from hitting its target by crashing it into an empty field. After almost an hour, we all wandered back out onto the sales floor, still in shock over what we'd witnessed and trying to process the magnitude of the lives that were lost...the horror those people on those planes must have felt, the panic in NYC, and the bravery of all who responded. Upon returning to the sales floor, we were met by a solitary customer....and young man of Middle Eastern decent...and while I am not racist, you can imagine the thoughts that were going through my mind...and probably his...as we stood, staring at each other in disbelief. I found a way to go on with my day....years have passed since then....I now live less than a mile from the small airstrip where two of those pilots learned to fly during the time they sat, laying low...awaiting the day they knew would come. I will admit that I struggled at first to overcome my anger towards anyone of Middle Eastern decent. There are times today when I'm waiting to board a plane that I find myself looking at all the other passengers for anyone who might raise suspicion. For the most part, I've been able to put my anger down and have learned to look at every person as an individual, not as a skin color, religious background, or nationality. I think more than anything, what 9/11 taught me was never to miss one single chance you're given to tell those you hold dear how much you love them. Don't put it off till tomorrow because tomorrow may never come. Life is short. Our time on earth is limited so don't waste one single chance...not one. I will admit that while my life has gone on, what left me that day was the sense that I'm completely safe..here in my own country. I'm not constantly looking over my shoulder, but I do find myself wondering when it will happen again. I can say that my pride in being an American is higher than it's ever been. I come from a long line of military veterans, am a veteran myself and just sent my youngest son away to college, with aspirations of becoming an Army officer when all is said and done. We were hurt that day....and that hurt runs deep....but we will never forget what happened that day or those who lost their lives....we may stumble, but we will not fall. God bless America and all who are mourning the loss of someone they loved.....no matter who you are.

MEET MY NEW BABY

2011-09-07T17:31:00.000-04:00

It's been a little over 2 weeks since I lost my beloved chocolate lab, Gunner and the void his passing left in me was enormous. I heard about this little yellow lab through someone I work with who also runs a dog rescue. So, I went out and met the puppy this afternoon and it was love at first sight. He will be coming home with me Friday evening and we will begin a new chapter in our lives for both of us. There is simply nothing like the unconditional love of a dog !

AFFIRMATION

2011-09-04T15:22:00.000-04:00

"We dreamers have our ways"....I will stand strong in faith and hope until my "time arrives"...I know my time is coming!

HAVE A WONDERFUL WEEKEND....

2011-09-02T10:01:00.000-04:00

May the path before you this weekend be filled with peace, love and harmony! This is where my heart will be! Have a wonderful weekend everyone :)

FOR SOMEONE SO FAR AWAY....

2011-08-29T05:18:00.000-04:00

"Sometimes goodbyes are not forever....doesn't matter if you're gone, I still believe in us together. I understand more than you think I can...you had to go out on your own so you can find your way back home...and somewhere down the road, our roads are gonna cross again...it doesn't really matter when. Cause somewhere down the road I know that heart of yours will come to see that you belong with me..."

Have a wonderful day, filled with laughter and love...

IT'S BEEN QUITE A WEEK

2011-08-27T16:02:00.000-04:00

It's been quite a week for me....but at least now I can begin to think about my dog without immediately breaking into tears. Still can't really talk much about him though....the ache is still too great. Some things just take time. In the course of this past week, I've dealt with debit card fraud, the unexpected loss of my daughter's scholarship that we discovered at 12am when she was due to begin her fall classes at 3:30pm that same day. Due to lack of funds, she was forced to drop all her classes at the last minute, which didn't prevent the college from taking out another 400.00 from her bank account, leaving her in the negatives. I walked into my kitchen at 6pm Wednesday evening only to find water standing in the floor....apparently from a leaking valve on my washing machine. Thank goodness is wasn't more than I was able to clean up and wasn't a gushing leak. I also managed to find myself smack in the middle of a rip-roaring fight with my sister. Still....in spite of all the "not-so'good" events of this past week, I've managed to take care of it all and keep things as much under control in my life as they ever are. At any rate....to quote a much-loved lyric, "I'm still standing!" As I look ahead into the coming week, I can only hope that things will settle down and my days will return to normal, whatever "normal" is. There is nothing, however, that can ease the pain of losing my dog but time....I'm choosing to remember the good times we shared...all the times he made me smile...all those times he sat with me when I had no one else to do so. I know that God brought Gunner into my life to be a blessing and I will always be grateful for the years we had....just as I am always grateful for each one of my many blessings. Perhaps I have more of them than I deserve, but I'd be completely lost without each and every one of them. Hope the week to come is filled with laughter, love, and sunshine for all :)

HE LEFT PAW PRINTS ON MY HEART....REST IN PEACE GUNNER

2011-08-19T21:20:00.000-04:00

Gunner

1998-2011

"Sometimes goodbyes are not forever....."

