I love music and more...

Finally the last day of the week is here and so it's the last day of my 30 days song challenge.

It's been fun and at times definitely challenging to come up with certain songs, but I did it! and over all I think it was pretty good.

One thing is for sure

it is such a huge part of my life and although there are some genres I don't care so much for, even if all I could listen to were those, I would still choose to have music in my life.

Perhaps the best thing about music is that it's very subjecting and different styles appeal to different people, but it also makes your soul sing with happiness!

For today, the last day of the challenge I am posting- My favorite song at this time last year.

Well, I don't think I have such a song, because again, like I've mentioned before, I do not have a lot of favorites in my life, but last year around this time the following song was all over the radio, so this is it...

The song is "Hey, Soul Sister" by Train. 

And last but not least, before I finish this challenge, I want to thank YouTube and it's users for all the great videos you upload, thanks to those I was able to make my challenge...YouTube rocks!

But on another note... before I finish today's post I have to inform everybody that I am officially in love (again)...

Well, this is a love it's been inside of me for a while but just now I have a way to make it all mine, so I am going to just go with it an make it public [yeah, I know my husband reads my blog, but oh well- he's meant to find out somehow].

I am in love with "Dulce de Leche", aka delicious, scrumptious, devilish caramel cream... Oh wow!!!!

And the best part is that now I've found the easiest way to make it.

Perhaps this is old news for you (the recipe- not my infatuation), but I am going to spread "the love" and share this wonderful recipe.

All you need to make it is:

1 Can of Sweetened Milk
1 Slow Cooker
Water
Electricity

Now, to make it:

1. Take the label off the can and wash it well, making sure it doesn't have any holes or dents, put it inside the slow cooker and cover it with water.
2.Set the slow cooker on low for 8 hours (or on high for 4) and wait for it (perhaps this is the hardest part!).
3. Dump all the water and use something to take the can out as it could be very hot!
4. Taaa-daaah! You have delicious "Dulce de leche"

Now, guess what I had for breakfast this morning?

LOL! Just kidding...

Have a Sweet Weekend!!!

29 takes me back

Today is finally day 29 of the 30 days song challenge and this number takes me back about 29 years as well, because today's song to post is- A song from your childhood.

Growing up in Latin America as a child I was always accompanied by the music of a famous Mexican singer Francisco Gabilondo Soler a.k.a. "Cri Cri - el grillito cantor" meaning in English "Cri Cri- the singing cricket".

Cri- Cri was a wonderful singer, almost all his songs are stories that teach values to children. He had the tendency to give animals and things human-like characteristics, and wrote songs about dolls, animals and toys who had something special about them, that separated them from the rest.

When I listen to most of his songs (even to the day), they touch my heart in a very special way and they take me back to a time when I was very little, pure and innocent, when all I had was fantasy and magic surrounding me!

Other songs remind me so much of my Grandmother (who always loved his songs and used to sing them to me) that those I cannot listen to, they make me miss her so much that I can't help but cry. [ so, I won't be posting one of those here today!].

I believe Cri Cri wrote over 200 songs, but today I decided to post "El Raton Vaquero"- "The Cowboy Mouse" because I happened to found a very nice video on YouTube that has the translation of the song.

Isn't it a nice children song? None of that Hanna Montana/Justin Bieber stuff kids listen to nowadays... 

If I had a baby/young kid right now, I much rather want him/her to listen to this kind of music... Kid's music, not "wanna be adult stuff". 

It's kind of sad that most kids nowadays don't have the same innocence we had, full of fantasy and magic surrounding them. I believe this is something parents need to work on.

I am glad I have these songs to remind me of the wonderful childhood I had and enjoyed!!!

Have a great Thursday!!!

we gotta start somewhere...

Nowadays just by watching or reading the news, one could feel sad and in some cases ashamed of the way us humans behave.

In some cases it is ourselves that behave or have the wrong attitude about others and situations, in those cases we should not feel ashamed but we should be feeling the need to change our ways.

Child abuse, domestic violence, non environmentally friendly practices, animal abuse and neglect, unnecessary political conflicts, world hunger... are just some of those behaviors I am talking about, and unfortunately the acts of a few [and sometimes ourselves], puts the rest of us the shame...

On today's song challenge, day 28 [ I'm also there!!!] I am posting- I song that makes you feel guilty.

Well, I wouldn't say guilty but like I mentioned before, ashamed.

In my case the song I can relate to from this point of view is "Man in the Mirror" by Michael Jackson.

Not only this has a very powerful song but it's got a very simple message, so simple that perhaps it's very hard to follow...

But no matter if this song makes you sad or ashamed, what it should do is makes us wanna be better, reminds us that every day we wake up we have the chance to make a difference in somebody's life and that is as simple as to start with the wo/man in the mirror.

Have a wonderful Wednesday!!!

piano [who]man

If have the opportunity to learn to play an instrument, without a doubt I would choose the piano. I think it's an amazing instrument that can create some unbelievably beautiful music.

If only I could choose my teacher, I would have chosen the very talented Cuban artist/pianist, Ruben Gonzalez, he was amazing!

