Wayraman - Manatial

Wayraman by Manatial

Beautiful panpipes and flute telling a story of love. Sweet!

Manatial, The Mystic Sound from the Andes, Song: Wayraman, Album: The Secret of the Dancing Spirits DVD, Video produced by: AylluRecords. Recorded in Salasaca, Ecuador. Official website: manantial-productions.com.

Manantial are Indigenous musicians from the Kichwa-Salasaka community in  Ecuador. They present a magical connection between ancient and present cultures through song and dance. Members include Alberto Jerez, Kjulliar Jerez and Carlos Jerez  from Salasaka-Ecuador.

~Bonnee

Mo Ghruagach Dhonn - Julie Fowlis

Mo Ghruagach Dhonn sung by Julie Fowlis

Lovely, clear and sweet, Julie's voice is just beautiful. I enjoy listening to her sing this ancient Gaelic love song about a man's search.

Julie says of the song,

"This is a North Uist love song which I heard for the first time in the house of Kate-Ann MacLellan in Hùna, North Uist (Scotland)."

Julie Fowlis, Song: Mo Ghruagach Dhonn , Album: Cuilidh  (2007), Label: SPIT & POLISH  Official website: www.juliefowlis.com

Mo Ghruagach Dhonn (My Brown-haired Lass) Gaelic lyrics in English:

Hi ho ro, my brown-haired lass,
whose beauty becomes more beguiling.
The deep love I have for you
has left me sorely wounded.

Your letter arrived on Tuesday
Telling of what was to be.
It told that your ship would arrive
in Glasgow without delay.
When I read this,
I immediately headed for the Broomielaw.
I saw the ship carrying the jewel,
the maiden, approach.

When I held out my hand
you turned  with a slight smile and
uttered a couple of words
which left me sleepless many nights

You have the loveliest hair,
neither black, nor red nor fair,
but the colour of the most beautiful gold,
yellow, braided and curled. 

I would write for you with a pen.
I would cultivate  for you with a plough.
I would captain a ship for you,
brown haired lass of the deceiving eyes.

You are skilled at working wool
and at writing on blank paper.
But if you have gone overseas, to Australia,
goodbye to you.

I will no longer be in despair.
I’ll grab a new one by the hand.
Solomon, the wisest man who lived,
had many sweethearts

Julie Fowlis born 1979 in North Uist, an island in the Outer Hebrides Scotland is a folk singer instrumentalist who sings primarily in Gaelic. She won the Horizon award at the 2006 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards and Folk Singer of The Year at the 2008 awards.

~Bonnee

Regresa a mi - Il Divo

'Regresa a mi' sung by Il Divo

A beautiful, sad, moving love song, passionately sung by Il Divo.  Longing for love lost. The line, 'My life turns off without you by my side' touches me. We often merge our lives so completely with another that when other is gone we turn off or shut down. Sometimes it takes years to come alive again... to become some semblance of what we were before the relationship... forever changed, altered. We may review... as a result grow and become more through love. Life is meant to be poignant... Love is always a Divine gift.

A dear friend once said to me, 'I would rather be without love than to accept something ordinary.'  I believe, Love is never ordinary when it comes, treasure it in all its' forms.  No one... nothing is ordinary, nor is anyone or anything special. Everything is sacred and Divine... everyone Perfect as they are... nothing better, nor worse.. just is. Accept what is given and be filled with joy... a choice. The dance of life and love is full of experiences and choices... a smorgasbord of sensations and feelings. Flow with life... appreciate, accept what is and be grateful for breath. We are given what we need in every moment... relationships, family, friends or sacred time to ourselves... discerning what enhances. Searching leads to more searching, an endless quest... a good game like every undertaking. Fun. Play well. What seems mystical to one is simply life unfolding for another. Everything is a blessing from God... life, love, body, home, family, friends, animals, food, nature, breath... everything! Thank you, thank you, thank you for Love, beloved Creator! 

Il Divo, Song: Regresa a Mi, Album: Il Divo - Il Divo (2004), Label: Sony BMG, Music video: 2006 Sony BMG Music Entertainment. Sony BMG Music UK (c) 2004 Simco Limited exclusively licensed to Sony BMG Music Entertainment (UK) Limited. Official website: www.ildivo.com

Regresa a mi (Return to me) lyrics (Spanish) in English (translated by elmarto-ga):

Don't leave me like this
Speaking only of you
Come and give the smile that went away back to me
One more time to touch your skin and deep to sigh
Let's recover what has been lost
Return to me

Love me once again
Erase the grief I experienced when you left
when you parted from me
Tell me yes
I don't want to cry
Return to me