BEEN AWAY FOR A WHILE

2011-08-15T07:48:00.000-04:00

Seems like it's been forever since I've posted here (at least to me, it does...I'm sure few really have noticed). These last few weeks have been busy and extremely emotional for me as life has handed me its ups and downs. I've seen my daughter get her young heart broken. I've taken my youngest son up to college and watched as he transformed from a high school senior into a young man, wearing his uniform proudly. I am filled with a certain kind of sadness as this weekend approached, knowing my beloved lab has to be put to sleep Saturday. Then there's always the way my heart misses someone I care very deeply about but can't be with. Still, I try to remind myself each day that it's all good because I do know I'm very blessed and I try not to take that fact for granted. As a new week begins, I hope that life will be kind to all of us and that as we look around we will find ourselves surrounded by happiness and above all, love. Have a wonderful week all :)

A MOMENT OF PEACE

2011-08-11T05:38:00.000-04:00

This moment of peace is brought to you courtesy of the summit of Blood Mountain, just one of many amazing vistas provided by the Georgia section of the Appalachian Trail. To put it in the words of my sister upon reaching the summit, "It doesn't get much better than this!"

I Can Only Imagine (with lyrics) - MercyMe

2011-08-04T20:15:00.000-04:00

lonestar~smile~

2011-08-02T17:41:00.000-04:00

A HEAR'T SONG...

2011-07-31T11:55:00.002-04:00

Every heart sings a song, incomplete, until another heart whispers back. -Plato

Star Children

2011-07-27T21:02:00.000-04:00

IF....

2011-07-26T05:32:00.002-04:00

"If being lost means never knowing how it feels without you, I want to stay lost forever..."

SPECIAL SONG FOR TODAY...

2011-07-24T11:17:00.000-04:00

'Me and You' ~ Kenny Chesney

Ordinary? No..really don't think so...
not a love this true.
Common destiny....we were meant to be...me and you
Like a perfect scene from a movie screen
we're a dream come true.
Suited perfectly for eternity, me and you...
Every day, well, I need you even more...
and the nighttime too..
There's no way I could ever let you go...
even if I wanted to...
Every day I live I try my best to give all I have to you..
Thank the stars above that we share this love...me and you..
Every day, well, I need you even more
and the nighttime too..
There's no way I could ever let you go...
even if I wanted to...
Ordinary? No! I really don't think so...
just a precious few ever make it last..
as lucky as we are....me and you.

Sending this one out today...hope your day is a good one :)

THE BEAUTY WITHIN

2011-07-21T05:44:00.000-04:00

I thought I'd take a moment and share some of the beauty that lies deep within the forest....hope it somehow brightens your day..

Hope you enjoy....

TWO THINGS THAT BRING ME PEACE

2011-07-18T05:53:00.000-04:00

There are certain things in my life that I can always count on to lift my spirits and bring me peace....my love of the mountains and my music. Without these two things, I would be lost. Hope everyone has a wonderful week!

WANTED TO SIMPLY SHARE THE SUNSET

2011-07-17T16:10:00.000-04:00

I'm back from my journey in the mountains, humbled by my experiences there....as one unknown hiker said: "it's not the distance you go on the Appalachian Trail that matters most. It's what happens to you when you're out there along the way." I thought I'd use this blog post to simply share one of my beautiful mountain sunsets with you...

I left a piece of my heart out on that trail....I will return..

GREAT NEWS FOR BARRY MANILOW AND '15 MINUTES'

2011-07-15T08:14:00.001-04:00

Congratulations Barry and everyone involved in the creation of '15 Minutes'!!!

Michael Lloyd
‎15 Minutes is now (because of all of you....) #1 on the Internet Chart. That's "all the internet stuff - amazon, iTunes...whatever" - - It's fantastic....wow

NORTH GEORGIA COLLEGE AND STATE UNIVERSITY PARENT INTRO

2011-07-14T17:06:00.000-04:00

If asked what's the first thing I noticed about NGCSU when I came down the hill and into Dahlonega, GA it would be that everything is uphill! Seriously, I would have to say that the beauty of the campus strikes you immediately as you gaze at the dorms perched high up on the hilltops or the gold steeple that adorns the admissions building. A close second would be that it's very obviously a military school. The grounds are maintained to perfection and it just looks like a military installation.

