April 03, 2010
"Godspell" at the Straz Center
Today I went to see "Godspell" at the Straz Center in Tampa.
Even though I didn't agree with one or two of the artistic choices, I really enjoyed the show overall. Let's face it, the music is so good that it's nearly impossible to break this show. I also love that the show is flexible enough to accommodate all sorts of current pop culture references. Plus, that wonderful moment after Jesus is crucified and a single voice begins the refrain: "Long live God"...well, that just takes my breath away every time.
My favorites among the cast were: Alison Burns and Michael Indeglio.
Alison kicked off the show with an especially great "Tower of Babble," then never came down from that high. The aforementioned "Long live God" moment was also hers. The truth is, I knew that moment was coming and I wondered who it had been given to. I hoped it would be Alison, and it was.
Michael Indeglio was also brilliant as John the Baptist and Judas. When Judas betrays Jesus...well, it just tears your heart out. At least the way Michael played it. In lesser hands, those last scenes wouldn't work as well.
I encourage everyone to see the show while you have the chance. This production only runs through May 16th, and you don't get a chance to see a production of "Godspell" very often. Trust me, I've been waiting for years. And this production didn't disappoint my very high expectations.
Posted by Selena at 06:59 PM | Comments (0)
March 20, 2010
"I Need You" and 1st Corinthians
In working on this Sunday’s lesson (1st Corinthians 10), I was reminded of this song: “I Need You” by Lee Ann Rimes.
Sure, it could just be a secular love song, but when I hear the song it sounds like a hymn to God.
Here’s my favorite line:
“You’re the hope that moves me
To courage again”
How did I get from 1st Corinthians to Lee Ann Rimes? Well, Paul was talking about idol worship and the commentary pointed out that our modern idols are things like money, status, and security, and that when we put our trust in anything but God we are worshiping idols, assigning Godly power to worldly things. Hence the idea that God is all we really need. Hence, the song “I Need You.”
I know, my mind moves in strange ways.
Posted by Selena at 09:26 AM | Comments (0)
March 19, 2010
Suddenly Free
It's funny how quickly things can turn around. Yesterday I was having a bad day, and then suddenly I had exactly what I needed: a couple days off.
I am over the moon! I am hoping to make a big dent in my to-do list, as well as hang out with Sharon and Lily some. (I miss them.)
Two lines from songs keep going through my head:
1) "I guess we're all one phone call from our dreams."
(Of course, it turns out that the actual lyric is "I guess we're all one phone call from our knees." LOL. Either way, the song--"Closer to Love" by Mat Kearney--is now in my iTune shopping cart.)
and
2) "All I want is a couple days off!"
That's "Couple Days Off" by Huey Lewis and the News.
Posted by Selena at 07:17 AM | Comments (0)
March 13, 2010
Rediscovered Music
One of the unexpected benefits to working full-time again is that listening to CDs during my commute has caused me to rediscover music that I haven't heard in a long while.
Some recently rediscovered gems:
"Go" by Indigo Girls
"Peace Tonight" by Indigo Girls
"Rain King" by Counting Crows
I wonder what next week's CDs will bring.
Posted by Selena at 03:34 PM | Comments (0)
January 30, 2010
A Status in Music Videos
I have given up on getting back to good and am now just trying to get closer to fine.
Needless to say, today I am tangled up in blue.
(Sadly, YouTube doesn't have a video of the Indigo Girls performing this song, so I linked to the next best thing: audio of their version with a still photo as the video portion.)
Posted by Selena at 01:35 PM | Comments (0)
January 24, 2010
"Fat Baby" by Amy Grant
Today's Sunday School lesson was on 1st Corinthians Chapter 3, so naturally I thought of the song "Fat Baby" by Amy Grant.
Posted by Selena at 01:25 PM | Comments (0)
January 16, 2010
"Hold Fast" by Mercy Me
iTunes shuffled up this song and it was just what I needed to hear. So, naturally I went looking for it on YouTube so I could share it.
Posted by Selena at 10:43 AM | Comments (0)
January 14, 2010
"Tonight" – Tina Turner and David Bowie
I'm trying to stay positive despite all the bad news. This helps:
I remember seeing an interview of David Bowie where he talks about how delightfully different it is to perform with Tina Turner because, unlike most people who just look past you with dead eyes, she is always right there with you. One of the reasons I love this performance is just that—they seem so connected and "into" each other. They're having such a great time, being together, playing off each other, performing together.
Sing it with me now: "Everything's gonna be alright tonight."
Posted by Selena at 07:14 AM | Comments (0)
January 07, 2010
A Cold New Year and Some Music Vids
Dang it's cold!
It's colder than a witch's whatever here in Florida. That's just not right. If I wanted to deal with cold weather, I could have stayed back home in WDC. Being a thousand miles away from friends and family AND having to bundle up to ward off the chill just doesn't seem fair.
On the plus side, hubby found an old box of VHS tapes in the attic, so I'm having a good time watching old music videos.
Here are a couple favorites, courtesy of You Tube:
"I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)" by George Michael and Aretha Franklin. I always find this one uplifting and inspiring.
And this all-time classic: "Simply Irresistible" by Robert Palmer
You gotta love a song with the line: "She's so fine, there's no telling where my money went." LOL.
Posted by Selena at 06:34 PM | Comments (0)
December 24, 2009
The Christmas Eve Report (and some music videos)
I've been neglecting my blog. Just been too busy with other things.
Anyway, it's Christmas Eve so I spent the day cooking and baking and just generally getting ready for tomorrow.
I like to listen to music while I cook and today it's been mostly Elvis's Christmas CD "Christmas Peace."
Which led me to these two of my favorite music videos:
The Elvis and Celine Dion duet of "If I Can Dream"
and Wynonna's performance of the Mercy Me song "I Can Only Imagine:"
Both are moving and inspirational, but "I Can Only Imagine" is....well, let's just say I have yet to get through the song without crying.
Merry Christmas, everyone!
Posted by Selena at 08:38 PM | Comments (0)
September 24, 2009
Fav Music: "I'm About to Come Alive"
Maybe I love this song because I so often feel like giving up. Even at those defeated times some part of me is always holding out hope for transformation, that instead of drowning under the weight of my many failures I will finally "come alive."
