songs I sing

In Remembrance...

2011-06-05T19:54:00.000-07:00

Two years ago today, my life changed in an instant. Everything I had known before came to an end, everything I had planned for the future came to an abrupt, uncertain halt. Even now, I can hardly believe that he's gone. I still find myself in a shroud of disbelief at times...I still ache to hear the low rumble of his voice, to see him walking through our front door, to feel his arm around me. It hurts more than anything to know that none of these things will ever happen again in my lifetime. But the love we shared as a family? That can never be taken away.

Below you'll find a collection of short, raw pieces I wrote in the days after my father's death that were, in fact, never meant to be published, never meant to be shared with anyone besides my own self. Back in those days, I mostly used my blog as an escape from the pain & uncertainty that overwhelmed me, outpouring the swirl of emotions & turmoil I was going through at the time onto these pages, and simply saving the drafts.

Life isn't always pretty. These snatches of my life at the time aren't pretty, either. To you, they are most likely incoherent & meaningless, but...in posting them here for myself, I'm remembering where I came from, acknowledging where I am now, and reminding myself to look to the future as he would wish me to. Love, friends, is worth every ounce of the heartache that can come along with it.

* * * *

July 8, 2009

I wandered into someone else's life. Stepped out of the happiness. Left all of my dreams behind...and I can't find my way back.

* * *

August 17, 2009

I can't forget him. I can't move on.

I don't care what anyone says...I'm not ready to pick up my life where I left off; not ready to pretend that nothing has happened; that my heart isn't breaking every moment of every day.

My heart winces when his smile or the remembrance of his touch comes to mind...when I see something beautiful and wish that he was here to appreciate it with me.

People don't understand that I could care less what I eat, how much money I have, what I do each day, what I will do with the rest of my life.

He was such a huge part of me...he made me who I am today. I can't bear to think of the rest of my life without him. Every thing I have ever imagined has included him in it....how can i manage to go on??

People tell me that I need to cling to my faith...that only makes me feel like they think I am a heathen, that it isn't alright to feel sorrow, to mourn.

* * *

September 13, 2009

Sometimes it feels as if I have left my old life behind, my old self.

It seems that I have skipped over everything near and familiar

they have fallen from my life
You hear the old cliches...your life can change in an instant...dont take anything for granted...but no matter how prepared you feel that you are...you never really can be.
You never expect the phone call, the depth of pain, the absolute despair.

I dont know where I will go from here. My life doesn't seem real. I keep wondering when I will wake up, when I will feel my Daddy's arms wrapped around me in a tight hug. Somehow, I have slipped away from everything real to me. I am waiting.

* * *

September 28, 2009

"Don't be scared. I'm here."

But he isn't anymore.

* * *

October 4, 2009

Sometimes I wake up and I wonder where I am at in my life. I find myself trying to forget. I cling to everything that is new and different, everything that does not remind me of the life I am no longer able to lead.

* * *

November 2, 2009

Every day I wake up and wish that my life had ended too that day.

* * *

January 1, 2010

Sometimes it seems so difficult to express yourself, it seems easier to say...nothing at all. That is how I have felt these past few months. To speak of anything concerning my life is as rubbing salt in an open wound. Painful beyond words.

I love you all so dearly. You have brought friendship, and empathy, and such joy to my life. I really wonder where I would be without you.
I've always posted

but intertwined with all of my favorite classic film stars has always been the bits about my life, my thoughts, the day to day things that touch my heart...and they seem so glaringly absent.

I am so very, very lost. The only way to get around this huge painful ache inside is to try and forget anything and everything. To just pretend that this is how life has always been...

* * *

May 6, 2010

I'll be twenty-three tomorrow. Twenty-three.

Can you believe it...??

In many ways, it's a little bit frightening to me to realize that I'll never be twenty-two again. That may sound silly, but it's true. It seems that turning a year older is just losing one more strand that connects me to our old life; that connects me to him.

My thoughts weave over a multitude of tiny facts:

"I was twenty-two when Daddy and I..."

"When I was twenty-two we all went..."

"He told us that we meant more than..."

Such things make my heart ache beyond compare.

I know that turning a year older is just another passing of time. But...that's just it. I don't want time to go by. I don't want to leave anything else behind. It's the slipping off of one more thing...and it hurts. It makes me feel like more of a distance is being put between our lives now and the life we led; between all of us...and the man we loved more than anything. I know in my heart that nothing can ever really separate us, but I still wish that time would just...stop. If we can't go back together as the family we once were, I wish that we could just stay right here. At least for a little while & be close to what we always had. I'm not ready to move forward. At least not yet.

But that's not possible.

So...I have to take a deep breath.

And try to remember what he would want for me; for all of us.

And I know in my heart, without a doubt, he would tell me...

Have fun and learn something, too.

And smile, Linny.

Smile for me.

* * *

August 22, 2010

It's frightening to realize that's it's been more than a year and I still wake up with my heart pounding, sick to my stomach.

I'm trying to remember to live my life as he would wish me to. To be able to step outside & feel the warmth of the sun against my skin...and that's all. No gasping for breath, no sharp ache filling every ounce of my being.

Emily Dislikes...

2011-04-20T15:06:00.000-07:00

1.   Scary white legs that could potentially blind passersby & frighten small children. I'm not naming any names...

2.   Mosquitoes, ticks, and other gross, nasty bugs.

3.   Rude, thoughtless people. Or people who aren't meaning to be rude, but are thoughtless just the same.

4.   Not being taken seriously.

5.   Feeling ignored.

6.   Sharks, and robbers, and things that creak in the night. And don't even get me started on crocodiles...

7.   Never fitting in.

8.   People who are far too interested in the sound of their own voice to even be able to stop for half a second & think you might have an opinion, too. Please, at least pretend you're interested.

9.   Those awkward moments that leave you feeling like a twelve year old with gangly legs. Seriously, I'm normally a semi-graceful person.

10. Insincerity.

11. Sticking out like a sore thumb. You can't exactly hide with this hair.

12. Ultra fake, ultra flirty girls. Seriously, bud...you're falling for that?

13. Being interrupted. I listened to your story for half an hour, can you please not make me feel silly & unimportant & listen to mine for a minute?

14. Being my own worst critic. Please, Emily? Give yourself a break.

15. Having regrets about all of the things we can never do now. Remember the little cabin? Remember how I was supposed to take care of you someday? You weren't supposed to go so soon.

16. Procrastinating.

17. Giving in to the 5,232 fears that want to suffocate me. Not you, Emily. So not you.

18. People who only try to tear you down.

19. Saying things before I think.

Emily Loves...

2011-04-12T17:36:00.000-07:00

Pier Angeli

1. Loud, crackling summer storms.

2.   Unexpected letters in the mail.

3.   Babies with kissable cheeks.

4.   That funny little ache inside when you're too happy to even breathe.

5.   Dancing in the rain.

6. Rare stories of true, lasting love.

7.   Pretty new clothes.

8.   Being a part of people's lives. Caring for them, listening to them, trying to make a difference.

9.   Words. Slippery, searing, and utterly beautiful.

10. Text messages.

11. Writing.

12. The color blue. If we play a game together & you pick 'my' color...I'll be trying to move your game piece the whole time. Just sayin'. I can't help it.

13. Sonnet 116.

14. Little boys with brown eyes.

15. My family, who root on random exercising strangers, stand at the end of the drive & wave until you can't see them anymore, & are all-around lovable.

16. On the Waterfront. Edie, and Terry, and...swoons...*please hold while I go watch it for the 646th time*

17. Ten year old neighbors who copy everything you do & call you Emmy. Yes, that was my heart melting.

18. Being hugged. Wrap your arm around my shoulders & leave it there forever. K, thanks.

19. Working with the USO. I may not do much, I may not change anyone's life, but it makes my soul happy.

20. Laughing so hard that you cry. Or get the hiccups. Or both. Either way, all you can think is..."Oh, my stomach!"

21. Candles that make your room smell like a coffee shop.

22. Long drives with no place in particular to go. And possibly getting kind of, sort of lost. That's always the best part.

23. Bare feet, & big sunglasses, & pink nail polish, & ice cream, & singing, and...possibly all of the above combined.

24. Scary old movies that aren't really scary at all except to big babies like me. But only if there's someone's lap close enough to leap into. "What's happening? What's HAPPENING?!!! ... WHY DID YOU TELL ME THAT?!"

25. Reading.

26. Long conversations about anything & everything. The more random the better.

27. Sisters who always have the same thoughts you do--at the same time--even though you don't even live in the same house. Slightly creepy, but rather cool. ;)

28. Finding kindred spirits. We're a rare breed.

29. Long walks in the middle of nowhere.

30. Discovering how strong of a person you really are.

31. Military uniforms. Just tryin' to keep it real.

Katharine...

2010-11-29T13:51:00.000-08:00

Katharine Hepburn

Thank You, Dear. I Think...

2010-11-18T12:13:00.000-08:00

Elizabeth, peering closely at Emily's face:

"Emmy, it looks like you're wearing fake eyelashes."

*

Emily, looks up from project, a bit baffled:

"Umm..."

*

Elizabeth, quite serious, imparting 'wisdom'
as only a twelve year old can:

"Oh, that's a good thing. A really good thing."

*

Emily, trying to look serious, too:

"Oh. Well...err...thank you then, sweetie.
That's...*cough*...very nice of you to say."

* * * *

Little sisters are one of the dearest things on earth.