North Georgia College is one of 6 senior military colleges, not to confused with the academies such as West Point, in the US and to quote the commandant, Col (RET) Palmer: "We don't want to be the largest senior military program in the United States, just the best." The college is open to civilian students as well as those who come up to be cadets in the Corp. They offer a wide variety of majors to cover any incoming freshman's career goals but they are known for commissioning officers into the US Army upon their graduation.

While my son was attending his three day intro program, I attended a parent intro session as well. Ours was only half a day and was run in a military fashion, where each speaker was given an allotted amount of time and was expected to adhere to it. First up was the financial aid director, someone most of us really wanted to hear from. As a parent of an incoming cadet from out of state, much of what she covered did not apply to me but I listened intently as she went over her presentation to make certain I didn't miss anything that might be pertinent to my son. Very few questions were asked at this session.

Following the introductory/financial aid presentation, we were offered several "breakout" sessions from which we were allowed to choose what we felt we needed to learn about the most. I, of course, opted for the session pertaining to military students and was treated to a very professional, yet animated, 30 minute presentation from the Commandant of the program, Col. Palmer. He got right down to business and gave us a complete list of do's and don't as well as an overview of what our sons and daughters could expect from their lives as a cadet. The session moved right along and then we were rushed off to another session presented by one of the professors who explained to us the methods used in the classrooms here. She was entertaining and likable and I left hoping all of my son's instructors would be just like her. Another breakout session followed, this time covering student services. This was followed by a question/answer segment with some actual students. Out of all the sessions of the day, this seemed to be where most of the parent questions were asked. If I had to sum most of the questions up, I'd say they were all concerned about what each student on stage found to be the hardest part of adjusting to college life. Answers ranged from eating too much to lack of time management skills to arriving thinking that academics was the only reason the student was here. Every student sang their praises for the professors and others who helped them adjust to living on their own. There were also several cadets there to answer any questions that were unique to the military students.

Dinner was a quick 45 minutes where we had the chance to see our kids for a few minutes and then we went our separate ways. Our last parent session was a talk given by the school's new president. Her speech was uplifting and moving as she assured us that we were not letting go of our children but only leading them into a new chapter and that they would be taken very good care of...something that has been reiterated to me numerous times in all the various offices I've been to these last few days.

Do I think that this parent orientation was helpful? Most definitely. I have 2 other children in college but have never been faced with all that preparing my son for NGCSU has entailed so I am very glad I took the time to attend the parent intro. I will leave Saturday feeling more informed and much better about leaving my "baby" here on August 9th. I can't say enough about the school itself or any of the staff I've dealt with. Everyone here has been more than helpful and very understanding about the fact that this is all new for me...and for my son. If you have the chance to attend such an orientation, I would highly recommend doing so. Now...here's to a wonderful 4 years (and lots of hiking visits for mom) for my son at North Georgia College and State University!

AMAZING SUNSET

2011-07-13T21:23:00.000-04:00

I've watched the sun setting from the shores of the Hawaiian Islands, from the beaches of the Gulf Coast, and even across the desert...but as I sat up on that hill, simply watching from a parking lot on the college campus as the sun went down behind the mountains, I was actually moved to the point of tears for whatever reason. I found myself thanking God for all my blessings and for all the special people in my life...some close...some so far away. I found myself longing with all my heart to simply be able to share it with my "someone special." I found myself feeling both pride in my son...in all of my children...but also a certain sadness at having to "let them go" so they can take the final step to becoming an adult. My tired soul felt at peace....something I rarely find anywhere else but at the hand of God as He gives us such beauty to surround us in nature. The sun has gone down now, but in my heart, I'm still feeling it all...and I'm so glad I chose to head up to that hilltop tonight...my spirit needed to be set free....

