Secret Garden

Day 70

--STATS--

Artist: Bruce Springsteen AKA The Boss

Genre: Folk Rock

album: Greatest Hits

Released: 1995



She'll let you in her house
If you come knockin late at night
She'll let you in her mouth
If the words you say are right
If you pay the price
She'll let you deep inside
But there's a secret garden she hides

She'll let you in her car
To go drivin round
She'll let you into the parts of herself
That'll bring you down
She'll let you in her heart
If you got a hammer and a vise
But into her secret garden, don't think twice

You've gone a million miles
How far'd you get
To that place where you can't remember
And you can't forget

She'll lead you down a path
There'll be tenderness in the air
She'll let you come just far enough
So you know she's really there
She'll look at you and smile
And her eyes will say
She's got a secret garden
Where everything you want
Where everything you need
Will always stay
A million miles away



A simple song with a deep meaning. She has everything he needs, but is virtually unabtainable. Though from his Greatest Hits album, this song achieved universal recognition when it was used in that movie "Jerry Maguire" in 1996. The movie was a pretty big deal for some reason. Couldn't tell you why. As a sixth grader most of it was a little over my head. Actually, I really do enjoy that movie, possibly because he had me at "Hello."

In the fall of 1996, something monumental happened. Dump The Duke was born. OK-- it was only a big thing for myself & my best friend, Heidi. As sixth graders, we were looking for a creative outlet to release all our healthy pre-teen energy into. For us, that was a blank tape & cassette player with a built in voice recorder. High tech, I know. But it got the job done.

What is Dump The Duke, you dare ask? Well my curious followers, Dump The Duke was our very own radio station, where we hosted a very intriguing, up & coming talk show. We liked to talk. About everything. And nothing. Don't ask where the name came from. It was developed on the spot & was very random ( Don't even know what it means!). luckily, random was very fitting for our "program". Each show was an hour long (as that was as long as the tape would allow us.), & featured talking segments with guest celebrity's & speakers & call- in's ( all the voices were done by us. Yes, we were that awesome.), as well as
periods of music, and the selection was broad. Anything from old Pop Folk to country to Opera to new day Hip-Hop. Eclectic doesn't even begin to describe it. I hear those radio stations now days claiming they play great variety & I just laugh to myself. Amatuers! Sadly, I don't think I saved any of those recordings. We had like, probably fifty of them, plus one soap opera like session of barbies on tape! My only hope is that Heidi has one lying around some where..


Does anyone else do this? Or were we the only ones...

Sante Fe

Day 69

--STATS--

Group: Bon Jovi

Genre: Rock

Album: Blaze of Glory

Released: 1990



They say that no man is an island
And good things come to those who wait
But the things I hear are there just to remind me
Every dog will have his day

The spirits, they intoxicate me
I watched them infiltrate my soul
They try to say it's too late for me
Tell my guns I'm coming home

I swear I'm gonna live forever
Tell my maker he can wait
I'm riding somewhere south of heaven
Heading back to Santa Fe
It's judgment day in Santa Fe

Once I was promised absolution
There's only one solution for my sins
You gotta face your ghosts and know with no illusions
That only one of you is going home again

And I blame this world for making a good man evil
It's this world that can drive a good man mad
And it's this world that turns a killer into a hero
Well I blame this world for making a good man bad

Now I ain't getting into heaven if the devil has his way
I swear I'm gonna live forever
Heading back to Santa Fe
Got debts to pay in Santa Fe
It's judgment day in Santa Fe
Lord have mercy

So I say a prayer when I need it most
To the Father, Son and the Holy Ghost
And sign it from a sinner with no name
When I meet my maker
Will he close the book on the hearts I broke and the lives I took
Will he walk away 'cause my soul's too late to save

Now I ain't getting into heaven if the devil has his way
I swear I'm gonna live forever
Heading back to Santa Fe
I got debts to pay in Santa Fe
It's judgment day in Santa Fe


This song is amazing, in my opinion. Love the song. Love the album. Love the movie. Though I do not typically enjoy western themed movies, "Young Guns" & "Young Guns II" actually holds my attention the whole way through. Though history holds the answer, I had to know how it all ended. The movie "Young Guns" details the adventures & trials of the young Billy the kid. The sequel plays out the showdown between Billy & his once best friend, Pat Garrett. I'm sure you all know the story. If you don't, I can't recommend these movies more. It doesn't hurt that it stares Emillio Estevez as Billy. He is the cutest little red-headed man I've ever seen. I don't think many of those exist...

The album Blaze of Glory, by Bon Jovi features music from & inspired by the sequel. The song "Sante Fe" deals with Billies past wrongs, & whether or not they will catch up with him in the end. The battle between right & wrong is something we can all relate to as human beings, no matter what degree that might be. This song is pure ecstasy for the ears. The music exudes the perfect amount of emotion at the right times. What's the result of mixing rock with a full blown symphony: One powerful ballad I can't get enough of. Worth at least one listen.

P.S. Met him in a bar once...Emillio, not Bon Jovi.



What are your thoughts?

I want to be a billionaire

Day 68

--STATS--

Artist: Travie McCoy featuring Bruno Mars

Genre:Hip-Hop

Album: Lazarus

Released: Has yet to be released. Set for June 8th, 2010.


( Bruno Mars)
I wanna be a billionaire so fricking bad
Buy all of the things I never had
Uh, I wanna be on the cover of Forbes magazine
Smiling next to Oprah and the Queen


Oh every time I close my eyes
I see my name in shining lights
A different city every night oh
I swear the world better prepare
For when Im a billionaire

[Travis "Travie" McCoy]
Yeah I would have a show like Oprah
I would be the host of, everyday Christmas
Give Travie a wish list
Id probably pull an Angelina and Brad Pitt
And adopt a bunch of babies that aint never had sh-t
Give away a few Mercedes like here lady have this
And last but not least grant somebody their last wish Id probably visit where Katrina hit
And damn sure do a lot more than FEMA did
Yeah cant forget about me stupid
Everywhere I go Imma have my own theme music


Oh every time I close my eyes
I see my name in shining lights
A different city every night oh
I swear the world better prepare
For when Im a billionaire
Oh oooh oh oooh for when Im a Billionaire
Oh oooh oh oooh for when Im a Billionaire

[Travis "Travie" McCoy]
I'll be playing basketball with the President
Dunking on his delegates
Then I'll compliment him on his political etiquette
Toss a couple milli in the air just for the heck of it
But keep the fives, twenties completely separate
And yeah I'll be in a whole new tax bracket
We in recession but let me take a crack at it
Ill probably take whatevers left and just split it up
So everybody that I love can have a couple bucks
And not a single tummy around me would know what hungry was
Eating good sleeping soundly
I know we all have a similar dream
Go in your pocket pull out your wallet
And put it in the air and sing


I wanna be a billionaire so fricking bad
Buy all of the things I never had
Uh, I wanna be on the cover of Forbes magazine
Smiling next to Oprah and the Queen

Oh every time I close my eyes
I see my name in shining lights
A different city every night oh
I swear the world better prepare
For when Im a billionaire
Oh oooh oh oooh for when Im a Billionaire
Oh oooh oh oooh for when Im a Billionaire

I wanna be a billionaire so frickin bad!


Lol, OK...not an usual pick for me, but it does give me occasional giggles. Who doesn't want to be a billionaire, really? If I suddenly came into possesion of a large sum of cash, I wouldn't be complaining, but moneys not everything, right?...Right?
The first time I heard this song, I was shopping with my sister (just this last March, actually). So it's no wonder this song makes me think of my sister, and another true love of mine: Shopping. Which really is why I should be a billionaire. It would do wonders for my hobby, & my hubbies wallet.

I love being a big sister, & spending time with mine. I think we have a great relationship, though we have almost nothing in common. I am eleven years her senior. I have kids, she is one ( OK, young teen). I am petite. She is of healthy size. I love the city. She loves the country. We really are like night & day when you get right down to it, but we share a common interest. Shopping, & our sisterly love for each other. That shall never change.

I don't think I will purchase this one. If I can't play it around my kids, then what's the point.

