February 3, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote: I would like to wish everyone with Andre Rieu and the JSO a Happy Valentine's Day! I would also wish Marjorie, Marc and Pierre a Beautiful and Happy Valentine's on the 14th!
Happy Valentine's Day to all those who work behind the scenes for Andre, you deserve a kiss!
Finally, a Happy Valentine's to all the fans and friends of myself and Andre Rieu. I love you all and wish you the best.
PS: Andre, you and Marjorie have fun on this special day!
Love Grace
February 3, 2008
WebMaster Sally wrote: I wonder what Andre will do for Marjorie on Valentine's Day? He seems to be a romantic. And Marjorie with her way with words and creative thinking, what will she do?
Any one have a favorite Valentine's Story?
February 4, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
Once upon a time, not long ago, there was this man. He was just an ordinary man when amidst a large crowd of people. Just another face if one might even think.
There was something about this man, though, that made him separate from a great many people. He had a special something that those who did not see, would appear to be a secret.
What was this secret? As plain as the nose on one's face, this man wore his heart on this sleeve! He cried, he laughed, he passioned. Why he showed just about every emotion known to humans!
As wonderful as this secret is, he placed all this emotion into music! The sound, oh and what a doozy! Dare I call it Love?
Yes, I admit, this is a Love Story. A Love Story about a humble man, who's wish is to give the world as much emotion, passion, and love to anyone who is willing to receive it. Then it would not be a secret anymore!
Still there is a secret within a secret. This man has a "Great Love" for many years to a "Great Lady". He also has an "Unconditional Love" for his children.
Whether rich or poor, well known or alone, this man is still the same. Can you keep a secret?...
It's Andre!
February 4, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Oh dear Grace that is just beautiful! You are right and what a beautiful secret this is! Thank you and I am so glad to see you here on the blog. Much love and hugs,
February 5, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
For you Jeanine Ann, not a problem! And that is no secret!
Much Love Grace (Amazing isn't it?1?)
February 3, 2008
Margaret S wrote: Hope everyone has a great February. We should embrace love all year round! Only 283 days to go!!!Take care!!!
February 3, 2008
WebMaster Sally wrote: Amen Margaret! As Elvis sang.. Why can't everyday be like Christmas? **or**Valentine's Day!
I have the magazines! Am going to look at them asap I finish this webwork.
February 3, 2008Hermina wrote:
Hello, Sally! Happy Valentine's Day to you too! Did you receive the French article with my two translations into English and German. I would assume that the English translation would be appropriate to publish on your website. What do you think? Best regards, Hermina
February 3, 2008
WebMaster Sally wrote: Hello Hermina! YES I have the articles and Thank you Thank you Thank you. I am working on them now. (I've been offline and out of commission with a sore neck, but am back to work!)
I am making a page with the articles right now. MayRose & Hermina = Winning Teamwork = Fun for all Fans!
February 3, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Hey Sally, where is that picture of our favorite Valentine!! (next to our spouses and sign. others that is) Happy February everyone! Hugs
February 11, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
I know what you mean. Just looking tastes yummy! Kind of reminds you of that movie "Chocolat" with Johnny Depp and Juliette Binoche!
Much Love Grace
February 3, 2008
marianne peters wrote:
Dear Friends Happy Valentine's Day to everyone. Some 40 years ago my late spouse, Don gifted me with a box of stationary, with a plaid cover, but inside was a special surprise, an dinner ring, Alaskan black diamond. I was so surprised as he was not a senitmental person at all. Still have the box, which I keep special cards & letters for posterity. That's one thing that is important, Keep your memories & trot them out when you feel blue & it is a real picker-upper. I do have blue days, ocasionally, but can always talk me out of being blue with a dvd of Andre's. Just now my music station is acting up, so if it keeps up I will be phoning the company. My music plays while I sleep, or I don't sleep & I don't like pills to sleep. Am sort of watching the super bowl, Patriots just scored, but I really want to watch the half time entertainment. It is usually great to watch. The photo of Andre is so nice!! Hope we will learn soon just when he will be back in concert in Calgary, so I can start my Andre fund. Sally, with the sore neck, have you tried a neck brace? I have one which I use once in a while. Injured neck from whip-lash in 1952 & of course it's now full of arthritis. It gets worse when there is a weather change coming. I'm like a weathervane, up tp 48 hours before a front comes through. Used to think that was a lot of malarkey, but I find that it does hold true. Love to all Marianne
February 3, 2008
Marlene Warren wrote:
Hello and Happy February everyone! Valentine's Day is of course a very romantic day for those of us who are truly romantic. I can see romance in just holding hands, a bouquet of beautiful flowers, and no matter what kind, the flowers are ALL beautiful. Romance is in total quiet and peace in your home environment. Candlelight, quiet, soft beautiful music playing. I, of course, like André's music playing. I was thinking that if I had to choose some of the most romantic songs that André plays, what would they be? "Romeo and Juliet", "Tara's Theme", "Romance For Clara" would be a must. There are so many songs of André's that are incredibly romantic. I think of "Romantic Moments", all the songs on there are the epitomy of romance...then there's "Tuscany" and "Romantic Paradise". I also believe that any song that André plays that is a solo, is romantic. Why? Probably the peace and emotion of the violin, and as I watch, I see the feeling that André puts into the song he's playing. I'm extremely sentimental, so any song with "feeling" and emotion, has to be romantic. Have a wonderful February everyone. I hope it's a romantic one for you all. And all of you who do celebrate a day of romance, then I hope you have a beautiful Valentine's Day!
February 3, 2008
marianne wrote:
I love reading all Your comments. i have just bought 2 more of Andres videos.My Sister and I have got a little collection of them now. i go to Her place and we sit back with a glass of wine and watch Andre. What a way to sepnd an afternoon. We are counting down the days to his second concert.
February 3, 2008
nicole joy wrote:
to webmaster Sally,thanksfor lovely valentines day wishes,hope all is well now,to webmaster jeannine ann,happy valentine to you too,nice photo,thanks,to all andre fans happy valentines day,happiness to all and may you all have lots of flowers and chocs,and most of all may you all have love always.
February 3, 2008DJ Bob wrote:
Hello Everyone, I have found another place to show and let people know about Andre Rieu and the JSO> First: go to website : http://www.divx.com/?cid=inprod0003Second : download the FREE Dvix package to your computer Third: Go to my Site at: http://www.stage6.com/user/rruark/videos/ FINALLY all you have to do is download any of my shows to your computer and watch on your Dvix Player. (This is not like Photo Show where you can only watch) CHECK IT OUT!
DJ (Grandpa to be) Bob
February 5, 2008Marilyn Smith wrote:
Hi DJ Bob. Thanks for the new information and big congratulations on your new status - Grandpa to be.
February 3, 2008Marilyn Smith wrote:
Hello everyone. I hope everyone has a wonderful Valentine's Day with lots of love, flowers, and, of course, chocolates. Sally. I am sorry that you have been having so much trouble with your neck and am glad that you are feeling better. Lots of hugs. Marilyn
February 3, 2008DJ Bob wrote:
This just one thing I forgot to post on my previous posting: Ounce you have downloaded and INSTALLED the DIVX package and have downloaded any video from me or anybody (There is many, many downloads including many oldies etc.) when the program starts on your Divx player just double left click on the screen to watch in full screen. ENJOY!!
DJ (Grandpa to be) Bob (Hooked on Andre Rieu)
February 4, 2008
Shirley wrote:
Well here I am, feeling a bit like death warmed over, after a week long bout with some kind of bug. Nothing I want to repeat any time soon. Gosh is it February already? and Valentines. Reminds me of the first valentine I ever got. I was probably about 9 or 10, a boy who had a crush on me gave me a little bottle of Blue Waltz perfume. The bottle was in the shape of a small heart & I thought it smelled fabulous! Didn't make me like the boy any better but I sure did like that little heart shaped bottle of dime store perfume! Later that year, around Christmas, his crush for me was gone & he moved on to my best friend. he gave her a bottle of Evening In Paris, another dime store favorite. My friend and I were the best smelling girls in class although I'm not too sure the teacher appreciated it. We noticed her fanning quite a bit. Now Dan, he usually gets me flowers...........
February 4, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Oh Shirley, I am so sorry you have been ill. You know February snuck up on me also. I hope you are feeling better now. Just take it easy and you already know the recipe for feeling better - lots of chicken soup for your tummy and lots of Andre music for your eyes and ears! Feel better soon my friend. Hugs
February 4, 2008
Lesley Mitchell wrote:
Hi everybody, My we are already five days into February already ... can't believe how time flies...
Speaking of Valentine's Day... for the past 4 years on 14 February I have received flowers ... Hmmm and I have no idea who is sending them to me, the card is always blank and I have no boyfriend or husband, so this is a mystery, it will be interesting to see if I receive flowers this year... I will keep you all posted.... It seems I have an admirer and I wish to goodness he would speak up ... (well I'm hoping it's a he??? :-0) ha ha ha
Well my darling friends, is there any news on our Perth Concerts?????? I hate to say this but I am losing a bit of faith here ... Andre surely can't come all the way to Australia and miss out Perth. By now all the tickets for the other States will have sold the best seats and plus not everybody can afford to fly interstate, pay for concert tickets as well as accommodation. But I still have everything crossed that a Perth concert will still happen.
For those of you that have been following my personal loss. My sister, Mavis is still struggling dreadfully with her loss, but having her daughter with her from Darwin is helping her I'm sure. Very true saying, Time heals everything Hgh!!
Have a lovely day everybody, huge Lessie Hugs to everybody. xxxxxxxx Les
February 4, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Hello dear Leslie, That is so interesting and so nice about the flowers. I would be so curious. Let us know what happens. I still feel so bad for Mavis and I pray she is getting better every day. Only time will heal and our prayers will help her. Please tell her that she is always in our prayers and you are also.
I will have a nice valentine story in a day or two. Take care sweet Leslie and give my best to Mavis. Hugs
February 5, 2008
Shirley wrote:
Lesley, how nice to have a secret admirer.Someone who must think you are very special. OMG, I too wish there would be news soon of a Perth concert as I'm sure all those of you who would go are. maybe it's just a matter of getting all the paperwork done. Staggering to think of all the behind the scenes things to take care of. My heart goes out to your sister Mavis. It's not easy going through the grieving process, no matter who you lose, but I think a spouse or a child must be the worst. Having gone through it with my sister I know how important you & her children are to her. words don't help much but hugs do.We hold her in our prayers and hope that the pain lessens soon. She will work through this in her own time and way. Having a loving sister helps a lot too.
Seventeen years ago on Valentines Day we walked by a pet store in Lancaster, Pa. We were looking for a kitty and we wanted a male to replace our just deceased Muffin. My sister and I saw this llittle Tabby in the window with big ears and big eyes and we asked if we could hold her. Well that was it. We both loved her and took her out to Clyde who was waiting in the mall. She was a sweet little cat who never gave us any problems except to jump on our Christmas village once in a while. They love that stuff. In six months we took "him" to the vet to have him neutered and when the doctor was finished he called us and said "well we had a little problem, your boy turned out to be a little girl". We were in shock and thought it was so funny. I had picked out the name "Honi" because Muffin was a honey type of color and I wanted to call him Honi. So that is how Honi got her name and we were just as happy because now we had two girls. We always called her our little Valentine.
Today our little Valentine died. We had to take her because she was getting worse. She was eating but the doctor said she was having a hard time breathing so it had to be done. We are devestated even though we knew it was coming. She passed over the rainbow bridge at 11:00. Please say some prayers for us. We know Honi is resting now. Hugs to all
February 5, 2008
Aud wrote:
Hi Sis: We also knew the time was coming but you know you keep hoping for a miracle. Honi was such a sweet little girl and we loved her dearly. We will really miss her. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Clyde. We love you both very much. Give Cotti & Patchi a big kiss till I seem them tomorrow. Love ya. Baby Sis
February 8, 2008Webmaster Sally wrote:
Dear Jeanine Ann: I hope my private message reached you. I am so sorry to learn of Honi's passing to the Rainbow Bridge. My thoughts, heart and prayers are with you, Clyde, Cotten in Patches(?).
February 5, 2008
Shirley wrote:
dear God Jeanine Ann! and here I was, going to tell you all about my birthday surprise. I'm sorry, i can't do it through my tears. I'm so sorry about Honi.love to you.
February 5, 2008
Lyn M wrote:
Jeanine Ann, I am so sorry to hear of Honi's passing. I understand what you are going through. Having to say good-bye to a beloved pet in this way is just the hardest decision to have to make. My thoughts are with you. Hugs.
February 5, 2008
Lesley Mitchell wrote:
Oh my darling Jeanine Ann ... I am so sorry to hear about Honi .. I too am a pussy cat lover, in fact I have a daily calendar called "Cat Naps" and I have just turned my new day over and there to greet me for today is a baby tabby asleep in a birdsnest filled with pale pink shredded paper .. so cute!!! I think it must have looked exactly like Honi.
That's a lovely Valentine story, thanks for sharing.
Big hugs and kisses to you my friend xxxxx Les
February 5, 2008
Virginia Baker wrote:
Jeanine Ann, I am so sorry. You know you did the right thing but it doesn't make it easier. In the last four years I have had two put to sleep and of course Samson will be soon. I am going away for a week beginning on the 13th. I am very lucky to have found a person to come in twice a day who actually works for my vet. I didn't want to forfeit the tickets and didn't know what to do. He is eating fairly well, but getting skinnier and skinnier. I will leave her a note giving permission to do what she thinks best. Hopefully he'll wait for me to get back. It was easier to tell with the other two -- it was definitely time. This one is more difficult. He's blind so I don't know how much he can enjoy life, but he loves to be held and cuddled, so I just tell myself when it's time I'll know. It's too bad their lifetimes are so much shorter than ours, BUT, I always get my cats from a shelter, so it will be as if Samson has done his job and brought me much pleasure, and is now going to rest and let another feline have the life that he had. I have two little plaques with the paw prints of the two who are gone, plus two angels that I bought to go with them. I try to tell myself it's the cycle of life but it doesn't help much. But I won't let him suffer. You did the right thing and I'm sure you know it. Speaking of the rainbow bridge - - reminds me of Best Friends Animal Sanctuary which I support. I really would like to go there someday. They do wonderful work. My thoughts are with you Jeanine Ann and Clyde.
February 5, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Thank you so much Virginia. I hope and pray that Samson will wait for you to return. You will be in my prayers. I am so glad you have someone to take care of him while you are away. That was our worry in Toronto but we were given plenty of time but that still does not make it easier as you know. Oh I love Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. I am a member and get their newsletter and magazine. They really do wonderful work. I would love to get there too someday. Best of luck on your trip; have a good time and try not to worry.
Thank you Shirley, Lesley, Lyn, Aud and Jeff for all your kind words. I love all of you. I am sorry Shirley. I know you wanted to tell us something and we will look forward to it. Take care all. Hugs
February 5, 2008Marilyn Smith wrote:
Jeannine, I am so sorry to hear about your loss. You and Clyde will be in my thoughts and prayers. It is so hard to lose a beloved pet, or any beloved, be it be a pet or person. You will have many good memories of Honi and she will always be with you. Lots of hugs.
February 4, 2008DJ Bob wrote:
Hello again. I truly believe that God answers Prayers. I have been looking for a place to share Andre's music on line with my photo shows (The Nero Photo Shows only allowed me to use music that they approved on a list of which none was Andre's music) With this new on line site (DivX) I can use HIS music and also the other sites (Photo Shows - My Space - YouTube etc there was a limit to the size (100 M you could upload. With this site there is no LIMIT! Also you can download the shows on your computer to watch anytime as long as you download the DivX player at(http://www.divx.com/?long=en&cid=divxcommfolder_en ) which is FREE!!
I hope everyone can enjoy!
DJ (Grandpa to be) BOB
February 4, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Hi DJBob, you are right God does answer prayers. My life is proof of that in so many ways. Thanks so much for this information. I believe I did get this DivX player but not sure. It might have been on my husband's computer. I will check it out because I too like to use Andre's music. I wonder if that player could be embeded in MySpace or must it be used on a web site which you have some control over. Will see.