Posted by Selena at 08:43 PM | Comments (0)
September 08, 2009
New Music Favs
Here are a couple of my new favorites in music. I liked the songs so much I bought them on iTunes.
First, "Just Go" by Lionel Ritchie and Akon. Every time I hear this on the radio I wish it was me being whisked off on an impromptu vacation where the man in my life promises to prepare my meals and make my bed. Hey, some girls like diamonds but for me it's all about not having to do the loathsome chores.
Just be careful buying it through the Shazam/iTunes route 'cause the Shazam tag sent me to some dance mix version that I don't like. But I forgot to preview and bought it before I realized it wasn't the recording I wanted. Grr.
My other new favorite is "When I'm Gone" by 3 Doors Down. I discovered the song when I found this Spuffy video on YouTube. Now, even with the iTunes version I just purchased, I can't hear the song without remembering the accompanying dialogue and images from the video. "Can we rest now? Buffy? Rest?" Great stuff. It's got me re-watching Spike highlights from Season 7.
Posted by Selena at 01:41 PM | Comments (0)
July 30, 2009
Fav Music: "She Will Be Loved" Duet
I love this song by Maroon 5, but I actually prefer this live duet version to the single/album version.
I have this whole CMT Crossroads saved and protected on my DVR. I've probably watched it dozens of times by now. The onstage chemistry between Adam Levine and Sara Evans is electric! They are so great together. It is very watchable. In fact, after the first song, during the introductions, Levine jokes with the audience, asking them if they're having fun watching [him and Sara] flirt. And the answer is a clear yes.
(Sadly all the YouTube clips I've found of that first song cut off that bit of banter at the end. Looks like you can find the whole episode at CMT.com though.)
They are just so comfortable with each other, and so energized by the other's presence—it's lovely to see. And very entertaining.
You just never know when you put two people together what's going to happen. But sometimes, rarely, there is magic. This is one of those times.
Posted by Selena at 09:31 PM | Comments (0)
July 22, 2009
New Music: "Her Diamonds"
I really like the new song by Rob Thomas: "Her Diamonds." I wasn't so sure about the video at first, but it's growing on me. Initially it just seemed too weird, but now the image of this frozen woman thawing and coming to life kind of appeals to me. Besides, I enjoy the iPhone product placement. ;)
Posted by Selena at 06:57 PM | Comments (0)
July 18, 2009
Love Me Some Prince!
This morning I was out running errands and listening to The Coffee House on Sirrius. It's cool, mellow—acoustic versions of popular songs. I normally like it but today they played an acoustic version of Prince's "When Doves Cry" and all I could think was "that just makes me want Prince!" So, when I got home I dialed up some Prince and I've been enjoying it ever since.
"Let's Go Crazy" is probably my favorite. It's so uplifting.
Favorite lyric: "if de-elevator tries 2 bring u down, Go crazy - punch a higher floor"
I gotta remember to do that.
Posted by Selena at 12:10 PM | Comments (0)
July 04, 2009
School House Rock: "The Preamble"
It's not the Declaration of Independence but it's still related to today's holiday. Besides it's my favorite School House Rock episode.
Posted by Selena at 10:52 AM | Comments (0)
June 26, 2009
"Dogs in the Yard"
The song "Dogs in the Yard" is playing this morning and I can totally relate. "I want to be bad and not even care..." Some days I am so sick of always trying to do the right thing. Like yesterday I got so fed up with trying to eat healthy all the time that I had Taco Bell for dinner and caramel ice cream for dessert. It felt good, but I'm sure I'm going to regret it any second now. In fact, maybe I already regret it. Maybe it was the guilt that ushered in last night's insomnia. Maybe that "walk on the wild side" is why I'm so tired right now.
Posted by Selena at 07:56 AM | Comments (0)
June 23, 2009
Today's Obsessions: Train Crash and Back 2 Good
I can't stop following the news about yesterday's Metro train crash. I'm not sure why this news has affected me so much when there are a great many more deaths and destruction elsewhere in the world. I guess it's because I have a personal connection to this news. I rode the Metro a lot when I lived in the DC area. I even rode the Red Line sometimes. I have been on that stretch of track near the Fort Totten station. Plus, I can't help but wonder if someone I know was on one of those trains. (I really hope not!)
It seems likely that more than one thing had to go wrong for this accident to happen--i.e., BOTH a mechanical malfunction and the operator failing to act to stop or slow the train before impact. It reminds me how critical it is to have the right person in the right place at the right time. The value of training, experience, and presence of mind cannot be overestimated. Think of how that pilot managed to avoid disaster by landing a plane in the Hudson. I don't want to point fingers at the dead operator in this case. (Because, really, IF she was somehow at fault, she has already paid enough for her mistake.) Still, I can't help but wonder if things would have gone differently if she had been better trained, or more experienced, or just paying closer attention.
My other obsession today seems completely random and unrelated. It's the song "Back 2 Good." I keep watching the video over and over. I think it's because lately it seems like I am always trying to "get it back to good."
Posted by Selena at 12:18 PM | Comments (0)
June 07, 2009
Fav Music Videos
Now I'm cruising YouTube for music videos. I miss music videos. I always loved the format. I watched VH1 and MTV non-stop hoping for a chance to tape a favorite video. I think I was on vhs tape #3 by the time I stopped.
Here is one of my all-time favorite videos: Toby Keith's "Who's Your Daddy?" I always hated it when the shows cut off the end of the video. You have to watch it all the way through the Cledus finale to get the full effect. LOL.
Actually, a lot of Toby's videos are on my favorite list.
This one is a live performance not a true music video, but it still gets to me every time:
Plus there's the super-classic: Robert Palmer's "Addicted to Love" Ah, the 80's. It was a good time for music videos.
Posted by Selena at 08:33 PM | Comments (0)
March 23, 2009
Flight of the Conchords
I am still digging "Flight of the Conchords." The first couple episodes of the season were maybe just good instead of great, but now the guys are back in the groove. (Except maybe for last night's season finale, which was not one of my favs.)
I have several favorite songs from this season. A couple are too [insert adult content advisory here] to post about, but here's the video for the one that's just cool, not potentially offensive.