MY ADVENTURE SO FAR

2011-07-11T07:26:00.000-04:00

There are those who cannot understand just what it is that draws me to these woods. There terrain can be treacherous, there are active bear warning signs everywhere, and I often walk for miles without seeing another person. We approached our destination yesterday, Springer Mountain, via an unpaved forest service road that was a hair-raising experience for me. My son kept saying "cool, I'm looking DOWN at the treetops," to which I replied "I don't want to know that!" It seemed to take us forever to traverse that 10 miles to the parking lot but we finally made it. We hiked a narrow trail and when we reached the summit a feeling of accomplishment came over me...I was finally standing in a spot I'd only read about and longed to see....the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. It's rather simple....modestly marked by a small plaque on the ground and a slightly larger one on a boulder not too far from the other one....but as I made my entry into the journal that's safely kept in a mailbox attached to the boulder, I felt a connection with hundreds who had been there before me. I felt like I was a part of a group that shares common ground...a love for the outdoors and the splendor of the Appalachian Trail. I will be heading back out today, this time to tackle the trail to the summit of Blood Mountain....a trail that gains 1000 feet in elevation in one mile. My calf muscles are barking this morning but I am determined to make the climb. It's more than just a hike to me...it's a spiritual journey of sorts that I can't wait to share in more detail later....a journey that will stay with me forever in my heart...

A STORY OF A LIFE BARRY MANILOW TOUCHED

2011-07-08T18:51:00.000-04:00

I received the following email today and it moved me to tears almost. With permission, I am sharing it here to serve as yet another example of a life that has been touched by Bary Manilow:

Lori! I meant to tell you . . . after the baseball game and fireworks on the 4th of July, we went to Streetbar on Arenas Road for a drink. We ended up closing the place down (on a Monday! I know!) because is was kareoke night and it was so good! But what made me think of you was . . . ok, follow me here . . . growing up we had boats and would drive the big, love-machine, tricked-out van to far away places . . . my step-father drove and my Mom and I sat in the back. We had Barry Manilow's "Even Now" album on 8 Track.. We all loved it and litterally played it for 6 hours to our destination and six hours back. All of us singing along the entire time. Great family memory. So, I know that album backwards, forwards and in Spanish. (I exaggerate. But you get what I'm saying). So, fast forward to Monday night . . . great crowd, great singers and song selections . . . and my friend, Timmy gets up and does "Even Now". The entire bar sang along at the top of our lungs and when Timmy was done, the crowd roared! And then, every other guy who got up there did a Barry Manilow song from the "Even Now" album and we all sang along and it was almost like being in the back of that van with my Mom again . . .

Barry's music has always been the music of my life, but it always brings me a certain joy to hear the story from someone else who shares my love for, and memories of, the way it has touched our lives. No one does it like Barry does....no one ever will :)

NORTHBOUND!

2011-07-08T10:36:00.000-04:00

Headed for the mountains tomorrow...can't wait to get lost in those woods and leave the world behind! :)

Barry's 15 MINUTES Song Journal - Entry One: "15 Minutes"

2011-07-07T16:26:00.000-04:00

WHAT BRINGS ME JOY

2011-07-07T05:46:00.000-04:00

I have to say that the one thing that really brings me joy is seeing someone I truly care about achieve a goal or reach a dream....especially someone whose worked so hard to do so. I am abundantly blessed with some wonderfully talented people in my life, all of whom I wish only the best life has to offer them. So to those wonderful people, I say "Go forward....take that step...and don't be afraid to spread your wings and fly!"

JUST A PASSING THOUGHT TODAY....

2011-07-03T12:11:00.000-04:00

There are no "accidents" in life. Every moment we experience, both the good one and the bad, is part of God's plan for us. No one comes into our lives by chance. He crosses our paths at the exact right moment. The problem is, we don't always recognize it when things happen to us or a certain person is suddenly a part of our lives. We often dismiss them because we can't imagine their purpose in our lives. We learn lessons from the bad experiences or negative people we meet. We discover our blessings when someone slips in and changes our lives for the better. So many people come and go in our lifetimes, but they all came for a reason....and every now and then, we look up and find that a few are there to stay with us forever. Embrace these people cause they are few and far between and they truly are God's gift to us. Have a wonderful day :)

Let Freedom Ring (Live)

2011-07-01T15:28:00.000-04:00

SENDING OUT A SMILE FOR THE WEEKEND

2011-07-01T06:03:00.000-04:00

Just sending out a smile today! Have a wonderful weekend!

(look closely at the dragonfly's face)

A SHOUT OUT TO MY OLDEST SON ON HIS BIRTHDAY!

2011-06-29T06:00:00.000-04:00

Thought I'd post a shout out to my oldest son today...it's his 23rd birthday...where did the time go? If ever I doubt that I am blessed, all I have to do is look at my son...look at all three of my kids...and I know that I am truly so very lucky! Happy birthday Aaron :)

Lifestyles Entertainment: Listen NOW to the Enoch Anderson Special on The Pa...