It's a Fact...

2010-10-28T16:29:00.000-07:00

Contrary to popular belief, sparkly sweaters really

do make girls with miserable colds feel better.

A little bit, at least.

♥

Where Emily Raves About Footwear...

2010-10-24T22:31:00.000-07:00

Remember those two pairs of new shoes I mentioned?

* * *

Well...

This is a photo of one pair.

*sigh*

* * *

We fell in love the first moment we saw each other.

I mean, they may totally not be your thing.

~~That's your prerogative~~.

But right now...

I'm pretty much, basically, absolutely in love.

Nothing major.

* * *

I guess Elizabeth thinks they're pretty snazzy, too,

since she was the one that wanted to take a picture of them.

I mean, sheesh.

But...being the wonderful big sister I am

I gave in & let her do her thing.

;)

* * *

Marilyn...

2010-10-22T20:18:00.000-07:00

I'm Thinking About...

2010-10-17T22:59:00.000-07:00

The USO

Because...

I'm now officially a proud volunteer.
And loving every minute of it.

Though, I've never yet had to force donuts down a young soldier.
Maybe we haven't come to that part yet.

* * *

Family

Because...

I ♥ them so very much.

You know you have it bad when just thinking about them
makes a happy little ache creep into your throat.

* * *

High Heels

Because...

I have two brand new bee-you-ti-ful pairs I can't quit thinking about.

Literally.

* * *

The Ramsey Family

Because...

Emma, Johanna, Grace & all the others

have become so dear to me.

These days, my thoughts & prayers are

with them more often even than usual.

* * *

On the Waterfront

Because...

With faces like these & a love story like that...

it's too drool-worthy to not think about

watching for the 646th time.

*sigh*

Have I mentioned lately that it's my favorite-est film?

* * *

Falling in Love

Because...

It's one of those things girls think about.

Just tryin' to keep it real.

(Don't worry, I'll tell you when it happens.)

* * *

Sunglasses

Because...

My two lovely sisters & I went shopping for them today.

And two of us found them.

You know, that perfect pair.

* * *

A New Blog

Because I've been thinking about possibly starting one for months.

I don't know.

I've loved my time spent writing for songs I sing very much.

But anymore, it seems tied a bit too

much to everything we once had.

Everything that makes me ache so much I feel I can't breathe.

It's just an idea.

But one I'd love to hear your opinion on...

* * *

This Picture

Because...

I like it.

* * *

Yes, I'm Blaming Them for the Lack of Posts...

2010-09-05T21:28:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry my posts have been sporadic once again. This time, though, it's actually not my fault. I can't tell you how many times I've actually written something & was prepared to post it...only to find that Blogger somehow squashes everything together in an odd, unreadable sort of way or eats every word except the odd sentence or two.

I can see everything I've written on the regular "new post" screen, but when I switch to preview it or actually do go ahead & post it, everything has completely disappeared. *sigh* I can't tell you how frustrating that is.

I try to save my post & go back & try to fix it, but that hasn't been working. After struggling with trying to post the same thing ten times over, I must confess, I give up & erase it altogether. If you'd typed & re-typed that same post that many times, I think you'd be sick of your own writing, too.

Anyway, just wanted to let you know that I'm still here.

Love,
Emily

Whispered Thoughts...

2010-08-24T17:54:00.001-07:00

I write the story of my life on tiny slips of paper...

...that slip from my fingers like so much falling snow.

Jennifer...

2010-08-21T15:43:00.000-07:00

* * * *

"If you could choose one characteristic that would

get you through life, choose a sense of humor."

Jennifer Jones

* * * *

And It's Purple, Too!

2010-08-19T17:47:00.000-07:00

* * * *

I finally caved in and purchased the video camera I've been considering for some time now. I tend to lean much more toward the 'necessity only' side of things when purchasing anything for myself. Except, that is, when it comes to books...but they are a necessity to me! ;)

I can drive my family, and myself, crazy sometimes with my questioning before a purchase. 'Should I buy it...or shouldn't I?' And this being only the second 'major' purchase I've made in my entire--gulp--life.

I'm so glad now, though, that I decided to spend the money for it.

It's tiny, and prettyful, and matches my laptop.

Can it get any better than that?

I'm going to have so much fun capturing some of the crazy, lovable, & downright silly antics of we people around here. Not sure if I'll ever muster up enough courage to show them to anyone outside of immediate, immediate family, though.

Not, that is, until I sound a little less like a

deranged squirrel & a little more like myself.

Sheesh, it's quite frightening.

* * * *

War...

2010-08-14T14:02:00.000-07:00

Sgt. Mike Strank
KIA March 1, 1945, Iwo Jima
He was 25 years old.

* * * *

War is an ugly thing, but not the ugliest of things.
The decayed & degraded state of moral & patriotic feeling
which thinks that nothing is worth war is much worse.

The person who has nothing for which he is willing to fight,
nothing which is more important than his own personal safety,
is a miserable creature & has no chance of being free unless
made & kept so by the exertions of better men than himself.

John Stuart Mill

* * * *

August...

2010-08-14T08:27:00.001-07:00

* * * *

I blinked one day...

...and found that Summer
is nearly winding to a close.

How did the days slip by so quickly?

* * * *

Betty...

2010-07-01T19:07:00.000-07:00

* * *

"The practice of putting women on pedestals

began to die out when it was discovered

that they could give orders better from there."

Betty Grable

* * *

Sometimes...

2010-06-22T21:23:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I look at my life and wonder

what exactly it was that has made me the person I am.

* * *

Sometimes I wonder what causes me to have such empathy and deep love for those whose lives touch mine...and yet, have so very little left over for myself.

Sometimes I dance in the rain...just because I can.

Sometimes I doubt.

Sometimes, all of the time, I regret everything we'll never be able to do now.

Sometimes I believe that the small, exquisite moments throughout life almost make up for every ounce of heartache.

Sometimes I fall down more often than I move forward.

Sometimes I laugh so hard I cry.

Sometimes I tiptoe around the house after Mama & Elizabeth are asleep, just so I can stand over them & make sure that they are safe, and warm, and...there.

Sometimes I ache so much it feels like I can't even breathe.

Sometimes I say "I love you" far too often. But it's only because you can still hear me.

* * *

I have no idea where my life will take me, but I

always wish to live it with abandon,

and sincerity, and faith.

That, my friends, is my deepest desire.

* * *

Sylvia...

2010-06-22T19:32:00.000-07:00

* * *

"Paramount paid me by the tear."

Sylvia Sidney

* * *

One June Evening...

2010-06-16T18:26:00.000-07:00

* * * *

There's just something about nighttime.

Something about the way the warm night air wraps itself around me & the stars that seem to bow down out of the heavens, so close it seems I can almost touch them.

Sometimes, I think it almost seems as if I could shout out, "God?" And surely, if I only listened hard enough, I could hear His voice come echoing back to me.

* * * *

Elizabeth & her small, blonde-haired friend sit together, cross-legged, engrossed in a game of cards. Their voices drift lazily across the concrete of our small front porch, winding across the front lawn to my listening ears.

The sound of their laughter, the look of happiness on Elizabeth's face...means everything to me. She deserves to just act like a normal, happy little girl for awhile. Before we know it, she'll be all grown up...

* * * *

Yes, there's just something...

* * * *

Ann-Margret...

2010-05-22T19:42:00.000-07:00

Bye Bye Birdie (1963)

"...I am still many times fragile and
vulnerable; it's just the way I am.

My parents were like that, too.
It does present challenges for me.

I can be knocked over by a feather when I'm really down,
although, I must say that when I'm on stage, it's different."

Ann-Margret

In Search of Emily...

2010-05-17T18:56:00.001-07:00

* * *

Have you ever lost yourself & never even realized it?

Have you ever fallen so far that one day you find

that, somehow, you've misplaced all of your old dreams?

* * *

These days, my one thought, the one beat of my heart, is trying to remember all of those little important things that make me...well, me. I'm trying to pick up all of the tiny, shattered pieces of my life; trying to remember those things I've always dreamt about; trying to remember just why I once thought they were so beautiful.

Over the last painful months, I've come to realize that it is the easiest thing to lose sight of who you really are, who you wish to be, in the midst of all encompassing grief. Before you know it, it seems the most impossible of things to find your way back to what you once considered...your everything.

It's easiest to just let yourself get lost in your grief, to give up on everything you've always hoped for, give up on those things it seems you were meant to be, meant to say, meant to stand witness to. But lately, more & more, I've felt pressed upon my heart the thought that, living your life like that, allowing yourself to give up on those things most important to you, would be such a...waste.

It would be throwing away what I've always stood for, always believed in. It would be forgetting what my Daddy would have hoped for me & what I have hoped for my own life.

So...no matter how hard it may be, no matter how narrow this road may seem to become, I'm going to try to remember those old, familiar dreams.

I'm a strong person. With the love of those nearest to me, the faith that still lives in my heart, & with the dream of a better tomorrow...I'm going to make it through.

I know I can.

* * *

Grace...

2010-05-02T19:43:00.000-07:00

* * * * * *

"Women's natural role is to be a pillar of the family."

Grace Kelly

Cary...

2010-04-14T20:37:00.001-07:00

* * * *

"I've often been accused by critics of being myself
on-screen. But being oneself is more
difficult than you'd suppose."

Cary Grant

"Thank You" Isn't Enough...