Any news on those tickets yet? Also we should be getting all kinds of goodies along with the tickets, right? Can hardly wait. Take care. Hugs
February 4, 2008
marianne peters wrote:
Dear Jeanine. I'm replying to your e-mail as I don quite know hoe to send you one, so I will note my snail mail address as follows: {redacted} Am so sorry to hear of Honi's deterioration. Does she eat & drink? & seem to be in pain? If so, it would be kinder to have the vet put her to sleep. It's a very sad thing for the kitty mommies left behind. I've been thru that with my Spunky, who had kidney failure & there was nothing to be done, & then I had two kitties, Fluffy & Dusty who got into anti-freeze as it is sweet tasting, but oh so deadly. This too destroys the kidney function, & the symptoms were that he staggered like a drunk & couldn't jump up on his stool. The kids were early teens & they too were devastated as I was my self. Also had numerous dogs. a Beagle who got kidney failure, & then there was my Bear dog, a malamute shepherd cross. He was my guard, pet & pal, but I couldn't bring him on the plane when I came to Brooks on the plane as I didn't have an acceptable container to transport him. I have a painting of him hanging on my wall, which was done by a noted local artist. It will be worth some money one day, but for the moment it is company for me. He rode in the car, sitting in the front passenger seat & was king of all he surveyed. I still get weepy over my Bear dog, as he was almost human in the way he communicated with me & he tolerated other members of the family, but his allegiance belonged to me. Most pets don't progress that far but I'll bet your "Honi" is the exception. We break our hearts over our furry friends even tho we know their lifespan is much shorter than our own. My cats were 16, 11 & 7 yrs, & my dogs were 18 & 12, so I had them for a long time & enjoyed every minute of their existence. You have me very curious as to the surprise which I will eagerly await. Love & Hugs Marianne Peters
February 5, 2008
Marlene Warren wrote:
I'm so sorry about Honi, Jeanine Ann, she was a member of this large family out here, as we shared the stories about her, and her ups and downs you shared with us over the past few months. We've all lost pets that were special little gifts from God, and now they are back with God waiting for us to join their happy little hearts. We will all miss her, and my thoughts and prayers are with you Jeanine Ann and with Clyde, because you had the most to lose. Take care and know that you did your very best with Honi, and that she was happy.
February 5, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Thank you Marlene for your kind words. It will take a long time but we will get through it thanks to wonderful friends like you. Hugs
February 5, 2008
Marlene Warren wrote:
Shirley, I'm happy that you are feeling better! Sounds like you have had quite a bout with that bug. I'm glad that you overtook him!
Here is my Valentine's Day Story....happened 20-25 years ago
Where I worked everyone had a mailbox, the job I had was in production which means I never got any mail.
10 days before Valentines day, one of the girls in the office told me I had some mail. For the life of I was unable to figure out why 'anyone' would try to get me to focus on my mailbox, so I ignored it all during the day. I discovered the mail room was normally unobserved by anyone during lunch.
I took this opportunity to check my mailbox, being careful not to be caught looking. I perceived someone was giving me a Valentine, but 10 days before the day? I further figured whoever gave it to me, sooo early probably didn't sign it.
So, I put it back in my box & continued to ignore it for the next 3 or 4 days.
2 days before Valentine's Day, this same girl again tried to tell me I had something in my mailbox, which I ignored.
I believed, the only person that would try to focus my attention on my own mailbox would be the very person that gave me the unsigned Valentine.
So, on Valentine's day, I made a big deal out of going to my mailbox. I withdrew the envelope & walked over to the lady who told me I had some mail & said, "I've suspected someone probably is giving me a Valentine, I further suspect because it was placed in my box 10 days before Valentines day, probably didn't sign it."
By this time 25 people were listening to me as I continued; "I figured the only way to find out who gave me this Valentine was to pretend to ignore it, knowing the only person who would tell me to check my mailbox would be the very person who is giving it to me"
In true Sherlock Holmes fashion, I opened the envelope, sure enough it was a valentine! When I opened it, sure enough it was unsigned. I then thanked the young lady for giving me the Valentine & she blushed 5 shades of Red. I seized the opportunity to plant a big "arms around her waist, kiss on her lips".....as my way of saying thanks.
Everyone in the office was in total hysterics. The young lady, confessed to giving it to me, & further confessed she truly admired my ability to so logically ferret out the sender.
Ahhh yes, one of the few times I can say with certainty, that I out-foxed the fox! To this day, I'm convinced, if I'd opened the Valentine card 10 days prior to Valentine's Day, I'd never have known, for certain, exactly who gave it to me.
February 13, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
That is an great Valentine's story! It is these memories we have in our lives that really makes this special day worthwhile. To a truly intelligent, sensitive person. You have my heart!
Much Love and Happy Valentine's Day Grace
February 5, 2008
marianne peters wrote:
Dear Friends. I've been watching the primaries this evening, & so far neither party has clearly chosen a pres. candidate. I find it pretty interesting Don't watch my own country with the same attention as ours is so boring, but no matter who winds up in the big chair, he or she will have a very tough job to do. I've noticed how, It ages whoever winds up with the hardest job in the western world. That flu bug was a nasty one, so many in my building had the bug & we'd all had flu shots. They all got really sick & the after effects seemed to last a longer time than normal. I was lucky as I was only really sick one day, but I stayed in-doors & the big difference is the 1000 intl units of Vitamin D I take all the time, mainly as I don't eat like regular folk, mostly sandwiches, not good, But my weight holds the same, & I don't catch colds. Haven't had a cold since Jan 1999, so no chest infections either. Whatever it is that I do, it seems to work. Jeanine, how is Honi?It is so sad when our pets get old & sick, but you still will have tender memories of your kitties. Not much on the blog, re our Maestro. Expect he's been busy with the new cds & dvds, which take a lot of time to get just right. Andre is an October child, so perfectionism is part of their characteristics. He's a Libras as was my husband Don, & they like things just so, & me I'm more slapdash, & never lose sleep if I don't get all the housework done each day. As long as the apt is reasonably neat & clean, I don't gt in a panic, not like my late mom-in-law, who worried herself sick if she didn't vacuum every day, but Sunday. They didn't have critturs, so there was not pet hair. I can't have pets in the apt, so I have pics of my pals. Love to all Marianne
February 6, 2008
Lyn M wrote:
At last the media in Oz seems to be realising the existence of our Maestro. I was listening to Brisbane classical music community radio station, 4MBS today when the announcer said that the featured artist for the afternoon program was Andre Rieu. Then this evening's SkyNews had an item on his forthcoming concerts around Australia later in the year.
It is not before time that he is getting recognition apart from what Ovation Channel is putting out.
February 6, 2008DJ Bob wrote:
Jeanine, Very sorry about Honi. You and Clyde will be in my prayers. Did you get the Email I sent you of the letter I received about the tickets for Jacksonville?
All my best
DJ Bob
February 6, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Hi DJBob, thank you very much for your prayers. Yes I did get the email and I thank you. It sounds exciting doesn't it. We are going to have a real blast two hours before the concert! Part of the email on the right was cut off, did it read front row center by any chance????? I can hardly wait. I sure hope we get backstage. I think Tim mentioned that in his initial contact with you. I know it does not include meeting Andre but hopefully if we get backstage he will happen to wander by! Sorry I did not answer you sooner but the letter came the day Honi died and we were so upset and still are. Thank God for giving us happy days like Andre's concerts. All my best to you and your wife. See you in the Spring!
February 6, 2008DJ Bob wrote:
Jeanine, YES THEY ARE FRONT ROW CENTER SEATS! I was the first person to order tickets for Jacksonville. Two weeks before they were even announced to the public. Again I am sorry for your loss.
May God Bless
Bob Ruark
February 7, 2008
Adele wrote:
hi folks! MAASTRICHT Sunday 6 July tickets... have just seen on www.ticketmaster.nl site.. ON SALE 10 am Dutch time, 9 February !!!
Anyone got any hints as to how to get a decent seat? because for the Friday 4 July, I failed miserably.. their web site crashed due to pressure.. then I phoned a number in maastricht, but cannot remember which one, to be told they could only sell me tickets if i could pick them up in the next few days.. a bit hard to do that from italy !
February 7, 2008
Marlene Warren wrote:
My thoughts and prayers go out to those affected directly or indirectly by the tornadoes this past week. So many people lost everything, my heart goes out to them.
February 7, 2008
Marlene Warren wrote:
I'm sure you all know by now that André is back!!! I'm so happy. Was a long time since we last heard from him. He's working on a new cd, which is VERY exciting news! I can't wait to hear it. It's nice to look forward to !!
February 8, 2008
Shirley wrote:
Yes, I was very sad when I heard of this but not too surprised. He had a hard battle to fight. I'm glad his pain is over. When I first heard of Benny Neyman it was at the Maastricht concert with Andre and he sang his Ode To Maastricht.What a lovely tribute to his & andre's town. I liked him immediately. I also love the song he made popular, especially in the Netherlands,"why I still whisper your name", I watch it on you tube all the time. What a lovely young man he was. Also i've been keeping track of another Andre guest, Russell Watson, who i think sang in a silvester punsch video. I like him very much. Ironically he has had a tough time with a brain tumor, just having finished a 5 week round of radiotherapy.I pray for him & his family also & hope for a better outcome for him. We never know, do we, what will come into our lives so we had just better be thankful for each day we have.
February 8, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Oh I am so sorry to hear about Benny Neyman's death. I just loved him and so did Clyde. We particularly love his "Ode To Maastricht" which we thought we might hear again if we ever get to Maastricht but now since I heard of his illness and now death I feel very bad about it. Shirley thank you telling us about the song on YouTube. I will go look it up. I also pray for Russell Watson. We liked him immediately also. Yes life is so fragile that is why I am doing all I can to help anyone who needs help, pray for those who need prayer and picking up with my church work and my violin practice even though I feel so sad lately not only about Honi but our best friends losing their granddaughter. They still do not know the cause of her death and she was only 24. The autopsy was inconclusive and they have heard nothing from the lab down south.
Yes SALLY I did get your email about Honi and I thank you so much. MARIANNE thank you also for your kind comments and anyone I may have missed. I really appreciate your thoughts and prayers. It takes a long time after having her for 17 years. I am sure all of you who have lost pets know this. Hugs to all of you
February 8, 2008
Grayeme wrote:
From the Maastricht Newspaper the Limbuger. Zanger Benny Neyman died 11.26 | Benny Neyman have died Thursday on 56 person whose birthday it is age in its place of residence Soesterberg. That its life partner and manager Hans van Barneveld have announced. Neyman suffered from cancer.
It is front page news today. The newspaper is in Dutch but you can use a website translator to convert it to English to read. I always use Alta Vista Babel Fish. My thoughts are with Benny's family.
February 8, 2008
marianne peters wrote:
Dear Friends. I am saddened by the passing of Benny Neyman. My thoughts & prayers go out to Hans, his life partner We shall miss his beautiful renditions of the songs we were fortunate to hear over the years. Especially his "ode to Maastricht". One blessing for Benny, is that he's no longer in pain & is at peace. These tornadoes in the U.S. are both terrible & unusual for this time of year. I don't know if it is all due to global warming, but the seers & prophets have been warning of violent storms, earthquakes etc for some time so maybe it is time we all tried to be better, kinder folks to our fellow man & just hope it is enough. The little baby who survived the tornado is a bit bruised & battered, so that is some kind of miracle. The news didn't say if his Dad had survived, so it will be nice to know if he has at least one parent left. Hope Shirley is over her "bug" The most recent flu bug has been very nasty. Folks in my building were very ill, but I only had a really bad day with high fever, but it took some time to recover, but it did leave a residue of damage to my short term memory, so now I'm forgetting some things that are important, so Now I write myself notes. It's necessary as if I forget that I've taken my morning meds & then repeat the regimen, I could get into a lot of difficulty. I didn't have a stroke, but the effect is somewhat the same. You just never know what part is going to be vulnerable, & being aware is also a two edged sword. Hope your neck is better Sally. Mine came from a whiplash car accident in 1952 & of course it is now full of arthritis. Have limited range of turning from side to side, but you do learn to compensate I wonder when the guest book on Andre's site will be up-dated, there's been no new letters since Jan 31st, & of course still nothing on the Perth concerts. They would have to be in mid-December, after the two Sydney concerts. Apparently there are two complete sets of the Schonbrunn decor. Hope that it is still on as the folks there are on pins & needles waiting for word. We won't get a concert in our area until 2009, but although it is disappointing, we have to share our Maestro, with the world. I know he wants to go to South America & Mexico & I can see him going to South Africa to answer the call from those folk too. My prayers are also with Jeanine & Clyde, with the loss of "Honi". We give our love to our furry friends & when we lose them we are bereft, but we still have the memories which we recall from time to time. Same as losing a loved one, they are remembered by those left behind, & there in lies one's immortality. Love to all Marianne
February 8, 2008
Marlene Warren wrote:
I've been thinking of Benny Neyman and wondering how he was doing. I'm so sorry to hear that he has passed away. He was such a great entertainer. I loved the song "Ode To Maastricht" and listened to it all the time. My heart and thoughts go to his family and loved ones at this time, may they know that he was thought highly of, and he made so many people happy with his music. He was such a joy.
February 9, 2008
jeff rubino wrote:
hello all, i cant believe benny has pasted on what a wonderful man! on a good note i am going to be throwing an andre rieu party for the denon and i cant wait. are you also going to do one jeanine ann?? well see every one later! -jeff
February 11, 2008
WebMaster Sally wrote:
I was listening to Benny on the way home from work the other day, and I just knew...I could feel that he has passed. It was a sad moment, and sad for his life partner Hans.
A happier note is the Denon Ambassador Parties for Andre Rieu. A great idea!
February 11, 2008
Virginia Baker wrote:
The only TV/DVD I own is hooked up to the cable in my bedroom. So, I think I will not be giving a Denon party. We can all sit on the bed and look at Andre!!! The other bedroom is where I put everything I don't know what to do with plus the cats' litter boxes so that won't do either! Already have the things they're offering anyway although it would be a good way to introduce people to him. It's still surprising how many people never heard of him. Three months until I go to another concert.
February 10, 2008
marianne peters wrote:
Dear Friends Just a note to ask if anyone knows why Andre's guestbook hasn't been up-dated since Jan 31/08. \Andre left a note telling us that a new cd was in the works, & he's off on the European tour. 1st Viennese night is Dussedorf, Mch 18th, so they will be very busy moving the decor around. All the other concerts are regular presentations, which is great. Don't expect any concerts in our area until at least 2009 or 2010. I read someplace that he hopes to bring the World stadium tour to more places in the world and in North America. Still no word on Perth, but I have read that the stadium would be the Subiaco. There is a window after the Brisbane concerts, as I had heard that there were two complete sets, & they would play leapfrog to get from venue to venue. The window is up to Dec 12th & 13th. It's a long way from Sydney to Perth, but could be done by trans-shipping via the rail line across the country, & the JSO could fly. It would work & then all the gear could head home for the Xmas break. There is a World stadium stop in Paris France, on, my 75th birthday, Aug 29th/08. What wouldn't I do to go to that venue, but it is a dream. Would need a huge lottery!! win, but it sure would be fun. I was reading Kati's poem about being a senior & all the stuff that doesn't work quite right anymore. I will say that the memory seems a bit better, but still not back to the way I was. I will know as I see the specialist on Feb 12th. weather permitting. We are having a bout of winter storms, with arctic outflow, temps in the minuses, & snow, but nothing like the weather back east, but even west coast is getting more snow than usual, & so many folks just don't know how to drive in the stuff & no snow tires. They get the heavy wet snow & we get what I call sand snow, very small flakes & wind Brr!! I sure hope it is winter's last blast, but except for some very cold weather we've had a nice winter for our area, but since it started in mid-Nov. it has been a long one. How is everyone? Have you heard anything of Carol LaCore, Sally? I know she has some kind of illness, with medicine infusions monthly I miss her comments very much. Otherwise things are okay here, Love to all Marianne
I am finally back and think I'll be tuning up the site and blog. Send any articles to me and I will put them up with the new edition coming out.