I miss the love that went away
I miss the happiness as well
I want you to come to me and love me again
I can't go on if you're not here; you have to arrive
My life turns off without you by my side
Return to me, Return to me

Il Divo (Italian for 'star or or celebrity') was created by music manager Simon Cowell. They are a multinational operatic pop vocal group. Members of Il Divo are singers: Carlos Marín (born October 13, 1968 in Rüsselsheim, Germany, raised in Madrid, Spain), Urs Bühler (born July 19, 1971 in Willisau, Lucerne, Switzerland), David Miller (born April 14, 1973 in San Diego, California but grew up in Littleton, Colorado), and Sébastien Izambard (born March 7, 1973 in Paris, France). They sing in English, Italian, Spanish, French and Latin. Il Divo was named the Most Multinational UK No.1 Album Group in the 2006 edition of the Guinness Book of World Records.

~Bonnee

Three Little Birds - Connie Talbot

'Three Little Birds' sung by Connie Talbot

Sweet, fun and happy, makes me smile. I love the lines, 'Don't worry about a thing, cause every little thing is gonna be alright.' How true!  Worry stems from thinking about past/future, usually something which has not yet manifest. Worry is fear-based (FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real or Future Expectations Appearing Real). It's not yet become reality, so is assumed or expected. With our powerful thoughts backed with by feelings we make what we dwell on real. So remembering, 'Don't worry cause everything's gonna be alright' helps us take a deep breath, step back from 'whatever' and know we are ok. Right now we are ok! Thanks for the happy reminder. I just found Connie today on youtube, what talent!

Connie Talbot, Song: Three Little Birds, Album: Over the rainbow (2008), Label: AAO Rainbow Recording  , Official website: www.connietalbot.com.  'Three Little Birds' originally made popular by Bob Marley.

'Three Little Birds' lyrics:

Dont worry about a thing,
cause every little thing gonna be all right.
Singin: dont worry about a thing,
cause every little thing gonna be all right!

Rise up this mornin,
Smiled with the risin sun,
Three little birds
Pitch by my doorstep
Singin sweet songs
Of melodies pure and true,
Sayin, (this is my message to you-ou-ou:)

Singin: dont worry bout a thing,
cause every little thing gonna be all right.
Singin: dont worry (dont worry) bout a thing,
cause every little thing gonna be all right!

Rise up this mornin,
Smiled with the risin sun,
Three little birds
Pitch by my doorstep
Singin sweet songs
Of melodies pure and true,
Sayin, this is my message to you-ou-ou:

Singin: dont worry about a thing, worry about a thing, oh!
Every little thing gonna be all right. dont worry!
Singin: dont worry about a thing - I wont worry!
cause every little thing gonna be all right.

Connie Talbot born November 20, 2000 in Streetly, West Midlands, England is a child singer. She began singing at age 2 and rose to fame in 2007 after her appearance on Britain's Got Talent. She's also in the newest Guinness Book of Records as the youngest artist to ever be in the UK Charts.

~Bonnee

Furniture - Amy Studt

'Furniture' sung by Amy Studt, music video

Haunting, fragile and intense... touches me to the bone! Makes me wonder... why we cause harm to each other, the earth and all life? Why don't we love each other or ourselves? Will we be able to collectively move beyond these destructive patterns? I know we can! I really like the lines, 'behind the skin, my divinity, behind the skin, my only sanctuary.' The skin, the bone... a vehicle... a temple. Behind the skin... Soul... our Divinity, our sanctuary... who 'we truly are'. We move toward the ultimate... conscious merging of skin and Soul... self actualization... enlightenment or Divine Union. Works like this song help us see, understand, know... remember right action... awake our compassionate nature.  Thanks Amy for creating a wonderful song and for the reminder.

Amy Studt, Song: Furniture (digital single December 2007), Album: My Paper Made Men (digital May 2008, CD March 2009), Label: 19 Entertainment, Video produced by: Lee Lennox, Official website: www.amystudt.com.

'Furniture' lyrics:

I am only flesh and bones, Splintered glass and tattered clothes,
behind the skin, my fragility, behind the skin, a skeletal impracticality,
I am only pieces of you, held together with paper glue,
behind the skin, my divinity, behind the skin, my only sanctuary.
You can lean on me, have a drink on me, leave your mark all over me, paint the outside 'till it smiles, you can eat off me, rest your head on me, press yourself on top of me, kick the back until its quiet.
All in all I'm just furniture, Just another piece taking you one step further from the perfect living room set,
All in all I'm just furniture, In these 4 walls that hold me, keep me safe under sound and bare within its grip.
My wooden heart it sings no more, This dress I wear becomes the floor, behind the skin, a living, breathing thing, behind the skin, a place you've never been.
You can lean on me, have a drink on me, leave your mark all over me, paint the outside 'till it smiles, you can eat off me, rest your head on me, press yourself on top of me, kick the back until its quiet.
All in all I'm just furniture, Just another piece taking you one step further from the perfect living room set,
All in all I'm just furniture, In these 4 walls that hold me, keep me safe under sound and bare within its grip.
I am only flesh and bones, Splintered glass and tattered clothes