I love Jemaine in this one. The song's so sweet in tone, it's easy to forget how horrifying it would be if someone organized a choir of your exes. (Yikes.)
Posted by Selena at 07:56 PM | Comments (0)
February 05, 2009
3 a.m. & Bright Lights
One of my favorite songs, “3 a.m.” by Matchbox 20, came up today on the Sirius station I was listening to (on my laptop, via a cool app called Pulsar). Of course, it made me go looking for the video on YouTube.
I found this instead; it’s a slow-paced acoustic version of the song. This stripped-down version really lets the lyrics shine.
I also found this, which is one of my favorite Matchbox 20 performances and songs:
Posted by Selena at 04:21 PM | Comments (0)
January 30, 2009
Personality Test
I found this over at the Ray Gun Revival forums. The deal is to put your iTunes on shuffle then use the first song to answer the first question, the second to answer the second, and so on. It's amazing how well that works.
Thanks, RGR, for a fun and enlightening way to start my day.
IF SOMEONE SAYS, “IS THIS OKAY” YOU SAY?
Senorita, Los Lonely Boys
WHAT WOULD BEST DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
More Than Love, Los Lonely Boy
(weird that shuffle grouped two LLB songs back to back. Hmmm)
WHAT DO YOU LIKE IN A GUY/GIRL?
Apple Tree, Erykah Badu
(What does that mean?! I'm just leaving that one alone.)
WHAT IS YOUR LIFE’S PURPOSE?
The Long Day is Over, Norah Jones
WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO?
Higher Love, Steve Winwood
WHAT DO YOUR FRIENDS THINK OF YOU?
Whenever You're Away From Me, Olivia Newton-John
WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT OFTEN?
The Light of Love, Rick Springfield
WHAT IS 2+2?
All By Myself, Celine Dion
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR BEST FRIEND?
Speak to the Sky, Rick Springfield
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
Free, Rick Springfield
WHAT IS YOUR LIFE STORY?
I Wanna Be Your Lover, Prince
WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GROW UP?
Livin' La Vida Loca, Ricky Martin
WHAT DO YOU THINK WHEN YOU SEE THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
Sailing, Christopher Cross
WHAT DO YOUR PARENTS THINK OF YOU?
Legend in My Living Room, Annie Lennox
(LOL)
WHAT WILL YOU DANCE TO AT YOUR WEDDING?
Poetry, Pat Green
WHAT WILL THEY PLAY AT YOUR FUNERAL?
Language or the Kiss, Indigo Girls
(oh, wow, that is SO right on!)
WHAT IS YOUR HOBBY/INTEREST?
Wildwood Flower, Reese Witherspoon (from the movie Walk the Line)
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR FRIENDS?
Strange Fire, Indigo Girls
WHAT’S THE WORST THING THAT COULD HAPPEN?
Silent Legacy, Melissa Etheridge
(And isn't that the worst thing imaginable for most writers?)
HOW WILL YOU DIE?
Winter Wonderland, Harry Connick, Jr.
(I always knew I would freeze to death in the end.)
WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU REGRET?
You Have Been Loved, George Michael
WHAT MAKES YOU LAUGH?
Make You Happy, Celine Dion
WHAT MAKES YOU CRY?
If the World Crashes Down, Enrique Iglesias
WILL YOU EVER GET MARRIED?
The Long Way Around, Dixie Chicks
WHAT SCARES YOU THE MOST?
Turn Back, O Man, by Stephen Schwartz, from Godspell
DOES ANYONE LIKE YOU?
Out Here on My Own (Instrumental), by Michael Gore, from the movie Fame
IF YOU COULD GO BACK IN TIME, WHAT WOULD YOU CHANGE?
Abide With Me, Amy Grant
WHAT HURTS RIGHT NOW?
It is No Secret (What God Can Do), Elvis Presley
WHAT WILL YOU POST THIS AS?
Beautiful Music, Amy Grant
Posted by Selena at 08:21 AM | Comments (0)
January 28, 2009
"When wilt thou save the people?"
It's been a bad day.
So the song that keeps running through my head is "Save the People" from the musical Godspell. Here is a sample lyric:
"When wilt thou save the people?
Oh God of mercy when?
The people, Lord, the people,
Not thrones and crowns, but men!
God save the people, for thine they are,
Thy children as thy angels fair.
God save the people from despair."
Posted by Selena at 02:17 PM | Comments (0)
January 04, 2009
New Music
To celebrate the New Year, I bought some of the music that's been loitering in my iTunes shopping cart. As I've listened to my new music over and over, it struck me as funny that a nearly-nondrinker like myself would count these two songs as her favorites of the bunch: "Beer for My Horses" and "Rehab."
That doesn't seem right, does it? But I love the "let's go round up bad guys" vibe of Willy Nelson and Toby Keith's "Beer for My Horses" and the stubborn "I'm gonna be me no matter what anyone says" feel of "Rehab." Nobody has EVER told me I need to go to rehab, but there is still something very compelling about that freeing declaration at the beginning of the song:
They tried to make me go to rehab, I said, "No, no, no"
Posted by Selena at 12:39 PM | Comments (0)
November 16, 2008
Mordred's Lullaby
I found this video at Mir's blog. It is very well done. I haven't seen the movie the clips are from, but I'm intrigued enough that I might seek it out.
What really gets me is the song: "Mordred's Lullaby" (sung by Heather Dale). It's so haunting—sad, dark, but strangely beautiful. (It's also Celtic Rock. Who knew I would like Celtic Rock?!)
I have to admit though that it was a bit inappropriate for me to be humming this song as I walked into church this morning. Seriously, check out this sample lyric. Not really a church-going sentiment.
"Hush, child, the darkness will rise from the deep,
and carry you down into sleep."
Still. The song stays with me.
Posted by Selena at 04:47 PM | Comments (0)
October 31, 2008
“Damn I Wish I Was Your Lover”
Scouring my pre-iTunes music collection, looking for blank jewel cases, got me thinking about some old songs I haven’t listened to in a while. Which reminded me of this performance by Sophie B. Hawkins and Melissa Etheridge that I used to have on VHS. (Fortunately YouTube has it.)