2010-04-14T19:15:00.000-07:00

* * * * *

I can't thank you all enough for the sweet words,
prayers, and support you sent me in response to my last post.

You all have touched my life & my heart.
I appreciate you more than you will ever know.

♥

* * * * *

If Only...

2010-04-08T18:49:00.000-07:00

It is easiest to try to forget.

For if I think of the way he said "I love you," the way his eyes crinkled up in the corners when he smiled, or the fact that he'll never come home again...

I'm lost.

It is easiest to try & pretend that nothing has happened; to try & make myself believe that everything that is new & different around me...really isn't new at all.

When all I really want,
more than anything else,
is to go back to what we once had...

...is to go Home.

No one knows what to say to me. I think they're afraid to hurt me in some way, but more often than not, it is that distance, that suffocating invisible thread, that hurts me more than any stumbling words ever could.

I wish that someone would wrap their arms around me & hold me. They wouldn't need to say anything at all, because I would understand...

I wish that people would realize, that though the months go by, my heartache does not ebb. It's not something that will just go away. Each day I wake up wishing that this terrible nightmare my life has become would end up being just that...a bad dream. But it's much, much too real.

If only love, and death, and life
didn't hurt so very much.

Daddy, I ♥ you...

Jean...

2010-04-02T21:00:00.000-07:00

Jean Peters in
Captain from Castile (1947).

* * * * * *

"I often think our glamorization of Hollywood
stars--the perpetual photographing us in ermine
& bouffant tulle, in French bathing suits or
sleek satin--throws the public off.

They don't recognize us as human beings
subject to the same discomforts of climate &
working conditions as they are.

They expect to see that goddess
leading a couple of wolfhounds
come striding onto the set."

Jean Peters

A Love Like That...

2010-03-23T19:04:00.000-07:00

* * * *

Jimmy & Gloria Stewart
with children:
Ronald, Michael, Judy & Kelly.

* * * *

I'm so thankful for a family that's always
loved each other as hard as they can.

That's one thing you realize.
When you share a love like that...

...nothing, not even death,
can really separate you.

* * * *

The Long, Hot Summer...

2010-03-12T15:59:00.000-08:00

Paul Newman & Joanne Woodward as
Ben Quick & Clara Varner in 1958's
The Long, Hot Summer.

"Mr. Quick, I am a human being.
Do you know what that means?

It means I set a price on myself. A high, high price. You may be surprised to know it, but I've got quite a lot to give. I've got things I have been savin' up my whole life. Things like love and understanding and...and...jokes, and good times, and good cooking.

I'm prepared to be the Queen of Sheba for some lucky man, or at the very least the best wife any man could hope for. Now that's my human history & it's not gonna be bought and sold and it's certainly not gonna be given away to any passin' stranger."

I Confess...

2010-03-02T20:02:00.000-08:00

* * *

I Confess (1953), is one of famed Alfred Hitchcock's lesser known works. Starring Montgomery Clift, Anne Baxter, and Karl Malden, it is the story of one man, a priest, who must choose between proving his innocence in a crime he did not commit or holding true to his priestly vows.

Father Logan (Clift) unwittingly becomes the lead suspect in the Villete murder case after listening to the confession to the murder by one his parishioners. Unable to alert detectives to the real killer's identity without revealing information given to him in the confessional, Father Logan quickly becomes the prime suspect.

I Confess lacks a great deal of the sit-on-the-edge-of-your-seat suspense that marks some of Hitchcock's most noted films, as viewers know the identity of the killer right from the start. But even with the lack of suspense & mystery...the great filming, heartwarming plot line, and memorable casting of characters more than makes up for it.

Montgomery Clift's performance as the serious, caring Father Logan is captivating. I would be the first one to admit that I couldn't quite picture Clift--of A Place in the Sun fame--as a believable priest, but after watching only the first few moments of the film, you can't help but be drawn in by the sincerity & warmth of his performance.

Anne Baxter & Karl Malden

Co-star Anne Baxter is one classic actress I usually don't care that much for. But, in I Confess, Anne is luminous as Father Logan's former love, Ruth Grandfort. Also, watch for Karl Malden, who only one year later would play a priest himself in On the Waterfront. He is perfect as the obnoxious detective you just love to hate.

All in all, I think the "Master of Suspense" hit the nail on the head with another classic, well-made film. If you haven't yet watched, I Confess, make sure to find a copy!

M is for Marlon...

2010-03-01T11:11:00.000-08:00

* * *

"Regret is useless in life. It's in the past.
All we have is now."

Marlon Brando

A Blog Award...

2010-02-23T14:42:00.001-08:00

Fellow classic film fanatic, Millie, was sweet enough to pass an award my way. Thank you so much! If you haven't yet visited her blog...you really should stop by. Her enthusiasm for Classic Hollywood & its luminaries is refreshing & mirrors my own wonder.

The rules:

1. Tell you seven things that you don't already know about me.
2. Name seven other blogs to receive this award.

3. Leave a comment on the blogs I have nominated letting them know that I have given them an award.

4. And lastly, thank the blog that gave you the award.

* * * * * *

7 Things About Me:

1. When I was much younger I used to dream about becoming a world famous gymnast. Or ice skater. Maybe both...now wouldn't that have been interesting?

2. We used to have a pet pot-bellied pig named Harley when I was a little girl.

3. I never in a million years would have thought I would become one of those "blog" people. But I have. And I love it.

4. The words 'tendon' & 'flesh' send shivers up my spine.

5. I read much too quickly. I can thoroughly read (no skimming allowed) several books in a day easily.

6. I hate to do things by myself. I am definitely a people person. I enjoy having time by myself to do, or dream, or write...but with the knowledge that people are close by.

7. I've been knitting since I was seven years old. Only another knitter will understand that sometimes your fingers just "itch" for a new project to work on.

* * * * *

I'd like to award:

A Banner of Crimson
Actually Laura
Blessed Femina
Dum Spiro Spero
In My Own Little Corner
Ribbons of Light
Those Northern Skies

* * * * * *

Up next: an award from lovely Elise!

Elizabeth...

2010-02-21T21:08:00.000-08:00

"People who know me well,

call me Elizabeth.
I dislike Liz."

Elizabeth Taylor

Where Emily Admits Modernity...

2010-02-17T19:57:00.000-08:00

I have something to confess.

*whispers while peering over her shoulder*

You'll never believe it,
but I have a...Facebook page.

* * * * * *

Alright now. Pick your jaw up off of the floor.

Yes, you guys know me too well. I usually tend to be one of those "behind-the-times" sort of girls who actually, you know, likes it that way. But awhile back, a friend from college pestered me about joining Facebook so we could swap pictures--and pestered, and pestered, and pestered--until, you see, I just had to give in if I wanted to keep any semblance of sanity. Yes, it seemed pointless and stupid and...and...idiotic at first, but now, I have to admit, I've succumbed. I actually sort of....like it.

So, anyway, the whole point of this confessional post was to ask:

Do you use Facebook?

Over the past two years I've grown to love you all so dearly. You have brought me friendship, and empathy, and such joy. I really wonder where I would be without you. So, if you'd be interested, I'd love to invite you a little closer into my life. Leave a comment (enlightening me a bit on who you are if I won't be able to recognize your screen name) & I'd be more than thrilled to swap info for Facebook with you.

Would you like to be "friends?"

:)

* * * * * *

Ann...

2010-02-17T18:05:00.000-08:00

"As an actress, I have always believed that the truer challenge,

the deeper obligation, begins after the camera stops.

My role as a woman in my community and in my home has

always overshadowed the excitement of any

part I have ever played on stage or screen."

Ann Blyth

So Very Long...

2010-02-16T17:22:00.000-08:00

It's been so very long since I've written anything at all for songs I sing. I can't tell you how much I've missed it. Somehow along the way, though, I've lost that spark that makes words leap readily from my pen or my fingers dance across the keyboard. I know that someday my heart will sing through my fingertips once again, but for now, it is slow going. More than anything else I appreciate the patience others shower on me since I can't seem to find any for myself.

* * * * * *

Life has been a whirlwind these past few months. Sarah, my beloved Sarah, was happily married in Florida at the end of December. Seeing her happiness, being a part of something that has been a dream of hers for so very long, is something I will never forget. She has always been my kindred spirit, confidant, and best of friends...Sarah, I treasure you.

Along with all of the craziness that seems to go hand in hand with out-of-state wedding planning, we have once again picked up roots and moved--this time all the way to North Carolina from Michigan. Being the second move we've made in six months, yes, things have been more than a little harried, but now that we are mostly settled in, I can't tell you what a peace I have in my heart about being here. It's the right place for us right now...it really is.

* * * * * *

I can't promise how often I will really be able to update songs I sing with new posts, but I can promise that I will try. I've found how easy it is to lose sight of yourself in the losing of someone you love. But I'm working on it. Some days it is more of a struggle than others...but at least I'm trying. I find that is what is really most important.

Much love,
Emily

Marilyn...

2010-01-29T23:28:00.000-08:00

"I believe that everything happens for a reason.

People change so that you can learn to let go,

things go wrong so that you appreciate them when
they're right, you believe lies so you eventually learn
to trust no one but yourself, and sometimes
good things fall apart so better
things can fall together."

Marilyn Monroe

Remembering...

2009-12-07T19:10:00.000-08:00

* * * * * *

...we here highly resolve that these
dead shall not have died in vain...

* * * * * *

In remembrance of all those who lost their lives
during the attack on Pearl Harbor & the Philippines.