 

Amy Studt (Amy Jane Studt) born March 22, 1986 in Bournemouth, England is a singer, songwriter and musician. She made her first music demo at 14 which resulted in a contract with Polydor. Her first single 'Just a Little Girl' released in 2002 was an international success.  Amy's Myspace page is amystudtofficial.

~Bonnee

Længe Siden - Sorten Muld

"Længe Siden' by Sorten Muld

Beautiful, body moving, earthy, sexy. Deep in the woods, dancing with the fey... enchanted. Thanks Sorten Muld for the journey... melding past and present. Wonderful!

Sorten Muld, Song: Længe Siden, Album: III (2000), Label: NorthSide, Website: www.sortenmuld.dk

'Længe Siden' 'Long Ago'  lyrics:

Mild mild sommervind
lærker i dit hår
hvor er det længe længe siden
Men snart er rejsen endebragt
snart vender du hjem
til mild mild sommervind alle dage

English translation...

Soft soft summer breeze
Larks hiding in your hair
Its such a long long time ago now
But soon the journey is brought to its end
Soon you will return
to soft soft summer breeze all days to come

Sorten Muld 'Black Earth' a Danish electro-folk band, formed in 1995. Band members are: singer Ulla Bendixsen, musician-architect Martin Ottesen and technician Henrik Munch. Their first major release in Denmark was Mark II which went gold and won 2 Danish Grammy awards.

~Bonnee

Unfold by Marié Digby

Unfold performed by Marié Digby

Beautiful, touching song. Reminds me of a butterfly emerging from a chrysalis. She unfolds... comes out... becomes more who she truly is and allows love to permeate... all. I love the line, 'My soul it's dying to be free I can't live the rest of my life so guarded. It's up to me to choose.. what kind of life I lead.'  A choice... to live life fully and allow love in. Love is the essence of all! What a wonderful reminder Marié thanks for sharing your heart and unfolding process with us! 

Marié Digby, Song: Unfold, Album: Unfold (2008), Label:  Hollywood Records. Her official Youtube channel  is MarieDigby.

Marie says about the song,

This is a song I wrote recently called 'Unfold'... it's probably the most personal song I've ever written. It came out of my frustration at my tendency to shut people out. Especially in love, I found myself always finding reasons to back away and I couldn't figure out why. This song is literally, my thinking process in trying to understand how I became this person and if I have the power to change it.

Unfold lyrics:

What I can remember is a lot like water trickling down a page of the most beautiful colors. I can't quite put my finger down on the moment that I became like ... this.

You see I'm the bravest girl you will ever come to meet and yet I shrink down to nothing at the thought of someone really seeing me.

I think my heart is wrapped around and tangled up in winding weeds but I don't wanna go on living being so afraid of showing someone else my.. imperfections.

Even though my feet are trembling and every word I say comes stumbling I will bare it all.. watch me unfold... unfold.

These hands that I hold behind my back are bound and broken by my own doing and I can't feel anything, anymore I need a touch to remind me I'm still real..

My soul it's dying to be free I can't live the rest of my life
so guarded. It's up to me to choose.. what kind of life I lead.
Cause I don't wanna go on living being so afraid of showing
someone else my.. imperfections.

Even though my feet are trembling and every word I say comes stumbling I will bare it all.. watch me unfold... unfold.

I will allow someone to love me
I will allow someone to love me...
love me.. love me...

Marié Digby (pr. Mahr-ee-ay) born April 16, 1983 in New York is a singer/songwriter/musician from Los Angeles, California.

Today is full moon 14:49 UT (6:49am PST). There is also a penumbral lunar eclipse between 1400 and 1520 UT (6:00am - 7:20am PST). Today's eclipse brings in Love. Many folks around the world are focusing on Love to amplify and strengthen the memory for all that is. Thank you beloved Creator for your blessings of Love and thanks to all who focus on it.

All you need is Love!   John Lennon

~Bonnee

Simple Soul - Eddi Reader

'Simple Soul' sung by Eddi Reader

Just lovely!  A song that talks about simplicity, living and loving simply and seeing the best in all. I really like the verse, 'But it only takes a child to see, The diamonds in the coal.' Seeing the beauty, wonder and value in everything... in each other. There is a Sanskrit word 'Namaste' which in essence means 'I recognize, honor and bow to you as Master/Soul'. At our core we are all Masters or diamonds... clear, beautiful and sparkling. We simply are, know, are connected to everything and are in the present moment. Imagine if everyone lived this... life from Soul or enlightenment. Sweet easy uncomplicated life, living fully with precious love, incredible awe, prosperity and peace.  Thanks for the reminder Eddi!