2011-06-26T06:49:00.000-04:00

Lifestyles Entertainment: Listen NOW to the Enoch Anderson Special on The Pa...: "15 Minutes is the new album from the legendary Barry Manilow. Over the past 10 years, Barry Manilow has been wildly successful releasing c..."

'IF I SHOULD LOVE AGAIN'.....ONE OF MY FAVORITE MANILOW SONGS

2011-06-25T11:44:00.000-04:00

"All day long I keep remembering...

all the night, I think of you...

all my life you'll be the song I sing...

I'll get by but this I swear is true...

If I should love again..

If I find someone new....

it would be make believe...

for in my heart, it would be you...

I'll still be loving you if I should love again..."

Truly an amazing song with lyrics so real that "I'm the one who cries...."

EXCITING WEEKS IN THE MUSIC WORLD...'15 MINUTES'

2011-06-24T05:50:00.000-04:00

An amazing couple of weeks for Barry and his staff promoting his new album, '15 Minutes' is wrapping up today in London but what an exciting ride it's been for all of us Manilow fans! I'm certain the media blitz will continue for a while to come, but what fun I've had involving myself for the last couple of months in my own way, here on my blog, doing all I can to help spread the word about Barry's amazing music. I've said this before....while my taste in music is varied, no one tops Barry and his music for me. Have to admit it....I was watching an interview last night that he recorded for CNN a week ago and when he started to play 'If I Should Love Again' I was instantly transported back to January of 1985 and how much that particular song meant to me then as I dealt with a highly personal, emotional event in my life. I still love to listen to it because the instrumental portion carries me away. Anyway....this ride with Barry and '15 Minutes' is far from over and I will continue to post links and such whenever I can. I hope that in doing so, I've opened up the door to some of you out there who might never have given his music much thought....and to those of you who put Barry at the top of your musical list like I do, here's to our future! It can only be a bright one thanks to Barry's amazing gift that he continues to share with us! :)

I THINK THIS SAYS IT ALL ABOUT BARRY MANILOW'S '15 MINUTES.'

2011-06-22T16:52:00.000-04:00

Here's the link to a note posted on Barry's Facebook page...I think it pretty well says it all :)

http://fb.me/XMNkdt2D

WORDS TO SHARE

2011-06-22T05:53:00.000-04:00

"For a long time it seemed to me that life was about to begin - real life. But there was always some obstacle in the way, something to be gotten through first, some unfinished business, time still to be served, a debt to be paid. At last it dawned on me that these obstacles were my life. This perspective has helped me to see there is no way to happiness. Happiness is the way. So treasure every moment you have and remember that time waits for no one. Happiness is a journey, not a destination...." ~ Sousa

PROUD DAY FOR US MANILOW FANS! WAY TO GO '15 MINUTES'

2011-06-21T17:50:00.001-04:00

I could be mistaken but I believe this report is final (from 1 source) and Barry's new album came in at #8! I'm one proud Manilow fan today! Way to go Mr. Manilow! :)

http://www.hitsdailydouble.com/sales/salescht.cgi

Update on chart position: Indie chart: #2
UK mid-week chart: #10
Top 100 chart: #8

(above info per Twitter post by Garry Kief)

GREAT INTERVIEW WITH BARRY FROM JUNE 14TH....'15 MINUTES'

2011-06-20T06:48:00.000-04:00

The introduction to this interview takes a couple of minutes, but it's well worth listening to as the young man conducting the interview talks about Barry's influence on his life from the age of 3. The interview itself is wonderful and the excitement in Barry's voice is infectious. I really enjoyed listening to this one :)

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/moviegeeksunited/2011/06/19/barry-manilow

A GEM WORTH MENTIONING FROM '15 MINUTES'

2011-06-19T20:08:00.000-04:00

There's no denying that the lyrics found on Barry's new album, '15 Minutes,' are what I would call some of Enoch Anderson's best work ever. But as I walked early this morning, listening to songs from the album as they came up on my Ipod shuffle, I discovered a couple of what I'll call musical gems hiding amongst the strong lyrics and powerful guitar. I absolutely adore the instrumental portion found within "Written in Stone." It's reminiscent of songs such as "If I Should Love Again" and "Could it Be Magic." It's Barry's piano at it's best and it creates a feeling all on its own, no words needed. So, while I do enjoy everything about this new album and respect all that Barry has done with it, for me, there's nothing like hearing him play his piano....there's so much emotion in the music...I get lost in it at times....like I do as I listen to 'Reflection.' It's discovering hidden gems like these that make exploring Barry's music such a special journey....it's what makes music special...it's personal and different for every one of us. I'm so enjoying listening to '15 Minutes' and I discover something new every time :)

JUST A NOTE ABOUT '15 MINUTES' AND THE SONGS THAT TOUCH ME THE MOST

2011-06-18T16:09:00.001-04:00

This isn't a review really.....just a not about a trio of songs from Barry's new album, '15 Minutes,' that I can't seem to get out of my head. When I listen to the songs: 'Slept Through the End of the World,' 'Reflection,' and 'Trainwreck' I can so relate to the feeling of emptiness and being that alone. It's not really about the "one" you love leaving you....it's about looking around and realizing that there's no one there....no one to talk to...no one to call....