Terrific Trio...

2009-11-23T18:21:00.000-08:00

Lovely Lauren Bacall, Jimmy Durante,
& Humphrey Bogart

"My wife has a slight impediment in her speech.
Every now and then she stops to breathe."

Jimmy Durante

A Blog Award...

2009-11-21T20:00:00.000-08:00

The lovely Ashley Nicole has given me the From Me to You blog award. Thank you so much, dear!

The rules are as follows:

1. Thank the person who gave you the award.

2. Copy the award.
3. Post it on your blog.
4. Tell your readers 7 things they didn't know about you.
5. Link 7 bloggers as recipients.
6. Notify winners of award with a comment on their blog.
7. Keep being awesome.

* * * * * *

1. I almost met one of my favorite classic actresses.

She has starred with such notables as Cary Grant, Montgomery Clift, & Paul Newman, but remains a relatively unappreciated actress today. She stars as the leading lady in my very favorite film, 1954's On the Waterfront. Yes, I once almost met my beloved Eva Marie Saint!

Eva Marie Saint & Marlon Brando
in On the Waterfront.

2. I love wearing bright pink nail polish.

It's cheerful & makes me happy.

3. I was homeschooled from the fourth grade through high school.

I'm not saying that it would work for everyone, but it was definitely one of the best decisions my parents could have ever made for me. I learned & experienced more in those years than I ever could have in a conventional school.

3. Growing up, one of my feet was quite a bit longer than the other.

They caught up to each other soon enough, but while it lasted I thought it was the neatest thing ever!

4. I am too much of a perfectionist.

I don't mean to be, but somehow without realizing it, I always find myself striving to attain perfection when I know, as a human being, I can never reach it. It pushes me to be the very best that I can be...but when I fail to touch the stars...you'll only know the depths of that keen sense of disappointment if you struggle with this, too.

5. I stalk World War II veterans.

I have a problem that way. I am so awed by their courage, their heroism, their stories. More than most anything else, I hope to take part in saving their history, helping their stories live on. We need young men and women with their values and hard-working attitudes today.

6. Ice cream is my favorite dessert.

Especially Breyer's. Heaven, simply heaven.

7. I have an outdoor kitty cat called McQueen.

Named after...who else? The King of Cool himself:

Steve McQueen in The Great Escape

* * * * * *

I'd like to award:

A Banner of Crimson
Actually Laura
A Little Kingdom I Possess
Blessed Femina
Classic Forever
In My Own Little Corner
Ribbons of Light

Gregory...

2009-11-17T09:55:00.000-08:00

"Tough times don't last, tough people do, remember?"

Gregory Peck

Monty & Elizabeth...

2009-11-12T19:00:00.000-08:00

I've always loved this series of photos showcasing Elizabeth Taylor & Montgomery Clift. Snapped during a break in the filming of the classic, A Place in the Sun, they are light-hearted and full of fun, showing us a different side than is usually shown of these iconic film stars.

What's not to love?

* * * * * *

Happiness.

Elizabeth on Montgomery Clift:

"I thought he was the most gorgeous thing
in the world,
and easily one of the best actors."

Perfectly paired.

Montgomery on Elizabeth Taylor:

"She feels like the other half of me."

Beauty.

Laughter.

Friendship.

* * * * * *

Wednesday-ish Plotting...

2009-11-10T19:17:00.000-08:00

I always wake up feeling sluggish and exhausted on the "in-between" days of my work schedule. I long to crawl back into my warm bed and pretend that nothing else matters but a few more precious hours of sleep. But somehow, sleeping the entire day away just doesn't seem to work for me, no matter how late in the morning I'm finally able to lay my tired head down.

I've resolved to tidy up my bedroom the moment I am able to tomorrow, sluggish or not. Somehow, it has become suspiciously messy. Who crept into my room and left clothes, and dishes, and books, and books, and books lying around while I've been gone? Have any cyclones swooped through one tiny part of Michigan--specifically one tiny room--that I haven't heard about?

I still have several boxes that I haven't unpacked yet from our move. I just really haven't had the time, but the most frustrating part is where to put the things that are in the boxes. The closet in my new room doesn't have any shelves, just a bar to hang clothes. And the only "extra" piece of furniture I have besides my bookshelf, bed, and beloved WWII army cot is a smallish dresser I use for my clothes. I never realized how much I depended on and was blessed by my rather large closet just filled with shelves. So...I am going to have to figure out some storage ideas for all of my craft projects, supplies, and miscellaneous "junk."

I can't wait until my room is neat and welcoming again. I have a beautiful new throw and squishy pillows to make my little WWII army cot cozy and a soft paper lantern to throw a deliciously warm beam of light on my new little reading nook.

So for now, I am counting down the hours until I can be home with my beloved ones again; home making a messy room peaceful; home where my heart belongs.

Newman...

2009-11-08T18:00:00.000-08:00

"I would like it if people would think that beyond Newman,
there's a spirit that takes action, a heart,
and a talent that doesn't come from my blue eyes."

Paul Newman

November...

2009-11-08T17:00:00.000-08:00

I can hardly believe that November has crept upon us again. Where does Time take herself to?

These first crisp, autumnal days have been overwhelmingly busy ones for me. Beyond the extraordinary changes that have taken place in my life these past few months relating to my father, new challenges--difficult and bittersweet in turn--continually remind me that I can never take any aspect of my life for granted.

Sarah--my sweet, darling older sister--is getting married! As happy as I am for her, I can't help but long for the days when the most serious thing we had to worry about was whether or not we could convince our parents to let us stay up for just a leetle bit longer. I am so glad that she has found someone she wishes to spend the rest of her life with...but my heart is breaking over the fact that she will be moving so far away. What will I ever do without her??

Our days have been spent scrambling to finalize wedding plans & create the perfect menu for the bridal shower Elizabeth, my cousins and I have been planning for her. Melanie, Laura (aforementioned cousins) and I couldn't help but continually sigh as we traipsed after Sarah in the store as she was deciding on items to put on her registry. We all agree that this wedding business is too unbelievable. Who can believe that one of us is getting married...and picking out dinnerware? Though we are supposedly "all grown up," I can't help but feel that it's all pretend; just another one of our "dress-up" games.

Beyond the beautiful-but-crazy wedding planning, we all have been accustoming ourselves to the new job we started after our move a few months ago to a home closer to the rest of our family. The opportunity worked out for us quite well. A close family friend has an aunt with Alzheimer's disease who needs 24-hour care and as we have had experience dealing with this particular disease in the past--this sort of occupation for the three of us seemed a perfect fit for this time in our lives. The only real difficulty is the crazy hours. Right now I am working forty hours a week, but those hours are spread out over only two and a half "days." I work Tuesdays & Thursdays from 4pm until 8am the next morning & Sundays from 4pm until midnight. The most difficult aspect regarding this job is a definite lack of sleep. Beyond work, I hardly accomplish anything I want to these days as I am always so tired!

Once again, I am spending an evening at work when all I really long to do is curl up in a warm corner of our house, lighted against the creeping gloom of the outdoors, to watch a lovely classic film...something I haven't done in much too long a time.

Hmm...that isn't a bad idea. If I can only stay awake long enough...

Love,
Emily

Bogie and Bacall...

2009-10-15T14:30:00.000-07:00

* * * *

Humphrey Bogart speaking of Lauren Bacall:

"She's a real Joe. You'll fall in love with her like everybody else."

* * * *

Lauren Bacall speaking of Humphrey Bogart:

"Was he tough? In a word, no. Bogie was truly a gentle soul."

Whisper...

2009-10-08T16:23:00.000-07:00

Just today, in one of my old, worn out notebooks, I found a scrap of a story that I had written long ago. Truthfully, I had forgotten all about it. And though the writing is rough & unfinished, and you can sense a liberal stroke of the melodramatic style my younger self favored, there was something about this short piece that touched my heart. Something that, without my realizing it when I first scribbled it down, would touch my story, my life, all these years later.

I can only desire that someday the same note of hopeful expectancy that weaves throughout this short piece will be rooted truthfully in my own heart. For now, I cling to all that is familiar; I cling to the love I hold in my heart for my family; I cling to the hope that somehow we will make it through another moment....if only for the fact that we are together.

* * * * * *

"I still love him. I always will.
But I know now that I don't
have to be afraid to move on,
for I can never lose what we shared.

I can never forget.

There are still moments when I struggle,
when the world seems to spin around me
and I feel as if I can hardly breathe.

I desperately try to hold on to
everything that is familiar.

And in that moment I am lost all over again.
But I know that if I can hold on just a little bit longer,
I'll be alright...I'll be able to make it through."

Bogie...

2009-09-21T20:07:00.000-07:00

"I came out here with one suit and everybody said I looked

like a bum. Twenty years later Marlon Brando came out

with only a sweatshirt and the town drooled over him.

That shows how much Hollywood has progressed."

Humphrey Bogart

Gene...

2009-09-18T17:08:00.000-07:00

"Everyone should see Hollywood once, I think,

through the eyes of a teenage girl who

has just passed a screen test."

Gene Tierney

Fashion Vintage: Sleepwear...

2009-09-15T19:10:00.000-07:00

At the end of a long day, there isn't anything else I look forward to quite so much as shedding the day's worries along with that pair of pinching shoes or restricting garment. Slipping into my most comfortable set of pajamas to relax with my favorite classic film or newest good read seems to naturally make the world seem just a bit brighter.