On today's song challenge I am posting- A song that I wish could play.

Well, in this case, pretty much any piano song is in my list,  specially if it's played by Ruben... He has some unbelievable songs.

Ever heard of the "Buena Vista Social Club"?

The Buena Vista Social Club was a members club in Havana, Cuba that held dances and musical activities, becoming a popular location for musicians to meet and play during the 1940s.


In the 1990s, nearly 50 years after the club was closed, American guitarist Ry Cooder along with traditional Cuban musicians, some of whom were veterans who had performed at the club during the height of its popularity, decided to record an album named Buena Vista Social Club after the Havana institution. The album became an international success.


German director Wim Wenders then captured the performance on film, followed by a second concert in Carnegie Hall, New York City for a documentary that included interviews with the musicians conducted in Havana. Wenders' film, also called Buena Vista Social Club, was released to critical acclaim, receiving an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary feature and winning numerous accolades including Best Documentary at the European Film Awards. (A MUST SEE!!!)


The success of both the album and film sparked a revival of international interest in traditional Cuban music and Latin American music in general. Some of the Cuban performers later released well-received solo albums and recorded collaborations with international stars from different musical genres.


The "Buena Vista Social Club" name became an umbrella term to describe these performances and releases, and has been likened to a brand label that encapsulates Cuba's "musical golden age" between the 1930s and 1950s. The new success was fleeting for the most recognizable artists in the ensemble: Compay Segundo, Rubén González, and Ibrahim Ferrer, who died at the ages of ninety-five, eighty-four, and seventy-eight respectively; Segundo and González in 2003, then Ferrer in 2005.


Several surviving members of the Buena Vista Social Club, currently tour worldwide, to popular acclaim, with new members such as the singer Carlos Calunga, virtuoso pianist Rolando Luna^[1][2] and occasionally the solo singer Omara Portuondo, as part of a 13 member band called Orquesta Buena Vista Social Club. [source: wikipedia.com]

 

And this is how I discovered Ruben's music, and since then I've been captivated by most of these talented musicians, but specially Mr. Gonzalez fabulous piano pieces...

Today I am going to share with you the song "Tres Lindas Cubanas", which means "Three beautiful Cuban Girls"...

Liked it? Well, if you have some time and you feel like listening to more of his beautiful music, please make sure to visit the Ruben Gonzalez YouTube channel and enjoy!

So, yes I wish I could play the piano like him... Oh well, at least I can play it on my cd player at home, LOL!

Happy Tuesday!!!

Merengues & More

Today's song challenge is quite disappointing, because if only I was able to play music the same way I can crochet or bake, I would be able to share a song today, but I don't...

So, instead of posting a song you can play on an instrument (as the challenge today calls for). I am going to share my latest crochet creations as well as some sugar merengues I baked yesteday.

A few weeks ago I joined a Fall Frenzy Gift Swap via Life of Meg blog, I got Jamie as a swap partner so I made her this lovely little owl... I named him Dr. Who!

Also in the spirit of Fall and Halloween I made a very nice Crochet Pumpkin...

Even our dog Sheba liked it!!!

So, yes, I might not be able to play a song on an instrument, but I surely can play an oven for some delicious baking...

When we were kids, my Mom used to bake these treats for us all the time, Sugar Merengues... I love them. This is officially the very first time I make them by myself.

The ingredients are:

3 egg whites
1 cuppa suga'
1/2 teaspoon of white vinegar
1/4 teaspoon of cream of tartar

Using a hand or regular mixer, whip egg whites and when they start to look all white, add the vinegar and cream of tartar, keep mixing and then add little by little the cup of sugar. Once you've added all the sugar mix for 4 minutes. Using a spoon put the mixture inside a decorating bag and create your little merengues.

Bake in a dark cookie sheet (not greased) for 1 hour and 5 minutes. Once out of the oven wait about 2 minutes to get them off the sheet, if they don't come out easy, then put back on the oven 5 more minutes.

And now for the final result.... [insert drum roll here]

Have a sweet Monday!!!

Day-O

Some people say, "laughter is the best medicine", plus if you laugh on Sunday, you'll laugh all week (well, not really!).

Today's song challenge is to post- A song that makes you laugh.

The following song by itself doesn't necessary makes me laugh, but the scene from the movie Beetlejuice with the song does... I just try to imagine how many times those actors had to shoot that scene without laughing...

The name of the song is Banana Boat Song a.k.a Day-O by Harry Belafonte. 

Hope you enjoyed the video as much as you are enjoying your Sunday!!! Happy week ahead :)

When the day comes....

Today's topic for a song challenge is quite different and something I've never really thought of before.

But, in a world where there's so much violence, wars, destruction of the environment and simply lack of values, one can only be ready for when God calls us to his side and hope that when the day comes, we will be rewards with a much better place than what Earth is becoming every day.

Day 24 of the 30 days song challenge is- A song that you want to play at your funeral.

Well, like I mentioned before, I never really thought about this until now that I am doing this challenge and after some though, I guess I would like to go with the following song.