Kisses to everybody!
February 11, 2008
Shirley wrote:
I see that Andre has left his latest message, thanking Zurich for two great concerts. Now he will soon be off to Austria & Germany. what a busy man he is! Only a short time now til he hits the states again huh? Last night I was watching a bit of the grammys, which I seldom do, but hey, TV programming leaves one searching for anything entertaining. I was especially interested in seeing who might be in the classical nominations. One of my favorites won an award for best choral performance. If you've not heard it before it might be worth your time to listen(if you like that sort of thing). It's a cd of the Berlin Radio Chorus performing Brahams "German Requiem". IMHO, it's outstanding! I especially like the part "How Lovely Is Thy Dwelling Place". Absolutely beautiful! The name of the cd would be Brahms Ein Deutsches Requiem/Simon Rattle.(in case you're interested). just my little sharing thoughts for today.
February 11, 2008
jeff rubino wrote:
hello sally i have a question. Who is hans to Benny? is that his wife i dont know what gender Hans would be is that a male or female. i read somewhere that he will be missed by hans but i cant figure out who that is.thanks! -jeff
February 12, 2008
René wrote:
Hans and Benny are a couple, he is male and a nice guy.
brgds René
February 12, 2008
Adele Geritzen wrote:
Jeff,, Hans is a male.. i never heard of a female 'Hans'.
February 11, 2008
Marlene Warren wrote:
Hello everyone, you are right Sally, the Ambassador parties for André, that Denon has suggested, is a fabulous idea!
Yes, André is busy isn't he? Amazing what you can do when you love what you do! Shirley, I have never heard of the Berlin Radio Chorus...and I would think that anything by Braham's would be beautiful. I'm sorry that I missed that segment. I didn't watch the Grammy's, I guess I just didn't realize they have anything classical on there. Shows you how often I've watched them over the years. Now I can't wait to hear it, ha...I will have to look it up now! Thanks for sharing Shirley. Take care everyone, hope you are having a great day/evening.
February 11, 2008
marianne peters wrote:
DearJeff. Hans was Benny Neyman's life partner & was a man as far as I know. The Dutch are far more open about their relationships than we in the U.S & Canada are. At my age I don't really think too much about cross genders. If people are content & happy, what harm is it? Hopefully we are getting a bit more tolerant about our fellow human beings, & really as lone as it hurts no-one, what does it matter. Love to all Marianne
February 11, 2008DJ Bob wrote:
I WOULD LIKE TO INVITE EVERYONE TO SEE MY LATEST PHOTO SHOW. I THINK IT IS THE BEST ONE I HAVE EVER MADE. ANDRE RIEU'S BEAUTIFUL MUSIC,THE PHOTOS OF HIM AND THE JSO AND PHOTOS OF THE DANUBE RIVER ALL COME TOGETHER IN " THE BLUE DANUBE"
I HOPE YOU ENJOY IT (I think Andre would like it) Any comments are welcome!
All my best
Bob (Grandpa to be)
February 12, 2008Marilyn Smith wrote:
Bob, I loved the photoshows. There are some wonderful photos. Keep up the great work. Marilyn
February 12, 2008
Shirley wrote:
I hope that all who might be interested get a chance to catch this movie on TV, or at least maybe rent it. It's called MUSIC OF THE HEART, with Meryl Streep. it is a true story about a violin teacher, Roberta Guaspari, who teaches inner city students. In this movie, the main character, for some reason, reminds me of Jeanine Ann. (I've already told her that). Anyway I hope you'll look for it.
You are SO RIGHT about MUSIC OF THE HEART. I was introduced to the movie by another André fan, Eddie Schiro, who just happens to live relatively near me in Shreveport and who is a band director at one of the local schools. We were talking music related movies and when I mentioned one of my favorites, Mr. Holland’s Opus, Eddie said that if I enjoyed that then I would probably enjoy Music of the Heart, a copy of which he keeps at school for showing to his students for inspiration. Boy, did I ever enjoy it, so much so that after renting and watching I ordered my own copy to watch and share with others. I can only say that it is one of the great music biographies made, and recommend it to all my André/JSO fan friends. Go out to your local video rental store and pick up a copy and enjoy. You might not find it at your usual video rental store, the Blockbuster store closest to me that I usually rent from didn’t have it but another Blockbuster across town had it in stock. It was well worth the effort to track it down and drive a couple of extra miles to pick it up.
Try it, you’ll like it! I promise..
Moderator Lawrence
February 12, 2008
Marlene Warren wrote:
I really enjoyed this movie! I watched it quite a while ago and was quite impressed with it. Thanks for mentioning it Shirley, I had forgotten all about it until now. I'm going to have to see if I can find it and watch it again.
February 12, 2008
Adele wrote:
Hi all, I see some of you commenting on Brahms German requiem.
Yes, it is fantastic.. very moving.. and if you like it, then get hold of Mozart's requiem, and then Gustav Mahler's 2nd symphony, called the resurrection symphony..
Many of you will know, I am a mega Andre & JSO fan, however, when I heard them do the 'Ode to joy' from Beethoven's 9th.. I shivered slightly.. An orchestra of 50 and a choir of 7.
Go and hear this piece performed by a 'full' orchestra i.e. 100/110 musicians plus a choir of 100, and you will what I mean..
I was 'brought up' on strictly classical music, and I was very lucky; in my late teens I went to numerous concerts in London, at the Albert hall & Festival Hall.. the London Symphony Orchestra was my favorite; at that time their chief conductor was Andre Previn. As for soloists, Yehudi Menuin and Vladimir Askenazy (pianist) were the best.
Don't get me wrong; I adore Andre, and the JSO, they are cute, good looking, and very talented; as an orchestra, they number about half a full size one, yet, for the most part, they produce a tone that is equal, and most often better.. because they love what they do.
Andre, your version of the Bolero is spellbinding, but please don't meddle with Beethoven's ninth..
I am off to the concert in Munich Olympic hall 20 Feb, then to Maastricht for the 3 nights, then to Paris World Stadium Tour, so please don't even think of telling the person, who eats, sleeps and dreams Andre, that she is not a true fan, because of one small criticism.
Go and check out the Brahms......
February 12, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Hi Adele, I don't doubt you are a great Andre fan like all of us here. You must remember that Andre is not doing classical music (even though he is classically trained) therefore he brings his style with some classical mixed to those who love his music. I don't think Andre "meddles" with any classical music, he only interprets it in a way that people who are not accustomed to classics can relate to.
I hope you have a great time at the concerts you will attend. Hugs
February 13, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
I understand what you are writing Jeanine Ann. Between the ages of 6 - 19,I myself have had the opportunity to sing in six different languages, study classical theory and practical vocal, sing in many different churches or buildings, from requiems to arias.
I enjoy all music whether meant to be "classical" or just plain ordinary "love of the music" impression. What is soothing to the ear and soul is quite inviting no matter who or how many are providing it.
Love Much Grace
February 13, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Hi dear Grace, I didn't realize that you had all that classical training. That is wonderful. Do you still sing as often? Love and hugs
Here is my Valentine for all my wonderful friends! Love and hugs
Jeanine Ann
February 13, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
Jeanine Ann, I think I am having a deja vu moment! Just kidding! As before, such a handsome card with Andre could be given anytime of the year, not just Valentine's Day! Make sure there are lots of roses and hearts! Love the dancing sparkles too, it's very fetching!
Much Love Your Friend Grace
February 15, 2008
nicole joy wrote:
hope you all nad a good valentines day,i dont eat chocs being a coeliac but thanks for the nice pictures.love from nicolejoyxxxx
February 15, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
Another beauty Jeanine Ann. This one reminds me of hmmm... warmth of a summer sunset, sparkle of life in a flower, calm rippling of the tides of the seas as they roll in, and of course music quietly playing in the distance to lull you to sleep. Paradise
Thanks for this lovely site Jeanine Ann.
Love Gracexoxo
February 15, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Thank you dear Grace. So glad you like it. I have many more. I just love making them. It is lots of fun. Have a beautiful weekend. Big hugs
February 13, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
It has been over 20 years, since I am now 43 years old Jeanine Ann, since I was given the privilege to do what I adore most - Sing. My parents could not affort to send me to school in Toronto after highschool, so I went to college and book business. A wise choice since I have had the privilege of working with some wonderful people. You never know where life will take you. I sing to my son (even before he was born!) and my family, and to myself (in the bathtub, great acoustics!). If I were to take up lessons again, I probably would gain my voice back to a "professional" level in due time. As you know the human voice never ages! You just have to practice, practice, practice!
Now, I enjoy listening and singing to music at home and I enjoy going to concerts with friends and family.
Thank you for asking though, I really appreciate the care of thought. You are truly a genuine person.
Much Love Grace
February 12, 2008
jeff rubino wrote:
hey every one thanks for the responce about Hans and Benny! To me it does not matter about the stauts of someone. "to each his own" any way i have not ever heard of the name Hans so i was not sure of the gender but thanks for cleaing it up. the reason i did not know the gender was because when they sing the song in andre rieu in wonderland carman was Hans and it got me confused lol. thanks all! see you later -jeff
February 12, 2008
Judith wrote:
VALENTINE'S GREETINGS TO ALL: yep, I'm back. I look forward to turning on my computer daily to look & see if there is any "new" mail. So, on this up-coming VALENTINE'S DAY - I am sending my friendship and good wishes to all my André buddies. True friendship's are very hard to find, but we have something very much in common, bringing "us" all together to share in love, music and world peace. "André Rieu, Marjorie and Pierrer", and THE JSO !!!
February 12, 2008
Marlene Warren wrote:
Judith, very nice words! A very nice way of expressing your Valentine's wishes.
February 13, 2008
Shirley wrote:
Judith, very nice greeting.I want to also wish all Andre fans a very Happy Valentines Day. Feb. is "heart month" anyway. But I have to say.. move over Andre! I now have a new "top dog" who has won my heart, a little beagle named UNO. His beautiful brown eyes and charming personality have won me over. I think even Andre would love him!
February 13, 2008
Shirley wrote:
Jeanine Ann, I like your valentine. I was just reading the comments & I need to clarify my statement about the dog. It's not my dog! Uno won the Westminster dog show prize. first time evr for a beagle too. He is now America's top dog, and I love him!!!! Marianne, I wish you all the best.
February 14, 2008
Judith wrote:
Shirley, I watched UNO take his place into the spotlight that night. He shore was an excellent looking beagle; his markings looked like someone painted them on. I was speaking with my daughter about his winning, and asked if her golden lab could place for an award. Her reply to me was, "mom, if AARP opens a competition for the most spoiled, lazy babied, un-attentative dog", maybe her goldie has a shot. Just thought that was too funny since she beat me on that thought. Arf-bow-wow and a paw print.
February 12, 2008
marianne peters wrote:
Dear friends. Had my appointment with the specialist re the memory lapse, answer double up on Omega 3, & the hand will be scheduled for surgery after I see the specialist is Lethbridge Apr 2nd Don't think it will be any worse than the left hand & maybe I will no longer get the bit where I'm unable to hold a pen. At least there is hope for a solution & tho it is a tedious surgery, I think I will be able to drive myself home after the operation, like I did with the first one on my left hand. As you get older you have to learn not to be a wimp & just get on with the necessities. It doesn't require full anesthesia, just a local & with one & one half hour, I should be home before the freezing comes out, & at that point I want to be close to my own bed. Now if I don't have any other age related glitches, I will be quite content. Docs look at my back & wonder how I am still on my feet, & that is because I refuse to give up & sit in a rocker. If you do you just rust out that much faster. I hope to exceed my Grandma's longevity of 95, & with now debilitating illnesses I should top 100 years. Then we shall see how that goes, as long as one keeps mind & body active it could last a very long time. Hopefully I will see at least one more live Andre concert, & that would be just super. Love to all Marianne
February 12, 2008Cary wrote:
Where can I find pics and profiles on the orchestra ? I am interest in all of them- but I (and millions of other no doubt) just love Carla Maffioletti. Andre does not have a "dud" looking sort in the orchestra - he is a genius
February 12, 2008
WebMaster Sally wrote: Hi Cary, Watch your emails. I sent you an email with links in it.
You are right, Carla is so pretty & Talented, as are all of the JSO.
February 13, 2008
marianne peters wrote:
Dear Friends. We are under a blizzard watch for the whole day, then Friday we get a chinook & the temp will go to plus 6 degrees. Then it will be sloppy streets etc, just have to go slow & easy Note I said now debilitating illnesses, but meant no illnesses that sap one's health profile. I am so thankful to be healthy with just a few glitches. The Doc yesterday did a nerve test, on both hands. It is a shock treatment to determine the extent of nerve damage. Will get the results on Feb 28th. Surgery is the only option & if it goes like the left hand it won't be too bad. I was back to work at that time, in four days, & just had to make sure I kept the incision clean & dry, & that worked very well. Don't expect this one will be any worse. Both wrists were injured in a tumble, plus the repetitive use which led to the carpal tunnel syndrome. That I can live with. It is not surprising that we are getting the last gasp of winter at this point, but we had some cold in Jan, but no blizzards, which is the norm for our area. Happy Valentine's to all the friends on the blog, love to all Marianne
February 13, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
Dear Marianne: I read about your illness and surgery. Just to let you know someone is thinking of you and wishing all goes well, which I am sure it will. Have a Happy Valentine's Day Marianne. Get well soon!
February 13, 2008
Marlene Warren wrote: I wish all of you a very Happy Valentine's Day! I hope there is Romance, Love and Happiness for you...and a few chocolates would be nice. Roses are beautiful too!
February 14, 2008
Margaret S wrote: AT LAST!!!! PERTH has been confirmed 22 November at Subiaco Oval. Go for it!!!!!
February 14, 2008
Margaret S wrote:
How are the tulips growing???? I have seen bulbs in the nursery here in Australia and that reminded me of them. We should plant our bulbs and Sweet Peas on St Patrick's Day after having stored them in the fridge for a few weeks.
February 14, 2008
Shirley wrote: "Virtuoso's slip destroys priceless Stradivarius"! Not Andre thank goodness! This was a headline in a London newspaper. The violinist is young David Garrett. He slipped and fell down a flight of stairs & landed on his violin case. What a disaster, it will probably never sound the same even if it can be fixed. I understand this is a 290 yr old Strad. How heartbreaking for this young man! I have heard of someone else, can't remember who, that left one in a taxi, but did recover it, and the another left theirs on their doorstep. It was stolen but he also got his returned. Gosh, wouldn't this make your heart stop???
February 14, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Oh how sad. I feel sorry for David Garrett. His name sounds familiar but not sure where I heard it. Now if I fall on my violin, no loss except I like it because I have played the first little song on it. No big deal - just Ba Ba Black Sheep - isn't that where everyone starts? That may be all the farther I get! Well I did start the song "Lightly Row" but that is all.This is hard! I am really in awe of anyone who can play violin. It is such a lovely instrument and I love it so much (the fact that Andre plays it helps too). I practice in the computer room where I have my large poster of Andre and when I want to give up I look up and I keep going. I guess the fact that my fingers are getting sore and a little numb from holding the strings down doesn't mean too much does it?? That is the hardest part to get the fingering right. I am learning from a DVD but I guess I will need to get some lessons down the road. Hmmmmm wonder if I could get Andre to teach me!
HAPPY VALENTINES DAY everyone. I hope your day is as sweet as all of you are. BIG hugs today.
February 14, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Hi everyone, I knew that name was familiar. He has a MySpace page. Take a look at his bio. It sounds incredible that he was playing at the age of 4 and I mean playing with an orchestra. At age 8 he was playing with the London Phil. and orchestras like them. Hugs
February 14, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: The violin he was carrying was a Guadagnini 1770 if I recall and this happened in December. He was loaned a Strad for a Valentine concert in the U.K.
February 14, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
An absolutely beath taking picture Jeanine Ann. You are wonderful on this site at giving people belief in wonderful things. This picture reminds me of the sea, of dreams, that no matter how difficult life seems, there is serenity in music.