And if there is one thing that I could point to that I believe showcases vintage designer's superiority, I would have to say that they really knew how to create sleepwear.

So, whether you are a glamorous nightgown-wearing sort of girl or prefer that classic set of pj's, hopefully you'll find some vintage inspiration here!

Enjoy!

* * * * * *

I love this photo!

This is such a soft, classic example of a nightgown.
I think any girl would love to have its swirling
skirt about her feet!

This model's cute, perky ponytail matches the
personality of her nightgown to a tee!

As cute as this look is, it's the pj's and robe
of the little boy in the background that have really
captured my attention. How cute can you get?

The shape and styling of this pair of pajamas
really seems oh-so classic America to me.

The interesting thing to note here, I think,
is how vintage designs so often pair comfort and style.

Isn't she cute?

I love the look of her much too big pajamas!

I think this darling set of pajamas (foreground)
is a perfect example for those who think that pajama
"pants" sets can only be "boyish."

Scallops, tiny bows, and a belted waist are only a
few of the many details that make this a feminine
and pretty look!

Girl next door personified.

More "apron" styling.

Look at all of the detailing!

This nightgown is so exquisite...

This sort of glamorous, dainty style
is a definite vintage specialty.

And look at those slippers!

Be still my heart.

Two vintage models...too cute sleepwear.

Ever so glamorous...

If you look closely at the sweetly-styled nightgown
in this photo, you will see why I think vintage
sleepwear can't be matched today.

Look at all of the detailing...

So many aspects of the skirt and bodice look like
something that could be worn out.

*giggle*

Doesn't this look like a still from some
ultra-glamorous Golden-Age era film?

Daddy...

2009-08-24T18:15:00.000-07:00

"When you are sorrowful look again in your heart,

and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for

that which has been your delight."

Kahlil Gibran

Esther...

2009-08-23T19:00:00.000-07:00

"The wisdom acquired with the passage

of time is a useless gift unless you share it."

Esther Williams

I've missed you...

2009-08-19T11:42:00.001-07:00

It's been quite awhile since I've written--or felt like writing--anything new for my beloved songs I sing. And I must say, even in the midst of the constant turmoil my life has become; even when I have had hardly a moment to myself to pause and think; even when I have hurt so terribly that I can hardly see straight...I have missed my small blog. Even more, I have missed you.

Though I have only met two of my "followers" in "real life," I truly feel as if I know so many of you. It is some sort of unfathomable bond...an unusual sort of friendship, but a real friendship nonetheless. I can't tell you how much your encouraging and sympathetic words have meant to me. In these, the darkest days of my life, you have reached out and touched my heart. And for that, I will always be thankful.

I'm still not sure how often I will be able to post "current" items or thoughts about my life, rather than the previously written, self-publishing posts I have been doing. It still hurts too, too much. But I do know that I need some small space in my life that is constant when everything else around me has changed.

You can expect a few "new" posts and a few new ideas for songs I sing soon...

For now, know that I'm still here.

And yes, even though my life has irrevocably changed...I'm still me.

Rock...

2009-08-16T05:30:00.000-07:00

“The most dangerous thing for an actor

is to refuse to listen to anyone else,

to feel you know more than anybody.”

Rock Hudson

Maureen...

2009-07-21T14:00:00.000-07:00

"Above all else, deep in my soul, I'm a tough Irishwoman."

Maureen O'Hara

Duke...

2009-07-02T15:15:00.000-07:00

"Courage is being scared to death...and saddling up anyway."

John Wayne

Sister of the Bride...

2009-07-01T23:32:00.001-07:00

Sister of the Bride is one of the four "older girl" novels talented Beverly Cleary penned. While admittedly remaining my least favorite of the four, it is nonetheless deliciously delightful in its entirety; a warm, witty, and beloved read of mine since childhood.

Over the years, my only sorrow concerning this "series" has been regret that Ms. Cleary didn't write more of this type of story. Don't get me wrong. Ramona is fine in her own right...but she certainly can't compete with Shelley, Jane, Jean, or Barbara MacLane.

* * * * * * * * *

"Can you keep a secret? A big one?" asked Rosemary.
"Well . . . I can work at it," said Barbara. "You know how women are."

"This is no time to be funny," said Rosemary.
"Not on my twenty cents."

"I can keep a secret," promised Barbara.

"Barby, I'm going to get married!" Rosemary's voice was filled with joy and excitement.

Barbara was stunned into silence. Married? Her sister married? She knew Rosemary had become more sophisticated since she had gone away to college, but she had no idea . . . married. Why, she was only eighteen. She still had bands on her teeth.

"Are you still there?" asked Rosemary.

"Yes, I'm here," said Barbara.

"Then say something," pleaded Rosemary.

"But who are you going to marry?" asked Barbara, wondering if she should have known without asking.

-excerpt from Sister of the Bride
written by Beverly Cleary

Natalie...

2009-06-21T19:00:00.000-07:00

"Stardom is only a by-product of acting.
I don't think being a movie star is a good

enough reason for existing."

Natalie Wood

Uncertainty...

2009-06-20T18:44:00.000-07:00

One day melds into the next, separated only by the changing of faces nearby that I soon forget; the different meals that I barely remember eating; the number of times I become sick with the realization that my Daddy won't ever walk through our front door again. Each day I must ask the person nearest me a hundred times..."What day is today?"

But it really doesn't matter. I really don't care.

Someday I may be able to speak of the man we called "Daddy" and the deep love we held for him. Someday I may be able to share a little more about these times and the life we are now required to lead. I'm really not sure when that might be. In the meantime, know that the knowledge of having your thoughts and prayers has blessed me so much.

I have decided to schedule a number of posts I had previously written to "self-publish" from time to time in an effort to continue my blog, in some sort of way or another, for now. With our future so uncertain, my plans for songs I sing remain shaky at best.

Emily

Shattered...

2009-06-13T18:52:00.001-07:00

I don't know what to say...

It has taken me more than a week to work up enough courage to sit down at the computer and write this post. I've panicked every time I've contemplated it. My chest tightens and I can hardly bear to breathe, let alone type out the words that explain a fact that I wish--more than anything I've ever wished--wasn't true. Writing them here only seems to make a horrible, horrible thing more real to me.

My dearest Daddy was killed in a tragic accident last week. Even now, I can hardly believe that it is true. I find myself still waiting to hear his footstep at the door; still expecting to see his face or hear the low hum of his voice at any moment.

My heart is broken...I know that my life will never again be the same.

I hope that someday I may be able to speak of him--to remember him--without this sharp, stabbing pain searing through every inch of me. For now, it is much, much too hard. My only hope is to get away, and for a little while...try to forget.

I don't know how we will live without him. I don't think that I can, and I know that I don't want to. My family, my world is shattered. He was our hero, our comforter, our everything...

Grace...

2009-05-14T17:13:00.000-07:00

" I don't want to dress up a picture with just my face."

Grace Kelly

Stretching My Legs...

2009-05-14T16:50:00.000-07:00

I've been finished with school for exactly two days and I'm already enjoying this "new" sense of freedom to the utmost. I've been so very, very tired these past few weeks of just sitting. Sitting for classes, sitting to study, sitting to write those oh-so-important last papers. I haven't been able to help feeling as if I've been sitting my entire spring away. If I could have only figured out how to memorize the various geopolitical tensions of East Asia while clipping along at a brisk jog...I would have been happy. ☺ You can't imagine my delight at realizing that I finally have the time to walk, walk, walk to my heart's content.

Our dusty dirt road is a long slim ribbon stretching before me as I walk across this beautiful patch of God's blooming green earth. And each night, as I stumble hot and tired up our long stone drive, I am so thankful to be young and alive with two good feet...no matter how much they hurt at that moment.

I'm trying to keep up my four mile a day streak. I'm on the third day so far...a jump up from the two miles I had been walking. And for a girl that's been sitting all spring...I don't think that's half bad.

Hollywood Mommy...

2009-05-10T17:00:00.000-07:00

In honor of Mother's Day & my own wonderful Mommy, I thought that I would share a few of my favorite photographs of Hollywood starlets with their real-life children. Instead of showcasing strictly glamorous poses, these photographs allow us a "behind-the-scenes" peek into the quiet moments & everyday lives these famous stars might have experienced.

Enjoy!

* * * * * *

Debbie Reynolds with son Todd Fisher & daughter Carrie Fisher

Audrey Hepburn with son Sean Ferrer

Barbara Stanwyck with son Dion Fay

Shirley Temple with daughter Linda Susan Agar

Shirley MacLaine with daughter Sachi Parker

Lucille Ball with children Desi Jr. & Lucie Arnaz

Elizabeth Taylor with children Michael Wilding Jr,

Christopher Wilding, & Liza Todd

Gene Tierney with daughter Daria Cassini

Lauren Bacall with son Stephen Bogart

A Wednesday Evening...

2009-05-06T19:25:00.000-07:00

I'm ever so sorry for neglecting you, dear friends!

Life has been a whirlwind these past few weeks--or rather months--what with a crazy, hectic school schedule, the funeral of a dear, dear friend, & a million other small, time-consuming things besides. It's been oh-so-difficult trying to stay on top of everything while still managing to squeeze in those important moments for family, but I've managed to--just by the skin of my teeth!