Not only is this one of my favorite songs, but this particular clip is one of the most memorable performances I’ve ever seen because “Sophie B. Trouble” (as Etheridge calls her at the beginning of the clip) is so wild and raw. Even Melissa Etheridge looks a little uncomfortable under the white-hot intensity of Sophie’s full-on attention. Etheridge’s performance has the usual “rock-star” power, but it’s decidedly different than Sophie’s personal, singularly focused passion. Seriously, it’s like Hawkins hardly realizes there is an audience or a camera. Her attention is completely on Etheridge. It’s almost too intimate to watch.
Posted by Selena at 01:04 PM | Comments (0)
September 16, 2008
"Whew!" Plus New Music & TV
Finally, the results from Big Scary Tests are in and they are normal. Whew.
I'm so relieved. The funny thing is mostly I'm just relieved that I don't have to postpone my upcoming trip to DC. You'd think I'd be relieved about not having Really Bad Medical Problem, but...well, I guess it's just one more of the many ways in which I am weird.
To celebrate my clean bill of health I hit the "buy" button on my iTunes shopping cart and finally purchased the 14 or so songs that had been living there for who knows how long. Favorite song from the bunch: Leann Rimes' "Good Friend and a Glass of Wine."
Here is a sample lyric:
"Who died and crowned me everybody's everything
I'm even busting my butt through the weekend
By the time I get home there's not an ounce of sanity
Between the dogs, my momma's calls
Is it against the law
For me to get what I need
A good friend and a glass of wine
Someone to say it's gonna be alright
A good friend and a glass of wine
A little pick me up to get me through the night"
Well, I don't have dogs and I don't mind my momma's occasional calls, but I am RIGHT THERE with everything else and the whole spirit of the song. Truth be told, I could even skip the wine, it's really just the good friend I need. Too bad all my BFFs are at least a thousand miles away. (Although that does make sense of paragraph two, doesn’t it?)
You can give the song a listen over at YouTube.
Also in my shopping cart, the latest episode of my newest guilty pleasure: "Gossip Girl." (I know! I can hardly believe I'm watching it either. But my daytime soap, the once-great GH, has gotten so sucky that I had to look elsewhere for my dose of fabulous soapiness.) My DVR inexplicably cut off about half of the last episode, which I just couldn't handle. Especially after reading about the episode on EW.com. Oh yeah, "The Dark Night" was the episode NOT to miss! Can't wait to watch it.
Posted by Selena at 01:46 PM | Comments (0)
September 10, 2008
Quote of the Day
Today's quote is from an old Gary Chapman song called "In His Hand," which sadly is not available on iTunes. (Grrr.)
"There is no cause for fear, here in His hand."
It looks like there used to be a video of the song on YouTube, but sadly it's not there anymore. (Bummer.) I used to have it on video myself, but that was back in the days of VHS and who's got VHS anymore?
So, I guess I'll just have to sing it from memory as best I can to remind myself that in God's hands "there is only safety."
I'm also trying to keep this Bible verse in my head:
"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." (Romans 8:28)
Or as I like to say when my life looks hopelessly screwed up: "Relax. God knows what he is doing and he has my best interests at heart."
Posted by Selena at 07:10 AM | Comments (0)
September 03, 2008
Speaking of "Happy Working..."
I spent the last few days working on a book-editing project (for pay!) and here's the revelation: I am so much happier, productive, and energetic when I am busy working on a project that I am interested in.
I didn't even need a nap once this week!
So, I guess the lesson for me is to fill my days with work that is meaningful to me, not just busy stuff that other people expect of me. I've realized that I tend to get bored (and then unproductive) when I don't have enough interesting stuff on my plate.
Gotta stay engaged. Gotta stay focused. Gotta keep working.
Posted by Selena at 09:01 PM | Comments (0)
I'm "Enchanted"
I just watched the movie "Enchanted." It was so cute!
But now I can't stop humming the "Happy Working Song."
Posted by Selena at 08:57 PM | Comments (0)
August 18, 2008
Rick Springfield as "Emerging Artist"?!?!?!?
I've lost some respect for my friendly, neighborhood Borders.
Here's why:
I went into Borders today to get Rick Springfield's new album "Venus in Overdrive" and found it in the Emerging Artists section.
Seriously?!
How does a decades-spanning career in music, a Grammy award, 17 Top 40 hits, something like 20 albums, and over 18 million records sold make you an "Emerging Artist?"
Here's a clue, Borders: it doesn't. Rick Springfield is NOT an "Emerging Artist." Duh.
To add insult to injury, Rick's CD is sharing a shelf with Miley Cyrus. That's just wrong.
I'm enjoying "Venus in Overdrive" though. :)
You can buy it yourself here:
Posted by Selena at 12:25 PM | Comments (0)
July 21, 2008
New Favs in TV, Music, and Web
I have a new favorite in TV shows and musical groups. It's "Flight of the Conchords."
This group and their HBO show are hilarious! (But they are also not for kids or folks who are easily offended. Adult content abounds. You've been warned.)
To get a sample, click on over to one of my new favs on the web: YouTube.
(Yeah, I know, I'm late to the party. So what's new?)
Just search on "Flight of the Conchords" for a wide variety of related videos, including some of my favorite Conchord songs: Inner City Pressure, Hiphopopotamus Vs. Rhymenoceros, A Kiss is Not a Contract, and Business Time. (I generally prefer the videos from the TV show instead of the live performances because it often pays to see the songs in context).
A sample lyric from Inner City Pressure:
"Counting coins on the counter of the 7-11
From a quarter past six ‘til a quarter to seven
The manager Bevan starts to abuse me
Hey man, I just want some Muesli."
I'm also loving YouTube for watching old scenes from General Hospital, especially snippets from the glory days of CarLo. (Oh how I miss Tamara Braun and Ted King!) GH was Must See TV back then. Now it's more like Must Blog TV.
Which brings me to my other new web fav:
Serial Drama
These chicks rock! Reading their blog entries about GH is more entertaining that watching GH.
Posted by Selena at 05:10 PM | Comments (0)
April 24, 2008
Good Day
It's been a good day. I worked on, finalized, and sent two stories. That's always a good feeling. I've got a third story that is almost ready; I'm just waiting to hear back from one crit partner.