"In My Life" by The Beatles.

The Beatles were and still are an amazing band, so it's really difficult to go wrong with their songs. 

On a happier note, yesterday I was off and I really enjoyed my day. Went to the gym, grocery shopping and just relaxed the rest of the day...

Hope everybody's enjoying their Saturday and rest of the weekend!!!

Over the rainbow

It's been 882 days, or 2 years, 4 months and 29 days since the day I walked down the aisle.

There, was my man, waiting for me, so we can both say our vows and officially become husband and wife.

Our wedding was very nice and simple, with just the right amount of family and friends invited to witness our love and our union.

So, why is it today I am thinking about such a special and unforgettable day?

Well, cause today's song challenge is to post- A song that you want to play at your wedding.

In our case, after we walked out together holding hands, we played the following song.

Isn't this a beautiful song... well, that's exactly how I felt that day... Somewhere over the rainbow!!!!

And I still, to the day, I feel very much in love, lucky and blessed, it's been 882 days of me being the wife of a wonderful man... Whom I get to spend the weekend with by the way! :D

Oh yeah, I forgot to mention. I am off today so it's a long weekend for me, yey!!!

Have a wonderful day and weekend ahead!!!

Day 22

Once I read an article that talked about the memory of our senses; eyesight, taste, smell and hearing. According to the article, the sense of smell is the one that has the best memory of all.

Well, not sure if I agree entirely with the article, since I think that the sense of hearing can trigger on our brain lots of memories; when we listen to a song, a voice, bird chirping, etc...

Now, today's song challenge calls for- A song to listen when you are sad.

The song I decided to share today, is not necessary a song that I myself listen to when I'm sad, but it sure can apply if you need a song to listen to when you are feeling blue.

In my case this song brings me some very nice memories of my teenage years!

"Everybody Hurts" by R.E.M.

Hope you enjoyed the video... Have a wonderful Thursday!!!

Happy song

Sunday was a pretty exhausting day for me when we did our annual inventory at work.

Problem is, for some reason I still feel as if instead of working at an art gallery, I work as a dummy on a baseball bat factory, very single muscle in my body hurts.

Perhaps it's because I haven't been to the gym in a while and this is because I am having some major skin issues, so in order to avoid my rash getting worse I have to try an not sweat too much.

On Monday I went to the doctor and he sent me a new treatment, unfortunately at the pharmacy and I couldn't find one of the ointments, so I got to wait until Thursday to get it... hoping to jump back in the exercise horse by Friday.

I need more energy asap!

On today's song challenge, I am posting- A song to listen to when you are happy.

Now, this song I'm posting is a classic, and you can't definitely go wrong with it!

"I'm walking on sunshine, wooaah!!!" by Katrina & The Waves.

 So, how about we all walk on sunshine today? Have a great day!!!

nothing else matters...

With 10 days left on my song challenge, today's post is- A song to listen when you are angry.

I haven't really listen to music while angry, in a long time, but if I was to choose a song to listen to, I could probably go with "Nothing Else Matters" by Metallica.

I think this is a very deep, wreaking heart song that could very well help you get over any angry moments... check it out and give me your opinion, o.k???

It's also a good song to calm you down, or even drown your anger...

Have a wonderful Tuesday!!!

Sunday Morning

No, I am not mistaken with the day and I wish it was Sunday morning all over again because I had a pretty long day yesterday.

Inventory for my part of the store (the gallery) was fast and smooth, everything "art related" was accounted for by 1 o'clock in the afternoon.

Unfortunately I cannot say the same for the retail store downstairs that took forever to get done.

So after I was finished, I basically help out the rest of the time by pre-counting some of the product to speed up the process. Unfortunately one of the "teams" with a gun was very slow and slacking, so it took F-O-R-E-V-E-R to finish.

For today's song challenge I am supposed to post- A song from my favorite album.

Well, I don't think I have a favorite album, but for a while I was really into Maroon 5's "Song about Jane" one. Also during that time is when I met my husband, so this will be an album that will always have a special place in my heart.

This album reminds me of that time at the beginning of a relationship when you feel "butterflies" on your tummy when to you talk to the person, when you see them and pretty much everything makes you happy!

I think I like every single song on this album, but today I am going to post "Sunday Morning".

"You twist to fit the mold that I am in.."- that phrase describe also how I felt during that time when I met my husband, like we were both twisting to fit each others life and way of living... it was an awesome time and I am very happy we now fit, together, in our own little mold!

Have a wonderful Monday morning, afternoon and evening!!!

working Sunday

While you are in the comfort of your own home reading this, I am at working doing our annual inventory...

Did I mention I am very happy it's only an annual thing? Well, I am, because I don't really like working on Sunday.

Today's song challenge is to post- A song that you wish you hear on the radio.

For today's song I am going to post one of the many Jack Johnson songs that I like and that I wish that were played on the radio, my choice today is "Better Together"... (By the way; I found a very nice animation video on YouTube for this song), hope you'll like it!




Isn't it a nice song?

Have a wonderful Sunday!!!

Saturday Off!