Calling You

Day 67

--STATS--

Group: Blue October

Genre: Alternative Rock

Album: History For Sale

Released: 2003


There's something I can't quite explain
I'm so in love with you
You'll never take that away
And if Ive said it a hundred times before
Expect a thousand more
You'll never take that away

Well expect me to be
Calling you to see
If you're okay when I'm not around
Asking if you love me
I love the way you make it sound
Calling you to see
Do I try too hard to make you smile?
To make a smile

Well I will keep calling you to see
If you're sleeping are you dreaming
If you're dreaming, are you dreaming of me
I can't believe you actually picked me

I thought that the world had lost it's sway
(It's so hard sometimes)
Then I fell in love with you
(Then came you)
And you took that away
(It's not so difficult, the world is not so difficult)
You take away the old
Show me the new
And I feel like I can fly when I stand next to you
So while I'm on this phone
A hundred miles from home
I'll take the words you gave and send them back to you

I only want to see
If you're okay when I'm not around
Asking if you love me
I love the way you make it sound
Calling you to see
Do I try too hard to make you smile?
To make a smile

I will keep calling you to see
If you're sleeping are you dreaming
If you're dreaming, are you dreaming of me
I can't believe you actually picked me

Well I will keep calling you to see
If you're sleeping are you dreaming
If you're dreaming, are you dreaming of me
I can't believe you actually picked me

I will keep calling you to see
If you're sleeping are you dreaming
If you're dreaming, are you dreaming of me
I can't believe you actually picked me



Oh geez. I feel a real twinge of nostalgia as I listen to this song. Blue October is a great under-rated band & this song is pretty much what put them on the map, though I never hear it played on the radio. Originally off the album "History for sale", many heard it first from the soundtrack for "American Wedding", which if you read my blog regularly, you would know I played all year in 2004. Pretty much my top favorite song that year. This, & "Please Forgive me" by Bryan Adams. The song lyrics are so sweet, & show a very vulnerable side of Blue October. Don't let all the black make-up & Mohawks deceive you, true softies I tell you.

Well, any ways. As I read on many postcards from people a far, wish I were there. In 2004. Just for a while. I want to remember what it feels like to lack direction or responsibility. I want to drive down Farmington Rd. with the windows down on my old Pontiac Grand Prix, & soak up the freedom. Sigh...

Weird creepy girl commercial at start of video...for your entertainment

Scar Tissue

Day 66

--STATS--

Group: Red Hot Chili Peppers

Genre: Alternative Rock

Album: Californication

Released: 1999



Sarcastic mister know it all
Close your eyes and I'll kiss you 'cause
With the birds I'll share
With the birds I'll share
This lonely view
With the birds I'll share
This lonely view
Push me up against the wall
Young Kentucky girl in a push-up bra
Fallin' all over myself
To lick your heart and taste your health 'cause
With the birds I'll share
This lonely view..

Blood loss in a bathroom stall
Southern girl with a scarlet drawl
Wave good-bye to ma and pa 'cause
With the birds I'll share
With the birds I'll share
This lonely view
With the birds I'll share
This lonely view

Soft spoken with a broken jaw
Step outside but not to brawl
Autumn's sweet we call it fall
I'll make it to the moon if I have to crawl and
With the birds I'll share
This lonely view..

Scar tissue that I wish you saw
Sarcastic mister know it all
Close your eyes and I'll kiss you 'cause
With the birds I'll share
With the birds I'll share
This lonely view
With the birds I'll share
This lonely view...


I do really enjoy Red Hot Chili Peppers, especially when I'm in a crazy fun "up for anything" mood. Just pop them in, & I'm good to go! They don't make a lot of music to just chill with, so "Scar Tissue" is unique in that sense. Toned down, yet not unlike them. Love it. I played this album a lot during my first year in high school. Good times...for the most part. hearing this song now makes me miss my youth. OK, so I'm only twenty five now, but still! I can still reminisce, right?!

This video pretty much grosses me out with the bloody bandages, but great guitar work, especially at the end.

Stair Way to Heaven

Day 65

--STATS--

Group: Led Zeppelin

Genre: Hard Rock

Album: Led Zeppelin IV

Released: 1971



Theres a lady whos sure
All that glitters is gold
And shes buying a stairway to heaven.
When she gets there she knows
If the stores are all closed
With a word she can get what she came for.
Ooh, ooh, and shes buying a stairway to heaven.

Theres a sign on the wall
But she wants to be sure
cause you know sometimes words have two meanings.
In a tree by the brook
Theres a songbird who sings,
Sometimes all of our thoughts are misgiven.
Ooh, it makes me wonder,
Ooh, it makes me wonder.

Theres a feeling I get
When I look to the west,
And my spirit is crying for leaving.
In my thoughts I have seen
Rings of smoke through the trees,
And the voices of those who standing looking.
Ooh, it makes me wonder,
Ooh, it really makes me wonder.

And its whispered that soon
If we all call the tune
Then the piper will lead us to reason.
And a new day will dawn
For those who stand long
And the forests will echo with laughter.

If theres a bustle in your hedgerow
Dont be alarmed now,
Its just a spring clean for the may queen.
Yes, there are two paths you can go by
But in the long run
Theres still time to change the road youre on.
And it makes me wonder.

Your head is humming and it wont go
In case you dont know,
The pipers calling you to join him,
Dear lady, can you hear the wind blow,
And did you know
Your stairway lies on the whispering wind.

And as we wind on down the road
Our shadows taller than our soul.
There walks a lady we all know
Who shines white light and wants to show
How evrything still turns to gold.
And if you listen very hard
The tune will come to you at last.
When all are one and one is all
To be a rock and not to roll.

And shes buying a stairway to heaven.



This is one of those infamous songs. Over eight minutes in length, with at least three different sections; Acoustic folk, electronic instrumentation, & finally the conclusion accompanied by a guitar solo, hard rock. The meaning of the song is a little over my head, I must admit, but I know it is something to do with a lady who thinks she can get what ever she wants with the money she has.

The song makes me think of my father, the grunge period of the 90's, & my best friends ex boyfriend, who has a poster with all or some of the lyrics to the song on it. Below is a quote from the guitarist of the group, Jimmy Page, found at www.wikipedia.org:


"I had these pieces, these guitar pieces, that I wanted to put together. I had a whole idea of a piece of music that I really wanted to try and present to everybody and try and come to terms with. Bit difficult really, because it started on acoustic, and as you know it goes through to the electric parts. But we had various run-throughs [at Headley Grange] where I was playing the acoustic guitar and jumping up and picking up the electric guitar. Robert was sitting in the corner, or rather leaning against the wall, and as I was routining the rest of the band with this idea and this piece, he was just writing. And all of a sudden he got up and started singing, along with another run-through, and he must have had 80% of the words there ... I had these sections, and I knew what order they were going to go in, but it was just a matter of getting everybody to feel comfortable with each gear shift that was going to be coming."

This is actually the poster I was referring to.


Not actually a Led Zeppelin Fan. Don't dislike them, just not my style, but this is one of the most highly rated songs of the century, so of course, I have to add it. What do you think? what about the religious aspect of it? Do you really think if you played it backwards, there would be a satanic message? Never tried it myself, don't really care to.

Falling Slowly

Day 64

--STATS--

Artists: Glen Hansard & Marketa Irglova

Genre: Indie Folk

Album:The Cost

Released:2006



I don't know you
But I want you
All the more for that
Words fall through me
And always fool me
And I can't react
And games that never amount
To more than they're meant
Will play themselves out

Take this sinking boat and point it home
We've still got time
Raise your hopeful voice you have a choice
You've made it now

Falling slowly, eyes that know me
And I can't go back
Moods that take me and erase me
And I'm painted black
You have suffered enough
And warred with yourself
It's time that you won

Take this sinking boat and point it home
We've still got time
Raise your hopeful voice you had a choice
You've made it now

Take this sinking boat and point it home
We've still got time
Raise your hopeful voice you had a choice
You've made it now
Falling slowly sing your melody
I'll sing along

I paid the cost too late...



