Thursday, February 12, 2009

...winds of change...


Greetings! The wind is blowing today and last night we could hear it through the windows and on the siding, through the tree branches and everywhere. Did anyone else in Chester County, PA get any sleep? I think it sounds great and Halloween-like but at some points it sounded downright dangerous. All of that howling and blowing certainly could lead to trouble! Interestingly, on this day in 1999 the U.S. Senate acquitted President Clinton of lying under oath and obstruction of justice in the Monica Lewinski case. The carpeting for PC was supposedly shipped yesterday but I will call again as that is how life is. I have not yet heard from Penn Dot regarding my title and registration. They must be busy with many others who have fallen into the trappings of a dishonest notary! What a hassle for so many people. The beautiful fabric for MW arrived late yesterday and will help to make her bathroom redesign even more effective. This Saturday is St. Valentine's Day and I hope that everyone is happy with whatever they are given. Please keep in mind Oasis Cafe and Living Cuisine if you want some delicious raw chocolates shipped to your front door. I wonder if BC got ML any chocolates? Water under the bridge I say...I heard from M via email this morning and the drywall behind her sink is water damaged and needs to be replaced, but once this is done...on with the kitchen. And when all is said and done, it will look excellent. Here are ten of the most romantic love ballads to help you with that mix tape you are feverishly compiling for Saturday. Have a great day everyone.
1. Atlantic Starr - Always (1987)
Atlantic Starr's "Always" has been a wedding favorite from the time of its release. It is a gentle duet centered on pledging eternal love "for always."

2. Beatles - In My Life (1965)
Some claim this to be one of the greatest songs ever written and performed by the Beatles. It couples a wistful, almost nostalgic, remembrance of the past with the reassurance "In my life I love you more."

3. Carpenters - We've Only Just Begun (1970)
"We've Only Just Begun" was written by songwriter Paul Williams and first used for a bank commercial behind footage of a young couple making their first financial plans. It was then recorded by relative unknowns the Carpenters and helped make them stars and Paul Williams one of the most successful pop songwriters in the business. It's upbeat message about setting out on life's path together has made it a favorite love song for over 3 decades.

4. Joe Cocker and Jennifer Warnes - Up Where We Belong (1982)
The unlikely duo of gruff rock vocalist Joe Cocker and pop singer Jennifer Warnes scored a major hit with this ode to the awesome power of love. It was included as a theme for the movie An Officer and a Gentleman and ended up a #1 pop hit and took home a Grammy Award.

5. Crystals - Then He Kissed Me (1963)
This Crystals girl group classic follows a relationship from the first kiss. The song's production by Phil Spector uses his classic 'wall of sound' technique, used somewhat by Richard Carpenter along with his famous use of castanets.

6. Dixie Cups - Chapel Of Love (1964)
"Goin' to the chapel and we're gonna get married" is one of the most memorable lines of all girl group lyrics. The Dixie Cups were a trio from New Orleans that recorded with Phil Spector producing. "Chapel Of Love" was a massive hit single and a perfect Valentine's Day song, albeit a pressure filled one.

7. 98 Degrees - I Do (Cherish You) (1999)
This gently swinging pop confection by Nick Lachey and company has quickly become a favorite. The song details a lost individual finding their way in all-encompassing love.

8. *NSYNC - This I Promise You (2000)
The members of *NSYNC pledge undying love in this warm ballad. Undying love is put forth as the balm to end all pain and longing.

9. Sting - Fields Of Gold (1993)
Sting's poetic ballad of lovers walking together in "fields of gold" echoes poetry from centuries past. As such, it remains a strongly romantic choice.

10. Ann Wilson and Mike Reno - Almost Paradise (1984)
The lead singers of Heart and Loverboy combined for this ballad from the soundtrack to the hit film Footloose. Written by pop singer/songwriter Eric Carmen, the memorable line is "I swear that I can see forever in your eyes."
P.S. I am not selling these CD's, I am just making it easier for those who need last minute help in creating a soundtrack for their special day/evening/night...whatever it turns out to be.
'Love makes the time pass. Time makes love pass.' Euripedes