Plus I finally bought the mass of songs in my iTunes shopping cart—a full 31 songs, nearly two hours of music. Yeah! I'm having a great time listening to them. It's an eclectic collection, everything from old school favorites like "Rapper's Delight" and "Boogie Shoes" to more recent offerings like Marc Cohn's "Live Out the String" and Sugarland's "Stay." There's even the Jerry Lee Lewis classic "Great Balls of Fire." That's fun music!
To cap things off, I made beer cheese soup and it turned out perfect. Yum.
It didn't turn out so great last time because I tried to simplify the steps. In my defense the recipe is ridiculously complicated (cook these ingredients, then blend them, then add this, then whisk these two, etc., etc.). Don't believe me? Check out the recipe for yourself. I'm much more of a "throw all the ingredients in the pot and simmer" kind of cook. But on this one, the effort is worth it.
I did change the recipe a little: tortilla chips instead of croutons, red pepper instead of garlic, a little less flour. But all those wacky cooking, blending steps—trust me, you gotta stick to the recipe.
Now, if I can just manage to not eat the whole batch in one sitting... ;)
Posted by Selena at 01:42 PM | Comments (0)
March 05, 2008
New Fav Song: "Problem Girl"
I have a new favorite song. It's "Problem Girl" by Rob Thomas.
Here is a sample:
"Don't let 'em get where they're going to
You know they're only what they think of you
…
And when the kids on the street say
What's your problem girl
…
When they all make you feel
Like you're a problem girl
Remember
You're no problem at all
You're no problem at all"
It's a sly profession of love. Not obvious like "I adore you." But more real. Because we are never problems to those who love us.
That's good stuff.
Posted by Selena at 09:18 PM | Comments (0)
February 21, 2008
Godspell = Revival
While I was in DC last week, I visited a church I had attended for a few months back when I lived in the area. It was a great experience. It reminded me what it feels like to be in my kind of church, one where I fit in and feel at home.
Although I enjoyed the sermon—especially how the pastor used Facebook to make his point—it was the children's lesson that got to me the most. It was about Godspell and ended with a recitation of this prayer/song from the musical:
"Day by day
Oh Dear Lord
Three things I pray
To see thee more clearly
Love thee more dearly
Follow thee more nearly
Day by day"
Today I happened to find the Godspell CD that I lost track of years ago. I promptly imported it into my iTunes so I wouldn't misplace the music again.
I've spent most of the evening listening to Godspell over and over again. The music does more for me spiritually that most of the church services I have attended. It reminds me and inspires me and prods me ever closer to God. It's like a revival in a CD case.
"Long live God."
----
For more on Godspell visit these sites I found via Google and liked:
I like this one for the full lyrics and the story of a church who performed the musical.
Then this is the official site (I guess). It's got a lot of stuff but I particularly like the history of how Godspell came about. That story was even part of the children's lesson mentioned above.
Posted by Selena at 08:19 PM | Comments (0)
December 29, 2007
Remembrances
I’ve been thinking a lot about the past. I guess that’s natural for this time of year.
What strikes me is how much my life has changed in the last twenty years. At this point, my life is barely recognizable compared to what it was back then. A few things are the same, but a lot of things aren’t. Much of my past, while not gone from my memory, has no discernable evidence in my current life. For instance, you can’t tell from my life right now that I used to wait tables and loved it, or that I studied computer programming in college and have programmed in Pascal, Fortran, and Assembly. There is no evidence of any of that in my here and now. That doesn’t mean it’s gone. It’s still part of who I am, even if it’s not readily apparent.
A couple songs came to mind as I thought about this:
1) “In the Air Tonight” by Phil Collins, which has this great line: “I remember, I remember, don’t worry.” As long as someone remembers, then the moment is never completely gone. And I remember, I remember a lot of things that aren’t apparent in my current everyday.
2) “Dead Man’s Hill” by the Indigo Girls, which has this wonderful chorus:
“Don't you write it down
Remember this in your head
Don't take a picture
Remember this in your heart
Don't leave a message
Talk to me face to face
Talk to me face to face”
Sometimes it is the really important things that we remember only in our hearts and minds.
If I look hard enough there are some remnants of “the old days.” I have a pink, men’s shirt in my closet that I got from the Salvation Army when I was about twenty years old. Every time I put it on, it reminds me of that time in my life. It makes me smile.
Thinking about the past also makes me wonder about the future. If my life has changed so much over the last twenty years, what will happen in the next twenty? Will my life two decades from now barely resemble my life now? Will I be living in L.A., starring in a sketch comedy show? Or in Arizona, doing whatever it is people do in Arizona? Or in some other outlandish situation that seems completely impossible right now? There is no telling.
Posted by Selena at 11:06 AM | Comments (2)
December 12, 2007
Listening to…
"I Can Only Imagine" – both the version by Mercy Me and the one by Wynonna Judd. Actually I am also listening to the adapted Amy Grant version that is called just "Imagine."
The song gets to me every time, no matter which form it's in.
If there are still people out there who aren't familiar with this song, here is a sample of the lyrics:
---
I can only imagine
What it will be like
When I walk
By your side
I can only imagine
What my eyes will see
When your face
Is before me
I can only imagine
[Chorus:]
Surrounded by Your glory, what will my heart feel
Will I dance for you Jesus or in awe of you be still
Will I stand in your presence or to my knees will I fall
Will I sing hallelujah, will I be able to speak at all
I can only imagine
---
If you don't already have a copy of the song, I'll highly recommend it.
Posted by Selena at 02:24 PM | Comments (0)
October 22, 2007
Today's Song: "itsalwaysomething"
The song that I keep listening to today is Rick Springfield's "itsalwaysomething."
(Of course, the editor and proofer in me want it to be "It's Always Something.")
Here are some sample lyrics:
"I've been good at snatching defeat from the
jaws of victory
Anytime I stopped to smell the roses they
drew blood from me
Do you know what I mean?
You never ever get away clean
Oh but it's alright,
Yeah, touchdown, turn around, flag on the play
It's always something, you know it is, it's always something
It's always something, everyday, It's always something"
Maybe tomorrow I can catch a break. ;)
Posted by Selena at 07:56 PM | Comments (0)
October 20, 2007
"Live Out the String"
I just watched Marc Cohn on "Ellen". (That, my friends, is the magic of TiVo!) He talked about getting shot a couple years ago, then performed a new song: "Live Out the String." (What a great phrase – "Live out the string.") The performance was so good that I went straight to my iTunes and added the song to my shopping cart.