Pleasant & Beautiful. That basically sums up how I feel about this song. I don't know much about the two singers, but I know that this song came from the movie "Once" which I've heard great & wonderful things about. This song played a lot around the time of my wedding & for a while after. When I think about this song, I think about a much younger Taylor (my daughter). Though she is still the same person, in many ways she is not. I mourn the loss of the little toddler that she will never be again, but also celebrate the articulate & bright young girl she is becoming everyday. Some day I will blink, & again miss the little girl she use to be.

Chasing Pirates

Day 63

--STATS--

Artist: Norah Jones

Genre: Contemporary Jazz/Pop

Album: The Fall

Released: 2009


In your message you said,
you were goin' to bed,
but I'm not done with the night.
So I stayed up and read,
but your words in my head,
got me mixed up so I turned out the light.

And I don't know how to slow it down.
My mind's racing from chasing pirates.

Well the man in there swings
while the silliest things,
floppin' around in my brain.
And I try not to dream
but them possible schemes,
swim around, wanna drown me in synch.

And I don't know how to slow it down.
Oh my mind's racing from chasing pirates. (x2)
My mind's racin' from chasing pirates. (x2)



I do love me some Norah. I was very excited when in the late summer of 2009, I heard a new song that housed a voice that sounded familiar. Could it be..? Is it..? A new one..? Sure enough, the new album would come out November 17th, 2009. I bought it that very day, but waited til the morning of Thanksgiving to listen, since we would be embarking on a four hour drive to visit family up North. There were songs of note, but it didn't grow on my right away, which is typical of some of her albums for me. I am still becoming accustomed to what feels like a new style for Norah. On a good note, I think I have found a Norah album I can listen to in the winter. "Chasing Pirates" has a real calming tone to it, leaving me visualizing cool colors, & shades of gray. The music video is real cutesy, I I defiantly dig the new hair cute.

What do you think?

Harvest Moon

Day 62

--STATS--

Artist: Neil Young

Genre: Folk Rock

Album: Harvest Moon

Released: 1992



Lyrics
Come a little bit closer
Hear what I have to say
Just like children sleepin'
We could dream this night away.

But there's a full moon risin'
Let's go dancin' in the light
We know where the music's playin'
Let's go out and feel the night.

Because I'm still in love with you
I want to see you dance again
Because I'm still in love with you
On this harvest moon.

When we were strangers
I watched you from afar
When we were lovers
I loved you with all my heart.

But now it's gettin' late
And the moon is climbin' high
I want to celebrate
See it shinin' in your eye.

Because I'm still in love with you
I want to see you dance again
Because I'm still in love with you
On this harvest moon.


This song has a simple melody to it. It almost doesn't seem like a Neil Young. It is though, & my favorite of his. The harmonica is soothing (not annoying like it could be!) & lyrics are sweet as honey.This tune is perfect for a Sunday drive as they say. "Harvest Moon" takes me back to the year 2001, as a Sophmore in hihj school. I was in the women's Jazz Chorus under the direction of a teacher named Cynthia Catchpole. She was a young woman who had actually attended Dallas High as a teenager herself.

It was Spring, & all the choirs were putting on a evening dessert production, sort of like a caboret. Though the details are fuzzy, I believe it was to fall on her & her husbands anniversary & wanted to sing a song for him. She chose "Harvest Moon", which was their song. Just her & her guitar. The Jazz Choir was to sing back up. If you haven't heard the song, the only other lines are "Oooo..." & "On this Harvest Moon" Simple, just how I like it. Most importantly, we had fun doing it, & I was glad to do something for someone else.


Does this song have history for you & a loved one?

The First, The Last, My Everything

Day 61

--STATS--

Artist: Barry White

Genre: R&B, Soul

Album: Can't get enough

Released: 1974



My first, my last, my everything.
And the answer to all my dreams.
You're my sun, my moon, my guiding star.
My kind of wonderful, that's what you are
I know there's only, only one like you.
There's no way, they could have made two
You're all I'm living for,
Your love I'll keep for evermore,
You're the first, you're the last, my everything.
In you I've found so many things
A love so new only you could bring
Can't you see if you,
You'll make me feel this way.
You're like a first morning dew on a brand new day.
I see so many way that I can love you,
Till the day I die.
You're my reality, yet I'm lost in a dream.
You're the first, the last, my everything
I know there's only, only one like you.
There's no way they could have made two.
Girl you're my reality
But I'm lost in a dream
You're the first, you're the last, my everything



This song by Barry White makes me think of my Mom & watching Ally McBeal together. back when it still aired, that was our thing to watch it together every week when it was on. I have fond memories of those times & I wish it was still on some where...it is very hard to locate, but I finally found all the seasons together avaliable for purchase. It's like, $100 bucks, so when ever I have that kind of mulah to spend on a series, I will for sure. If you have never seen the show, you are probably wondering what this has to do with Barry White & this song. Well, let me tell you. The character John Cage used Barry White's music has his "Getting up the nerve" music, as he was a nervous quirky sort of fella. This song was prominant in the series. For the video, I posted a segment from the show. I hope you enjoy. For a great kick, search youtube for Barry White & Ally McBeal together, & watch all the people who tried to replicate John Cage's dance to this song. Humerous.

Don't Stop Believing

Day 60

--STATS--

Group: Journey

Genre: Rock

Album: Escape

Released: 1981



She's just a small town girl, living in a lonely world
She took the midnight train going anywhere
He's just a city boy, born and raised in south Detroit
He took the midnight train going anywhere

I seen her in a smokey room, the smell of wine and cheap perfume
For a smile they can share the night

It goes on and on and on and on..

Strangers, waiting..walking down the boulevard
Their shadows searching in the night..
Speed lights..people..
Living just to find emotion
Hiding somewhere in the night..

Working hard to get my fill, everybody wants a thrill
Betting anything to roll the dice just one more time
Some will win, some will lose
Some are born to sing the blues..And the movie never ends

It goes on and on and on and on..

Strangers, waiting..walking down the boulevard
Their shadows searching in the night..
Speed lights..people..
Living just to find emotion
Hiding somewhere in the night..

Don't stop..believing..hold on to that feeling..
Street light..people..

Don't stop..believing..hold on...
Street lights..people..

Don't stop believing..hold on to that feeling..
Street lights..people..ohhhh



This is one of those epic songs that any generation can enjoy. Heck-- my sister has recently discovered it. It's a song you play with a bunch of friends in the car on a Friday night. Just crank it up & belt it out. Come on-- I know you know it. If you don't, you better know it now. Just a real feel-gooder. If I had to pick a song to karaoke to, it would be this. Or Four non-blonde's "What's up?". Love it. You will to. Or else...


Check out the outfits! Could Steve Perry's pants get any tighter?

When Your Gone

Day 59

--STATS--

Group: The Cranberries

Genre: Rock

Album: To the Faithfully Departed

Released: 1996





Hold onto love that is what I do now that I've found you.
And from above everythings stinking, they're not around you.

And in the night, I could be helpless,
I could be lonely, sleeping without you.

And in the day, everythings complex,
There's nothing simple, when I'm not around you.

But I'll miss you when you're gone, that is what I do. Hey, baby!
And it's going to carry on, that is what I do. Hey, baby...

Hold onto my hands, I feel I'm sinking, sinking without you.
And to my mind, everythings stinking, stinking without you.

And in the night, I could be helpless,
I could be lonely, sleeping without you.

And in the day, everythings complex,
There's nothing simple, when I'm not around you.

But I'll miss you when you're gone, that is what I do. Hey, baby!
And it's going to carry on, that is what I do. hey, baby!
hey, baby...


I've lost count of how many Cranberries songs I've posted at this point. Four maybe? Anyway, another song that reminds me of the sixth grade. So here is another silly story from this time period...we were such huge dorks.

My best friend & I both these liked boys in our core class, Ricky & Michael, but we had no grace with the opposite sex at this point. So "brilliantly" we decided we'd write them anonymous letters to sort of feel them out. Our plan was to tuck each letter into their locker, then have them leave us a response behind the garbage can in our classroom. I'm not exactly sure what our plan was from there. A, they have no idea who we are (OK, maybe Ricky knew it was from Elsie, considering she blushed insanely anytime he looked over in her direction. Oh yeah--we were that smooth.) & B, how were we going to get them out from behind the garbage cans without them seeing? You could bet they'd keep a watchful eye out. Well, we never had to figure it out, as no notes were ever returned. Such our luck in love. Though at one point, Ricky's then girlfriend, Jessica, offered to trade Ricky for Elsie's purse. Apparently that's how it worked in Junior High, kind of like trading cards.