Eddi Reader, Song: Simple Soul, Album:  Simple Soul (2001), Label: Compass Records. Website: www.eddireader.co.uk

Lyrics to 'Simple Soul'

I'd lift my head with each sunrise
If I had a simple soul
When I was weary I'd close my eyes
If I had a simple soul
Not too complicated to shiver when I'm cold
I'd make my home where I am bound
If I had a simple soul, simple soul
I say my prayers and hope to God
And I know he will know
I will break my daily bread
When hunger starts to grow
It doesn't have to be that hard
If it hurts you let it go
What you see is what you are
If you've got a simple soul, simple soul
It might take an alchemist
To turn your dust to gold
But it only takes a child to see
The diamonds in the coal
It's not so easy when a habit takes a hold
I never knew it would be so hard
To keep my simple soul, simple soul

Eddi Reader was born Sadenia Edna Reader in Glasgow, Scotland August 28, 1959. Eddi is a singer/songwriter who worked with the band Fairground Attraction and now has a successful solo career.

~Bonnee

12/31 Happy New Year, ABBA

'Happy New Year' sung by ABBA

Ringing in the New Year! May we hold thoughts of Peace, Love, Happiness and Prosperity for all in 2009 and always. We are One... one family, one society, one world... beloved Humanity. Beautiful diversity... perfect symmetry!

ABBA, Song: Happy New Year, Album: Super Trouper (1980) Label: Epic, TV performance: Stockholm, Sweden 31st December 1980 and every year at midnight in Sweden.

 

Sparkling rays

The sky's alight.

With dancing colors to delight.

And sparkling rays in dark of night.

Thank you God for this awesome sight.

A gift of magic for new years bright...

~ inspired by this beautiful image.  I am in awe!!!

The beautiful photo above I call, 'Sparkling Rays' is by Sauli Koski from Kittila, Finland. You can see more of his wonderful photos at studiotunturi-lappi.fi.

Have a delightful, safe and joyous New Year's eve!

 

ABBA a Swedish band formed in 1971 and officially named in1973. ABBA is an acronym for the given names of the band members - Agnetha, Björn, Benny, Anni-Frid. The band members were Benny Andersson (born December 16, 1946 in Stockholm, Sweden), Björn Ulvaeus (born April 25, 1945 in Gothenburg, Sweden), Anni-Frid Lyngstad (born November 15, 1945 in Ballangen, Norway), Agnetha Fältskog (born April 5, 1950 in Jönköping, Sweden). From 1976 - 1981 they achieved superstardom. ABBA's last public performance together was December 11, 1982 on the TV show The Late, Late Breakfast Show (live from Stockholm). The official website for ABBA owned by Universal is abbasite.com.

~Bonnee

12/30 You are Loved (Don't Give Up)

'You are Loved' performed live by Josh Groban

Lovely song of hope. I posted this today for all of those who are struggling. The Holidays often are a stretch, this year perhaps more. Know 'you are loved'.

Josh Groban, Song: You are Loved (Don't Give Up), Album: Awake (2006), Label: Reprise / WEA.

 

Love, love... loved!

Heart... again. There it is.

Reminders everywhere. Stones, trees, lakes, forests, clouds... Everywhere... God's gift of love.

Remember.

You are Loved beloved... deeply, fully... always!

The wonderful photo above of a naturally occurring heart in a mangrove swamp is called 'Heart in Voh'. It was taken by Yann Athus-Bertrand as he flew over Voh, New Caledoniea. You can see more of his amazing work at yannarthusbertrand2.org.

May the New Year bring you Love, Hope, Faith and Happiness on the wings of angels.

 

Josh Groban singer/songwriter was born February 27, 1981 in Los Angeles, California. In 1997 and 1998 he attended Interlochen Arts Camp, majoring in musical theater and voice. He graduated in 1999 with a major in theater from Los Angeles County High School for the Arts. Soon after graduation he was offered a recording contract at Warner Brothers Records. His recording debut was singing "For Always" with Lara Fabian on the soundtrack to A.I.: Artificial Intelligence (2001). Read news, listen his wonderful music, watch videos, see photos and read his blog at www.joshgroban.com.

~Bonnee

12/26 Yamoré, Happy Kwanzaa

'Yamoré' - Salif Keita with Cesária Évora, music video

Powerful, moving, sultry and poignant. Song about love and life by two African greats... wow... I love it. Magic!