If I had the money, I'd just go ahead and buy the whole CD.
Cohn's song "Walking in Memphis" is one of my all-time favorites. And this new CD sounds good to me so far.
Posted by Selena at 12:42 PM | Comments (0)
October 18, 2007
You Can't Always Get What You Want
Today's quote is from a song that has been rattling around in my head. (I finally just had to buy it from iTunes so I can listen to it over and over.)
"You can't always get what you want
You can't always get what you want
You can't always get what you want
But if you try sometimes
You just might find
You get what you need."
Yeah, well, I'm still waiting for that second part to happen. ;)
Posted by Selena at 08:25 AM | Comments (0)
September 14, 2007
New Music, a Writing Revelation, plus Quote of the Day: "Hold On…"
Yesterday I got my birthday present to myself: several CDs I had ordered. I actually let out a whoop of joy as I took it from the mailbox. (I hope none of the neighbors saw that crazy display. Oops.)
The first CD I listened to was kind of a bust. I only liked one song and it was one I already had via iTunes. Bummer.
But it gave me a weird sense of hope. You see, the CD is an early one from a group whose later work I enjoy a lot. And that one song is a true gem. I don't know if it was popular back when this CD was released, but it's wildly popular now. Finding this stroke of genius in an otherwise lame album gave me hope for the sad state of my early work. Maybe, just maybe, years from now people will read the stuff I've published up to this point and think: "Yeah, it's mostly lame, but this one piece – WOW, that's brilliant." And maybe, just maybe, the fact that most of my early work isn't great doesn't preclude my later work from being fantastic. Here's hoping.
Thankfully, the second CD doesn't suffer from any lameness at all! It’s John Mayer's "Continuum" and it's just one great song after another.
My current favorite is "I Don't Trust Myself (With Loving You)."
Here's a sample lyric:
"Hold on to whatever you find, baby
Hold on to whatever will get you through
Hold on to whatever you find, baby
I don't trust myself with loving you"
That's some really good stuff.
Posted by Selena at 01:01 PM | Comments (0)
September 13, 2007
Xanadu on "The View"
A funny thing happened yesterday. I was watching "The View" and caught a performance from the Broadway hit musical "Xanadu." But instead of making me want to see the Broadway show, it made me want to see the movie again AND buy the soundtrack. (I had the album for a long time, but gave it away when I no longer had a turntable to play it on. Do people still have record players, I wonder?)
Maybe I'm a dork, but I really liked the movie "Xanadu." And based on the little bit I saw of the current Broadway musical, I much prefer the original.
Today I am still humming "Suddenly" – the Olivia Newton-John version, not the Broadway version I heard on "The View." I finally had to log into iTunes and buy a few songs from the "Xanadu" soundtrack.
Here's your quote of the day…
"You make it seem I'm so close to my dream
And then suddenly it's all there"
Have a good one and keep trying to create your own Xanadu.
Posted by Selena at 09:25 AM | Comments (0)
September 08, 2007
Quotes of the Day: from Prince
My iTunes shuffled up a Prince song this morning (it was "Scandalous," if you must know), so now I am on a Prince high, listening to all my favorite Prince songs.
Some of my favs are lesser-known ones like:
"I Could Never Take the Place of Your Man"
and
"If I Was Your Girlfriend."
Really, who but Prince could get away with a song about a man imploring his lady love to treat him more like one of her BFFs (i.e. best gal pals or girlfriends), and have it make such good sense?
Sample lyric:
"If I was your girlfriend
Would U remember 2 tell me all the things U forgot
When I was your man?
Hey, when I was your man
If I was your best friend
Would U let me take care of U and do all the things
That only a best friend can
Only best friends can"
Then there is the classic "Let's Go Crazy:"
"And if de-elevator tries 2 bring u down
Go crazy - punch a higher floor"
To me, that line always sounds like a call to action, a reminder that we always have a choice, that we can choose a higher purpose, the higher ground, a higher calling, a higher love.
Posted by Selena at 11:48 AM | Comments (0)
September 05, 2007
Quote of the Day: Love's the Only House…
"She said this world is moving so fast
I just get more behind every day
Every morning when I make my coffee
I can't believe my life's turned out this way
All I could say was
Love's the only house big enough for all the pain in the world
Love's the only house big enough for all the pain"
- "Love's the Only House," sung by Martina McBride
Posted by Selena at 06:30 PM | Comments (0)
September 01, 2007
Quote of the Day: Anybody Out There?
"Come on, come on, is there anybody out there?"
- from "Who Killed Rock N' Roll" by Rick Springfield
Posted by Selena at 07:17 PM | Comments (0)
August 30, 2007
Quote of the Day: I learned...
"Some dreams weren't meant to come true. I learned that from you."
- from the song "I Learned That From You," by Sara Evans
(Well, I don't know if she wrote it. I just know she sang it.)
That song gets me every time.
Posted by Selena at 08:31 PM | Comments (0)
August 24, 2007
Taking the Day Off + RS on GH
I am too tired and stressed to work. So I am taking the day off.
Well, not totally off since I did a little work this morning and I am baby watching from morning to night.
Still, I am in no condition to read anyone's submission right now. Trust me.
I did enjoy seeing Rick Springfield perform on "General Hospital" today though. That was cool! It would have been the highlight of my day, but instead that honor goes to receiving belated birthday presents from my best friend.
Not a bad day, but –MAN- I need some sleep! Until that can happen, I'll be listening to "Written in Rock: The Rick Springfield Anthology." :)
Posted by Selena at 05:39 PM | Comments (0)
August 09, 2007
Getting Closer
Well, I am not caught up but I am getting closer.
Here is today's tally so far:
6 subs read (only 9 to go, yikes)
7 subs processed & responded to
It reminds me of that Billy Joel song "Getting Closer":
"And if I don't have this all worked out
Still I'm getting closer, getting closer
I still have far to go no doubt
But I'm getting closer, getting closer"
Actually, I like that album so much I think I'll listen to it now. ;)
Posted by Selena at 07:58 PM | Comments (0)
April 17, 2007
Must Relax
"Three little birds sat on my window and they told me I don't need to worry."