Thank You for your caring and sharing in all of us.
Much Love Grace
February 14, 2008
Shirley wrote:
I hear the strains of BEAUTIFUL DREAMER!
February 14, 2008
Judith wrote:
More "Eye-Candy" for me. Thanks Jeanine Ann, I was just going to post a thank you your way for the Valentine Eye-Candy of André. Being diabetic, sweets are out of the question. But now, I have the best of the best "Imported Sweets" that my heart could ever desire. Now, oh boy, oh boy, I got me some Sweet Dreams to boot. This is the very best Valentine's Day a gal could ask for. P.S., don't wake me, I'll get back to you Valentine friends, if I ever return from my set- sail dreams with my main "sweetie"! WOW, what an excellent substitute for ole chocolate....sweet dreams.
February 14, 2008
Judith wrote:
Mariann Peters, wow, carpal tunnel, what an evil little ailment; but not to worry I had both my hands operated on. I have excellent results, and what a difference functioning without numbness, pain, you name it. When I had my nerve tests, my right had had no sensations when they did their testing. They were a bit concerned, but it has been five years now and a world of difference. You will be fine. I'll pray for a speedy recovery that will put smiles on your worried face. Sending you smiles and sunshine.
February 14, 2008
Judith wrote:
Webmaster Sally, I am working on words of encouragement for you also; as my cervical neck is way-out-of-wack. I just recently received a "absolutely" not for an operation to repair the damage. But, this has not effected me, as I have been preparing for two years now. I actually have made friends with my pain (whata ya nuts?) but it does ease the tension. But I will get back to you on my editorial. André beckens me on the DVD, I must run (better make that walk). Sending you positive vibes, take the pain one day at a time, and let the music make its adjustments to your pain. Oh yes, I purchased a cervical neck thingie, where you put it in the microwave, than on your neck. Feels great while it lasts. But keep the spirits "UP", and you are never alone in this suffering. {i shoulda been a nun }, you nailed that comment Jeanie Ann! Hugs to all. Good-nite.
February 14, 2008
marianne peters wrote:
Dear friends. I think the Good Lord gives us pain but never more than we can bear. The older I get, the more things I find that don't work quite as well as they once did, but you can't give up, you just keep going regardless, because if you ever stop you might no get going again. Reminds me of the little engine that could. I do neck exercises, turning from side to side, up & down back & forward just to keep me so I can look around me. If I don't, I would have to give up driving myself around the town. So far I can shop for myself, as well as other people & April 2nd I will drive myself to Leth- bridge & back for the consultation on my hand. The surgery will be some time later, & that will be a trip I won't drive because of anesthetic. It's one & one hours away, so if it's just a local the freezing would be coming out before I'd get home, & one shouldn't drive under those conditions. Just as bad as drunk driving!! Think I will have an Andre day to-morrow & play dvds all day Just remembered that it is only Friday coming up so will save it for Saturday as its all sports & that's not my cup of tea. I have music on the t.v. & on the computer & I sit in the middle so I listen to both. I hadn't heard about putting a cervical collar in the microwave, but I expect it would be of help. I keep moving my neck so it doesn't freeze up, just as I do for my shoulder, which I injured many years ago but tho' I can't carry much more than 5 pounds per arm I can still pack in my own groceries. If I have too much, I have a little cart that works very well. We are to be without our elevator for a month, for replacement reasons, & I really don't know how some folks on the 3rd floor will manage, as we do have at least half the residents on this floor that can't climb stairs. I still can, but have to take my time. It's actually harder to descend that to come up the stairs. Hope all are well. Love Marianne
February 15, 2008
Virginia Baker wrote:
Just wanted to say hi from Boynton Beach, FL. 80 degrees. Left Maine in a snowstorm, we already had 10 inches in the morning and it was still snowing hard. Made it to the airport by the skin of my teeth. Home next Tuesday. A nice little break from snowstorm after snowstorm. Have to get home and see how my kitties are doing!
February 15, 2008
marianne peters wrote:
Dear friends. We got our chinook to-day temp 5 above no wind & a bright beautiful day. Winter is just about over which suits me just fine. I like balmy spring days, when the air is soft. Can't really complain too much as we've not had a bad winter like we sometimes get. My main window faces north so I can see the arctic low coming right at me, but I also have an east window that lets the sunshine in. Our building is full of seniors, some of whom are slated for the nursing home as they can't look after themselves. We lost one of our longtime residents last Sunday, & every- one has mixed emotions. One is sad to see her go, but the other is that she is no longer in pain. Our human efforts really have a beginning, middle & end & as long as you have family to remember you, you have your own slice of immortality. If you can just help one of your fellow human beings, you have a clear conscience that you've done your best. Hope everyone is well Love Marianne
February 15, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Hi dear Marianne, I just love to read your letters. You have such a positive attitude about everything. I am sorry you lost a friend there on Sunday but I know she is in a better place with no pain. I hope we will have an early spring. Daylight savings time is just three weeks away so that is good news. I could hardly believe that Lent was so early this year but that means an early Easter. I planted 6 little Andre's in a pot after keeping them in the fridge for 6 weeks, only one is popping up so far. That was an experiment. All the others are planted outside. I will have these extras to plant in Honi's place in the garden this fall. I hope you have a wonderful weekend Marianne. I hope your hands improve. Hugs
February 16, 2008Marilyn Smith wrote:
Happy Saturday, everyone. I hope Saturday is going well for everyone. I have spent Saturday listening to new Cds. Jean-Pierre Rieu's "Azur" for one - I love his style of quiet piano music. I have also gotten some new stuff from one of my big favorites - Loreena McKennitt. I could listen to her stuff for hours. I have been adding to my brother's collection from the 50s, 60s, and 70s. Does anyone remember Neil Diamond? Rock stars in general. I love Roger Whittaker. It's been a fun day. I went on a wild flower nature walk and who should be a member of the group was Rhoda Love, who is the ABSOLUTELY BEAMING mother of Stanley Love, who is one the astronauts who has been doing spacewalks for the last few days. His parents live in Eugene Oregon, my hometown. She was telling us all about it. It was exciting for all of us. Other than all of this, I got a batch of books from the Library, so have been a couch potato this afternoon. Have a great Sunday, everyone. Hugs, Marilyn
February 17, 2008
Shirley wrote:
I remember Roger Whittaker but I'm not familiar with Loreena McKennett. Like Marlene, i will find out about her. I do remember Neil Diamond, love his songs SONG SUNG BLUE &MORNING HAS BROKEN, which I think Roger has done also. Ah, the music of our lives! Remember Percy Faith, Leroy Anderson, Roger Williams, Simon & Garfunkel, Nat King Cole,Les Paul & Mary Ford,Johnny Mathis, Al Hibbler,Henry Mancini? Just a few of my favs. When I was working at a soda fountain, during my school years, the songs that were played til they drove you crazy, Johnny Ray's "Little White Cloud that Cried", Doris Day & Frankie Laine's "Sugar Bush"! Remember a little cute song named "Snoopy vs The Red Baron"? My brother's favorite or anything by the Beach Boys! Just a few memories on this Sunday morning. Marilyn, what are you reading? I go to the library all the time. I just finished reading a book by Don Hoglund, NOBODY'S HORSES. It's a true story, don't know if you'd like it or not but I found it interesting. Last night I listened to the whole Beethoven 6th symphony, what a beautiful piece of music that is! My oh my, what would we do without music???? and books!!!! and friends!!!
February 17, 2008
Marlene Warren wrote:
Those three things, music, books, and friends are among my most favorite things in life. So much music to think about and enjoy. So many books (what will I do with them all?) I keep thinking that one day I'll be snowed in for a few of weeks, or go on a loooooong vacation with nothing to do except read my books. And then there's the friends...Yes Shirley, these are all incredible things. Haha...I loved "Snoopy vs the Red Baron". The music that touches your heart and soul, I love it all. I listened and watched "André in Wonderland" last night, late, very late, and the music is fabulous.
How do you like this gem! This was on MySpace so I give credit to Caramia.
February 17, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
For this one I had to sit back a really examine...I feel a little nostalgia. A song perhaps of remembering a time long ago. Andre appears to be enjoying it whatever it is. He appears lost in the realm of wonder. Just lets his violin do its thing without a care. Behind that face, what is he thinking, hmmm...
Love Engracia
February 17, 2008Marilyn Smith wrote:
Jeanine, this is one great picture. All I can say is WOW. I use a picture of André for my desktop picture that I got off of his website a few years ago where he has a similar wonderful look on his face, but it is more of a front face view. There is a similar feel however. Thanks a bunch. This is yummy! Hugs, Marilyn
February 17, 2008
Shirley wrote:
mmmm, this one reminds me of The Song of Volga...., or maybe Meditation.
February 16, 2008
Marlene Warren wrote:
Hi everyone. It's late but I wanted to say hello to all of you. Yes, Marilyn, Jean-Philippe's new cd "Azur" is quite beautiful. I listen to it often. It's a very beautiful and peaceful cd. He certainly composes beautiful music. I have never heard of Loreena McKennitt, I will have to look her up and listen. I remember Neil Diamond well, he's one of my favorites. I went to see him at the Rose Garden two or three years ago. He was great as always. Roger Whittaker is wonderful also. He was one of my dad's favorites. Well, have a great Sunday everyone!
February 17, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
Hi girls, I read about you chatting up some real oldies but goodies. I love Nat King Cole and Vaughan Monroe's Dance Ballerina Dance or just Ballerina. I also love Johnny Mercer's GI Jive. I only know of one female singer doing thing number and that was Rosemary Clooney. I love Rosemary's Slow Boat to China. Another goodie is Rosemary's Botcha-Me song. Well that is enough nostalgia for now. Have a great day and keep singing a happy tune!
Love Grace
February 17, 2008
marianne peters wrote:
Dear Friends. What would our world be without music. It would be so barren it does not bear contemplation. The music industry is finally beginning to swing back to the nostalgic, which is a good thing. We've had about all the rap, heavy metal, which to me is just so much ear hurting noise. Very few songs for the past 6 or 7 years have been worth wasting one's time. We had a beautiful day to-day, warm with soft spring breezes. Might still get a last blast of winter as we still have to get thru March, which can at times be a little grim, but at least we know that it isn't going to last nor will we get the arctic flow, which is really brr time. Can't wait for Andre concerts somewhere even PBS. which is good but not like a live performance. The audience is also a lot of fun to watch the reactions, from both the music & the performance of the man himself. When he makes his entrance down the aisles of the venue, he has people mesmerized, before he ever hits the stage. Just amazing. I need an Andre injection of music so think I'll play a dvd. Love to all Marianne
February 18, 2008
Shirley wrote:
Did anyone happen to catch the 60 Minutes last night? A young conductor, Gustavo Dudamel, was featured. I'd never heard of him before. He does seem to be charming & charismatic & what a bundle of energy he has! He said". I love music. Music for me is my life, it's not my job. And I think this is something very important to bring - the love for the music". Who else does this sound like? As for watching this young man perform, he almost wears me out! Kind of distracting, like when I watch Joshua Bell. There is one video on youtube that I found fun to watch though and I think it's called Mambo, a Berstein piece from West Side Story. Dudamel & the orchestra really have a fun time. But overall, I like the calmness of Andre. I never have to close my eyes to enjoy him.
February 18, 2008
Jeanine Ann wrote:
Shirley, Andre looks a lot better with your eyes open!!!
February 18, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
A Special Poem for a Special Lady
By: DL Fitzpatrick
I picked a purple rose today. And as I caught its sweet perfume. I saw thy lips in the petalled lei. Soft-smile amid the bloom.
My senses opened wide for thee. And would not by effort close. Thus, I bowed in humble glee. And kissed thy purple rose.
Then I placed it in a vase. And hallowed it with prayer. And while I mused on its grace. I vowed to leave it there.
It suits beauty as thine own. For like a rose thou art. A kindred rose quaintly grown. But with a poet's heart.
Kissed I thy rose with very love. And when the nightfall came. I gave they purple rose thereof. They sweet and lovely name.
And since, alas, thy rose must die. And fall in disarray. I shall bring thee by and by. A purple rose bouquet.
Love Grace
February 18, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: That is so beautiful Grace. Thanks for sharing. Love and hugs
February 18, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
Thanks Jeanine Ann. As you know about my feelings regarding the colour purple! I came across this one when I was reading about the different colours of roses and their meanings.
This is to all the Great Ladies on this fan site. You are all incredible!
Love To All Grace
February 18, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
Thanks Jeanine Ann. As you know about my feelings regarding the colour purple! I came across this one when I was reading about the different colours of roses and their meanings.
This is to all the Great Ladies on this fan site. You are all incredible!
Love To All Grace
February 18, 2008
Shirley wrote:
BEAUTIFUL! never read it before, love it!
February 18, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
Thanks to you Shirley. This is for you and all the other lovely ladies on Andre's fan site. Without you wonderful people, well this site would not be as wonderful as it is! I love reading all about your lives and adventures.
Love to you all Grace
February 19, 2008
Shirley wrote:
Well Grace, you certainly add to this site yourself! As for purple, I love it also. My birthstone is amethyst, my flower the violet, and the Andre tulip is a purple, and one of my favorite oldie songs was Deep Purple, "when the deep purple falls over sleepy garden walls", and that's all I can remember, but the melody is beautiful. So... what's not to love about PURPLE? I'll have to scout around for a purple rose.love roses too. Thanks for the beautiful poem.
February 19, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Shirley you must be a February baby too. I love purple. In fact it would be easier to list the colors I don't like and that would be brown, grey and blue. I have one little Andre and it should pop its little head out any day. I will take a photo of it if it does. None of the other 5 bulbs did anything as yet. I am hoping for the outside bulbs in the spring. Hugs
February 19, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: "and the stars begin to twinkle in the sky, in the mist of a memory, you wander back to me breathing my name with a sigh"
February 19, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: In the still of the night once again I hold you tight though you're gone, your love lives on when moonlight beams and as long as my heart will beat sweet lovers we'll always meet here in my deep purple dreams"
February 19, 2008
Shirley wrote:
wow Jeanine Ann,that's great! kind of a sad song but doesn't "deep purple dreams" sound beautiful? yep, I'm a Feb "baby" too but it was on a sad day for you so we'll move on. I should have planted at least one Andre bulb for inside, guess I'll have to wait til spring & hope for the best. Our weather can be so darn unpredictable. You know how you like the expressions on Andre's face? There is one I wish I could see up close in a picture and as far as I know I've only seen it on the song he does, my Father's Favorite, when he first starts to play, before they go off into fantasy land, do you know the one I'm talking about?
February 19, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Oh Shirley, I am sorry I missed your birthday. I just had no idea. I never wanted to miss YOUR birthday so now I will wish you all happy days ahead for the whole year! I will send a photo of little Andre if it shows shows its face. I am trying to remember the expression you are talking about on "My Father's Favorite" but I will tell you Shirley if it is out there anywhere I will sure try to find it for you. I love looking for stuff! , especially when it involves Andre! Hugs
February 20, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
Happy Birthday to You, Happy Birthday to You, Happy Birthday dear Shirley, Happy Birthday to you, and many more...
I hope your birthday was a grand one. Wishing you all the love and happiness your way, and I am sure there is lots already!
Much Love Grace
February 19, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
...and the starts begin to twinkle in the sky. But as long as my heart will beat, sweet lovers will always meet, here in my deep purple dream. How is that? I think that is.