Salif Keita with Cesária Évora, Song: Yamoré, Album: Moffou (2002), Recorded at Les Studios De La Seine, Paris, France between July 15 & December 14, 2001. Label: Decca. 'Moffou' was nominated for the 2003 Grammy Awards for Best World Music Album.

 

Kwanzaa, founded in 1966 by Dr Maulana Karenga is held December 26th thru January 1st.  It is an African American celebration of family, community, commerce, responsibility,  and self-improvement. Kwanzaa is not religious or political, nor a replacement for Christmas; rather it honors roots and culture. It is celebrated by more then 18 million people worldwide.

The word Kwanzaa means, 'first fruits of the harvest' in Kiswahili (an African language). The celebration is based on Nguzo Saba (seven guiding principles) which are: Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity) and Imani (Faith).  On December 31st the community cooporative Kwanzaa Karamu or Feast is held. To learn more visit tike.com     

'The Black Candle' is a movie about Kwanzaa. In the movie it says,

Kwanzaa means access to your soul, to your people.

The beautiful, striking image above right of the Kwanzaa candles is a quilt by Kit Tossmann of Louisville, KY. It is featured in the 2007 Sacred Threads Gallery.

Happy Kwanzaa! Have a wonderful celebration.

 

Salif Keita born August 25, 1949 in Djoliba, Mali, Africa is a singer and songwriter. He is considered the Golden voice of Africa. He began his career in 1967 in the government sponsored Super Rail Band de Bamako. Then joined the group, Les Ambassadeurs in 1973 and fled Mali in the mid 70s because of political unrest. The name was changed to Les Ambassadeurs Internationales and they gained international acclaim. In 1977 Keita received a National Order award. He moved to Paris for a while then back to Mali in 2000 where he was inspired to create Moffou. You can learn more about Salif Keita at his official site at universalmusic.fr.

Cesária Évora born August 27, 1941 in Mindelo, São Vicente Island, Cape Verde is a singer. Her nickname is the 'barefoot diva' because she prefers performing without shoes. She is known internationally for morna (music and dance from Cape Verde) songs of sadness, sorrow and yearning. She met Eduardo (a sailor) at 16, who taught her the traditional Cape Verdean music coladeiras and mornas.  She recorded her first album in Paris called La Diva Aux Pieds Nus (The Barefoot Diva) (1988). 'Sodade' was her first international hit single. At age 47 she became an international star with the release of her album Perfumado. You can read more about her at cesaria-evora.com.

~Bonnee

12/20 Let it Snow, Emilie-Claire Barlow

'Let it Snow' performed by Emilie-Claire Barlow

Jazzy, swinging and fun. Wonderful! Found this jewel yesterday on Youtube. Right now many places are covered in snow, ice or cold rain... the weather outside is indeed frightful. So let's stay inside... happy, warm and dry. Make some hot chocolate or mulled cider, wrap up in a blanket, surrounded by family and friends or alone with a wonderful book. Or even better, in quiet communion with God... giving thanks for all the blessings showered upon us in every moment. Thank you beloved Creator for your blessing of snow. It's sooooo beautiful!!!!!

Emilie-Claire Barlow, song: Let it Snow, Album: Winter Wonderland (2006), Label: Empress Music Group Inc, Video: Clip from Canada AM (CTV).

'Let it Snow' also known as 'Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!' was written by Sammy Cahn and composed by Jule Styne in 1945. It is one of the most popular songs of all-time . Was first recorded by Vaughn Monroe in 1946 and went to number one the following year.

12/17/08 Let it Snow... in Las Vegas, Nevada? The Luxor is covered with snow in a rare storm which blanketed the city with 3.6". Photo by Ethan Miller/ Getty Images North America. You can see more photos of the Vegas snow by Ethan at zimbo.com. A lovely gift for the Holidays.

Have a warm, dry, happy day and a Blessed Holiday!

 

Emilie-Claire Barlow born June 6, 1976 in Canada is a jazz singer and actress. She began singing at age seven, spent 5 years at Etobicoke School of the Arts, then continued her studies at Humber College. While at Humber she formed a jazz quartet and performed around Toronto. In 1998 she released her first CD: Emilie-Claire Barlow - SINGS. You can read her blog or learn more at emilieclairebarlow.com or myspace emilieclairebarlow.

~Bonnee

12/18 The 12 Days Of Christmas, John Denver

'The 12 Days Of Christmas' John Denver & The Muppets

Wonderful, happy and fun! I love this clever rendition, makes me laugh and smile. Used to watch the Muppets' Christmas specials every year, so is a walk down memory lane for me. Hope you enjoy it.