Now that the semester is winding to a close, my days are slowly beginning to be filled with a freedom & peace that I can't help but relish. I've felt so terribly guilty these past few weeks for all of the letters and emails I have neglected to send to certain special people in my life, but I have truthfully been so very, very busy every moment with school. I've hardly been able to keep my eyes open at dinner & each night that Sarah convinces me to watch a movie with her, I...fall asleep on the couch. So, please do know that you have been in my thoughts & expect a letter shortly in the mail!!

I really must head to bed for now...

Love,
Emily

Easter...

2009-04-12T07:19:00.000-07:00

* * * * * * *

Wishing you a blessed Easter...

Much love,

Emily

Debbie...

2009-04-04T18:30:00.000-07:00

Debbie Reynolds

"Singin' in the Rain and childbirth were the

two hardest things I ever had to do in my life."

Fashion Vintage: Day Wear...

2009-04-02T10:00:00.000-07:00

Even on the most ordinary of days, it doesn't hurt to put a little extra thought into your wardrobe. In fact, it's adding that little extra sparkle that can put a spring into your step & a song in your heart. So whether you'll be out and about lunching with good friends, or just spending the day in your own home, hopefully my collection of lovely vintage photos will serve as inspiration for you to create a classic, fabulous ensemble all your own...

* * * * * *

1949

1942

1952

1949

1946

1952

1946

1949

1958

The Ordinary Princess...

2009-03-30T17:00:00.000-07:00

The Ordinary Princess is the story of Amethyst--otherwise known as Amy--a princess who is given the gift of "ordinariness" by a fairy at her christening.

This was one of my favorite books as a child--and even now I still find this story enchanting. Sarah purchased a copy for Elizabeth a few years ago, and now she too, shares a love for this classic, simple fairy story. The black & white sketches that accompany the author's delightful text are beautiful in their simplicity & only serve to make the story spring more fully to life.

If you haven't yet read this story, you should really try to track down a copy to read to that special little girl in your life. Or...find a copy for yourself. Because no matter how old you are, and no matter what anyone says, you can never be too old for a good fairy tale.

* * * * * * * * *

Old Crustacea put out a long bony finger and touched the seventh princess's pink cheek. Then she looked at the King and Queen and the resplendent guests and the six little sister princesses, each more beautiful than the last, and finally she looked at the huge pile of glittering presents and the long list that the Lord High Chamberlain had made of the gifts bestowed by the other fairies.

"Hmm!" said the Fairy Crustacea. "Wit, Charm, Courage, Health, Wisdom, Grace...Good gracious, poor child! Well, thank goodness my magic is stronger than anyone else's."

She raised her twisty coral stick and waved it three times over the cradle of the seventh princess. "My child," said the Fairy Crustacea, "I am going to give you something that will probably bring you more happiness than all these fal-lals and fripperies put together.

You shall be Ordinary!"

~excerpt from The Ordinary Princess
written & illustrated by M.M. Kaye

Shirley...

2009-03-19T16:53:00.000-07:00

"When I was 14, I was the oldest I ever was.

I've been getting younger ever since."

Shirley Temple

Excellence Award...

2009-03-19T16:15:00.000-07:00

Sweet Elise was kind enough to give me this blog award.

Thank you so much, dear!

Rules:

1) Post the award on your blog

2) Pass it on to some friends, up to 15

3) Let them know they've received the award.

I award:

Smoke Gets In Your Eyes...

2009-03-15T17:00:00.000-07:00

I slipped outdoors as the day--long, and gray, and lazy--wound to a close. The "dim" was creeping cat-like over our land, leaving footprints of pinks, and orange, and gray tiptoeing behind it in the sky over our small farm.

Abra, Sarah's feisty, muscular little pup, ran with me. Excitement leapt into her large dark eyes as she saw me nearing the door with boots in hand; nearly wriggling herself to pieces with happiness when I finally slipped out.

We two ran across our back lawn, slipping away to the solitude of the trail cut through the wild tangle of our twenty-five acres. Old-time music filled my ears; a favorite thing of mine to do as I walk our property. The trees, still stark and bare, wove their branches in tangled webs above our heads, as I paused, chin uplifted, to marvel at the beauty God has created.

I don't think that there is anything else quite so nice as the quiet companionship of a pup tumbling about your feet on a long walk. They never break a perfect, fragile silence with unimportant words; they ask for nothing more than an extra scrap of your attention, and are more than content with just a good scratch behind the ear every now and again.

I ran laughing & tumbling across the uneven, wet ground, not caring that the bottoms of my pants were getting soaked with every step I took, only thankful to be young, and alive, and well. Abra, bouncing along rabbit-like ahead of me showed her discontent when my steps slowed by jumping towards me again and again with legs held stiff and straight before her.

We paused, as we usually do, at the farthest bend of the trail, where our land mingles with two fields of neighboring farms. A spot that always...somehow...makes me inexplicably want to...dance.

Abra, her dark eyes staring out disapprovingly from amidst the brown, crackling underbrush that lines the path, watched...as the lone girl, with muddy black pants & icy cold hands, danced & swirled all by herself beneath the covering of a few wise old oaks. You could tell by her eyes that she thought the girl was crazy.

But you see...

sometimes life is too beautiful to worry about seeming crazy. Sometimes...you just have to dance, and dance, and dance.

So the girl did, as a lovely old melody rose up to mingle with the very first stars.

...So I smile and say

When a lovely flame dies

Smoke gets in your eyes...

Vivien...

2009-03-07T16:11:00.001-08:00

"People think that if you look fairly reasonable,

you can't possibly act,

and as I only care about acting,

I think beauty can be a great handicap."

Vivien Leigh

Neglect...

2009-03-06T19:07:00.000-08:00

It's been so long since I've had a moment to sit down and write anything at all for songs I sing. It's quite the understatement to say that school has kept me more than a little busy these past few weeks. I thrive on studying...but I've missed my little blog!

It was such a beautiful day today in more ways than one. Sarah, Elizabeth and I headed out on a small road-trip of sorts, driving the hour and fifteen minutes or so into our former city of residence. While Sarah & Elizabeth spent some time at my grandparent's home, I headed to the library to find a few books that I desperately need to use for several presentations (ugh!) that I am working on for a few of my classes. We really don't have a library near our home that we are able to use, so an aunt was kind enough to lend me her library card so that I could find what I need in the big, beautiful library she is blessed enough to be able to use. *sigh* I could spend hours upon hours there. Actually, I would be perfectly content to take up permanent residence. ☺ Do you think they would allow me to set up a cot in the back near the WWII section??

It was so nice to be out and about for a little while. I treasure the slow, quiet peace of our country home and, for me, there is nothing quite like our loping hills and ruddy dirt roads, but it is nice to get away for a little while and be able to experience the cheerful commotion of a "big" city.

...and when I came home? I found a letter waiting for me! Yippee! I love those days. Sadly, they have become few and far between as of late. I really do need to find some more friends who appreciate the "old-fashioned" art of letter writing as much as I do (hint, hint).

I promise that you will be seeing more of me. Amidst the "ordinary" busyness, those moments that I can spend writing small bits about my life, my loves, my thoughts...help to keep me inspired & grounded.

Much love,
Emily

Wisdom...

2009-02-27T18:05:00.000-08:00

"Every man's life ends the same way.

It is only the details of how he lived and

how he died that distinguish one man from another."

Ernest Hemingway

Happy Birthday, songs I sing!

2009-02-17T13:07:00.000-08:00

Marilyn Monroe

Exactly one year ago today, I cautiously began a little blog entitled songs I sing. In fact, if it hadn't been for the continual encouragement of my sister Sarah, I might never have been brave enough to have begun at all.

And I would never have known just

how much I would have missed out on.

Songs I sing is more to me than just a blog. It is the one place where I am able to combine all of my passions, the place where I can scribble down anything and everything that has touched my life or meant something to me; where I can share my love of classic movies and black & white pictures and not have someone think I'm crazy; where I can pause at the end of a long day and remember all of the many bits of beauty scattered throughout. It has brought joy to my life in so many ways.

It's been a wild and bumpy ride at times, but ever so fun.

Thank you for making me feel like my writing might actually mean something, however small and unimportant it may really be. You have touched me more than I can say.

Thank you for listening to the simple stories of my life and sharing with me those special moments of your own. You continually inspire me.

After 365 days and 179 posts...I'm still here. Writing, reminiscing, spreading a little classic love...here's to another year hopefully filled with the same!

Happy Birthday,

Songs I Sing!!

Help us celebrate! Grab a piece of cake,

mingle with our fabulous guests, and reminisce!

Shirley Temple

Betty Grable, Harry James & Victoria Elizabeth

Marlon Brando & Aunt June Beachley

Dean Martin, Shirley MacLaine, Elvis Presley

Lucille Ball & Desi Arnaz

Valentine...

2009-02-14T15:25:00.000-08:00

Natalie Wood

Be Mine, Valentine ?

Jimmy...

2009-02-06T05:47:00.000-08:00

James Dean

"Only the gentle are ever really strong."

One of Those Days...

2009-02-03T09:40:00.000-08:00

The day is winding to a close, and a crisp, small, fingernail of a moon is rising in our evening sky. The dark silhouettes of trees stand out against the velvety grey expanse; clouds--small and translucent--are smeared across its face in liberal strokes.

I usually revel in the simplicity of such beauty...but not tonight. Today has been one of those days.