I am also a fan of the time we were staying at my Dads apartment for the weekend & there was a cute older man at the pool. We kind of drooled over him like a puppy dog, in the sweet little girl crush kind of way. He engaged us in polite conversation when in the same area of the pool. Later, while soaking in the hot tub, him & his four year old daughter came to join us. She then bluntly pointed out as four year olds do "Daddy, that girl has an ant crawling on her face!" ( referring to Elsie.) Awesome. It was then time to go.

Elsie, I hope you still love me after this blog abuse! Those were some good times right? And this song played on the radio...

Across the universe

Day 58

--STATS--

Artist: Rufus WainWright (Originally John Lennon)

Genre: Pop

Album: I Am Sam Soundtrack

Released: 2002





Words are flying out like
endless rain into a paper cup
They slither while they pass
They slip away across the universe
Pools of sorrow waves of joy
are drifting thorough my open mind
Possessing and caressing me

Jai guru deva om
Nothings gonna change my world
Nothings gonna change my world
Nothings gonna change my world
Nothings gonna change my world

Images of broken light which
dance before me like a million eyes
That call me on and on across the universe
Thoughts meander like a
restless wind inside a letter box
they tumble blindly as
they make their way across the universe

Jai guru deva om
Nothings gonna change my world
Nothings gonna change my world
Nothings gonna change my world
Nothings gonna change my world

Sounds of laughter shades of life
are ringing through my open ears
exciting and inviting me
Limitless undying love which
shines around me like a million suns
It calls me on and on across the universe

Jai guru deva om
Nothings gonna change my world
Nothings gonna change my world
Nothings gonna change my world
Nothings gonna change my world
Jai guru deva
Jai guru deva



I know that this song was originally song by The Beatles John Lennon, but I love this version the most. That's because I can't get enough of Rufus WainWrights voice. I totally respect The Beatles, Paul being my fav, but have never really taken to their music. They have many songs worthy of note, but I just don't know...I guess I can't love every great musical prodigy. So I will use WainWrights "Across the universe." The original was composed in 1968.

This version of the song makes me think of late 2005, when I was living in St.Johns. I was in awe of the everyday beauty surrounding me. I would take walks on the weekends with my dog, Toby, & just explore the neighborhood & the old houses, with all their character. I tried to guess each ones history, & the families that inhabited them. Around Halloween, many of these beauties were decorated to the max, looking like spooky haunted houses.These people defiantly took pride in their home, & why shouldn't they? They were gorgeous. If there was a song to accompany me on those walks, this would be it.

Sometimes my future husband & I would take drives into downtown. I would admire all the bridges & the buildings as I listened intently to my music. I know this song was playing on one of these occasions. "Nothings going to change my world." At least I didn't want anything to, because I was so in love with it.

If you were wondering, Jai guru deva roughly translates to "Victory to God divine". Yes-- I feel you.



P.S. Look at how young Dakota Fanning is! Oh how she has grown!

Save Me

Day 57

--STATS--

Artist: Aimee Mann

Genre: Folk Rock

Album: Magnolia, The Soundtrack

Released: 1999



You look like
A perfect fit
For a girl in need
Of a tourniquet

But can you, save me
Come on and, save me
If you could, save me
From the ranks of the freaks
Who suspect they could never love anyone

'Cause I can tell
You know what it's like
The long farewell
Of the hunger strike

But can you, save me
Come on and, save me
If you could, save me
From the ranks of the freaks
Who suspect they could never love anyone

You struck me down
Like Radium
Like Peter Pan or Superman

You will come to save me
C'mon and save me
If you could, save me
From the ranks of the freaks
Who suspect they could never love anyone
'Cept the freaks
Who suspect they could never love anyone
But the freaks
Who suspect they could never love anyone

Instrumental Verse 3:

C'mon and save me
Why don't you save me
If you could save me
From the ranks of the freaks
Who suspect they could never love anyone
'Cept the freaks
Except the freaks
Who suspect they could never love anyone
Except the freaks who could never love anyone



Aimee Mann is one of those wonderful musicians who never seem fully appreciated. Never heard of her? I'm not surprised. Own one of her Cd's? Good for you. It's not like she is undiscovered. She is quite mainstream, writing & performing most of the music from the motion picture "Magnolia", but most have my friends couldn't recognize her music if they heard it.

My uncle introduced me to her music when I was sixteen. Every Christmas he would buy me an album, some being groups I knew, others were unknown to me. That year, it was a collection of Aimee Mann's greatest works. I was uncertain I would like it, but much to my surprise, I really did enjoy it. My favorite of hers remains to be "Amateur", though you might know "Voices Carry." "Save me" is a song that was written for the movie "magnolia", as I stated above.

This song makes me miss Beaverton. I'm not sure why, but it was played often in 2008 on my favorite radio station. This was the last year we lived in the Metro-Portland area. Sometimes this song can make my tummy hurt, I miss home so much. Someday we shall return. Til then, I will grin & bare it. After all, there are benefits to a small town...so I'm told.

I'm too sexy

Day 56

--STATS--

Artist: Right Said Fred

Genre: Pop

Album: Up

Released: 1992



I'm too sexy for my love too sexy for my love
Love's going to leave me

I'm too sexy for my shirt too sexy for my shirt
So sexy it hurts
And I'm too sexy for Milan too sexy for Milan
New York and Japan

And I'm too sexy for your party
Too sexy for your party
No way I'm disco dancing

I'm a model you know what I mean
And I do my little turn on the catwalk
Yeah on the catwalk on the catwalk yeah
I do my little turn on the catwalk

I'm too sexy for my car too sexy for my car
Too sexy by far
And I'm too sexy for my hat
Too sexy for my hat what do you think about that

I'm a model you know what I mean
And I do my little turn on the catwalk
Yeah on the catwalk on the catwalk yeah
I shake my little touche on the catwalk

I'm too sexy for my too sexy for my too sexy for my

'Cos I'm a model you know what I mean
And I do my little turn on the catwalk
Yeah on the catwalk on the catwalk yeah
I shake my little touche on the catwalk

I'm too sexy for my cat too sexy for my cat
Poor pussy poor pussy cat
I'm too sexy for my love too sexy for my love
Love's going to leave me

And I'm too sexy for this song






Before the Grunge phase of the mid 90's, their were songs like this, immediatly following the 80's Pop craze. Who doesn't love this one? Making fun of the fashion industry has never been more fun. Jenny, this one is for you! Sorry I broke your coffee table, but it made a great Catwalk while it lasted!

Runaway Train

Day 55

--STATS--

Group: Soul Asylum

Genre: Alternative Rock

Album: Grave Dancers Union

Released: 1993



Call you up in the middle of the night
Like a firefly without a light
You were there like a blow torch burning
I was a key that could use a little turning

So tired that I couldn't even sleep
So many secrets I couldn't keep
Promised myself I wouldn't weep
One more promise I couldn't keep

It seems no one can help me now
I'm in too deep
There's no way out
This time I have really led myself astray

Runaway train never going back
Wrong way on a one-way track
Seems like I should be getting somewhere
Somehow I'm neither here nor there

Can you help me remember how to smile
Make it somehow all seem worthwhile
How on earth did I get so jaded
Life's mystery seems so faded

I can go where no one else can go
I know what no one else knows
Here I am just drowning in the rain
With a ticket for a runaway train

And everything seems cut and dry
Day and night, earth and sky
Somehow I just don't believe it

Runaway train never going back
Wrong way on a one-way track
Seems like I should be getting somewhere
Somehow I'm neither here nor there

Bought a ticket for a runaway train
Like the madman laughing at the rain
A little out of touch, a little insane
It's just easier than dealing with the pain

Runaway train never going back
Wrong way on a one-way track
Seems like I should be getting somewhere
Somehow I'm neither here nor there

Runaway train never coming back
Runaway train tearing up the track
Runaway train burning in my veins
I run away but it always seems the same


This is just one of those songs I would hear from time to time on the radio, never knowing who it was by, but enjoying it anyway. Two weeks ago I finally downloaded it. I had guessed it was by Tom Petty & the Heart Breakers. Boy, was I way off! Apparently I don't know everything I will humbly admit. I chose to use a live version. Some singers can't pull it off & are better in the studio. These guys clearly have it. Though the dancing is a bit awkward, it is a great performance, just as the recorded version. By now you know I love the 90's, for it's no surprise that this song emerged from this decade. However, I was never a fan of the grunge look. Enjoy.