Today is my only off day during the week, as tomorrow we are going into work to do the annual inventory.

The good news is that, as of yesterday at 3pm when I left work, I feel very confident that I am pretty much ready to take on that "scan gun" and shoot the entire inventory in a couple of hours.... Hoping that would be case.

Today I've decided to bake some cupcakes out my great grand aunt's cake recipe that is "to die for", so delicious. This would be the first time I attempt that recipe for cupcakes, let's see how it comes out... Also I am trying a Marshmallow Frosting my Mom used to make when I was kid... yummy!


Tonight we are going to Chloe and Adam's wedding, will share some pictures later.

And now, to my song challenge of the day- A song that you hear often on the radio.




I guess this guy Pitbull is pretty popular now a day, this song features Marc Anthony (JLo's ex) and I guess this song it's a big hit right now (at least around here), it's all over the place and they play it in the radio at least once a day...

Gotta say, now really my "cuppa cocoa" but I guess it's alright... And there you have it, today's song!

Have a great Saturday!!!

Finally it's Friday :)

Let's start today by celebrating the fact that it's Friday already.

Although I am not quite ready for Sunday (when we are having our annual inventory), I am ready to take on everything that left to do for today and be ready... My reward? one day off I get tomorrow and hopefully that the inventory goes smoothly and fast on Sunday!

Plus tomorrow Saturday our friends Chloe & Adam are getting married, so that should be fun too!

Now, today's song challenge comes loaded with some something extra special...

[insert drum roll here]........

Friday's Random pictures!!!

But this aren't just any pictures, but some I've taken around lately with my brand new Samsung Galaxy S2, which by the way is awesome and takes some pretty cool shots!

Now, to the pics... 

7 mile beach with rain in the horizon

part of our cactus collection

Our dog Ditto (and Sheba in the very back)

Our 6 resident kitties, from left: BTK, Little One, Goldie, Leroy, Shadow and Al.

view from my desk at work

another one of our doggies

big water spout by the cruise ship leaving the island

round cactus

And last but not least, for today's song challenge I am supposed to post- A song that you used to love but now hate.

Well, I don't really think there is such a song in my life. But there is one that I used to listen to a lot when it came out and I even got the record, but then it got suuuper popular and the radio used to play it sort of 24/7 so I kind of got tired of it and don't like it as much anymore...

The song is "Waterfalls" by T.L.C.

I think the lyrics and the message are quite good, but I do have to say I do not hate it, it's just I don't like it as much anymore!

Have a great Weekend!

Unwritten Day

You know you really love somebody when you have conversations like this... and you find it adorable.

(Very early in the morning)...

Me: what time is it?
Him: it's almost time to get up.
Me: really? but what time is it?
Him: almost 5
Me: looks pretty dark out...
Him: well, it's 4:15!!!

Now, since when 4:15 is almost 5?!? LOL... And since my usual wake up time is 7, the whole thing didn't quite make any sense.

Perhaps he was actually talking in his sleep, or not. Most times it is just his very unique logic, which makes him a very peculiar man... But, he is my husband and I love him just the way he is!

And now, back to my song challenge, today I am 1/2 done with it and that makes me happy, some days have been fun and easy, others not so much.

The song I am posting today is- A song that describes you.

Well, without over analyzing today's challenge, I am going to with a song that is very positive and that has a message that every time I hear it, inspires me.

The song message is basically; be yourself, live life to the fullest and remember that nothing is written in stone and we are the only ones that can make ourselves happy.... let's live our lives with arms wide open!!!

"Unwritten" by Natasha Bedinfield

I am unwritten, can't read my mind, I'm undefined

I'm just beginning, the pen's in my hand, ending unplanned

Staring at the blank page before you

Open up the dirty window

Let the sun illuminate the words that you could not find

Reaching for something in the distance

So close you can almost taste it

Release your inhibitions

Feel the rain on your skin

No one else can feel it for you

Only you can let it in

No one else, no one else

Can speak the words on your lips

Drench yourself in words unspoken

Live your life with arms wide open

Today is where your book begins

The rest is still unwritten

Oh, oh, oh

I break tradition, sometimes my tries, are outside the lines

We've been conditioned to not make mistakes, but I can't live that way

Staring at the blank page before you

Open up the dirty window

Let the sun illuminate the words that you could not find

Reaching for something in the distance

So close you can almost taste it

Release your inhibitions

Feel the rain on your skin

No one else can feel it for you

Only you can let it in

No one else, no one else

Can speak the words on your lips

Drench yourself in words unspoken

Live your life with arms wide open

Today is where your book begins

Feel the rain on your skin

No one else can feel it for you

Only you can let it in

No one else, no one else

Can speak the words on your lips

Drench yourself in words unspoken

Live your life with arms wide open

Today is where your book begins

The rest is still unwritten

Staring at the blank page before you

Open up the dirty window

Let the sun illuminate the words that you could not find

Reaching for something in the distance

So close you can almost taste it

Release your inhibitions

Feel the rain on your skin

No one else can feel it for you

Only you can let it in

No one else, no one else

Can speak the words on your lips

Drench yourself in words unspoken

Live your life with arms wide open

Today is where your book begins

Feel the rain on your skin

No one else can feel it for you

Only you can let it in

No one else, no one else

Can speak the words on your lips

Drench yourself in words unspoken

Live your life with arms wide open

Today is where your book begins

The rest is still unwritten

The rest is still unwritten

The rest is still unwritten

What do you think of this song? have you heard it before? Hope you liked it...