That quote and the song it's from ought to be written on a prescription slip because it's a big part of my current treatment protocol.
You see, in addition to drastic diet changes, I also have to learn to relax and stop being such a perfectionist, worry-prone, type A personality. It's all part of the "Lower My Blood Pressure Before It Kills Me" Plan. I think this aspect of the lifestyle changes I have to make is going to be the hardest.
I've been trying to catch myself before I get worked up about things and say to myself, "Yeah, this is the sort of thing that would upset (or worry) me in the past, but I just can't afford to stress over it anymore. So, I am going to do what I can do then I am going to let go and trust God to work it out." I think I'm getting better at it. It takes practice like everything else. Long-ingrained habits are hard to break.
I also find that I am listening to my "Happy & Upbeat" Playlist over and over again. The quote above is from the top song on the list:
"Put Your Records On" by Corrine Bailey Rae
It is impossible to be in a bad mood while listening to that song! The song is "relaxed and happy" encapsulated into an easily transportable audio clip.
As a public service here is a sampling of my "Happy & Upbeat" playlist.
"Bad Day" by Daniel Powter
(I love that a song named "Bad Day" can be so uplifting.)
"Lover Come Up" by Josh Kelly
(from the soundtrack of "My Super Ex-Girlfriend" which includes several H&U songs. The movie is really good too.)
"Baby Girl" by Sugarland
"O What a Glorious Thing" by Akira The Don (also from the "Super Ex" soundtrack)
"Everything's Right" by Matt Wertz (also "Super Ex")
"Why Don't You & I" by Santana and Alex Band
"Streetcorner Symphony" by Rob Thomas
"Make It Happen" by Mariah Carey
"Love Love Love" by Tristan Prettyman ("Super Ex" strikes again!)
"The Joker" by Fatboy Slim (Also "Super Ex")
"Walking on Sunshine" by Katrina (classic 80's happy)
I used to have this quote on the wallpaper of my computer:
"Good morning. This is God. I will be handling all of your problems today. So, you can just relax and enjoy the day."
Maybe it's time to put that quote back up.
Be happy, all. God really is in control. And that's a very safe place for us all to be.
Posted by Selena at 09:14 AM | Comments (0)
April 11, 2007
Fascinating Experiment on Art Out of Context
I came across this article via Mir's blog:
I don't know (or even know of) Joshua Bell but I gather from the article that I should have heard of him. My husband immediately recognized the name. Turns out he actually knows him. They've worked together or something.
Anyway, it's a great article and a fascinating experiment. I wonder what I would have done if I had been passing through L'Enfant Plaza while this wildly famous, highly accomplished violinist was playing.
The article also made me homesick. I don't live in the Washington, DC area anymore but I still consider it my hometown. And one of the things I miss most about DC is the Metro. Really and truly.
Posted by Selena at 08:31 AM | Comments (2)
February 20, 2007
Take the Wheel
Some days I don’t even know what to hope for. I find myself faced with a situation that could go one way or the other, and I honestly don't know which would be best.
Today is one of those days.
All I can say is "Jesus, take the wheel."
(Yes, that's a song by Carrie Underwood
Or, as I like to pray, "God, please grant me the wisdom to know the right road and the strength to walk it."
Here's hoping it plays out however God prefers.
Posted by Selena at 06:55 PM | Comments (0)
September 14, 2006
Quotes of the Day/More MercyMe
I am really enjoying that MercyMe CD: "Coming Up To Breathe" by MercyMe.
Some of my favorite parts seem to be improvised bits at the ends of songs, like this at the end of "No More No Less:"
"I hope you stare just long enough to see
The heart that's beating here inside of me
Beyond all of the things you may think you know
I'm just a kid trying to make it home that's it
No more no less
Lord I want to go home
Nothing more nothing less
I just wanna go home
Nothing more nothing less
Oh there's no place like home
Nothing more nothing less
I just wanna go home
Nothing more nothing less"
I love that part.
Half of that isn't even in the printed lyrics.
Then there's this brilliant chorus from "Bring the Rain:"
"Bring me joy, bring me peace
Bring the chance to be free
Bring me anything that brings You glory
And I know there'll be days
When this life brings me pain
But if that's what it takes to praise You
Jesus bring the rain."
Then the end of the song is a wonderful, extended riff on this line:
"Holy, Holy, Holy
Is the Lord God Almighty"
Posted by Selena at 02:25 PM | Comments (0)
September 04, 2006
MercyMe and "One Trick Pony"
Lately I have been listening a lot to a CD I bought on a whim. I had never heard of the group, never heard a single one of their songs. But I was buying CDs and picked it up anyway. I'm so glad I did.
The CD is called "Coming Up To Breathe" and it's by MercyMe. I guess it's Christian Rock, or something. I'm not good with genres. ITunes calls it "Gospel and Religious."
Whatever it is, it's wonderful. I have several favorite songs already.
Top choice is "One Trick Pony." It's got such a fun, happy rhythm. Plus I love the playful riff on how you can only have one master.
Here are some choice lyrics:
I'm a one trick pony if you will
I got a one track mind with a heart that's real
And don't forget I've got tunnel vision
For something much bigger than superstition
Call me hard headed for the One that changed me
Say what you will it will not phase me
No need for anything up my sleeve
There's just one thing that I'll ever need
You are my one and only
You are my one and only
Oh I'm a one trick pony
I also really love "So Long Self," "Hold Fast," and "Bring the Rain."
Maybe I'll post some choice lyrics from those songs later.
In case you can't tell, I heartily recommend this CD: "Coming Up To Breathe" by MercyMe.
Posted by Selena at 03:24 PM | Comments (0)
March 02, 2006
Leaving Las Vegas
I heard the song "Leaving Las Vegas" yesterday and it struck me that it is the perfect theme song for my life right now.
For quite some time I have been considering a career change. Last week, I made a leap of faith. I gave my two months notice to the company that has employed me for nine years.
The move shocked people more than I expected. Even my mom was taken aback and said it just wasn't like me, that resigning from one job before I had another one lined up was just not my style.