Freshmen

Day 54

--STATS--

Group: The Verve Pipe

Genre: Alternative Rock

Album: Villains

Released: 1996




When I was young I knew everything
She a punk who rarely ever took advice
Now I'm guilt stricken,
Sobbing with my head on the floor
Stop a baby's breath and a shoe full of rice, no

I can't be held responsible
She was touching her face
I won't be held responsible
She fell in love in the first place

For the life of me I cannot remember
What made us think that we were wise and
We'd never compromise
For the life of me I cannot believe
We'd ever die for these sins
We were merely freshmen

My best friend took a week's
Vacation to forget her
His girl took a week's worth of
Valium and slept
And now he's guilt stricken sobbing with his
Head on the floor
Thinks about her now and how he never really
Wept he says

I can't be held responsible
She was touching her face
I won't be held responsible
She fell in love in the first place

For the life of me I cannot remember
What made us think that we were wise and
We'd never compromise
For the life of me I cannot believe
We'd ever die for these sins
We were merely freshmen

hey yeah
hey yeah
hey yeah

We've tried to wash our hands of all this
We never talk of our lacking relationships
And how we're guilt stricken sobbing with our
Heads on the floor
We fell through the ice when we tried not to
Slip, we'd say

I can't be held responsible
Cause she was touching her face
And I won't be held responsible
She fell in love in the first place

For the life of me I cannot remember
What made us think that we were wise and
We'd never compromise
For the life of me I cannot believe
We'd ever die for these sins
We were merely freshmen

For the life of me I cannot remember
What made us think that we were wise and
We'd never compromise
For the life of me I cannot believe
We'd ever die for these sins
We were merely freshmen
We were merely freshmen
We were only freshmen




This song is powerful, be warned. You either love it or hate it. I am almost certain that this is the most talked about song that has ever been written. My opinion is based on my findings & research. Though I say you either love it or hate it, I have never talked to anyone who doesn't love it, and consider it to be one of their top favorite songs of all time. One example; The television series Cold Case features the song "Freshmen" on their April 29th 2007 episode "The Good Death". People buzzed about it for months, & it was one of the most highly viewed episodes of the whole series. This song has power.

What makes this song so popular & why so much discussion over the meaning? For one, the topic is heavy, & he sings it with such sincerity, you would think from personal experience. The age is delicate, whether they are referring to a young teen or an almost adult & so many people can relate to the concept of thinking you know everything. The melody can be summed up with two words: Remorseful melancholy. Has their ever been a more brilliant arrangement of cords since Freshmen hit the airwaves?

The phrase in verse 1 has left many listeners in confusion over the entire meaning of the song " Stop a baby's breath and a shoe full of rice, no." Did they have a baby? Was their an abortion? Did they kill their baby? Were they married to young? What does "Shoe full of rice" even mean? I will let a quote from Brian Vander Ark clear that up for everyone. Who would know better than the person who wrote it in the first place.

"STOP A BABY'S BREATH, AND A SHOE FULL OF RICE, NO. First of all, forget the NO. Stop a baby's breath is just that. Abort the baby. A shoe full of rice is a result of a wedding. So--Stop a baby's breath AND then you stop a wedding. She's pregnant. Get her to abort, and then there's no wedding."

"A shoe full of rice" is a phrase in the song "The Freshmen" by The Verve Pipe. In the context of the song, commonly assumed to be about a botched abortion and a girlfriend's suicide, "a shoe full of rice" seems to be a nonsequitor. However, the song's author explains that "a shoe full of rice" simply is symbolic of a wedding. In many traditions, wedding guests shower the bride and groom with rice/grains to represent fertility. Because of the abortion referred to in the song, there will be no wedding.
-- Quote is from urbandictionary.com


So there you have it. It is obvious why the topic is so controversial. No matter your views on abortion & suicide, this song still remains a top contender for the greatest song ever written. But what do you think?

The song was actually originally recorded in 1992 & put on their debut album titled "I've Suffered a Head Injury". This was an acoustic version, & was re-recorded for the 1996 album Villains, which had another notable single "Photograph". My friend Jessica own this album, which brings me back to the early years of grade school. My first taste of alternative rock quite possibly. It continued to play throughout my middle school years, & made occasional appearances in my later teens as well. All my close friends have this song on a CD, A play list, phone or IPOD. I don't even have to ask, I just know. I played this album in my disc man (before I owned my first IPOD!) commuting from Tualatin to Lake Oswego via bus every morning while I attended NWN. That is before I discovered American Wedding. This song is very much apart of life. It connects me to almost any grouping of time I can think of. Not many songs I know do that. Now onto the music.

Yeah!

Day 53

--STATS--

Artist: Usher featuring 'Lil John & Ludacris

Genre: Rap/Hip-Hop

Album: Confessions

Released: 2004




[Usher:]
Peace up! A Town Down!

[Lil' Jon:]
Yeah, (Yeah!) OK!

(Usher! Usher! Usher! Usher!)

[Lil' Jon:]
Lil' Jon!

[Usher:]
Yeah, Yeah, Yeah! Yeah, Yeah! Yeaah!
Yeah, Yeah, Yeah! Yeah, Yeah! Yeaah!

[Usher (Verse 1):]
Up in the club with my homies, tryna get a lil' V-I, but keep it down on the low key, 'cause you know how it is.
I saw shorty she was checkin' up on me, from the game she was spittin' in my ear you would think that she knew me.
So we decided to chill

Conversation got heavy, she had me feelin' like she's ready to blow!
(Watch Out! Oh! Watch Out!)
She's saying "Come get me! Come get me",
So I got up and followed her to the floor, she said "Baby, let's go",
That's when I told her I said

[Usher (Chorus):]
Yeah (yeah) Shorty got down low and said come and get me
Yeah (yeah) I got so caught up I forgot she told me
Yeah (yeah) Her and my girl used to be the best of homies
Yeah (yeah) Next thing I knew she was all up on me screaming:

Yeah, Yeah, Yeah! Yeah, Yeah! Yeaah!
Yeah, Yeah, Yeah! Yeah, Yeah! Yeaah!

[Usher (Verse 2):]
So she's all up in my head now, got me thinking that it might good idea to take her with me,
'Cause she's ready to leave (ready to leave)
But I gotta keep it real now, 'cause on a one to ten she's a certified twenty, but that just ain't me. Hey.

Because I don't know if I take that chance just where it's gonna lead,
But what I do know is the way she dance makes shorty alright with me.
The way she (get low!)
I'm like yeah, just work that out for me.
She asked for one more dance and I'm
Like yeah, how the hell am I supposed to leave?
And I said

[Chorus]
Yeah (yeah) Shorty got down low and said come and get me
Yeah (yeah) I got so caught up I forgot she told me
Yeah (yeah) Her and my girl used to be the best of homies
Yeah (yeah) Next thing I knew she was all up on me screaming:

Yeah, Yeah, Yeah! Yeah, Yeah! Yeaah!
Yeah, Yeah, Yeah! Yeah, Yeah! Yeaah!


[Lil' Jon:]
Hey, Luda!

[Ludacris (Verse 3):]

Rapping

[Chorus]
Yeah (yeah) Shorty got down low and said come and get me
Yeah (yeah) I got so caught up I forgot she told me
Yeah (yeah) Her and my girl used to be the best of homies
Yeah (yeah) Next thing I knew she was all up on me screaming:

Yeah, Yeah, Yeah! Yeah, Yeah! Yeaah!
Yeah, Yeah, Yeah! Yeah, Yeah! Yeaah!