Hope your day was great. Love Much Grace
February 19, 2008
marianne peters wrote:
Dear Friends. Thanks Grace for sharing the poem about the purple rose. It is truly sweet!! The blog has been very quiet for some time. No real update on Andre's site, but I expect that is because Pierre is getting ready for Dusseldorf world stadium tour. The logistics of the moving & erection of the set is awesome & one heck of a lot of sheer worry & work. I do hope that is goes as smooth as glass & they get all the glitches settled before the Aussie tour. I see some folks have already missed out on tickets for the Subiaco Oval in Perth. I can see a second concert there as is all the Eastern cities & Adelaide. All of Oz, have really taken our Maestro to their collective heart, & the dvd & cd sales are just off the charts. 7 time platinum for either N.Y Memories or the Wonderland dvd. Don't think even the Beatles attained that high level. Jean- anne, I hope the rest of your Andre' tulips finally decided to make their appearance. Growing plants is so gratifying to us all. Something like watching our children grow. Just made a jello fruit salad for our pot-luck this evening, even managed to open the can of fruit. The hands aren't much good, but hopefully that will improve once I have the surgery, which will be some months down the road. Don't see the specialist until Apr 2nd & then it's wait for a space in day surgery. Oh bother. I started using cold blue ice, plus the finger sleeves & wrist brace,so I can at least get a few hours of sleep at night. Two hours at a time is just not enough & then the other night I couldn't remember if I had taken my night meds, so didn't take them & when I realized that I hadn't taken them it was too late at 4 a.m. Needless to say the whole of the next day was a washout Tried to nap in the afternoon. & that didn't work either. To-day I'm okay, thank goodness as I have a ream of work to do. Just beginning the tax routine, but am still waiting for T-4's, which is like your W5 slips. I've done income tax for folks for over 60 years, as I started in my mid teens. Now I have to get my bank sorted out, they took something that is not mine so I've had cheques bouncing all over the place, which is a kick in the butt at 35.00 a pop. Very aggravating to say the least & very stressful to boot. We shall have another sunny day altho it's only minus 12 just now, 8:30a.m., but it will warm up in the afternoon so that's okay. I've written a book again so I will sign off for now, love to all Marianne
February 19, 2008
Grayeme wrote:
Marianne, some one has got their wires crossed. No tickets for the Perth concert have gone on sale as yet.
February 20, 2008
Shirley wrote:
Gosh Marianne, I always think it's cold here til I see what your temps are! We are now in for a high of 30° with wind chills of 14 & I'm freezing! "The north wind doth blow and we shall have snow"... I guess it can ,as you always say,"always be worse".Good luck with your upcoming hand surgery. I was wondering and wanted to ask everyone what your gas prices are in all the different areas. Ours are now 2.78, which I'm sure is a lot cheaper than some.Also,there is a web site that has the dutch word of the day, really interesting, but I think I'm not too good at that!! I'm still trying to master the English! Just my few thoughts for the day before I get out and about, which I'm NOT looking forward to!!!!
February 19, 2008
marianne peters wrote:
Dear folks I wrote out the "Purple rose" poem & it recalled to mind a very old song called "Deep Purple" It was by one of the early soul singers, had the name in my head & it just went pfft. It'll surface down the road when I least expect it, it may have been Duke Ellington & dates back to the early 40ties, A lot of the old music is coming back , a bit jazzed up, but still recognizable & they don;t tamper with the melody as change some of the emphasis on the phrasing so parts of the lyrics become more important than they way the original singer had presented them. I wish I had some of those old ink-spot 78's from that era, but with move from my big house to the mobile home, & then to Brooks, a lot of my stuff just melted away, Salvaged some of it so what did survive my den of thieves, has become doubly precious I don't know if it was sheer stupidity on my part or as much as my naivete in trusting fairweather friends, Likely a combination of both. The perps paid for their wrongdoing with their lives, Not at my behest, but because they had crossed the honor line between thieves & their own pals, tried them for their actions & found them guilty. That was one terrible time for me, but I survived, a little bruised & battered, and much wiser I hope. Still have my faith in my fellow man, but the innocence is a whole lot less. But you pick up the shattered pieces & be thankful for what has survived. I will send for some Andre tulip bulbs for next fall & plant some here at the apartment & some in my daughters' garden. The east is still getting winter's last gasp, but here it has been bright, sunny, no wind & really quite pleasant. Don't have to bundle up like Eskimo, with heavy parkas, scarfs & hats. I much prefer a light jacket & then you don't feel like a stuffed penguin, We had pancakes, bacon sausage, syrup & my jellied fruit salad had only a spoonful remaining, so I'll snack on that before I go to bed, Love to all Marianne
February 20, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
Hello everyone on the fan site. I trust you are all or have had a wonderful day. I received my CD's and book by Marjorie Rieu called My Music My Life. I have ordered it for two reasons. One being myself as an Andre and Marjorie Rieu admirer. The other is for my mother, who first took me to see Andre and hi JSO. It was love at first sight for me!I ordered the cd's: Andre Rieu Songs from my Heart, Andre Rieu Live in Tuscany, and Andre Rieu The Flying Dutchman. Now my mother and I will have hours of musical fun! I cannot wait to read the book. I know that someone said it was a little outdated at 1996, but I believe when it comes to Andre and Marjorie's finest, Love and Time are everlasting, so who cares about the date. It's what that inside that counts! Only one request, Marjorie, maybe write another!
Love Much Grace
February 20, 2008
Lyn M wrote:
Hello Grace, I am certain you will enjoy reading My Music, My Life. I am in the process of reading it and am enjoying every minute. Just because it was written in 1996 doesn't mean it is out of date at all. Everything Andre is doing today relates back to what he did earlier in his career. Cheers!
February 21, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
Hi Lyn, thank you for the great advice on the book. It is indeed very insightful. It tells not only about Andre and his personl years as a boy and young man. It seems to always have a Way of saying it. Always there is this thread of love, passion, and grandeur dreams. Even in the soul of a child. I really do believe Andre is on his path in life. I pray he has many more years! A rose to Andre!
February 21, 2008
Kay wrote:
Grace, you will enjoy the book, I'm sure. I'm reading it for the second time and am enjoying it even more this time. The date doesn't really matter...it gives you some insight into his early life and how he became so passionate about music. That won't change. Wouldn't it be wonderful, though, if Marjorie could write another book covering the last 10 years since his popularity has exploded during that time.
February 20, 2008DJ Bob wrote:
You take the beauty of roses, you add the beautiful music of Andre Rieu and the JSO and you get my latest Photo Show "Roses From The South":
March 1, 2008Marilyn Smith wrote:
Good morning, Bob. It's Sat. so I was catching up on the postings. I watched your latest photo show "Roses From The South" and wanted you to know that I really enjoyed it. So many beautiful flowers and André together. What a combination ! Yum. By the way, about when does "grandpa to be" become "grampa"?. Have a great day.
March 1, 2008DJ Bob wrote:
Thanks for your comment on my latest photo show (I really enjoy making them) About late August or early September is the target date to become "grampa"!!
All my best
Bob
February 20, 2008
Marlene Warren wrote:
Hello everyone. Did you all see the Eclipse tonight? It was very interesting and beautiful. I couldn't help but listen in my mind, to the beautiful "Aria" from Madame Butterfly, from the dvd "Dreaming". Most beautiful. I love watching a "charged" André as he watched the night skies and the castle floating along in space.
February 21, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
I is so funny and familiar that you should mention an eclipse! My father Jimmy, who is in Paradise. He lived from October 1, 1927 to October 30, 2008. Anyway, he always used to tell we kids (5 girls and 1 boy)!that as Armstrongs, we had a relation to the space race (Neil Armstrong, who took a piece of the Armstrong Tartan with him in 1969, to the moon)! Dad was such a clown! He did also say something to us regarding eclipses. He believed that an eclipse meant a harbinger of good news to all those who saw it and to those who knew about it. It meant also that your deepest wishes would come true. So here is to your good luck and to many good omens that are about to be bestowed on those who know and believe!
My mother always did say she had really 7 kids: five girls, my brother and my Dad, little Jimmy! Love you Dad. See you in Paradise one day!
Love to All Grace
February 20, 2008
Lyn M wrote:
Hi all, Just a reminder. Don't forget to vote for Andre and the other JSO members on the Persoon van het Jaar 2008 site. I hope I have got that right. I am trying to teach myself a few Dutch words as I go along too. Andre seems to be falling behind in the votes. Stem op Andre!
February 21, 2008
Kay wrote:
I see André has a new message for us on his website. "We've so many gorgeous new plans, can hardly wait to tell you!" Well now I can't wait to find out what those plans are!!
February 21, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
Puddi, a true cat after my own heart!I love to see you on the site! You both look like you are having a great time. You intrigued by that handsome violinist and that handsome violinist playing for the pure joy of music!
Puddi you are one special kitty. Don't ever forget it.
Puddi I Love You, oh and by the way, Andre I love you too! Sorry Andre, Puddi takes the cake in these!
Hey diddle diddle, the cat and the fiddle!
February 21, 2008
Shirley wrote:
awwwawww. Puddi, you're so adorable and you have such good taste! It looks like Andre is playing especially for her.I love it .....purr.......
February 21, 2008
Lyn M wrote:
Cute! Puddi has impeccable taste! My cat, Lucy also watches Andre on television. I think it is the bow moving up and down that catches her eye just as Andre was fascinated as a little boy.
February 21, 2008
Judith wrote:
Hi all, making this brief. Puddi is a very "Class-Cat". Jeanine Ann, you and your sister have trained these kitties in the Classical Arts. To everyone who spoke about the 'eclipse', I was out with the neighbors-we had a beautiful night for viewing. We were all in our nite attire, like I had on my l-o-n-g heavy fleece robe on-we looked like the peanuts cartoon, some had rollers, you name it we did it. BUT, this is the main reason for this posting: the movie you guys were talking about: "MUSIC OF THE HEART" is on telly Friday at 7a.m. on the FAMILY CHANNEL if anyone is interested. Hello to all new-comers, as I must really be behind. I have been keeping a day-to-day posting on the voting situation. I started in January, and have a journal up dated daily. Have a great night. Yea! Puddi nominated for number ONE kittie....cat-nip to all. Just a post note to Jeanine Ann, I don't know about the rest of you- but that is how I have been watching André, for quite a while....imagine sitting/lying/hanging on to the TV face up close. That cat is smart!!!!
Once upon a time there were five sisters. Each had their own identity; their mother made sure of that. They did though each have a purity and goodness that one might say could be a called a "gift".
The First sister was extraordinarily intelligent and was scholastically inclined. She was accepted for medicine at the top three Universities in her province, on a free scholarship.
The Second sister was very artistic. She could paint, draw, sketch, you name it. She even painted a portrait that hangs in an art gallery in a prominent city today. She created this painting in high school, from her own imagination. She called it Saturday's Child.
The Third sister was a natural healer. She worked endless hours saving lives, tending to the sick and injured; and as she did this, it was with dignity. She held the hand of many as they crossed over into Paradise. When this sister came home from such a night; sometimes, she would call her sisters and cry until her tears were empty. Then the sun came out and she was fine for another day.
The Fourth sister had a way to calm the tears and fears of children. She might have a dozen or more at a time; and, she always seemed to know how to mother them one and all.
The Fifth sister was able to sing like an angel. One day there was a the first music class in grade one. The music teacher Mrs. Orchard, asked the class to stand together and sustain a single note, breathing as needed. The teacher listened carefully to each and every one of about 30 children. When it was over, the teacher let all the children go but one. It was the Fifth sister. The next concert, this six year old girl was singing a small Latin song called "Hodie".
All five sisters carried their gifts with them always. They knew that gifts so profound could never be diminished.
For ever and ever...Amen
February 22, 2008
Shirley wrote:
Grace, your story fascinates me. First though, when I first saw your name, Grace Armstrong Hunt, I thought to myself, that sounds like an author's name. It just has that ring to it. Back to your story, like I said, it fascinates me. For one thing I always look for a "moral" to a story and I think I understand this one but would like your comments on it. This is beautiful and I "see" in it a truth about "gifts, or talents and that we all have certain gifts or talents and each one is a necessary thing. As I think about all my Andre friends, many of whom I've never met, each one has something that makes them special in my life, even if I don't know what they look like, I know them. I know their "gifts", and believe me, they are many and varied. Each one is important and necessary for the harmony in my life. So thank you all, those I've met and those I haven't, for your contribution to the enjoyment of my life. Andre fans are some of the best people on this earth! And thank you Grace!
February 22, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
Thanks Shirley for the lovely note. I am glad I have read and hopefully will meet some people on this fan site too!
I can describe myself: I have dark brown hair, light blue eyes, a bright smile, 5'6" tall. I have a MySpace if you want to see me. url:amazinggraceme.
I had the idea to go onto MySpace because, after the death of my dad in Oct 2006, I went from 135 lbs to 208 lbs by Nov 18, 08! I just turned 43, so I am giving myself the year of 2008 to get back to my natural weight of 135 lbs and body mass index of 22.1.
I am just loving it. Each month I have pictures taken to see the transition! I am going to make a calendar when I am done. Isn't that a hoot! I am already over 20 lbs closer!
Each day I write a poem, story, or just something that inspired me that day on the space. I will have a total of 366 (leap year)writings, which I will put in a book for myself and others who want to read it!
I figured out the core reason why I was eating. It was for emotional comfort, and the fact that I need a creative outlet. Now, instead of eating my feelings, I get them out on computer! It is amazing because the cravings and habits did change!
I will be attending the Andre concert in Ottawa, Ontario, On May 17th. Let me know if anyone on this site is going please. I would be most grateful to meet some fans!
Isn't Andre, Marjorie, and the JSO great. That also goes for Pierre and the behind the scenes people. They surely have a "gift" to give people the wonderful enjoyment of music, dancing, skating, you name it.
I have an idea, you can call me a nick name, that makes it fun! You can call me Gracie. My father was the only one who ever called me that. For everyone else it was Grace.
Well now you have it my dear Shirley, my age, weight, goals, life, etc. Not much more.
As for my bedtime story, I wrote it to inspire the youth of today to reach into themselves and find their "gifts". I hope it encourages them to know that they are special just because there is no one in the world like them but them! I encourage the youth today to find their niche and always keep it close. Nothing goees without worth.
Love You Much Gracie!
February 23, 2008
Shirley wrote:
Well "Gracie", I don't have to "see" you to understand that you are a very creative, caring person. And my dear anyone age 43 is young to me!! I have a daughter about your age. Your story to inspire the youth should inspire everyone no matter the age. I do wish though that people would realize the truth of what you say at a younger age. seems like too many want to be a carbon copy of someone else, not realizing the specialness of themselves. Congrats on your weight control. Isn't it true that we tend to use food as a comfort thing. Been there, done that! Still doing that!! I will look forward to more of your writings. I don't know anyone going to the Ottawa concert, can't remember about Marianne, which one she talked about. Could be that you might be able to meet her. Meeting the fans at a concert is like icing on the cake!
February 22, 2008
Marlene Warren wrote:
Shirley, I really love your interpretation of this story that Grace has given us. I don't think that I could improve on it in any way. I must agree with you that André fans are some of the best people on earth. Not many areas in life where you can call someone a "friend" without ever meeting them. It's like you know in your heart that they are friends.
February 22, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: I agree with you Marlene and Shirley. I must tell you also that Gracie is one amazing lady. I met her on My Space and she and I were at the same concert in Toronto in December and neither of us knew it (this was before we "found" each other on My Space. She is caring and a beautiful person. I love her dearly. She writes so beautifully and I look forward to her stories. When I am sad she always asks why and I know she does this because she is truly concerned about people. She always wants to help whenever and however she can. Grace is like all of you - caring and wonderful friends whom I have never met. I did meet Martha and she is a doll also, so sweet and helpful and talented.
On another topic, Cotton got a good report today. Her creatinine level is holding it was 3.1 (last month 3.2) but she lost 1 and 1/2 pounds so we must watch her weight. So all your prayers for Cotton are working and I thank all of you. Hugs for tonight
February 23, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
Thank you so much for the lovely compliment. Indeed it is rare that people can unite on a fan site and have that feeling of bonding of a friendship. Thank you very much again from my heart.
Love Your Friend Grace xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
February 21, 2008
marianne peters wrote:
Dear Friends. It seems that the more I read on the site, the more I learn about the folks who write in. Think most folks have pets that live with us My cat Fluffy & dog Pam, would both lay on the floor & watch t.v. especially if there were animal programs & they both watched sat morning cartoon with my children. Now of course I live in an apartment with no pets allowed except birds & fish, so I go & borrow my daughter's animals when I go to her house to visit, & both cat & dog know the sound of my car, so they are a lot smarter than we know, Love to all Marianne
February 22, 2008
Adele Geritzen wrote:
Hello everyone.. I just got home from Munich , where I was in the very front row at the Olympic hall .