I guess my decision is shocking given my reputation as a responsible, un-impulsive person. However my decision was not impulsive in the least. It was carefully weighed and considered in a process that spanned years. But the decision-making was not something I shared with many people, so the move must look impulsive to all the people who weren’t privy to the process. I have to keep reminding myself of that. People only know what you show them. They can’t be faulted for not knowing what you didn’t share.
"What are you going to do?" people keep asking me. Sometimes I respond with an enigmatic "something else," sometimes I actually go into the detail of how I plan to focus on writing and editing.
I know my decision is shocking to many and upsetting to some, but I also know this: Life is too short to spend most of your time on something you don't enjoy.
I want to focus my time and attention on things that are important to me, on work that interests me and feeds my soul. Writing and editing fit the bill. Therefore I am moving those interests from the fringes to the center of my work life. I am going to give them my full attention and see what happens.
"I'm Leaving Las Vegas
Lights so bright
Palm sweat, blackjack
On a Saturday night
Leaving Las Vegas
Leaving for good, for good
I'm leaving for good
I'm leaving for good.”
Posted by Selena at 09:48 AM | Comments (0)
January 14, 2006
I Love iTunes
I have totally gotten into iTunes. I even downloaded my first song today. I am trying to stop at one download a day because at 99 cents a song, I see how this could be very addictive and easily add up to a heaping lot of cashola.
The past couple days I have been importing my CD collection. The most assuming part of iTunes for me is the genre labels. I look at my music library and there are entries for stuff like Alternative & Punk, Folk, R&B, and Jazz.
“Do I like any of that stuff?" I ask myself. “I’ve got folk music in my collection?" So I search for folk in my iTunes library and discover that Indigo Girls is folk. Who knew? And apparently Anna Nalick is Alternative & Punk. (I’m guessing Alternative. Doesn’t seem Punk. But what do I know?) R&B? Oh, that’s Macy Gray. OK I can see that, I guess. Then I notice Jazz and I think, “I can’t possibly have any jazz." Oh, that’s the Candy Dulfer. OK. Well, I knew it was instrumental at least.
It reminds me of the time I told my mom I wanted a Toby Keith CD for Christmas. She went to the music store and couldn’t find it anywhere. So she finally gave up and asked the cashier. He told her “Sure, we’ve got it. It’s right over there in the country section." Mom said, “Oh no, you must be mistaken. My daughter doesn’t like country music." The guy was like, “Uh, OK, but it’s still over there in the country section."
She told that story over and over Christmas day. Every time someone new came into the room, she had to tell it all over again. I was so embarrassed.
Shoot, I didn’t know it was country. I just liked it. I have since accepted the fact that I like a lot of country music. So at least I wasn’t surprised to see that genre on my iTunes.
Then there was that time I went into the store looking for Alison Krauss’ “Forget About It." The cashier said it was in Bluegrass section. “In the what section?" I was prepared for Country, but Bluegrass? I don’t even know what that is. But clearly I like it.
I just can’t find the albums/songs I want using the genre label. That’s one of the reasons I hate shopping for music in an actual store; I never know what section I should be in and the stores seem really resistant to putting everything alphabetical by artist name. Fortunately online I can search by artist or song.
I do like the genre label in iTunes though. It’s fun. It’s a little surprise whenever I import a new CD.
“Let’s see what this one is."
Posted by Selena at 08:56 PM | Comments (0)
December 19, 2005
Quote of the Day
Today's quote is
I am with you now"
Believe it or not, that’s from the song “Hand Me Down" by Rob Thomas of Matchbox Twenty.
Posted by Selena at 08:32 PM | Comments (0)
November 17, 2005
More Anna Nalick
The more I listen to this Anna Nalick CD, the more I like it.
Today’s favorite lyrics:
“Cause you can’t jump the track, we’re like cars on a cable
And life’s like an hourglass glued to the table
No one can find the rewind button
So cradle your head and in your hands
And Breathe…just Breathe."
Hmmm. Sorry folks life only flows in one direction. There is no going back.
Posted by Selena at 08:51 PM | Comments (0)
November 15, 2005
Non-NaNo Quote: Breathe (2 am)
I recently happened upon a great song. It’s called “Breathe (2 am)" and it is by singer/songwriter Anna Nalick.
Here are some choice lyrics:
"2 am and I’m still awake writing a song
If I get it all down on paper it’s no longer inside of me
Threatening the life it belongs to
And I feel like I’m naked in front of the crowd
‘Cause these words are my diary screaming out loud
And I know that you’ll use them however you want to."
Artists are all the same under their chosen form – same creative impulses, same reasons why, same stumbling blocks, same fears.
Posted by Selena at 08:16 PM | Comments (0)
October 30, 2005
Three Quotes
"Sometimes it just feels good to run."
This is from one of my all-time favorite episodes of Deep Space Nine. The episode is called "Second Sight" and the quote is from Fenna.
I guess the quote came to me because there seemed to be more runners out today than usual.
I’m not much of a runner, being especially exercise-averse, but I hear people enjoy it. Fenna seemed to.
"I remember. I remember, don't worry."
This is from an old song I happened to hear today, "In the Air Tonight" by Phil Collins. Whenever I hear the song I picture the scene from "Miami Vice," driving fast down a street at night.
I guess the quote means sometimes it’s enough just to remember and be remembered. Or if it’s not enough, then at least it’s a comfort.
"I hope God thinks I’ve done the right thing."
That was me as I handed $10 to a stranger on the street today. I don't usually give money to people I don't know, but he had a good story and seemed like someone who didn't normally beg for money. He said he was just trying to get home but couldn't use his ATM card because it was defective. He showed me the card and everything.
I don't know what made me do it. I just hope it was the right thing to do and that I didn't get conned yet again.
Posted by Selena at 09:04 PM | Comments (0)
August 18, 2005
Evita Returns
I just got a CD of the Broadway musical “Evita." I love this show but I haven’t listened to the soundtrack in probably ten years, since long before there were CDs, and I haven’t seen the show in at least fifteen.
I’m listening to CD right now and I’ve made a somewhat disturbing discovery – I still know all the words and can still sing all the parts from start to finish.
Is that a little weird?
Maybe, but so what, I’m having a great time
Posted by Selena at 07:48 PM | Comments (0)