John Denver, Song: The 12 Days of Christmas, TV special: A Christmas Together with John Denver and The Muppets (1979). Nominated for an Emmy and winner of the Director's Guild Award for Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Musical Variety. If you'd like to own a copy on DVD you can buy it at missedmovies.com. Words: vary widely, Music: Traditional English, 18th Century carol.

 

'The 12 Days of Christmas' is traditionally attributed to England but may have a French origin. Date of first performance is unknown, however it was sung as early as 16th century in Europe and Scandinavia. The chant  may have had it's origins as a 'memory and forfeits' game where the person who forgets the verse has to pay penalty of a kiss or sweet.

The actual 12 days of Christmas are usually December 26 through January 6 in England. Sometimes Christmas Day is included as one of the 12 days, sometimes not.  Most often the 12 days are attributed to the twelve days from the birth of Christ (Christmas, December 25) to the coming of the Magi (Epiphany, January 6, or the Twelfth Day). You can learn more about the song at Hymns and Carols of Christmas or wikipedia.

 

My 12 Days of Christmas - This year the Holidays are very tight financially so I decided to make all my gifts and pamper myself while I'm at it. Went to a local art gallery, saw a lovely leather bag I would have loved to buy. Its' cost $1,500. Rather then grumbling about the price, it inspired me to create my own and one for a friend too. Mine is still in the works, photo right is the other one.

This year my Christmas will be filled with wonderful treats, songs, love and things which make me smile. Just for fun, wrote about my inexpensive indulgences to the tune of the 12 Days of Christmas. It goes something like this...

• On the first day of Christmas, I made this gift for me, a handmade leather satchel
• On the second day of Christmas, I whipped this up for me, two pecan pies and a handmade leather satchel
• On the third day of Christmas, I'll do this just for me, three pedicures, two pecan pies and a handmade leather satchel 
• On the fourth day of Christmas, I'll do this just for me, four manicures, three pedicures, two pecan pies and a handmade leather satchel 
• On the fifth day of Christmas, I bought a gift for me, five chocolate bars, four manicures, three pedicures, two pecan pies and a handmade leather satchel 
• On the sixth day of Christmas, I'll make this just for me, six gourmet dinners, five chocolate bars, four manicures, three pedicures, two pecan pies and a handmade leather satchel 
• On the seventh day of Christmas, I gave this gift to me, seven candles burning, six gourmet dinners, five chocolate bars, four manicures, three pedicures, two pecan pies and a handmade leather satchel 
• On the eighth day of Christmas, I promised this to me, eight fragrant baths, seven candles burning, six gourmet dinners, five chocolate bars, four manicures, three pedicures, two pecan pies and a handmade leather satchel 
• On the ninth day of Christmas I made a treat for me, nine hot spiced ciders, eight fragrant baths, seven candles burning, six gourmet dinners, five chocolate bars, four manicures, three pedicures, two pecan pies and a handmade leather satchel 
• On the tenth day of Christmas, I whipped this up for me, ten oatmeal cookies, nine hot spiced ciders, eight fragrant baths, seven candles burning, six gourmet dinners, five chocolate bars, four manicures, three pedicures, two pecan pies and a handmade leather satchel 
• On the eleventh day of Christmas, I promised this to me, eleven crackling fires, ten oatmeal cookies, nine hot spiced ciders, eight fragrant baths, seven candles burning, six gourmet dinners, five chocolate bars, four manicures, three pedicures, two pecan pies and a handmade leather satchel 
• On the twelfth day of Christmas, I bought a gift for me, twelve lovely flowers, eleven crackling fires, ten oatmeal cookies, nine hot spiced ciders, eight fragrant baths, seven candles burning, six gourmet dinners, five chocolate bars, four manicures, three pedicures, two pecan pies and a handmade leather satchel  

Have a wonderful Holiday! May your days be filled with treasures!

John Denver given name Henry John Deutschendorf, Jr.  (December 31, 1943 – October 12, 1997), born in Roswell, New Mexico was a singer, songwriter, performer, actor, environmentalist and humanitarian.  At eleven he was given his grandmother's guitar, took guitar lessons and joined the boy's choir. At twenty he pursued his dream career and the rest is history. You can read more about him at: johndenver.com or wikipedia.

The photo above left of Christmas Bling is by Light. Light Traveler (August 1946 - July 2003)  photographer, Reiki Master/Teacher, spiritual seeker and beautiful loving Spirit. You can see more and purchase his beautiful photography at Light Traveler's gallery.