"I see a ceiling...four walls...guess you've all gone away..."

"nobody answers at all...I call and there's nobody there..."

I've been there. It hurts. I still feel like I'm there at times even though I have my wonderful family close by...there are some things that they just wouldn't/don't understand....but they don't ask questions....they just let me be with it. I'm now convinced that while God will never give us more than we can bear, He does give us things every now and then that only we understand because only we feel it. No matter how hard others might try to help....or how many times they say they understand...one day you look at them and realize they simply don't...that they can't. The last three years have been tumultuous for me to say the least....and at times, I don't feel like I've made one bit of progress....but that's when I follow what's probably the most important piece of advice Barry has given during all of his various appearances to promote the album..."keep your family and your old friends close....they'll keep you grounded." There are times when looking at them is all that reminds me of why I keep on going...why I keep trying so hard. I would venture to say that mostly everyone has felt alone at one time or another.....but the loneliness these three little songs speaks of is one that permeates every part of you and makes it hard to take a step forward....

"life goes on if you don't or you do..."

but as the words in 'Trainwreck' remind us, "what's past is past." When I first heard 'Bring on Tomorrow' I was certain it would be my favorite song on this wonderful album but this trio of songs has proven to be the ones I relate to most of all.

"and now I wait...getting use to too late..."

"No, this is not the final story..."

It's the message given in 'Bring on Tomorrow' that I'm hoping to one day be able to say "I know how that feels".

"Bring on tomorrow for me and for you....we've hung on through dark hours...dawn's overdue...bring on tomorrow and show me the sun...we'll live it forever cause you are the one."

Once again, Barry has given me the music to express what my heart can't find the words to say.....one of just many reasons his music is, and always will be, the music of my life.

TODAY

2011-06-17T09:45:00.000-04:00

Have a beautiful day...

WHAT I'M LEARNING FROM '15 MINUTES'

2011-06-15T20:36:00.002-04:00

I've been slowly listening to Barry's new album, '15 Minutes' over the last few days. I say "slowly' because I've been taking my time...reading all the written interviews...watching as many of the tv appearances as I can...then putting it all together and trying to figure out what message I hear in this music. He's told the story of how the idea for the album came to be and he's told his own personal story of fame and how it hit him. But today I read something that kind of tied it all together for me in a way I could relate to. I don't remember which article I saw it in, but Barry was posing the question of you want to get your music, your book, or your art out there and then suppose it makes it....then what do you do? I can relate to this because of my own book that is currently with an editor. Now..do I sit here and think that this work I poured my heart and soul into will become an overnight best seller? No...I try to be realistic. What listening to '15 Minutes' and to Barry has done is made me try to figure out just why I want my book to succeed? What do I want from that? Do I want to be a name that everyone knows? Is it the money that stands to be made. Why do I want my book to be published and read...and hopefully enjoyed? He said that if you approach any such venture solely for the purposes of being "famous" then you're doing it for all the wrong reasons. So, as I took my walk and listened to his music, I thought about all of that. What I came up with is pretty simple. I'm really content being in the background. I've never put a high value on materialistic things, so it's not "things" I hope to gain from being successful. Yes, I would like to be able to help my kids pay for college and maybe travel a bit, but that's the extent of my extravagances. So why do I write? I write because for all of my life, I've felt I have a story to tell....it's taken all of my life to be able to experience all that I needed to experience to be able to even hope to make a reader feel something. That's why I do it....that's what I'd want...to have someone read my work and simply say "wow...that made me laugh" or "that made me cry." "I can relate." "I've loved like that." While I do plan to eventually write my own review of the album here, before I can do that, I have to understand all the ways it reaches in and touches me...the ways I can relate...the feelings each song stirs up for me. I really never looked at this album and it's journey to release date as being a lesson for me but that's what it's all turned out to be. I don't need to be famous to be happy....I write because I have a story to tell...I write because it's what I've always done...I write because it's who I am.