Have a wonderful day... remember "the rest is still unwritten" so make the best of it!!!

Without Me

Wednesday is here, half a week gone and I have to say I feel pretty good about the week so far.

At work we will have inventory this next weekend coming up. I have been working hard to make sure everything is ticketed and the scanning of all the art goes fast and smooth.

Also half way done with the week, it's day 14 (already!) for my 30 day song challenge, which today is to post- A song that "no one" expect me to like.

I am not sure about this whole "no one" deal, because most of you, my lovely readers of my blog, don't know me in person, so who is to expect what from my taste in music, right? I sure don't expect anything from your taste in music.

Because that is what life is all about, respect to free will and taste in music, food, looks, activities, religion, culture, etc, etc, etc... right? To me expectations without respect is like a hollow desire.

So, I guess today I am posting a song that is kind of out of character for me, but truth of the matter is, I like it!

Today's song today is "Without me" by the famous rapper Eminem.

I think some of his songs are pretty good, he is a rapped with rhythm and even rhyme... Unfortunately we cannot say the same for many "artist" playing songs in the radio nowadays... Still I respect those "artists", but don't expect me to buy their records!!!

Have a great day!!!

guilty as charged!

What kind of toys did you liked when you were a kid?

My favorite doll was Rainbow Brite. But also I had many barbie dolls. Some were "regular" ones, others were princesses and I even had a Barbie Rocker.

Then I also had a Ken and even Barbie's niece Skipper. Oh boy, I would play with my Barbies for hours, always making up houses for them and then my cousins would come over and bring their dolls and we would play about... living, I guess? Perhaps, pretending we were adults through the interaction of our dolls... funny!

Now, why am I writing about Barbie dolls today?

Well, because today's song challenge is to post- A song that is a guilty pleasure.

So I guess my enjoyment of Barbie dolls when I was a little girl still has a spark in my heart with the fact that I have always loved and enjoyed this song, although I know it's a silly song, but what can I say? It's my guilty pleasure.

And the song is no other than Barbie Girl by Aqua. 

Now, this song made me go back into memory lane and look up some of the Barbie dolls I used to have and enjoy, here are some that I remember I had and that I found on the internet.

 

Crystal Barbie (shown above) was a very nice barbie, she had an awesome necklace, a ring plus sparkly shoes.

Love Me Barbie (shown below) had such a pretty dress, the red part was "velvet-y" and the rest was very flow-y and soft. She was very pretty until I decided to cut her hair and that didn't turn out as I expected, so she ended up being, not so pretty!!!

Them there was Western Barbie, who technically really belong to my cousin, but somehow ended up being mine... Although horse must have sold separately cause "we" never had that!

And last but not least, my most favorite Barbie doll I owned, Diva the Rocker.

She was awesome, with her huge and wild hair (reminds me of someone I know- me!) and because she was a rock star, she came with a stand, a guitar a a microphone...

 

 

So, there you have it, the real reason why my guilty pleasure is that song, LOL!

What is your guilty pleasure song?!?!?

Bye, bye weekend!

And we are back to square one.

Monday is here and that marks the beginning of yet another week and another song challenge day.

For today's post I am supposed to post- A song from a band I hate.

Well, I don't really like to use the word hate to describe things I don't like, mostly because hate is such a strong word and it's a feeling that I don't want to give space to in my heart.

But the following band, is one I really don't like, mostly because their songs are lame pop ones and also because I find "boys groups" to be kind of tacky and even sort of ridiculous.

So, for today's song, I am posting a song from a group that no longer exists [insert sigh of relief here] and it's the "all boys" band of N'sync, yuck, can't stand any of their songs!


I don't blame you if you decided not to watch the video, I wouldn't do it myself, LOL! 

This week is going to be a busy one at work as we are all getting ready for our annual inventory of the store, so as of tomorrow I need to check and make sure that every single product in the gallery is priced and with the proper bar code. Oh joy, fun, fun stuff...

So have yourself and wonderful Monday and an even better week ahead!

Sun(day) is shinning!

It's Sunday and the end of another wonderful week.

Weather is been on and off sun and rain, but it is rainy season, so it's o.k. to have some showers, as I always say: I don't mind the rain, as long as it's no hurricane!

Yesterday I went for a dive and it was great, if you would like to see some pictures, please visit my husband's blog here!

In today's song challenge, day 11 it's about posting- A song from your favorite band.

Well, my favorite band is no other than Bob Marley & The Wailers, so today's song it's

Sun is Shinning!

This is a great song, happy Sunday!!!

Watermark

Today is Saturday and it feels like the perfect day to sleep in, but instead I am up and running, ready to get back on the water and do a dive for the first time in about 9 months.