[Ludacris (Bridge):]
Take that and rewind it back, Lil' Jon got the beat to make ya booty go (clap)
Take that and rewind it back, Ursher got the voice to make ya booty go (clap)
Take that and rewind it back, Ludacris got the flow to make ya booty go (clap)
Take that and rewind it back, Lil' Jon got the beat to make ya booty go (clap)



I would like to use this song as an example of the things we listen to, though we know we shouldn't ( as Christian examples). I recall on many occasions when this song first came out, driving to church functions with my girls, Usher's "Yeah!" booming on the speakers, and yes, we knew every word. And not because we agreed with everything he was saying, but when it's hot, it's hot. And it was HOT. Meaning, it was the most popular song that I can recall from 2004. It had beat, it had Razzle Dazzle, & it had a cute boy ( OK, man.). The fact that Usher could dance like the next Michael Jackson was another plus. I know all the guys tried to replicate, but just couldn't put it down. The point is, we knew it was a far cry from the family friendly music you would hear on K-LOVE, but we played it anyways. Endlessly & shamefully! Still when I hear the beginning of the song now, the synthesized beat pulses through me & I want to be on my feet. But does that justify it, when the lyrics for the bridge are so inappropriate & offensive, that I can't even post them? Does that justify it, when I can't even play the song when I'm with my children?

I like to blame it on my rebellious streak of 2004. I was at a party ( in which their may or may not have been intoxicating beverages) when I first heard this song. The music video was on, with Usher dancing with the blue strobe lights in the background. I had to have the album right away. The CD Confessions actually yielded many great songs, including "Burn" & "caught up." Confessions seemed to be a proper name for this collection of songs that were both honest & revealing.

Later, in the Fall of 2004, I found myself living in Southeastern California, working as a nanny for a family with three children ( Jayden, 10, Promise, 7, & Trust, 1). Struggling to adjust the the habits & general ways of the family ( The parents, really), I often turned to music during my times of solitude, which were very infrequent. Though bonding with Jayden was tough, as the age might suggest, I do recall one common ground: Usher. On a trip to Washington DC, we found ourselves in the back of a rental SUV, sharing one set of headphones, listening to "Yeah!" on repeat. I do have to say, what an adrenaline rush, listening to this upbeat-Hip-Hop number, driving down the streets of our "Capitol". Streets with so much history & meaning. Thinking of all the powerful figures who might have cruised these very same streets before as well, I just bopped my head to the beat, rolled down my window & breathed in the late night air. Next to me, Jayden grinned & grooved in a similar fashion. I can only imagine what thoughts ran through her mind. For a moment, we were connecting. That's when her mom realized what we were listening to, & the moment came to an end. I can't say I blame her. "Ah, Mom! Dad let's me listen to him all the time!"

Does this song have history with you?


I will post the video, which is even worse than the song in means of modesty. I will agree with one thing that
ludacris has to say ( and this will be a first!), & that's the outfit is ridiculous. All of them. Them girls need some more clothes on their glutenous maxi-mus.

Closing Time

Day 52

--STATS--

Group: Semisonic

Genre: Alternative Rock

Album: Feeling Strangely Fine

Released:1998




Closing time
Open all the doors and let you out into the world
Closing time
Turn all of the lights on over every boy and every girl
Closing time
One last call for alcohol so finish your whiskey or beer
Closing time
You don't have to go home but you can't stay here

I know who I want to take me home
I know who I want to take me home
I know who I want to take me home
take me home

Closing time
Time for you to go out to the places you will be from
Closing time
This room won't be open till your brothers or your sisters come
So gather up your jackets, move it to the exits
I hope you have found a friend
Closing time
Every new beginning comes from some other beginning's end
yeah,

I know who I want to take me home
I know who I want to take me home
I know who I want to take me home
take me home

Closing time
Time for you to go out to the places you will be from.

I know who I want to take me home
I know who I want to take me home
I know who I want to take me home
take me home

I know who I want to take me home
I know who I want to take me home
I know who I want to take me home
take me home

Closing time
Every new beginning comes from some other beginning's end



This has always been a fun song ( to me). It mostly brings me back to 8th grade as a new student at Lacreole & resident of teeny tiny Dallas, Oregon. Most everyone confused it with either The Dalles, or Dallas, Texas. Often while visiting my Dad in Portland, people would say things like "Your a long way from home." It got pretty lame real fast. Anywho, the beginning of a new chapter. "Every new beginning comes from some other beginning's end." I like that.

I also played this song at my wedding. It was the last song as everyone was heading out & gathering there things. Of course I planned it that way, no coincidence there. I can remember being in amazement that the night was already over. I wanted to dance! Just one more hour! Though it was already midnight, & the limo was waiting to collect myself, my new husband & all of our bridesmaids & groomsmen. We still had some celebrating ahead of us, which involved one person peeing in a cup & another drinking all of my husbands $600 bottle of Remi Martin. It was a gift he had been saving for this occasion. Haha, oh well... "Time for you to go out to the places you will be from..."

Her Morning Elegance

Day 51

--STATS--

Artist: Oren Lavie

Genre: Folk Rock

Album: The Opposite Side of the Sea

Released: 2009




Sun been down for days
A pretty flower in a vase
A slipper by the fireplace
A cello lying in it's case

Soon she's down the stairs
Her morning elegance she wears
The sound of water makes her dream
Awoken by a cloud of steam
She pours a daydream in a cup
A spoon of sugar sweetens up

And She fights for her life
As she puts on her coat
And she fights for her life on the train
She looks at the rain
As it pours
And she fights for her life
As she goes in a store
With a thought she has caught
By a thread
She pays for the bread
And She goes...
Nobody knows

Sun been down for days
A winter melody she plays
The thunder makes her contemplate
She hears a noise behind the gate
Perhaps a letter with a dove
Perhaps a stranger she could love

And She fights for her life
As she puts on her coat
And she fights for her life on the train
She looks at the rain
As it pours
And she fights for her life
As she goes in a store
With a thought she has caught
By a thread
She pays for the bread
And She goes...
Nobody knows

And She fights for her life
As she puts on her coat
And she fights for her life on the train
She looks at the rain
As it pours
And she fights for her life
Where people are pleasently strange
And counting the change
And She goes...
Nobody knows



This one is an interesting one. What an amazing video. This was this Israeli singers debut album, but certainly not his first production. He has also been a play right & theatrical director since 1997. His video for "Her Morning Elegance" got him a nomination for "Best short form music video" in the 2010 Grammy Music Awards. Definatley up for interpetation, I would be interested to hear your thoughts on this one. What part did Oren Lavie himself play in this? And how did the lyrics & actions of the production coincide? Or did they....

The song it's self makes me think of nature. Fresh vegetation, rain on flowers, green grass & blooming gardens. The intro echos & rumbles in my chest. It feels inspiring & makes me think for a moment that anything is possible. It ends as quickly as it began...