Am still swooning with the memories.. had a few disadvantages, i.e. you can't see the 'brass section', or much of Pierre's lighting effects, BUT, gosh, you are close to Andre!
You just feel like walking over and tugging at his trousers! (not being rude!)
AND, he was pretty irrate as some of the audience were late.. He said 'we came from Holland, and we were on time'... it was even worse after the interval.. (he only gives 20 minutes) only about 80 % of the audiance were back in their seats... BOY did he ridicule them!! they took it in good heart. And he always does this.
I seemed to be the only one with an 'Andre & JSO scarf'.. no standing ovations (as far as i could see) maybe 6 or 8 couples moved themselves for the Blue Danube.. seemed like an audiance glued to their seats..
The programme was lovely; they entered down the centre aisle to 76 Trombones.. first half ended with 'Amigos para Siempre'.. 2nd part opened with 'Granada' then Salome (from the Wunderland DVD/CD. A highlight was Carmina Burana, very dramatic.. Andre did his magic on a lady in the front row (not me!) and Mirusia was the angel. Carmen did 'O mio babbino Caro (as in Tuscany DVD) As 'homage to Munich, they did the Hofbrauhaus music, and Pierre had arranged moving beer glasses as a backsdrop..
Carmen & Mirusia waved at me as they left the stage after their numbers (as I was waving at them) I had the feeling that I was the only one in the entire place who was trying to be 'interactive'.. My opinion is, that these performers need feedback ....
However, the 'encores' went fine.. the German lady sitting next to me had some flowers to give Andre, but was not sure 'when and how'... I pretended to be an expert, and offered to help. When the 'official programme' (Radetzky March) came to an end, i had seen that there was a 'mob' waiting in the aisles to move forward, so i escorted her to the front, and then stayed there myself... and I have to tell you, that it is magical...
25 minutes pure pleasure and interaction.......
See you in Maastricht!
February 22, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Oh Adele, sounds like you had a wonderful time. I know what first row is like - pure heaven! I am so happy for you. I have two front row seats coming up this year that I know of, the other two venues I am not sure at this time. Sounds like those people were glued to their seats that is why I always do my best to interact and my husband and I dance at every concert even though we cannot dance - just to be out there participating and I know it makes Andre happy when the audience interacts in some way. What did the Platin Tenors sing besides "Amigos Para Siempre"? I was wondering if they did the Pavarotti tribute. Thanks so much for telling us all about it. So glad you had a great time. Hugs
February 22, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
Sounds and reads like a wonderful time for you Adele. I am glad you had such a great opportunity! Hope the rest of your travels are safe and fun. I envy you, I envy you! Just have a great time and enjoy yourself.
Much Love Grace
February 22, 2008
Adele wrote:
Hi Jeanine Ann Here is the programme for the Munich concert; to the best of my remembrance! 76 Trombones Roses from the South Mozart medley Platin Tenors - something lively, I think it was 'this is the best day of my life' though in German of course.. They have done it on one of the DVD's but I don’t remember which one. Then Andre did his lines re 'Luciano' and they sang 'Nessun Dorma' Carmen Monarcha sang ‘O mio babbino Caro’ Amigos para siempre, Tenors, Suzan Carmen & Mirusia (obviously I have missed a couple of items but simply cant remember for the moment)
Interval Granada (orchestra & Andre) Salome (orchestra & Andre) Mirusia – song for one voice Emperor’s waltz Suzan Erens sang something from Phantom of the opera, I think the song that she secretly dedicates to her late father. Suzan did something from the musical ‘Sissy’ I think it was ‘I belong to me’ but not 100 % sure. Blue Danube Carmina Burana – Platin Tenors / Suzan / Carmen / Mirusia Hofbrauhaus (Munich beer hall music) Radetzky
Encores Strauss & Co Traviata medley (Tenors & Sopranos) Amazing Grace – with Manoe on the bagpipes Brahms lullaby Adieu mein kleine garde officier – Tenors & Sopranos. WOW !
February 22, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Thank you Adele. It was so kind of you to type the entire program for us. I appreciate it so much. Wasn't "Nessun Dorma" magnificant!! I told each of the Tenors as I saw them that they did such a beautiful job on that song and they said they really worked at it and you could tell.
Thank you again Adele and take care. Glad you had such a wonderful tiem. Love and hugs
February 23, 2008
Shirley wrote:
"WOW" is right! Thank you so much Adele. what a great program, I'm doing a standing ovation and i wasn't even there!
February 23, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Hi all, the song from Phantom was sung by Mirusia (at least in Toronto) and is called "Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again" and she brought down the house. She has been singing that song since I first saw her in Miami. She sings it beautifully. I am trying to think of the Tenors song too and I can hear it but I am not sure which one it is. Hugs to all
February 23, 2008
jeff rubino wrote:
thanks adele!! I weas going to ask that question but i did not want to ruin it for others i am so happy jeanine ann asked it!!! Funny thing about when you mentioned the phantom of the opera. 3 days before i go and see Andre on may 20th 2008 i will be in new york to see the phantom of the opera on broadway in VIP seats. wow that will be great to see the show and then here andre play a piece for it!!! thanks agian. How are you doing Jeanine Ann, i cant believe you got front row seats!!! i am in the 6th row back on the floor section 2 so its right in the middle. Last year on his entrance he waled by me and said Hey! and he gave me a high five. I hope that it happens agian!!! See you later! -Jeff
February 23, 2008
Joy wrote:
Can anyone give me the correct story? I keep hearing that Carmen Monarcha is no longer with Andre and the JSO. Is she coming to Australia? Is she still with this wonderful group of people? What is the truth?
February 24, 2008
Adele wrote:
Hi Joy, well Carmen was certainly in the Munich concert, Feb 20th.. she sang 'O mio babbino caro'... dont know about the future..
February 24, 2008
Virginia Baker wrote:
Carmen, Carla and Suzan all left a couple of years ago. They keep reappearing and have agreed to do specials. Carmen was not at the New York special because she was already committed elsewhere. I believe they all agreed to appear at the Schoenbrunn concerts. Sometimes when they have nothing else on they tour with Andre for awhile and then do something else. I don't know what happened with Suzan, she was supposed to travel with Carla for something like 125 concerts. I saw an announcement where Carla was appearing but no mention of Suzan. Carmen appears in concerts and operas all over the world, particularly in Brazil where of course she is well known. Mirusia is still under contract to Andre so she won't be going anywhere this year anyway. After Australia who knows?
Does anyone know when they start a new program? I see from the Munich concert that the current one has been on for more than a year now. I assume by the time they come here in the spring there will be something new. Don't get me wrong, I love them all, but there's a lot of music in this world, and as Andre said, they have an immediate repertoire of 200 pieces they can play at a moment's notice. I don't mind seeing the same thing twice or three times, but after a year has gone by I want a new concert. The singers have sung the same songs for over a year now. I know that Suzan's song won't change at the Sissi concerts, but the others could. Mirusia has sung the same three songs since she joined. I love the angel but she could sing something new also. Same for the tenors. Seems as if Carmen has been singing Il Bambino forever. Time will tell. I just hope that Andre is not putting so much effort into the large concerts that he's sliding along for the other concerts. Hopefully he has more sense than that. I do hope that Suzan comes to the spring concerts but would like her to sing something other than I Belong to Me which we have seen numerous times already. (But if she does we'll enjoy it).
February 24, 2008
nicole joy wrote:
very sad dear joy if carmen monarca does not sing for jso anymore..nicolejoy
February 24, 2008
Shirley wrote:
I'm not sure she is a regular anymore but only when she is available to join them. According to the Perth news she will be joining them in Australia.
February 24, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
Hi everyone. I was doing my workout today and I was thinking about Andre and his music. I come from a business and marketing background. Some ideas crossed my mind.
Demographics: Andre's demographics attract mostly women born in the baby boomers years. They are the largest population on earth today. These are women born between 1946 - 1966, Ages 62 - 42.
The next question would be where would these women go to be opened to the world of Andre's music?
1)Spas: Registered Massage Therapists: Create a Four Cd Set that encompasses the four elements. Violin softly with ocean in the background, Violin softly with the sound of wind blowing, Violin softly with nature sounds, and Violin softly with fire burning.
Manicures/Pedicures: Return to the four romantic languages: Spanish: Violin with steel guitar and castanets softly to a calypso beat. Italian: Violin with accordion softly and harp. French: Violin with accordion and harp softly.Latin: Violin with calypso drums, steel drums, a constant soft beat.
Create the imagination in the womens'minds as they are being pampered of romance, softness, tenderness, keep it soft and loving. Get into the mind of a women in this age genre, get into the core of her soul and bring out her desires that are kept hidden by the daily grind of work, housework, kids, etc.
Upper Scale Hairstylists: Same versions as manicures and pedicures. Add a bit more upbeat with the romantics. Add vocals, both male and female together, singing in melody and harmony. Love and tenderness of a twosome. Plant visions in the minds.
"People want what they see" a famous saying by Sandra Dee. The eye remembers for a short time at first then, when the concert is over, visions come to mind and stay there. The ear hears and remembers a longer time. It yearns to hear soft, tenderness. Why? Because it is not there in the workplace grind.
When you go grocery shopping next time, listen to the music, it is soft, baby boomers know the songs, melodic. Those born after 1966 would call it "elevator music"; but the baby boomers love it.
Suggestions for show: Add Flamenco Dancers with Castanets, female dancers in rainbow coloured dresses, men in black with matching rainbow accessory on Spanish suits. Violin with Spanish soft beat.
Latin: Steel Drums, All types of drums, calypso type costume, palm trees, ocean etc.
French: Eiffel tower in background with streets, think Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant style, accordions, painters, mimes, etc., Think Vaughn Monroe, Dance Ballerina Dance with a single Ballerina dancing.
Italian: Gondolas, Barber Poles, Accordions, think Dean Martin, Mario Lanza, etc. "That's Amore" sung accompanied by violin and accordion.
One more thing: most baby boomer women workout: classical upbeat music style. Something classical with a constant beat throughout.
Just seeing Andre's gorgeous face on the front of the CD's will also be great!
Some suggestions, who know it might be fun!
Love Grace
February 24, 2008
jeff rubino wrote:
hello all, since i have been going to andres concerts on the eastcoast for the past 4 years, suzan , carla and carmen have all been there i hope that they are there agian! jeanine ann please go to my pictures on my mypace and you will see the pictures of carmen in her new opera. thanks Jeff
February 25, 2008
Shirley wrote:
I see that Andre's guestbook is now open again and in the "news" section there is a happy Birthday picture of Sanne and Nadejda. Also, one comment that fascinated me was from an african fan who asks if it's true that Andre plans to have a special guest at a concert. I'd never heard her name before. I assume she's from Holland & she does have a web site and on you tube she has a video. Her name is Melissa Venema. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9UAqaE-XzS0 So, maybe we are in for some "new" things.I have to agree with much of what Virginia says. It's time for something new and fresh. Even though I enjoy the music I'd love to hear something new and different. I'm not too much into the Stadium tours. I think the Toronto concert must have been fantastic according to all who went, but do you want to see it over and over again?Same for the singers, let's give them some new material, there's certainly many pieces they could do with their talents. Hope I don't sound too critical here, not my intention, but I thought Virginia said it well and I do agree, and especially the part about "no matter what we always enjoy whatever Andre has for us" Guess that's just my 2¢ worth.
February 25, 2008
Marlene Warren wrote:
Yes, new things from André are always accepted with an open heart. I've bought a particular cd, because it had just one song on it that I hadn't heard him play. It's like it's a driving force to hear that new, previously unplayed song from André.
I realize also that it's difficult for him to have a different concert everywhere he goes. When we see a concert here, doesn't mean that everyone has seen it..so I understand that André needs to allow all to see that particular concert. I appreciate that, because some of the songs are so beautiful, that I would be disappointed if I couldn't hear them, live.
Unfortunately, I believe that André and the JSO are not coming to the West coast this year, at least not to the Pacific Northwest. That said, I would love to hear any kind of concert from André at this moment, no matter how many times I had heard it, because I know that I will have to wait a long time to hear one again. Does this make sense?
"André in Wonderland" was unique, entertaining and more different than anything I've seen previously. I loved the program and hope that everyone has a chance to see it. It's programs like this that make me know that André does give us diversity. If André did nothing except stand on the stage and play his violin, I would be happy with it, because it's him.
André and the JSO bring the concerts to LIFE, no matter how many times I've heard it.
February 26, 2008
Shirley wrote:
Marlene, you sre right about the music, i guess I was talking, more or less, about the songs the singers do. Even then, I guess that any program is better than no concert at all, which is where I am right now! Remember, sometime back, when we all talked about the pieces that we liked? You had a list of several that are not ordinarily played at the concerts,but were on certain cds or dvds. i liked the list you made. I'd like to attend a concert like that. Would love to hear Song To the Moon, or the clarinet concerto that Manoe does so well, or Haydns Serenade.love to hear them at a concert.Maybe I just haven't been to the right concerts! PS: You always "make sense"!
February 26, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Hi everyone, I agree Marlene. I have seen 4 concerts (2007) and two were identical in April and May and two were identical in December (Stadium tour) and I agree that Andre could just stand alone and play his violin and that would be ok with me. I would still be glued to him. I think everyone should be able to see the current tour because I would hate for anyone to miss even one song on the agenda because they are all so beautiful and specially picked by Andre for us. I think too that Andre may not be in the West Coast area this year unless he can work it out somehow especially with the Australian tour but then I feel that the East Coast will suffer next spring (maybe) because he will have to get to the west coast sometime (unless Australia is not on the agenda in 2009). But we really don't know at this time so I think whatever concerts we can get to, we should. I can get to any concert on the east coast but usually not above New York. We only go to Florida concerts because we do all our medical things there in the spring. Our doctor is in Fort Myers but I don't know what will happen when we get too old to make the trip (except to fly) because it is a long drive. I would love to go to Maastricht just one time while we can. I know some of you were thinking about 2009. I think Kati mentioned it and also Martha Strickland and I think Lorraine. It would be a great trip especially to see Andre in his home country. Well, we will see but I do hope Andre gets to the West Coast for all of you who live there. I am so blessed to have 4 concerts this year and I am very thankful. At this time in my life Andre's music and concerts are my lifeline. Hugs to all today.
February 29, 2008Marilyn Smith wrote:
Good morning. Yes, it would be nice to hear a little more variety. One of the many reasons why I love the Live in Vienna concert was that there are lots of different songs than what we usually hear. That concert is one of my favorites.
February 29, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Hi Marilyn, that is my favorite concert too mostly because he played so many songs that we usually do not hear all the time. I love all the Vienna music, the Three Tenors sang "You Are My Hearts Delight" which I have always loved and never heard it sung and I thought Dagmar Kollar was just delightful with my favorite "Vienna City of My Dreams" and to top it off with "Adieu" was just spectacular. I could play that concert every day and unlike Schonbrunn we see more of Andre in Vienna concert. I guess there is nothing I don't like about the concert. I thought the dancing was more balanced in this concert as compared with Schonbrunn. I just love it. Hugs to all
February 29, 2008Marilyn Smith wrote:
Hi Jeannine. We certainly agree on this concert. I feel the same way you do. Have a wonderful Birthday. Hugs.
February 26, 2008
Marlene Warren wrote:
Yes, Shirley, I too, would love so much to hear Mirusia do other songs. I very much enjoy her and know that there are tons of songs out there that she would sing beautifully. The one's she sings now are awesome. She has such a beautiful voice that a variety would be wholeheartedly accepted...just to hear "more".
And I so agree with you on "Song To The Moon", it's a most beautiful, romantic, peaceful song.
Thanks for the "you always make sense" words, ha, I really try...sometimes I just don't know. I wish that my brother would hear you say that!
February 26, 2008
nicole joy wrote:
TO MARLENE WARREN, WELL SAID,REGARDS,NICOLEJOY.