My braces were tightened yesterday and my head feels exactly like a watermelon rind must feel as it is cracked wide open. My orthodontist can never seem to understand how much pain I really am in. Every time I have my braces tightened I seriously contemplate asking to have them removed. I wish that I could make my orthodontist understand that some people experience more than just "discomfort." I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to wear braces to straighten out my stubborn teeth, but it is frustrating to have people brush away the pain you are experiencing. I'm usually knocked out for at least a week and I'm lucky if I find myself crying only...say...ten times a day. ☺

*sigh* The day is almost gone and I've found that I've accomplished hardly anything at all. I'm still a bit too foggy with pain to enjoy much of anything, but I suppose I'll drag the small tv that my uncle passed on to us into my bedroom, plump up my pillows, and watch (another) classic film.

But there's always hope. Tomorrow is another day, right?

Paul...

2009-02-01T18:24:00.000-08:00

"I'd like to be remembered as a guy who tried--who tried to be part of his times, tried to help people communicate with one another, tried to find some decency in his own life, tried to extend himself as a human being. Someone who isn't complacent, who doesn't cop out."

Paul Newman

Blog Awards...

2009-01-31T19:37:00.001-08:00

The lovely Elise was kind enough to present two blog awards to me! Thank you so much, dear, for your thoughtfulness and support...you can't know how much it means to me.

I can never seem to remember who has awarded whom,

so if I forget to mention your name...know that I love you just the same!

The rules are: thank the person who gave you the award,

then pass the award on to ten other people,

and let them know they have been awarded.

Isn't she adorable?? I love her "old-fashioned movie star glamour!

Fashion Vintage: Fabulous Hats...

2009-01-23T18:30:00.000-08:00

A definite symbol of a bygone era, the hat remains a vintage fashion necessity. Whether you are out for a stroll, window shopping, or visiting with good friends, it's always the perfect addition to top off your outfit. Hopefully, this collection of photos of lovely vintage hats will serve as inspiration...because every vintage woman-wannabe knows that it's the required accessory for every outfit.

1950

1950

1950

1950

1952

1952

1950

1938

Martin Luther King Jr...

2009-01-19T16:12:00.000-08:00

"A man who won't die for something is not fit to live."

"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that.

Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."

Rilla of Ingleside...

2009-01-16T21:19:00.000-08:00

L.M. Montgomery was one of my first favorite authors. The long row of her books that line the shelves of my overflowing bookcase are a testament to that fact. Each spine is well-creased and the pages of each novel are worn and mellowed from use.

This excerpt from Rilla of Ingleside--the eighth from the beloved "Anne" series--has always been a favorite of mine.

* * * * *

For the first time in her life Rilla Blythe touched a baby--lifted it--rolled it in a blanket, trembling with nervousness lest she drop it or--or--break it. Then she put it in the soup tureen.

"Is there any fear of it smothering?" she asked anxiously.

"Not much odds if it do," said Mrs. Conover.

Horrified Rilla loosened the blanket round the baby's face a little. The mite had stopped crying and was blinking up at her. It had big dark eyes in its ugly little face.

"Better not let the wind blow on it," admonished Mrs. Conover. "Take its breath if it do."

And so it was that Rilla Blythe, who had driven to the Anderson house a self-confessed hater of babies, drove away from it carrying one in a soup tureen on her lap!

Rilla thought she would never get to Ingleside. In the soup tureen there was an uncanny silence. In one way she was thankful the baby did not cry but she wished it would give an occasional squeak to prove that it was alive. Suppose it were smothered! Rilla dared not unwrap it to see, lest the wind, which was now blowing a hurricane, should "take its breath," whatever dreadful thing that might be. She was a thankful girl when at last she reached harbour at Ingleside.

Rilla carried the soup tureen to the kitchen, and set it on the table under Susan's eyes. Susan looked into the tureen and for once in her life was so completely floored that she had not a word to say...

~excerpt from Rilla of Ingleside

By L.M. Montgomery

Ricardo...

2009-01-14T17:14:00.000-08:00

Ricardo Montalban, popular 1950's actor, passed away today.

He was eighty-eight years old.

* * * * *

Ricardo Montalban

Born: November 25, 1920

Died: January 14, 2009

* * * * *

"Standing on soil feels so much different than standing on city pavement; it lets you look inward and reflect and see who you really are, while you see a beautiful, unspoiled land as far as the eye can see. It allows your inner life to grow."

"True love doesn't happen right away; it's an ever-growing process. It develops after you've gone through many ups and downs, when you've suffered together, cried together, laughed together."

A New Semester...

2009-01-11T17:27:00.000-08:00

College classes begin again tomorrow. As much as I love going...I must admit, I'm nervous. I know it's silly of me. I know that I shouldn't allow myself to behave in this way, but a whole fleet of butterflies have taken up lodging in the near vicinity of my stomach, and no matter what I do or say...they simply won't behave! Ornery little beasts...

I'm not really nervous about the coursework. I have one semester under my belt so far, and I know that I can handle it. The truth is I absolutely hate walking into the classroom the very first day (okay...um, several weeks ☺) by myself. Not knowing anyone, not knowing if the instructors will be fair, or harsh, or simply loveable. It pushes me to step out of my happy little bubble, and I'm not quite thrilled about that. I'm used to being surrounded by my family; used to having Sarah or Mama nearby to step in for me if I can't quite manage to say what I mean because my everlasting shyness has once again crept up behind me and stolen every single thought out of my head when I wasn't looking.

But, as nervous as I am, deep down I know that once I get back into the swing of things...I'll simply love that I'm back in school. I know I will.

Now I just need to learn to listen to myself. And somehow, find a remedy for a bad case of crazy butterfly stomach.

Jean...

2009-01-09T13:18:00.000-08:00

Jean Arthur

"I guess I became an actress

because I didn't want to be myself."

Fashion Vintage: Shoes...

2009-01-06T15:22:00.000-08:00

What adds the finishing touch to that perfect vintage ensemble? Shoes, of course! Whether you're looking for a shoe that's glamorous, smart, elegant, or well-worn...we've got a sampling of them all here!

Take a peek!

1949

1938

1949

1948

1937

1949

1943

There's No Place Like Home...

2008-12-30T20:17:00.000-08:00

The dim light from our small laundry room lamp casts its glow across my mother's face and sends shadows skittering across the room.

As I glance up at her from where I am sitting, the thought that has been throbbing through my heart all day rises once again to my thoughts.

There really is no place like home.

Elizabeth is engrossed in a new book; her curly head bent low to catch the dark stamp of words printed across the soft flutter of pages; her hair, soft and golden and fine, is smooth against her cheek.

I love to watch her face as she reads, her lips moving silently to the rythm of the neatly woven story; her face contorting frequently into a vast mix of facial movements--first a frown of worry, then a twist of excitement, and last a gleeful bounce and joyful outloud chuckle as the story turns to a happier note.

There really is no place like home.

Sarah is in the kitchen, enveloped in the nut brown sweater I bought for her several years ago. The whir of the beater winds its way down the hall to my ears, teasing me with thoughts of the delightful something she is making in the kitchen.

There really is no place like home.

My Daddy, though not with us now, can be felt just the same. I can picture him sitting in the family room at my grandparent's house, surrounded by a variety of musty antiques, where he is resting after a hard day's worth of work. The weather and car trouble has kept him from home...but our thoughts travel the miles between us and wrap around him with good-night hugs.

There really is no place like home.

Sometimes I wonder why I have been so blessed. My family isn't rich...we don't own all of the latest gadgets and gizmos...sometimes it even seems as if we've seen more than our fair share of hardships in life. But sometimes, it isn't what you own that measures up what you have. It's more than that.

It's the roof over my head, and my lovable, teasing sisters, and the set of parents that love me more than life itself.

It's the rain on the windowpane. It's the whisper of the wind through our woods. It's the stars shining down on our very own bit of Earth. It's all of the things that I am sometimes too busy to look up at and notice.

And when I remember all of these things...I realize that I'm one of the very richest people on earth.

A Gift for You...

2008-12-25T09:36:00.000-08:00

Debbie Reynolds

How would you like to find this life-size Debbie Reynolds

doll under your tree on Christmas morning?

Doesn't it look life-like?

Hey, wait...that isn't a doll! That is Debbie Reynolds! *chuckle*

Elizabeth Taylor

I'd love to have Elizabeth over for Christmas! Doesn't she look glamorous surrounded by all of the fancy new gadgets she "received" for Christmas?

Vintage Plymouth Advertisements...

2008-12-25T09:25:00.000-08:00

Aren't these vintage Plymouth advertisements adorable? I stumbled across them the other day and had to share them with you! They really knew how to sell a product back then. Norman Rockwell's drawings...Christmas theme...family gatherings...all add up to perfectly marvelous advertisements!

Merry Christmas...

2008-12-25T02:32:00.000-08:00

songs I sing's very first Christmas!

Christ was born in the first century,

yet he belongs to all centuries.

He was born a Jew, yet He belongs to all races.

He was born in Bethlehem, yet He belongs to all countries.

George W. Truett

* * * * * * * * * *

From my home to yours....

Merry Christmas, everyone!

Yes, Virginia...

2008-12-22T18:49:00.000-08:00

Though my family chooses to focus on celebrating the birth of Jesus at Christmastime instead of that jolly old elf, this most-famous newspaper article has always piqued my interest and thrilled me to the tips of my toes. Every word is perfectly stated, every thought profound. I hope you enjoy reading it--for the very first time or the hundredth--as much as I always have.

New York, Sept. 21, 1897.

Dear Editor: I am 8 years old.

Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus.