Be Mine

Day 50

--STATS--

Artist: David Gray

Genre: Folk Rock

Album: A new day at midnight

Released: 2002



From the very first moment I saw you
That's when I knew
All the dreams I held in my heart
Had suddenly come true
Knock me over stone cold sober
Not a think I could say or do
cos baby when I'm walking with you now
My eyes are so wide
Like you reached right into my head
And turned on the light inside
Turning on the light
Inside my mind hey


Come on baby its all right
Sunday Monday day or night
Written blue on white its plain to see
Be mine, be mine
That rainy shiny night or day
Whats the difference anyway
Baby till your heart belongs to me



If I had some influence girl
With the powers that be
Id have them fire that arrow at you
Like they fired it right at me
And maybe when your heart and soul are burning
You might see
That every time I'm talking with you
Its always over too soon
That everyday feels so incomplete
Till you walk into the room
Say the word now girl
Ill jump that moon hey


Come on baby its OK
Rainy shiny night or day
There's nothing in the way now
Don't you see
Be mine, be mine
Winter summer day or night
Centigrade of Fahrenheit
Baby till your heart belongs to me
Be mine, be mine
Thursday Friday short or long
When you got a love so strong
How can it be wrong now mercy me
be mine, be mine
Jumpin Jesus holy cow
Whats the difference anyhow
Baby till your heart belongs to me


David Gray...one of my top ten favorite artists ever. It is becoming very apparent as I write this blog day-to-day, that my favorite genre seems to be Folk Rock. Who knew? I would love to claim that I have been a David Gray follower right from the early days, but that would be a lie. In 1993, when his music career began, I was too young. In 1998 when his music took off & became popular in the US, I must have been listening to all the wrong stations. They don't play quality on Z100, or Rosie FM, what ever the crap it was I was listening to. I finally began to recognize David's music as his in 2005, starting with "Babylon" & "Sail a way with me". I thoroughly enjoyed anything of his that came on the airways. Honestly, it wasn't until January 2009 that I purchased my first album of his. It was a birthday present for my husband. Selecting music for him is very hard, as there is not a whole lot he is pleased with. It was between John Mayer & Mr.Gray. I know now I defiantly made the right choice. Both my husband & I are very fond of the album, a collection of his greatest hits. Officially, I listen to it more, especially in the winter. I find it gets me through the drear. He warms me with his British appeal, & I melt at the sound of his almost Scottish sounding voice. It kind of reminds me a bit of a lamb...listen, & you will know what I mean. I highly suggest any David Gray album to anyone. I can't believe I have been missing out all these years.

P.S. This one is Taylor's (my three year old daughter) favorite of his, because he says Holy Cow!

Bouncing off the walls again

Day 49

--STATS--

Group: Sugarcult

Genre: Punk Rock

Album: Start Static

Released: 2001



I'm bouncing off the walls again (whoa oh)
I'm looking like a fool again (whoa oh)
I threw away my reputation
One more song for the radio station

I'm bouncing off the walls again (whoa oh)
I'm looking like a fool again (whoa oh)
Waking up on the bathroom floor
Pull myself back together just to fall once more

And my heart's beating out of my chest
And this town is still making me sick
And every penny from my last paycheck
I've blown it on you

I'm bouncing off the walls again (whoa oh)
And I'm looking like a fool again (whoa oh)
So go ahead and take a picture
And hang it up so you can tear me down

I don't care
Cause I'm still here
And I've got nothing left to lose
With all the years I wasted on you

Momma and Daddy's got the best cocaine
Ritalin's never gonna feel the same
Twenty-four hours on an empty brain
I got my finger on the trigger and your in my way

I'm bouncing off the walls again (whoa oh)
And I'm looking like a fool again (whoa oh)
I threw away my reputation
One more song for the radio station

I'm bouncing off the walls again
And I'm looking like a fool again
I'm bouncing off the walls again
And I'm looking like a fool again
I'm bouncing off the walls again


I know nothing about this group, or their music. In 2003, I bought the soundtrack to American Wedding, because I liked a song that was on it. This is obviously back in the day before IPODs, when buying a single song was not really possible, unless you wanted to burn a mixed CD. As it turns out, I loved the CD. What a great collaboration of songs....maybe. Or it could just be that to this day, when I play it, it makes me think of 2004, a bitter sweet year for me. It might have been called The American Wedding soundtrack, but really, I think it was the soundtrack for my life in 2004. That album & Shakira's "Laundry Service" were my two top played albums that year. I can listen to this CD from start to finish, though there is one song I would describe as raunchy. Of course I expected that, being the music came from a movie series dominantly about getting laid.

The song "Bouncing off the Walls again" makes me think of my days attending "North West Nannies Institute" in Lake Oswego. During the time I was attending ( Nov. 2003- May 2004) , I was living with a girl named Sarah in a pretty sweet apartment in Beaverton ( We had an indoor pool, hot tub & Sauna. Oh yah!). During the morning commute, I would pop this CD to get my day started. The upbeat tempo of the first track was always a good start. On the drive home, "Bouncing off the walls again" would come on, getting me pumped up for the afternoon still unplanned ahead of me.

Thinking of those times, I wish I would have enjoyed them much more. I miss the friends I made & the feeling of newly granted freedom. This was my first time living on my own, & I was an hour at least from my home town. I really, really miss those times right now. The building was kind of ghetto, the teachers were at times pretentious or loopy (not naming names, but for those who went there, you know who I'm talking about.), & the girls were very dramatic. I know I was excited to start, glad to be finished, & happy to be moving onto other things. But I miss my girls, the one's who weren't consumed with gossip & tearing others down, that is.

North West Nannies was a trading school that taught basic childcare skills for those wanting to obtain their teachers certificate in early education ( Preschool) or for those wanting to nanny locally or all around the united states ( They also served as an agency helping nannies & families find a match). Schooling was four days a week 8:30-3:00 I believe. On either Mondays or Fridays, depending on what class you were in, you had a practicum, which is like an internship with a family once a week. You gave them free childcare in exchange for a grade. We took classes that were relevant, such as Child development, household management, family dynamics & psychology, etiquette, health, CPR/First Aid, Art, & much more I'm sure.

Not as complex as community college I suppose, or a University for sure, but more time consuming than you would think. I spent a lot of time on NWN related things. In my free time, I enjoyed the pool/hot tub at our complex, going out with Sarah on occasion, hanging with other neighbors in the complex til all hours of the night & late late coffee runs to the 24 hour Starbucks down the street. Sometimes, I would get visits from good friends 7 my boyfriend who lived out of town. On weekends, I often drove home to stay at my moms. I may have been busy, but I was defiantly lonely. It was a turbulent year. As I said, bitter at the time, sweet now. Isn't that always how it works?

You and I Both

Day 48

--STATS

Artist: Jason Mraz

Genre: Pop (But not the gross Britney Spears kind)

Album: Waiting for my Rocket to come

Released: 2002



Was it you who spoke the words that things would happen but not to me
Oh things are gonna happen naturally
Oh taking your advice I'm looking on the bright side
And balancing the whole thing
But often times those words get tangled up in lines
And the bright lights turn to night
Until the dawn it brings
Another day to sing about the magic that was you and me

Cause you and I both loved
What you and I spoke of
And others just read of
Others only read of the love, the love that I love.

See I'm all about them words
Over numbers, unencumbered numbered words
Hundreds of pages, pages, pages for words
More words then I had ever heard and I feel so alive

Cause you and I both loved
What you and I spoke of
And others just read of
And if you could see me now,
Oh love, no
You and I, you and I
Not so little you and I anymore, mmm...
And with this silence brings a moral story
More importantly evolving is the glory of a boy

Cause you and I both loved
What you and I spoke of
And others just read of
And if you could see me now
Well I'm almost finally out of
I'm finally out of
Finally deedeedeedee
Well I'm almost finally, finally
Well I'm free, oh, I'm free

And it's okay if you have to go away
Oh just remember the telephone works both ways
And if I never ever hear them ring
If nothing else I'll think the bells inside
Have finally found you someone else and that's okay
Cause I'll remember everything you sang

Cause you and I both loved what you and I spoke of
and others just read of and if you could see me now
well I'm almost finally out of.
I'm finally out of, finally, deedeeededede
well I'm almost finally, finally, out of words.


OK. I just love this slightly goofy cute in a sort of way man. I'm sure that if we had met at some point in our life it would have been instant chemistry. Sigh....oh well. But really, what a great artist. So much positive energy & great vocalization. His music makes me think of a nice Spring day, or a summers afternoon on a sunny warm beach. I love the abrupt beginning & ending on this song, specifically. Though this CD (his first) might have come out in 2002, he has been around a lot longer than that (he opened for Alanis Morrsette during her Jagged Little Pill tour in the 90's), there fore, some of his music has been around longer. I possibly feel I heard this song sometime in the late 90's.

After not hearing "You & I Both" for a few years, this song re-emerged during the late Spring/Early summer of 2005. Good times for me. I worked at The Dallas Abbeys with awesome people, & I lived in an apartment in Salem with my best friend. Truly good times. I didn't have a whole lot of money, but that didn't matter. I only supported myself. This song makes me feel good. Made me feel happy to hear it then, I'm happy to hear it now.

Do you have a happy song? Is this one yours?

This is an acoustic live version.



This one is the original.