February 26, 2008
Lyn M wrote:
In Australia Andre fans are so thrilled that we will have the opportunity to see Andre and the JSO live on stage. Except for those fortunate enough to have been able to go to one of his concerts overseas, it will be a totally new experience for most of us. Even though the program appears similar to that on the Schonbrunn DVD, I don't think too many people will be disappointed.
Since I 'found' Andre five months ago, I have been purchasing Andre CDs whenever the budget will allow. To a lesser extent I have purchased some DVDs although, since Ovation Channel shows at least one each week, I am concentrating on CDs for the time being. I am particularly enjoying a couple of his earlier CDs, Strauss & Co and Wiener Melange because they provide some variety in the tunes to those on the later CDs and the DVDs although like previous bloggers have said, whatever Andre has for us is great.
February 27, 2008
marianne peters wrote:
Dear Friends. Still a while before the hand surgery, which if it is no worse that the left hand although it has had much more time to deteriorate, hopefully it can be repaired Funny how, old injuries come back to pester us years after the original injury. The arthritis is there but bearable & that won't go away, but so far I can type on the computer, altho the typewriter is a bit more difficult. Thank the Bon Dieu for all the friends on the blog. I do get lonesome all by myself at times but I get the music going & it's not so bad. The worst thing you can do is sit & stew & feel bereft, & that is the time to count one's blessings & they are many so I can't really fuss too much. At least on the blog we can share our ups & downs & each one of us has things we would change if it were possible, so I thank you all for bearing me up when I get a bit blue. We have a few days of Feb left, but March begins on Friday, so the fine weather will follow. I was telling my son that November air is hard & brittle, but the Spring air is soft & feathery, that caresses the skin gently. My cup of tea totally!! At time this apartment just stifles me & I have to get outdoors in the air, but at least it has warmed so I don't have to bundle up like a penguin. Much prefer as few clothes as is decent. One day I will get brave & wear my pink bikini & shock everyone. At times I like to be a bit outrageous, just to stir the pot, & wake folks up. We have a beautiful world & we must enjoy But still try to fix the raggedy edges which need repair. The soothing & healing coming from Andre's music is a true gift beyond price & I for one listen to his music along with like musicians on my memory channel, which goes 24/7. If it goes off in the night I wake up. to get it started yet again. The picture of Andre the sailboat on the lake is just so serene & it makes one dream beautiful thoughts & memories. To Frank Steins, all my thoughts & prayers on the passing of your Father. In my family I am the last senior standing & it is a rather lonely pinnacle, but I have two children, grandkids, & soon in mid-April will a great-gramma. That is a milestone, which when I was 20 years was an eon away. Time does have a way of creeping up on one. At 75, I sometimes feel ancient & then something comes along & hey its only a number & I am blessed with good health, can still drive to do my shopping plus all the other errand I do for other folks not able to get around. We'll be without our elevator for a month due to it needing replacement, so I can see me getting in shape for those who can't manage stairs & parcels. Will be busy & all know I am available. Liked the pics of Puddi, expect he was listening as well as following Andre's bow & finger movements. Love to all Marianne
February 28, 2008
Lyn M wrote:
Hello Marianne, Glad to hear from you again. I was worried that you may have been sick when there hadn't been any comments from you for a few days.
Congratulations to the soon-to-be great-grandma.
Isn't time creeping up on us all? The older we get the faster time seems to go and now it seems to be going at a gallop. Summer in Australia is over and we march on into autumn which is a very pleasant season as far as I am concerned - not too hot and not too cold. I don't like the heat of summer, although this year hasn't been too bad, except for last Saturday when the temperature in Brisbane reached 41.6 degrees C. Phew!! I hope for Andre's sake (and for the JSO) that we don't get temperatures like that when they are here in December. Hugs. Lyn
February 28, 2008
Shirley wrote:
Marianne,I was wondering about you. I really wish you well on your hand surgery. I'm sure it is difficult to type at all.BUT YOU DO! I admire your spirit. I too, am awaiting Spring,the stir of new growth excites me. I have to smile at your comment on your pink bikini. That I want to see! I just finished listening to one of my favorites.. ANDRE+ROMANCE IN F= pure pleasure! Turns me into a complete marshmallow!!! and I still have raking to do! Have to "make hay while the sun shines". I too am sad to hear about Frank's father. Maastricht has lost two of it's musical people in a short time. Yes, about the pictures of Puddi... wish we could see some more, she's a cutie. Hope everyone has a great day today. A "blue sky day", as my friend always says.
February 28, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Hi all, Marianne I hope all goes well with you and your hand surgery. You sure do have the right attitude and I am sure all will go very well for you. You will be in my prayers as always. Shirley, do you want to see more photos of Puddi? I have more which I can post. I also want to share a few photos of Andre in Frankfurt that were just taken last night. I got them from a friend. Will try to get them on tonight, if not tomorrow morning. Hugs to all
These are the very latest photos of Andre taken last night - hot off the press! Hugs
February 28, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Shirley if that music turned you into a marshmallow, these photo should turn you into jello
February 29, 2008
Shirley wrote:
Those are great shots, I like the middle one, I call it "THE MAN AND HIS VIOLIN". I notice the charming & handsome Franco in the background too. Yes Jeanine Ann, more Puddi pics too.
February 29, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
Thank you for placing the photos Jeanine Ann.
Andre, as usual, is displaying to his audience his love for his music. He looks great and appears to be enjoying himself, a true professional.
Keep up the great work Andre, you and the JSO are wonderful.
Love Grace
February 28, 2008
Virginia Baker wrote:
Query: Can anyone tell me from what work the KI MO NO song comes from? Thanks in advance. More snow again this weekend.
February 28, 2008
Lawrence wrote:
Hi Virginia, The "Ki Mo No" routine appeared in the 2003 New Year's Eve DVD titled "New Year's Eve Punch" (Silvester Punsch). It is track 3 on the DVD, titled "Im Salon zur blauen Pagode". Lawrence
February 28, 2008
Lyn M wrote:
Hi Virginia, The Ki Mo No song also appeared in Andre Rieu in Wonderland. Interestly, it comes from the operetta, The Land of Smiles by Franz Lehar. Cheers. Lyn
February 29, 2008
René wrote:
Tonight 10:00° (German Time) pm you can look at André Rieu in the MDR via Internet. click www.mdr.de/riverboat click Riverboat - MDR - Talkshow - aus Leipzig and go downward click Riverboat als livestream and you can see and observe André. have fun
February 29, 2008
Kay wrote:
Thanks for this information, René. I took a late lunch at work so I could watch it (it came on at 1 pm here in California) and, with the help of my daughter who studied German in college, was able to understand a little bit of what he was saying. Gotta love technology!!
February 29, 2008
Shirley wrote:
HAPPY BIRTHDAY to one of our favorite people,MS JEANINE ANN. Yep, she's a leapling baby. We love you girl and wish you the happiest of days.
February 29, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
Happy Birthday Jeanine Ann. May your day be full of love and happiness!
Love you much Grace xoxoxoxoxo
February 29, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Thank you Grace, Shirley, Lyn, Marilyn for the happy birthday wishes. Actually those photos were for my birthday (just kidding) but they did make me feel a lot better. My day has been filled with lots of love because of all of you. Clyde got me a music stand for my birthday so now I have something to put my music on besides my scrapbook table. Thank you again my sweet friends. Hugs
thank you for your long established record of positive contributions to this blog.
February 29, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Thank you Bill. All of you have made this a special day. Hugs to you
February 29, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Okay it is nite-nite time here in the east. See you tomorrow. Sweet dreams all.
March 1, 2008
Grace Armstrong Hunt wrote:
Well ring a ding ding! Music of the night or a good wake up call. Both sound and look great to me! As in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Truly Scrumptous!
Love Grace xoxoxoxoxox
February 29, 2008
Lyn Maddock wrote:
Happy birthday, Jeanine Ann. Hope you have a wonderful day.
I agree, more Puddi pics please. Hugs. Lyn
February 29, 2008
Lyn Maddock wrote:
Happy birthday, Jeanine Ann. Hope you have a wonderful day.
I agree, more Puddi pics please. Hugs. Lyn
February 29, 2008
Marlene Warren wrote:
Hello everyone. Thank you René, very much, for the link to the Riverboat/André/talkshow. I'm sure we will all enjoy observing André!
Jeanine Ann...HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! I didn't know it was your birthday today. I hope it's a beautiful day for you, and you are having a lot of fun! If I was closer, I would bake you a cake. Hope you receive everything your heart desires.
Marianne, you are quite a gal. You have a lot of wisdom in your heart, if everyone lived as you did, this world would be in a better place. Congradulations on becoming (soon) a new great-grandma!
Lyn M, 41.6 c is just too warm for me to think about. I'm glad it will be cooler for you now. Is it humid as well? The song "Ki Mo No" is really enjoyable. I have fun listening to it and watching it on the new André in Wonderland dvd.
Jeanine Ann...thank you so very much for sending in those wonderful pictures of André, if they don't turn your knees to jello, nothing will. Add André's beautiful music and I am as happy as can be!
Hope you are all having a wonderful day! It's Friday! Have a great weekend too.
March 1, 2008
Lyn Maddock wrote:
Hi Marlene, The humidity on that day was around 60%. Brisbane's geographical location is on the Queensland coast and in the sub-tropics so our summers are generally warm and humid. Fortunately though our temperatures don't often rise above 35 degrees C. Perhaps one occasion every couple of years. On an average summer's day the max is 29-31 degrees and in winter about 22-24 degrees dropping to 8-10 degrees overnight, although we get the odd winter morning when the temp drops to 4-5 degrees.
February 29, 2008
Marlene Warren wrote:
I forgot to add that my André Tulips are starting to peek through! I'm so happy.
February 29, 2008
Kay wrote:
Happy Birthday Jeanine Ann. I hope your day was very special. And thanks for posting those wonderful pictures...WOW...what a handsome guy!!
February 29, 2008
Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote: Thank you Kay. I really appreciate your birthday greeting. Yes Andre is a real heartthrob isn't he!!! Hugs
March 1, 2008
nicole joy wrote:
WISHING A VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU,JEANNINE ANN,BLESSINGS,NICOLEJOY..
I would like to wish everyone with Andre Rieu and the JSO a Happy Valentine's Day! I would also wish Marjorie, Marc and Pierre a Beautiful and Happy Valentine's on the 14th!
Happy Valentine's Day to all those who work behind the scenes for Andre, you deserve a kiss!
Finally, a Happy Valentine's to all the fans and friends of myself and Andre Rieu. I love you all and wish you the best.
PS: Andre, you and Marjorie have fun on this special day!
Love Grace
I wonder what Andre will do for Marjorie on Valentine's Day? He seems to be a romantic. And Marjorie with her way with words and creative thinking, what will she do?
Any one have a favorite Valentine's Story?
Once upon a time, not long ago, there was this man. He was just an ordinary man when amidst a large crowd of people. Just another face if one might even think.
There was something about this man, though, that made him separate from a great many people. He had a special something that those who did not see, would appear to be a secret.
What was this secret? As plain as the nose on one's face, this man wore his heart on this sleeve! He cried, he laughed, he passioned. Why he showed just about every emotion known to humans!
As wonderful as this secret is, he placed all this emotion into music! The sound, oh and what a doozy! Dare I call it Love?
Yes, I admit, this is a Love Story. A Love Story about a humble man, who's wish is to give the world as much emotion, passion, and love to anyone who is willing to receive it. Then it would not be a secret anymore!
Still there is a secret within a secret. This man has a "Great Love" for many years to a "Great Lady". He also has an "Unconditional Love" for his children.
Whether rich or poor, well known or alone, this man is still the same. Can you keep a secret?...
It's Andre!
Oh dear Grace that is just beautiful! You are right and what a beautiful secret this is! Thank you and I am so glad to see you here on the blog. Much love and hugs,
For you Jeanine Ann, not a problem! And that is no secret!
Much Love
Grace (Amazing isn't it?1?)
Hope everyone has a great February. We should embrace love all year round!
Only 283 days to go!!!Take care!!!
Amen Margaret! As Elvis sang.. Why can't everyday be like Christmas? **or**Valentine's Day!
I have the magazines! Am going to look at them asap I finish this webwork.
Hello, Sally!
Happy Valentine's Day to you too!
Did you receive the French article with my two translations into English and German. I would assume that the English translation would be appropriate to publish on your website. What do you think?
Best regards,
Hermina
Hello Hermina! YES I have the articles and Thank you Thank you Thank you. I am working on them now. (I've been offline and out of commission with a sore neck, but am back to work!)
I am making a page with the articles right now. MayRose & Hermina = Winning Teamwork = Fun for all Fans!
Hey Sally, where is that picture of our favorite Valentine!! (next to our spouses and sign. others that is)
Happy February everyone! Hugs
How is this! Now everyone has eye candy for Valentine's Day. Hugs
That's Beautiful Jeanine Ann !
Jeanine Ann now it is a good thing this is only eye candy. I am on a diet!
Ha! Ha!
Love You Much, Your Good Friend Always, Grace - Amazing Isn't It?!?
Yes Grace dear, we would all be blimps!!
Love you much. Hugs
Yum. I love this picture. This is my kind of candy.
I know what you mean. Just looking tastes yummy! Kind of reminds you of that movie "Chocolat" with Johnny Depp and Juliette Binoche!
Much Love Grace
Dear Friends Happy Valentine's Day to everyone. Some 40 years ago my late spouse, Don gifted me with a box of stationary, with a plaid cover, but inside was a special surprise, an dinner ring, Alaskan black diamond. I was so surprised as he was not a senitmental person at all. Still have the box, which I keep special cards & letters for posterity. That's one thing
that is important, Keep your memories & trot them out when you feel blue & it is a real picker-upper. I do have blue days, ocasionally, but can always talk me out of being blue with a dvd of Andre's. Just now my music station is acting up, so if it keeps up I will be phoning the company. My music plays while I sleep, or I don't sleep & I don't like pills to sleep. Am sort of watching the super bowl, Patriots just scored, but I really want to watch the
half time entertainment. It is usually great to watch. The photo of Andre is so nice!! Hope we will learn soon just when he will be back in concert in Calgary, so I can start my Andre fund.
Sally, with the sore neck, have you tried a neck brace? I have one which I use once in a while. Injured neck from
whip-lash in 1952 & of course it's now full of arthritis. It gets worse when there is a weather change coming. I'm like a weathervane, up tp 48 hours before a front comes through. Used to think that was a lot of malarkey, but I
find that it does hold true. Love to all
Marianne
Hello and Happy February everyone! Valentine's Day is of course a very romantic day for those of us who are truly romantic.
I can see romance in just holding hands, a bouquet of beautiful flowers, and no matter what kind, the flowers are ALL beautiful. Romance is in total quiet and peace in your home environment. Candlelight, quiet, soft beautiful music playing. I, of course, like André's music playing.
I was thinking that if I had to choose some of the most romantic songs that André plays, what would they be?
"Romeo and Juliet", "Tara's Theme", "Romance For Clara" would be a must. There are so many songs of André's that are incredibly romantic. I think of "Romantic Moments", all the songs on there are the epitomy of romance...then there's "Tuscany" and "Romantic Paradise".
I also believe that any song that André plays that is a solo, is romantic. Why? Probably the peace and emotion of the violin, and as I watch, I see the feeling that André puts into the song he's playing.
I'm extremely sentimental, so any song with "feeling" and emotion, has to be romantic.
Have a wonderful February everyone. I hope it's a romantic one for you all. And all of you who do celebrate a day of romance, then I hope you have a beautiful Valentine's Day!
I love reading all Your comments. i have just bought 2 more of Andres videos.My Sister and I have got a little collection of them now. i go to Her place and we sit back with a glass of wine and watch Andre. What a way to sepnd an afternoon. We are counting down the days to his second concert.
to webmaster Sally,thanksfor lovely valentines day wishes,hope all is well now,to webmaster jeannine ann,happy valentine to you too,nice photo,thanks,to all andre fans happy valentines day,happiness to all and may you all have lots of flowers and chocs,and most of all may you all have love always.