~Bonnee

12/6 O Tannenbaum - Vienna Boys Choir, live

O Tannenbaum performed by Vienna Boys Choir

Beautiful voices blending together for a glorious salute to the Christmas tree. O Tannenbaum is German for Oh Christmas Tree, where it is said the decorating of a Holiday tree began. The song is often sung round the tree on Feast of St. Nicholas and throughout the Holiday Season.

Vienna Boys Choir, Song: O Tannenbaum (a traditional Christmas carol), Album: Christmas Angels, Hans Gillesberger, 1978, RCA Gold Seal. Re-released in 1995.

The Feast of St. Nicholas

Saint Nicholas or Nicholas of Myra born c. 270, Patara, Lycia, died 6 December 343, Myra, Lycia is considered the patron Saint of sailors in Greece, of lawyers in France, and of children and travelers in Belgium. There are thousands of churches dedicated to St. Nicholas.

In the 12th century an official church holiday 'The Feast of St. Nicholas' celebrated December 6, was created in his honor. Traditionally this is a day of gift-giving and charity. St. Nicholas is one who may bring toys, nuts and gifts to children. On the eve of the feast some children leave their shoes by the hearth or outside. During the night they're filled with goodies or switches (for nice or naughty children).  Who fills the shoes varies from country to country from the 3 wise men to St. Nicolas to baby Jesus to angels or the elder males of the family. A glorious happy day of celebration.

May your shoes be filled with your heart desires!  Happy St. Nicholas Day.

 

Vienna Boys' Choir (German Wiener Sängerknaben) was formally created by Maximilian I of Habsburg in 1498. It  is one of the best known boys' choirs performing worldwide. The Choir is divided into four touring choirs of equal standing; tours, appearances in Vienna and recording projects are shared among them. The touring choirs are named after famous Austrian composers Bruckner, Haydn, Mozart and Schubert. You can read more, see schedules and music at their website Wiener Sängerknaben.

The painting above left is The Feast of St. Nicholas by Jan Steen c. 1660-65. Oil on canvas, 82 x 70.5 cm. Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.  You can see more painting by Jan Steen at Olga's Gallery.

~Bonnee

The Prayer - Dion and Groban, live duet

'The Prayer' - live duet by Céline Dion and Josh Groban

HAPPY THANKSGIVING! A wondrous remembrance of thankfulness for this day and everyday.

An amazing, moving performance. Beautiful voices coming together in perfect harmony. Could feel Spirit moving through them both. Gave me chills and brought tears. Very touching!

Live duet by Céline Dion and Josh Groban at Concert for World Children's Day in 2000 singing The Prayer. First included on the album: These Are Special Times 1997 (promo), won the Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song 1999; Soundtrack from the movie Quest for Camelot 1998.

Céline Dion and Josh Groban also preformed 'The Prayer' live during her CBS TV special, aired  February 15, 2008. This live duet was released as a digital single.

Céline Marie Claudette Dion born March 30, 1968 in Charlemagne, Quebec, Canada is a singer/songwriter/actress. She is the youngest of 14 children of a highly musical family. She began singing at age 5 and regularly preformed with her siblings at a nightclub her parents owned. Céline began to receive recognition for her talent in 1982, winning the Gold Medal at the Yamaha World Song Festival in Tokyo, along with the coveted Musician's Award for Top Performer. In 1983, she became the first Canadian ever to receive a Gold Record in France. In 2004, after becoming the best selling female artist of all time, she was presented with the Chopard Diamond Award at the World Music Awards. You can read news, listen to music, and watch videos at her website www.celinedion.com.

Josh Groban singer/songwriter was born February 27, 1981 in Los Angeles, California. In 1997 and 1998 he attended Interlochen Arts Camp, majoring in musical theater and voice. He graduated in 1999 with a major in theater from Los Angeles County High School for the Arts. Soon after graduation he was offered a recording contract at Warner Brothers Records. His recording debut was singing "For Always" with Lara Fabian on the soundtrack to A.I.: Artificial Intelligence (2001). Read news, listen his wonderful music, watch videos, see photos and read his blog at www.joshgroban.com.

~Bonnee

Von den Elben - QNTAL

Von den Elben - QNTAL, music video by Brian Froud

Von den Elben means From the Elfin. A haunting magical video about Elfs and Faerie. The images are otherworldly, captivating and mysterious. They speak of things unknown, places in-between visited only by a few. Von den Elben is an intensely moving work of art!

Band: QNTAL, Song: Von Den Elben, Album: Silver Swan (2006). Music video created by Brian and Toby Froud. First seen at the 2006 Faerieworlds Festival.

Brian Froud says, "How do you see Faeries? You can't see them with your eyes, you see them with your heart."