100 years

Day 47

--STATS--

Artist: Five for Fighting

Genre: Pop Rock

Album: The Battle for Everything

Released: 2004




I'm 15 for a moment,
Caught in between 10 and 20
And I'm just dreaming,
Counting the ways to where you are

I'm 22 for a moment,
And she feels better than ever
And we're on fire
Making our way back from Mars

15... there's still time for you
Time to buy and time to lose
15... there's never a wish better than this
When you only got a hundred years to live


I'm 33 for a moment,
Still the man but you see I'm a they
A kid on the way
A family on my mind

I'm 45 for a moment,
The sea is high
And I'm heading into a crisis
Chasing the years of my life

15... there's still time for you
Time to buy and time to lose yourself within a morning star
15... I'm all right with you
15... there's never a wish better than this
When you only got a hundred years to live


Half a time goes by
Suddenly you're wise
Another blink of the eye
67 is gone
The sun is getting high,
We're moving on...

I'm 99 for a moment,
Time for just another moment
And I'm just dreaming
Counting the ways to where you are

15... there's still time for you
22... I feel her too
33... you're on your way
Everyday's a new day

Ooooooooooooo
Ooooooooooooo
Ooooooooooooo

15... there's still time for you
Time to buy and time to choose, hey
15... there's never a wish better than this
When you only got a hundred years to live



A good song about life. I can only hope I have a hundred years. I want see my kids live out a majority of their days.
John Ondrasik ( Five for Fighting) projects a lot of class in his music. His albums are respectable & good for easy listening. I very much enjoy his CD America Town & like all of his singles. You can tell when a five for Fighting song comes on the radio. His style is very recognizable as him.

This song was popular when it came out & played frequently. I remember a couple nights before I was preparing to leave for a move to California for job purposes, I lay in bed ( in my sisters room. I was staying at my Moms house as I was in between homes.) with the radio on softly in the background ( I use to sleep with music on). When this song played, I started feeling very sad about my trip. I was to be gone for at least a year, maybe even more, & I would miss my family, friends & boyfriend very much. I knew this was something I needed to do to grow, but as I gazed upon the mural my best friend & I had painted on the wall just that summer, I suddenly felt the urge to just throw in the towel & stay. Eventually, the feeling passed & I did leave a few days later. I ended up coming home much sooner due to unforeseen circumstances later that year. When I hear this song though, I think of then with a heavy heart. I can't even listen to Simon & Garfunkel, as that was the CD my boyfriend was playing the night before I left. Talk about ball city! Luckily, I never really liked them anyway.

Does this song hold a strong memory for you?

Breakfast in America

Day 46

--STATS--

Group: Supertramp

Genre: Rock

Album: Breakfast in America

Released: 1979



Take a look at my girlfriend
She's the only one I got
Not much of a girlfriend
Never seem to get a lot

Take a jumbo across the water
Like to see America
See the girls in California
I'm hoping it's going to come true
But there's not a lot I can do

Could we have kippers for breakfast
Mummy dear, mummy dear
They got to have 'em in Texas
'Cause everyone's a millionaire

I'm a winner, I'm a sinner
Do you want my autograph
I'm a loser, what a joker
I'm playing my jokes upon you
While there's nothing better to do

Don't you look at my girlfriend
She's the only one I got
Not much of a girlfriend
Never seem to get a lot

Take a jumbo cross the water
Like to see America
See the girls in California
I'm hoping it's going to come true
But there's not a lot I can do

Nan nan nan nan nan...

OK, so another Supertramp song. I never realized I liked so many of their songs ( or singles at least.) Though I'm not really sure I like their attitude towards women. "Not much of a girlfriend"? They must have some serious issues in relationships as far as I can tell. This is just a song I liked grwoing up that played on the classic rock station that use to be on. Oh how I miss that station. Gym Class Heroes did a remix of this song that is interesting....
Fact: Most people think this song is called "Take a look at my girlfriend", & have a hard time finding it on any album. That would be why. Mystery solved. Glad I could help.

House of cards

Day 45

Artist: Radio Head

Genre: Alternative Rock

Album:In Rainbows

Released: 2007



I don't wanna be your friend
I just want to be your lover
No matter how it ends
No matter how it starts

Forget about your house of cards
And I'll deal mine
Forget about your house of cards
And I'll deal mine

Fall off the table,
Get swept under
Denial, denial

The infrastructure will collapse
Voltage spikes
Throw your keys in the bowl

Kiss your husband goodnight

Forget about your house of cards
And I'll deal mine
Forget about your house of cards
And I'll deal mine

Fall off the table,
And get swept under

Denial, denial
Denial, denial
Your ears should be burning
Denial, denial
Your ears should be burning
Denial, denial



I like this English group Radio Head moderately. I enjoy a great deal of they're songs, but this one calls to me. It might be the rhythmic strum of the guitar, or the echoing vocals in the intro. Plus the vocals are pretty sweet through out as well. The album came out in late 2007, & this song was popular in the first half of 2008.

During this time, I was newly married & pregnant with my son, Aiden. I worked for a family of four taking care of their children. This was great because my daughter could come with me, no need for childcare. In the afternoons, another nanny helped out in the afternoons, which could be crazy due to school pick-ups & activities, plus any extra outings I had planned for the week. It was certainly nice to have adult conversations with some one close to my age in the afternoons. I really did have the best job.

I left my job in June of 2008, preparing to have my son in August. We spent the last day at the zoo. Bitter Sweet memories. The first day of my "New life" was spent in my home-town of Dallas, Oregon at my Mothers surprise 50th birthday party. Later that afternoon, I was set to attend a friends graduation BBQ in Corvallis. I left my daughter with my mom & hit the road. While on the HWY, this song came on.

"House of cards" on it's own had always made me think of driving on a long bare HWY in the middle of a desert. The song feels isolating, it echoes, & leaves me pondering deep thoughts. It was perfect for this particular moment. As I drove down the road by myself in the heat of the summer, the music playing in the background, a big thought hit me. What now? It's just me, & the road of life ahead of me. I had no idea what lie ahead. Nothing was planned for after I had my son. When would I return to work? What would I do? Would I return to work? That road with this song then became a great big metaphor. It was scary, but I have to admit-- I was very excited about the possibilities.

This song will forever make me think of that moment. What about you?

I'm the only one

Day 44

--STATS--

Artist: Melissa Etheridge

Genre: Rock

Album: Yes I Am

Released: 1992



Please baby can't you see
My mind's a burnin' hell
I got razors a rippin' and tearin' and strippin'
My heart apart as well
Tonight you told me
That you ache for something new
And some other woman is lookin' like something
That might be good for you

Go on and hold her till the screaming is gone
Go on believe her when she tells you
nothing's wrong
But I'm the only one
Who'll walk across the fire for you
I'm the only one
Who'll drown in my desire for you
It's only fear that makes you run
The demons that you're hiding from
When all your promises are gone
I'm the only one

Please baby can't you see
I'm trying to explain
I've been here before and I'm locking the door
And I'm not going back again
Her eyes and arms and skin won't make
it go away
You'll wake up tomorrow and wrestle the sorrow
That holds you down today

Go on and hold her till the screaming is gone
Go on believe her when she tells you
nothing's wrong
But I'm the only one
Who'll walk across the fire for you
I'm the only one
Who'll drown in my desire for you
It's only fear that makes you run
The demons that you're hiding from
When all your promises are gone
I'm the only one



When I think of Melissa Etheridge, I think of the word Strong. I also think of my mother. She is strong, & up until the end of the 90's, she was my mother exclusively. Melissa Etheridge was the poster child for the 90's. More & more women were pulling them selves away from the kitchen, away from lower paying jobs, & becoming the independent high paid bread winners of the modern world. Strong.

In 1992, I would have been seven. My parents were newly divorced, & I had just transferred to Candalaria Elementary School. I spent a lot of time with my friends Jessica & Ashley after school & on the weekends, plus I was becoming close friends with a girl named Laura in my class, & my next door neighbor, Kimberly. My life as I know it was taking shape in those moments. Helping to shape it as well was the music I grew up with. So here you have it. A bit of Melissa. This one is my favorite of hers.