It should be fun but I am a bit nervous, but I guess it's just like "riding a bike", well, at least hope so!

Plus I will be diving with 2 of the best possible dive buddies to have; my lovely husband and my boss...

Unfortunately won't be carrying a camera but I know my boss will, perhaps I can get some of the photos from him later on and share...

Anywho... Today's song challenge it about- A song that makes fall sleep.

In reality music doesn't really make me fall sleep and neither does the T.V.

For some reason I have never been one of those people that can fall sleep to the sound of the T.V. well, I should say, I can do it, but after a few minutes it starts to sound too loud and then it gets annoying and I end up turning it off.

Same with music.

So instead today, I am going to post a song that makes really relax and perhaps would help be fall sleep.

The song is Watermark by Enya. 

I think Enya's music is perfect for relaxing, don't you agree?

Have a great Satuday!!!

let's dance!

It's Friday and I feel like doing a little celebration dance, plus today I have the day off so it ended up having a long weekend after all.

Now, today's song challenge comes at the right time to help me out with the "celebration dance" for the weekend.

Day 09- A song that you can dance to!!!

For that song I can dance to, I decided to post a song by the one and only legendary Cuban salsa singer Celia Cruz... This awesome lady had style, had rhythm and really knew what salsa was all about...

The name of the song is "La Negra Tiene Tumbao" and it means, "The black girl's got rhythm".

I hope everybody has a nice day today and a fantastic weekend. 

I am planning to finally get back on the water and do a dive tomorrow morning- after about 9 months of not diving, wish me luck!

Happy Weekend to all!!!

National Celebration

On a day like today 190 years ago (in 1821), my country as well as other Central American countries & Mexico, signed their Independence from Spain and since that day they have enjoy many years as independent countries.

Today's song challenge is to post- A song that you know all the words to.

So, in honor of my country I am very proud and happy to post the Costa Rica National Anthem, because there's no better song to celebrate such an important date and milestone for my wonderful little country.

Plus, I know all the words to it!




And in case you don't speak any Spanish, here's the translation for it.

Noble homeland, your beautiful flag
Express for us your life:
Under the limpid blue of your skies,
Peace reigns, white and pure.
In the tenacious battle of fruitful toil,
That brings a glow to men's faces,
Your sons, simple farm hands,
Gained eternal renown, esteem and honour,
Gained eternal renown, esteem and honour.
Hail, gentle country!
Hail, loving mother!
If anyone should attempt to besmirch your glory,
You will see your people, valiant and virile,
Exchange their rustic tools for weapons.
Hail, O homeland! Your prodigal soil
Gives us sweet sustenance and shelter.
Under the limpid blue of your sky,
May peaceful labour ever continue.

Lyrics By: José María Zeledón Brenes

Music by: Manuel María Gutiérrez

Happy Independence Day to Costa Rica and all those other countries celebrating today...!!!

Day 07

It's been a week since I started my song challenge. 

For day 07 the challenge calls for- A song that reminds you of a certain event.

The event this song reminds me of is my very first high school dance... just yesterday! 

How fun is to think about those times... This song is called "Ride on Time" by Black Box.


In another note, last night's event was a BIG success, we got about 240 signatures for our petition and this is only the first step towards getting the law pass again. My boss was happy and people were very pleased with how everything turned out.


Have a great day!!!

It's now time to make a change...

It's only Tuesday and I am already exhausted. Work is super busy because tonight we have a major public event for the premier of a documentary my boss just finished filming a few months ago, "The Mystery of the Grouper Moon".

The documentary is about renewing the law that protects a species of fish called Nassau Groupers, during their spawning season.

Hopefully many people will attend tonight and support this worthy cause, and their support will help convince the government to renew the law to protect them. Wish us luck!

In today's song challenge, I am posting- A song that reminds me of somewhere.

Back in 1997, when I was backpacking around Israel and Egypt, I spent some time in the city of Dahab in the Sinai Peninsula. There was this one bar/restaurant that we used to hang out at and they will play the same cd every night (as they only had one) over and over... Of all the songs that they used to play, this was always my very favorite, and is still is a song that has a very special place in my heart.

So, the following song reminds me Dahad and my time there... 

"Father and Son" by Cat Stevens.

It is a classic, but it's a beautiful song, isn't it?

Have a great Tuesday... 

Wonderful Song

As we start yet another week of 2011, my song challenge continues and today calls for- A song that reminds you of someone.

I have to say that in my case I am posting a song that doesn't really reminds me of this particular person, but more makes me think of him... As he is a very important person in my life, so I think of him often (meaning I don't need a song to remind me of him!)

The song is a wonderful one and it goes well with how special and wonderful my world is because I have him in my life. I am talking about my stepdad/uncle/godfather Manrique.

And although he is not my "real father", I very well know that, "It is not flesh and blood but the heart which makes us father and daughter."

 

The song that makes me think of him is no other than 

What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong.

First time I ever heard that song, we were on a family vacation in the US and Manrique bought Louie Armstrong's cassette tape. 