QNTAL is a German "electro-medieval" band founded in 1991 by Michael Popp. Band members: Syrah vocals; Michael Popp vocals, Fidel, Saz, Shalmei, Ud, Tar; and Fil Keyboards, Vocals, Guitars, Programming; plus Markus Köstner (live) Drums, Percussion.  You can listen to more of their music, read latest news and find out more at www.qntal.net.

Brian Froud born 1947 in Winchester, England is a world renown fantasy artist who was the conceptual designer on the fantasy-film-classics 'The Dark Crystal' and 'The Labyrinth'. His wife Wendy Froud also a fantasy artist is credited with the design of the characters The Gelflings, Jen and Kira in the Dark Crystal and Yoda in Star Wars. You can see more of Brian and Wendy's art, watch videos, and read news at the World of Froud.

~Bonnee

Angel - McLachlan and Groban live duet

 

'Angel' - Sarah McLachlan and Josh Groban, live duet

Absolutely beautiful! This lovely song about being held with love in the arms of angels gave me chills and brought tears. I love Sarah and Josh separately, but together, here, now... Wow!

Live duet by Sarah McLachlan and Josh Groban at Live8 in Philadelphia, PA singing Sarah McLachlan's song: Angel. From the album: Surfacing 1997, which won three Grammy Awards and eight Juno Awards; Soundtrack movie: City of Angels 1998.

Sarah McLachlan singer/songwriter was born January 28, 1968 in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. Growing up she took voice lessons, and studied classical piano and guitar. At 17 she fronted for the band The October Game, following their first concert she was offered a recording contract by Nettwerk. Listen to her amazing music, read news, buy CDs and learn more at www.sarahmclachlan.com.

Josh Groban singer/songwriter was born February 27, 1981 in Los Angeles, California. In 1997 and 1998 he attended Interlochen Arts Camp, majoring in musical theater and voice. He graduated in 1999 with a major in theater from Los Angeles County High School for the Arts. Soon after graduation he was offered a recording contract at Warner Brothers Records. His recording debut was singing "For Always" with Lara Fabian on the soundtrack to A.I.: Artificial Intelligence (2001). Read news, listen his wonderful music, watch videos, see photos and read his blog at www.joshgroban.com.

~Bonnee

Through the Eyes of an Angel - music video

Through the Eyes of an Angel performed by Miten

Beautiful song filled with love and appreciation. Listening to this lovely song I feel the love emanating, swirling around me and filling every ounce of my being. Ummm, nice! The video with Miten, Deva Premal and Manose reflects the song's essence... softness, peace and the power of the ocean waves. Wonder full.

Music video by Manose shot during Deva & Miten's holiday in Malibu, California. Album: Soul in Wonder (2007), Song: Through the Eyes of an Angel.  

Miten born in London, was a rock and roll singer/songwriter in the 70s and 80s. Deva Premal singer, instrumentalist born 1970 in Germany was brought up in an atmosphere of mantra and spiritual discipline.  Manose Singh, born 1979 in Boudha, Nepal is a Bansuri flautist and composer. Photo is Miten, Manose and Deva in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil November 2008.

Deva Premal and Miten's website has a collection of songs you can listen to with a Flash player, read news and articles, see photos and purchase CDs. Enjoy!

~Bonnee

Stolen Child - Loreena McKennitt Live

Stolen Child performed live by Loreena McKennitt

Loreena has a hauntingly beautiful voice. I love her music. I got chills as I listened to this wonderful Irish Celtic song about the Faery. Album: ELEMENTAL; Song: Stolen Child. Words by W.B.Yeats - Music by Loreena McKennitt (1985, Elemental was recorded by Loreena in a barn in Southern Ontario, Canada).

Loreena Isabel Irene McKennitt, C.M. born February 17, 1957 in Morden, Manitoba Canada is a singer, composer, harpist and pianist. She founded Quinland Road Records in 1985 and produces all of her own albums. You can listen to songs, buy CDs and DVDs and find out more at her website QuinlandRoad.com. Enjoy!

~Bonnee

Amarantine - Enya

Amarantine preformed by Enya

Amarantine means everlasting or immortal. A truly beautiful music video from Enya. As always Enya's voice is clear and flawless as she sings about love. Magical... a walk through the woods with fairy dust and sparkles everywhere... wow! Album: Amarantine, song: Amarantine (2005). Won the Grammy Award for Best New Age Album for 2007.

Enya (Eithne Patricia Ní Bhraonáin) was born on May 17, 1961 in Gaoth Dobhair, County Donegal, Ireland. She is a singer, instrumentalist and composer and Ireland's biggest solo artist. Enya is an approximation of how Eithne is pronounced in her native language. You can read more about Enya at Wikipedia. Visit Enya's website to watch more videos or for the latest news about her music.

~Bonnee