Papa says "If you see it in The Sun, it's so."

Please tell me the truth: is there a Santa Claus?

Virgina O'Hanlon

The editor's reply:

Virginia, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men's or children's, are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world around him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole truth and knowledge.

Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus. It would be as dreary as if there were no Virginias. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills this world would be extinguished.

Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that's no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.

You may tear apart the baby's rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, Virginia, in all this world there is nothing real and abiding.

No Santa Claus! Thank God he lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.

Merry Christmas, Shirley...

2008-12-22T12:14:00.000-08:00

"I stopped believing in Santa Claus when I was six.

Mother took me to see him in a department store

and he asked for my autograph."

Shirley Temple

More Blog Awards...

2008-12-21T19:30:00.000-08:00

I've been away from home since last Thursday, as we three girls went with Mama into town for her scheduled surgery. It was a painful procedure, and it seems like she'll have quite a bit of recovering to do, but we are fervently praying that this will clear up the health issue she's suffered through the last several years!

I discovered that I hadn't yet posted the two awards three sweet young ladies gave to me...so here they are! Thank you so much Clare, Laura, and Carla! Your kindness and sweet sentiments mean so much to me...

I know so many of my favorite blogs have been nominated for these awards already...so if I overlook yours or give you a duplicate of one you already have...know I mean the best! ☺

I nominate:

Painter of Words

The Joy of Home

Ribbons of Light

The qualifications for this award:

You give this award to five bloggers who:

1.Inspire you
2.Make you smile and laugh
3.Give amazing information
4.Are a great read
5.Have an amazing design
6. And any other reasons you can think of that makes them uber amazing!

Rules of the award are as follows:

1. Put the logo on your blog or post.
2. Nominate at least 5 blogs (can be more) that for you are Uber Amazing! ***if you don’t have 5 that’s okay.***
3. Let them know that they have received this Uber Amazing award by commenting on their blog.
4. Share the love and link to this post and to the person you received your award from.

I nominate:

Ribbons of Light

Simply Vintagegirl

Much love!

Emily

Something There...

2008-12-13T17:40:00.000-08:00

Jimmy Stewart

"I learned never to empty the well of my writing,

but always to stop when there was still

something there in the deep part of the well,

and let it refill at night from the springs that fed it."

Ernest Hemingway

A Blog Award...

2008-12-13T16:40:00.000-08:00

Charmaine of Beautiful Things to Share was kind enough to give me this blogger award! The concept behind the award being that the blog creators have shown an uncanny knack for seeing silver linings and making the best of bad situations (i.e., lemonade from lemons).

Thank you so much Charmaine for your sweet comments and support! Visit Charmaine's site to discover some of the lovely and inspirational items she delights in posting.

Rules: Name ten sites that reflect this silver linings philosophy.

Below are my ten choices...they continually inspire me and brighten up my day!

1. A Banner of Crimson

2. Actually Laura

3. Daughter of the King

4. I Have Loved the Rain

5. Joy in the Journey

6. the Joy of Home

7. Ribbons of Light

8. Romantic History

9. Starlight Musings
10. Those Northern Skies

Shadow of a Doubt...

2008-12-07T17:09:00.000-08:00

"We're not just an uncle and a niece.

It's something else. I know you. I know you don't tell people a lot of things. I don't either. I have a feeling that inside you there's something nobody knows about... something secret and wonderful. I'll find it out."

Teresa Wright simply sparkles as young

"Charlie" in the 1943 film Shadow of a Doubt.

Considered by Alfred Hitchcock to be his best work, Shadow's plot centers around the quirky Newton family, who lead quiet lives in a quiet little town. When Uncle Charlie (Joseph Cotten)--beloved brother and idolized uncle--comes to visit, no one in the family seems to sense the underlying cloud of mystery that surrounds his life.

"Uncle Charlie"--one of Joseph Cotten's most brilliant roles.

But when detectives come snooping around the house, stating that they have reason to believe that the elusive serial killer, The Merry Widow Murderer, may be the Newton's own beloved uncle, young Charlie is unwillingly drawn into the mystery on a race against time to discover the truth behind her uncle's past.

"Shadow" is delightful and entertaining, a smoothly flowing film that will keep you on your toes. Hitchcock loved the idea of introducing crime to a small town, and he does so here with precise perfection.

The first time that the opening scenes flashed across our television screen, I knew this would be one film that I could watch again and again. Joseph Cotten and Teresa Wright are brilliant as uncle and niece, and Hume Cronyn's delectable role as Herbie Hawkins was also his film debut.

The plot centers around a fine dance of suspense and intrigue, and young Charlie's recurring question...could there be more to her beloved uncle than she originally thought?

Teresa Wright's costumes are absolutely lovely...and I can only wish that we had a stately old library just like the one in the film in our small town. If you haven't yet seen, Shadow of a Doubt, you really need to find a copy. I highly recommend it!

Fashion Vintage: Winter Wear...

2008-11-29T16:57:00.001-08:00

Inspired by the winter weather, I hunted down some good old vintage fashion flair to help keep me warm on these icy cold nights. There's nothing quite so nice as inspiring cold weather attire to put one in the mood for the holidays!

So whether you imagine yourself skating in the park, window shopping with good friends, or heading out to that glamorous holiday bash in one of these delightful ensembles...hang on to your hats! They're simply delicious!

1952

1950

1948

1952

1938

1959

1952

Thanksgiving...

2008-11-27T06:00:00.000-08:00

"Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life.

It turns what we have into enough, and more."

Melodie Beatty

* * * * * * * * * *

Happy Thanksgiving!

Love,

Emily

Another Meme...

2008-11-26T10:40:00.000-08:00

Carla tagged me for this meme...

The Rules:

1. Copy the questions and post the answers on your blog.
2. Tag four people and let them know that they've been tagged.
3. Let the person who tagged you know you've posted the meme.

1. What are your nicknames?

Ooh...really too many to count! Lets see...Em, Emmy, EmEm, M&M, and Annie (don't ask), among others, and one extra-special, classically-ridiculous nickname my Daddy dubbed me with...which shall remain...a secret. ☺

2. What TV game show or reality show would you like to be on?

I don't think I would ever care to be on a game or reality show. But I have always wished that I could star as an extra or a bit part on some of my favorite classic television shows. Can't you just see me in the background...that girl jumping up and down and wildly waving her arms because she actually made it onto I Love Lucy??

*sigh* Born too late...

3. What was the first movie you bought in VHS or DVD?

I don't believe I've ever bought myself a movie. All of the movies I own were given to me.

4. What is your favorite scent?

I love how the earth smells right before it rains, with the tension and crackling of lightning filling the air; the smell of tomato plants and brand-new yarn; warm cookies baking on a cold night; Elizabeth's fluffy little head of curls right after a shower; and walnut & vanilla cream body spray. Mmm!!

5. If you had one million dollars to spend only on yourself, what would you spend it on?

I have always longed to travel, so I know that is one thing that I would love to spend the money on, but I would also love to buy a zillion lovely, vintage books, old movie magazines, and all sorts of vintage clothes.

6. What is one place you've visited, can't forget and want to go back to?

Truthfully, in my whole life I haven't ever traveled far from home. A few trips to nearby states to visit family, one trip to one town in Georgia (but we basically lived in our hotel room, so that doesn't count), and two trips to Nags Head, North Carolina. My dream travels have been much more exciting...! I'd love to travel to so many places...I have a running list! I'd also love to be able to meet a few of these lovelies....here, here, here, and here!

7. Do you trust easily?

Yes, though I've grown out of it a bit as I've grown older. I've discovered how hard it can be to have a naturally trusting nature; it's easy to get hurt because of it.

8. Do you generally think before you act, or act before you think?

A bit of both. I'm probably both extremes. Anyone can tell you that I tend to way over-think and analyze things at times, but I can also be very spontaneous!

9. Is there anything that has made you unhappy these days?

Certainly. I doubt there will ever be a time in anyone's life where there isn't some small unhappiness that lingers somewhere nearby. The key is to trust in God and keep focusing on every small bit of joy in your life.

10. What is your favorite fruit?

I don't really have a favorite fruit. I love nectarines, clementines, grapes...etc., etc., etc.

11. What websites do you visit daily?

I don't visit all of these everyday, but quite often...A Banner of Crimson, I Have Loved the Rain, Starlight Musings, Those Northern Skies, and S&S Forums. I'm always on the search for new favorites, too!

12. What have you been seriously addicted to lately?

Baskin-Robbins Mocha Cappuccino Blast. Oh, so heavenly! But just because I'm addicted does not mean that I can/do purchase it. I need to be saving for more lasting items in my life...more's the pity.

13. What's the last song that got stuck in your head?

Elvis Presley's, In the Ghetto. Haunting, soulful, and oh-so-lovely! This song always makes me cry, especially at the...And his Mama cries...As her young man dies...bit.

14. What is your favorite thing to wear?

Something classic..something that makes me feel lovely and wonderful.

15. Do you think Rice Krispies are yummy?

Nope.

16. What would you do if you saw $100 lying on the ground?

I would try to see if the owner was someone nearby...then I suppose I would give it to my mom for groceries.

17. What items couldn't you be without during the day?

Dreams, my family, books, and my imagination.

18. What should you be doing right now?

Scrubbing up the kitchen post-cherry pie baking.

Elizabeth...

2008-11-21T10:19:00.000-08:00

Elizabeth Taylor

"So much to do, so little done, such things to be."