During this month vacation we drove from Atlanta to New Orleans and in the car we were allowed to rotate music, so each one of us was allowed a cassette to play, he would only play this one...

Isn't this a wonderful song with an amazing message?!?!? A great one to start the week.

Now, have a wonderful day!!!

they'll be sad songs...

Today, Sept. 11th, 2011 marks the 10th year anniversary of big tragedy and a sad day for the history of the USA as well as the entire world. For the families of all those that lost their lives and future to the terrorist attacks as well as any of us that are against violence, hate and all things evil.

My heart still goes out to all the victims as well as those that are still affected by this terrible crimes. A whole culture that even to date have to deal with reject because of their background and believes, mainly for the mistake and of some.

I believe that we humans, are all capable of mistakes and sins no matter who we are; their heritage, religion or the color of our skin. But, we are also capable of wonderful things such as; love, care, understanding, forgiveness and kindness, among others.

I am not saying that we need to forget what happened, on the contrary, it's important that we never forget so that those mistakes are not to happen again.

It's important that we love and respect each other so that things like this don't ever happen again and hopefully with our change of mind we can hope for a better and safer future of this planet and our species.

Today's song challenge calls for "A song that makes you sad".

The song I've chosen today is a beautiful song with a message that gets into your heart and soul.

The artist wrote this song after the lost of his 4 year old son Connor. [For those that would like to know more about Connor Clapton's terrible lost and accident, please visit here] 

The song is "Tears in Heaven" by Eric Clapton.

I dedicate this song to all those that lost their lives in 9/11 as well as any others that have already left us and are now in Heaven close to God. 

May they all be resting in peace and looking after us from heaven. 

Have a happy and blessed Sunday!

Happy Saturday!

Day 3 of the 30 days photo challenge is "A song that makes you happy".

Well, there's a few songs that could fall into that category, but today I am going to go with the following song...

"I like to move it, move it"

This song makes me happy, makes me wanna jump, dance and I can't help but smile at the sight of all those silly animals in the video...

The video quality is not the best... but good enough audio to really enjoy the song!

I hope this song makes you happy too... or at least got you to move it, move it!!!

Have a great Saturday :D

Day 2

I know it's Friday and I should actually be posting another wonderful song for my challenge. Unfortunately today's song challenge calls for- Your least favorite song!

Well, first I have to say that the term "least favorite" is definitely an oxymoron and the way I can interpret it, is that I should actually post a song that I like but not very much, right?

Or should I just post a song that I don't like at all, so that would make it my least favorite?

How confusing ?!?!?!????!????!!!!????? So, I guess I am going to go with a song that I don't like, period! Here's it is... More than Words by Extreme.

Oh Lord, this is such a whinny, awful song. I guess it's supposed to be a love song, but the only feelings it brings to me, is wanting to have a very sharp razor to cut my veins open (LOL, kidding!)...

  

Now, I cannot say much about the Band Extreme, because I don't think they put out any other "hits" other than this one, plus I don't even want to imagine their other songs if this is their best "hit"!!!!

For those that do like this song, I don't really apologize but I would highly suggest to go pay a visit to an Otolaryngologist to help you out with that ear problem, ha!

And for those that watched the video and actually listen to the song... Oh well, at least you have the weekend coming up to get over the shock... Have a great weekend!!!

Here i go again...

Today is back to day 1 on a blog challenge, but this time it's all about music... And like my dear Bob Marley once said (and sang)

"One good thing about music, when it hits you... you feel no pain"

Now, the very first day of this challenge calls for- Your favorite song.

Well, that's a difficult one for me, as I have explained many things before, I am not a person of absolutes... meaning I don't really have one favorite of anything (well, perhaps I have a favorite person,  my wonderful husband!).

So, I don't think I have a absolute favorite color, food, clothes and other things... I like variety and things in my life are in constant change.

In my life I go through different phases and some times I can find something very appealing and others I am in the mood for something different.

And that's why today's song challenge is kind of difficult, but if I was to choose a favorite song, I guess here are my top 3.

1. Change by Mind Melon. 

The very first time I ever heard this song I was going to high school in Attica, NY. During English class everybody was supposed to bring a song, play it and then analyze the metaphors and similes. Somebody brought this song... well, from the first time I loved the lyrics and music and it's been one my favorite songs since then. 

Unfortunately Blind Melon's main vocals and leader (Shannon Hoon- the "golden" guy in the video) died of a overdose back in 1995. RIP Shannon, you still live among us with your music.

2. My next is no other that Mr. Robert Nesta Marley who is BY FAR my favorite singer/songwriter (well, I guess I do have a favorite singer).

Redemption Songs by Bob Marley and the Wailers.

This song is very special and with a very deep message, a must hear!

3. And the spot for #3 is another song I love, because of the awesome guitar, the rhythm and even the video is very cool.

"Money for Nothing" by Dire Straits.

So, yeah I guess those 3 would be my choices... It's kind of unfortunate that 2 of the 3 singers are already gone, but at least they left a good legacy with their music.

RIP Bob & Shannon, may you both be jamming together in Heaven!

Have a great day!!!

challenged much?

Well, looks like our duty with Mir is over, we have paid the bill and he is now in the Vet's hands.

I am very confident that there's somebody out there that can give him a good home and I pray and thank God for that.

In another note, for those reading my blog for a while, remember my famous 100 Day photo Challenge?

Well, I certainly do remember it, mainly because it was hard work but it was also so much fun.

And because of the second reason (the fun part), I've decided to take on yet another challenge.

This time my new challenge is going to be the 30 Day Song Challenge.

Once again I will try to make it without missing a day (even posting on weekends) to fulfill the whole challenge (God willing!).

So, now to the details, here's the list of what the challenge calls for:

Day 01 – Your favorite song

Day 02 – Your least favorite song

Day 03 – A song that makes you happy
Day 04 – A song that makes you sad
Day 05 – A song that reminds you of someone
Day 06 – A song that reminds of you of somewhere

Day 07 – A song that reminds you of a certain event

Day 08 – A song that you know all the words to

Day 09 – A song that you can dance to

Day 10 – A song that makes you fall asleep
Day 11 – A song from your favorite band
Day 12 – A song from a band you hate
Day 13 – A song that is a guilty pleasure

Day 14 – A song that no one would expect you to love
Day 15 – A song that describes you
Day 16 – A song that you used to love but now hate
Day 17 – A song that you hear often on the radio
Day 18 – A song that you wish you heard on the radio
Day 19 – A song from your favorite album
Day 20 – A song that you listen to when you’re angry
Day 21 – A song that you listen to when you’re happy
Day 22 – A song that you listen to when you’re sad
Day 23 – A song that you want to play at your wedding
Day 24 – A song that you want to play at your funeral
Day 25 – A song that makes you laugh
Day 26 – A song that you can play on an instrument
Day 27 – A song that you wish you could play
Day 28 – A song that makes you feel guilty
Day 29 – A song from your childhood
Day 30 – Your favorite song at this time last year

I am very excited and can't wait to start this new challenge tomorrow... 

Have a great day!!!

in need of a forever home

After a few days at the Vet, it looks like Mir is finally out of the woods, although yesterday afternoon he was still having trouble eating, so we decided to give him another night at the clinic just to make sure he is really back in full force.

"Mir" the day after the accident... doing much better now!

Perhaps he is somebody's cat and he misses his family and home? Or maybe just like the Vet said, he bleed a lot through his nose and cannot smell food quite yet.

So, in a good note he is doing much better. In another not such good news, he cannot be an outdoor cat anymore, mostly because one of his eyes is not quite working properly so the doctor considers he needs to be an indoor cat from now on.

Now, the problem about becoming an indoor cat is that you really need a place to live.

In our case, even if we would like to keep him with all of our heart, we already have 2 dogs that DO NOT like cats at all and one of them is sort of a "killing machine" when it comes to chickens, cats, iguanas and pretty much anything smaller than him. Now, imagine the odds of this kitty with a "bad" eye trying to survive around this killing machine, NO WAY!

So, remember a few days ago when I was desperately asking people for prayers in order to ask God to place His healing hand over him? Well that worked, so thanks!

Now we have decided for the Vet to keep him and they've said that they promise to find him a home and NOT put him down (and after all their time and effort to save him I am sure they will keep their promise).

But it's so hard, because we really would like to keep him but cannot put him at risk with our dogs, it's just not fair.

Anyway, this reminds of the lovely affirmation that goes: "The Will of God will never take you, where the Grace of God will not protect you".

And this is why I think there's got to be a reason why I literally crashed into this cat and a reason why not only he didn't die but survived and it's got another chance. I know that God works in mysterious ways and he will help the Vet office, find this lovely kitty a forever home.

So, please keep him in your prayers and if you'll like to adopt him let me know as well!!!

Have a great Tuesday!

brief busy social life

"Good Friends are like stars... You don't always see them, 

but you know they are always there".

Confucius

While I was in Costa Rica a few weeks ago, I was so blessed to catch up with friends that I haven't seen in a long time.

Had time to socialize and made me feel like I had a "busy" social life again... Something I kind of lack in my life in Cayman.

So, spending time with them, was great. Here are some pictures of my time with them!

breakfast with my cousin and a mutual best friend Roger

Some of my "besties" from High School

Good friends from life, Adriana & Pable

My dear very good friend Oswaldo (green & white shirt) and his partner Javier... Love u guys!!!

with another cousin an a good friend from high school

Isn't nice to see people after a long time and to feel as if time doesn't go by or changes your friendship? I love it...

>''<

 

In other news, looks like out "crashed" kitty is doing much better, he (confirmed it's a male) is still at the Vet's but not eating much.

According to the doctor, he might not be eating, because he was bleeding a lot through his nose, so perhaps he cannot quite smell right, just yet.

We are hoping he will be ready to come home soon, as I don't know how much a 4 night "clinic" stay is going to end up costing us... But oh well, as long as he gets better, that's all I really care for.

Have a great weekend and more news about Mirr (that is his new name) the cat, soon come!!!