Hello Everyone, I have found another place to show and let people know about Andre Rieu and the JSO> First: go to website : http://www.divx.com/?cid=inprod0003Second : download the FREE Dvix package to your computer Third: Go to my Site at: http://www.stage6.com/user/rruark/videos/ FINALLY all you have to do is download any of my shows to your computer and watch on your Dvix Player.
(This is not like Photo Show where you can only watch) CHECK IT OUT!
DJ (Grandpa to be) Bob
Hi DJ Bob. Thanks for the new information and big congratulations on your new status - Grandpa to be.
Hello everyone. I hope everyone has a wonderful Valentine's Day with lots of love, flowers, and, of course, chocolates.
Sally. I am sorry that you have been having so much trouble with your neck and am glad that you are feeling better.
Lots of hugs. Marilyn
This just one thing I forgot to post on my previous posting: Ounce you have downloaded and INSTALLED the DIVX package and have downloaded any video from me or anybody (There is many, many downloads including many oldies etc.) when the program starts on your Divx player just double left click on the screen to watch in full screen. ENJOY!!
DJ (Grandpa to be) Bob (Hooked on Andre Rieu)
Well here I am, feeling a bit like death warmed over, after a week long bout with some kind of bug. Nothing I want to repeat any time soon. Gosh is it February already? and Valentines. Reminds me of the first valentine I ever got. I was probably about 9 or 10, a boy who had a crush on me gave me a little bottle of Blue Waltz perfume. The bottle was in the shape of a small heart & I thought it smelled fabulous! Didn't make me like the boy any better but I sure did like that little heart shaped bottle of dime store perfume! Later that year, around Christmas, his crush for me was gone & he moved on to my best friend. he gave her a bottle of Evening In Paris, another dime store favorite. My friend and I were the best smelling girls in class although I'm not too sure the teacher appreciated it. We noticed her fanning quite a bit.
Oh Shirley, I am so sorry you have been ill. You know February snuck up on me also. I hope you are feeling better now. Just take it easy and you already know the recipe for feeling better - lots of chicken soup for your tummy and lots of Andre music for your eyes and ears! Feel better soon my friend. Hugs
Hi everybody, My we are already five days into February already ... can't believe how time flies...
Speaking of Valentine's Day... for the past 4 years on 14 February I have received flowers ... Hmmm and I have no idea who is sending them to me, the card is always blank and I have no boyfriend or husband, so this is a mystery, it will be interesting to see if I receive flowers this year... I will keep you all posted.... It seems I have an admirer and I wish to goodness he would speak up ... (well I'm hoping it's a he??? :-0) ha ha ha
Well my darling friends, is there any news on our Perth Concerts?????? I hate to say this but I am losing a bit of faith here ... Andre surely can't come all the way to Australia and miss out Perth. By now all the tickets for the other States will have sold the best seats and plus not everybody can afford to fly interstate, pay for concert tickets as well as accommodation. But I still have everything crossed that a Perth concert will still happen.
For those of you that have been following my personal loss. My sister, Mavis is still struggling dreadfully with her loss, but having her daughter with her from Darwin is helping her I'm sure. Very true saying, Time heals everything Hgh!!
Have a lovely day everybody, huge Lessie Hugs to everybody. xxxxxxxx Les
Hello dear Leslie,
That is so interesting and so nice about the flowers. I would be so curious. Let us know what happens. I still feel so bad for Mavis and I pray she is getting better every day. Only time will heal and our prayers will help her. Please tell her that she is always in our prayers and you are also.
I will have a nice valentine story in a day or two. Take care sweet Leslie and give my best to Mavis. Hugs
Lesley, how nice to have a secret admirer.Someone who must think you are very special. OMG, I too wish there would be news soon of a Perth concert as I'm sure all those of you who would go are. maybe it's just a matter of getting all the paperwork done. Staggering to think of all the behind the scenes things to take care of. My heart goes out to your sister Mavis. It's not easy going through the grieving process, no matter who you lose, but I think a spouse or a child must be the worst. Having gone through it with my sister I know how important you & her children are to her. words don't help much but hugs do.We hold her in our prayers and hope that the pain lessens soon. She will work through this in her own time and way. Having a loving sister helps a lot too.
My Valentine Story:
Seventeen years ago on Valentines Day we walked by a pet store in Lancaster, Pa. We were looking for a kitty and we wanted a male to replace our just deceased Muffin. My sister and I saw this llittle Tabby in the window with big ears and big eyes and we asked if we could hold her. Well that was it. We both loved her and took her out to Clyde who was waiting in the mall. She was a sweet little cat who never gave us any problems except to jump on our Christmas village once in a while. They love that stuff. In six months we took "him" to the vet to have him neutered and when the doctor was finished he called us and said "well we had a little problem, your boy turned out to be a little girl". We were in shock and thought it was so funny. I had picked out the name "Honi" because Muffin was a honey type of color and I wanted to call him Honi. So that is how Honi got her name and we were just as happy because now we had two girls. We always called her our little Valentine.
Today our little Valentine died. We had to take her because she was getting worse. She was eating but the doctor said she was having a hard time breathing so it had to be done. We are devestated even though we knew it was coming. She passed over the rainbow bridge at 11:00. Please say some prayers for us. We know Honi is resting now. Hugs to all
Hi Sis: We also knew the time was coming but you know you keep hoping for a miracle. Honi was such a sweet little girl and we loved her dearly. We will really miss her. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Clyde. We love you both very much. Give Cotti & Patchi a big kiss till I seem them tomorrow. Love ya. Baby Sis
Dear Jeanine Ann: I hope my private message reached you. I am so sorry to learn of Honi's passing to the Rainbow Bridge. My thoughts, heart and prayers are with you, Clyde, Cotten in Patches(?).
dear God Jeanine Ann! and here I was, going to tell you all about my birthday surprise. I'm sorry, i can't do it through my tears. I'm so sorry about Honi.love to you.
Jeanine Ann, I am so sorry to hear of Honi's passing. I understand what you are going through. Having to say good-bye to a beloved pet in this way is just the hardest decision to have to make. My thoughts are with you. Hugs.
Oh my darling Jeanine Ann ... I am so sorry to hear about Honi .. I too am a pussy cat lover, in fact I have a daily calendar called "Cat Naps" and I have just turned my new day over and there to greet me for today is a baby tabby asleep in a birdsnest filled with pale pink shredded paper .. so cute!!! I think it must have looked exactly like Honi.
That's a lovely Valentine story, thanks for sharing.
Big hugs and kisses to you my friend xxxxx Les
Jeanine Ann, I am so sorry. You know you did the right thing but it doesn't make it easier. In the last four years I have had two put to sleep and of course Samson will be soon. I am going away for a week beginning on the 13th. I am very lucky to have found a person to come in twice a day who actually works for my vet. I didn't want to forfeit the tickets and didn't know what to do. He is eating fairly well, but getting skinnier and skinnier. I will leave her a note giving permission to do what she thinks best. Hopefully he'll wait for me to get back. It was easier to tell with the other two -- it was definitely time. This one is more difficult. He's blind so I don't know how much he can enjoy life, but he loves to be held and cuddled, so I just tell myself when it's time I'll know. It's too bad their lifetimes are so much shorter than ours, BUT, I always get my cats from a shelter, so it will be as if Samson has done his job and brought me much pleasure, and is now going to rest and let another feline have the life that he had. I have two little plaques with the paw prints of the two who are gone, plus two angels that I bought to go with them. I try to tell myself it's the cycle of life but it doesn't help much. But I won't let him suffer. You did the right thing and I'm sure you know it. Speaking of the rainbow bridge - - reminds me of Best Friends Animal Sanctuary which I support. I really would like to go there someday. They do wonderful work. My thoughts are with you Jeanine Ann and Clyde.
Thank you so much Virginia. I hope and pray that Samson will wait for you to return. You will be in my prayers. I am so glad you have someone to take care of him while you are away. That was our worry in Toronto but we were given plenty of time but that still does not make it easier as you know. Oh I love Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. I am a member and get their newsletter and magazine. They really do wonderful work. I would love to get there too someday. Best of luck on your trip; have a good time and try not to worry.
Thank you Shirley, Lesley, Lyn, Aud and Jeff for all your kind words. I love all of you. I am sorry Shirley. I know you wanted to tell us something and we will look forward to it. Take care all. Hugs
Jeannine, I am so sorry to hear about your loss. You and Clyde will be in my thoughts and prayers. It is so hard to lose a beloved pet, or any beloved, be it be a pet or person. You will have many good memories of Honi and she will always be with you. Lots of hugs.
Hello again. I truly believe that God answers Prayers. I have been looking for a place to share Andre's music on line with my photo shows (The Nero Photo Shows only allowed me to use music that they approved on a list of which none was Andre's music) With this new on line site (DivX) I can use HIS music and also the other sites (Photo Shows - My Space - YouTube etc there was a limit to the size (100 M
I hope everyone can enjoy!
DJ (Grandpa to be) BOB
Hi DJBob, you are right God does answer prayers. My life is proof of that in so many ways.
Thanks so much for this information. I believe I did get this DivX player but not sure. It might have been on my husband's computer. I will check it out because I too like to use Andre's music. I wonder if that player could be embeded in MySpace or must it be used on a web site which you have some control over. Will see.
Any news on those tickets yet? Also we should be getting all kinds of goodies along with the tickets, right? Can hardly wait. Take care. Hugs
I KNOW THIS IS EARLY BUT ANY WAYS HAPPY VALENTINES DAY
Dear Jeanine. I'm replying to your e-mail as I don quite know hoe to send you one, so I will note my snail mail address as follows: {redacted} Am so sorry to hear of Honi's deterioration.
Does she eat & drink? & seem to be in pain? If so, it would be kinder to have the vet put her to sleep. It's a very sad thing for the kitty mommies left behind. I've been thru that with my Spunky, who had kidney failure & there was nothing to be done, & then I had two kitties, Fluffy & Dusty who got into anti-freeze as it is sweet tasting, but oh so deadly. This too destroys the kidney function, & the symptoms were that he staggered like a drunk & couldn't jump up on his stool. The kids were early teens & they too were devastated as I was my self. Also had numerous dogs. a Beagle who got kidney failure, & then there was my Bear dog, a malamute shepherd cross. He was my guard, pet & pal, but I couldn't bring him on the plane when I came to Brooks on the plane as I didn't have an
acceptable container to transport him. I have a painting of him hanging on my wall, which was done by a noted local artist. It will be worth some money one day, but for the moment it is company for me. He rode in the car, sitting in the front passenger seat & was king of
all he surveyed. I still get weepy over my Bear dog, as he was almost human in the way he communicated with me & he tolerated other members of the family, but his allegiance belonged to me. Most pets don't progress that far but I'll bet your "Honi" is the exception. We break our hearts over our furry friends
even tho we know their lifespan is much shorter than our own. My cats were 16, 11 & 7 yrs, & my dogs were 18 & 12, so I had them for a long time & enjoyed every minute of their existence. You have me very curious as to the surprise
which I will eagerly await. Love & Hugs
Marianne Peters
I'm so sorry about Honi, Jeanine Ann, she was a member of this large family out here, as we shared the stories about her, and her ups and downs you shared with us over the past few months.
We've all lost pets that were special little gifts from God, and now they are back with God waiting for us to join their happy little hearts.
We will all miss her, and my thoughts and prayers are with you Jeanine Ann and with Clyde, because you had the most to lose.
Take care and know that you did your very best with Honi, and that she was happy.
Thank you Marlene for your kind words. It will take a long time but we will get through it thanks to wonderful friends like you.
Hugs
Shirley, I'm happy that you are feeling better! Sounds like you have had quite a bout with that bug. I'm glad that you overtook him!
Here is my Valentine's Day Story....happened 20-25 years ago
Where I worked everyone had a mailbox, the job I had was in production which means I never got any mail.
10 days before Valentines day, one of the girls in the office told me I had some mail. For the life of I was unable to figure out why 'anyone' would try to get me to focus on my mailbox, so I ignored it all during the day. I discovered the mail room was normally unobserved by anyone during lunch.
I took this opportunity to check my mailbox, being careful not to be caught looking. I perceived someone was giving me a Valentine, but 10 days before the day? I further figured whoever gave it to me, sooo early probably didn't sign it.
So, I put it back in my box & continued to ignore it for the next 3 or 4 days.
2 days before Valentine's Day, this same girl again tried to tell me I had something in my mailbox, which I ignored.
I believed, the only person that would try to focus my attention on my own mailbox would be the very person that gave me the unsigned Valentine.
So, on Valentine's day, I made a big deal out of going to my mailbox. I withdrew the envelope & walked over to the lady who told me I had some mail & said, "I've suspected someone probably is giving me a Valentine, I further suspect because it was placed in my box 10 days before Valentines day, probably didn't sign it."
By this time 25 people were listening to me as I continued; "I figured the only way to find out who gave me this Valentine was to pretend to ignore it, knowing the only person who would tell me to check my mailbox would be the very person who is giving it to me"
In true Sherlock Holmes fashion, I opened the envelope, sure enough it was a valentine! When I opened it, sure enough it was unsigned. I then thanked the young lady for giving me the Valentine & she blushed 5 shades of Red. I seized the opportunity to plant a big "arms around her waist, kiss on her lips".....as my way of saying thanks.
Everyone in the office was in total hysterics. The young lady, confessed to giving it to me, & further confessed she truly admired my ability to so logically ferret out the sender.
Ahhh yes, one of the few times I can say with certainty, that I out-foxed the fox! To this day, I'm convinced, if I'd opened the Valentine card 10 days prior to Valentine's Day, I'd never have known, for certain, exactly who gave it to me.
That is an great Valentine's story! It is these memories we have in our lives that really makes this special day worthwhile. To a truly intelligent, sensitive person. You have my heart!
Much Love and Happy Valentine's Day
Grace
Dear Friends. I've been watching the primaries this evening, & so far neither party has clearly chosen a pres.
candidate. I find it pretty interesting
Don't watch my own country with the same attention as ours is so boring, but
no matter who winds up in the big chair, he or she will have a very tough job to do. I've noticed how, It ages whoever winds up with the hardest job in the western world. That flu bug was a nasty one, so many in my building had the bug & we'd all had flu shots. They all got really sick & the after effects seemed to last a longer time than normal. I was lucky as I was only really sick one day, but I stayed in-doors & the big difference is the 1000 intl units of Vitamin D I take all the time, mainly as I don't eat like regular folk, mostly sandwiches, not good, But my weight holds the same, & I don't catch colds. Haven't had a cold since Jan 1999, so no chest infections either. Whatever it is that I do, it seems to work. Jeanine, how is Honi?It is so sad when our pets get old & sick, but you still will have tender memories
of your kitties. Not much on the blog, re our Maestro. Expect he's been busy with the new cds & dvds, which take a lot of time to get just right. Andre is an October child, so perfectionism is part of their characteristics. He's a Libras as was my husband Don, & they like things just so, & me I'm more slapdash, & never lose sleep if I don't get all the housework done each day. As long as the apt is reasonably neat & clean, I don't gt in a panic, not like my late mom-in-law, who worried herself sick if she didn't vacuum every day, but Sunday. They didn't have critturs, so there was not pet hair. I can't have pets in the apt, so I have pics of my pals. Love to all Marianne
At last the media in Oz seems to be realising the existence of our Maestro. I was listening to Brisbane classical music community radio station, 4MBS today when the announcer said that the featured artist for the afternoon program was Andre Rieu. Then this evening's SkyNews had an item on his forthcoming concerts around Australia later in the year.
It is not before time that he is getting recognition apart from what Ovation Channel is putting out.
Jeanine, Very sorry about Honi. You and Clyde will be in my prayers. Did you get the Email I sent you of the letter I received about the tickets for Jacksonville?
All my best
DJ Bob
Hi DJBob, thank you very much for your prayers. Yes I did get the email and I thank you. It sounds exciting doesn't it. We are going to have a real blast two hours before the concert! Part of the email on the right was cut off, did it read front row center by any chance????? I can hardly wait. I sure hope we get backstage. I think Tim mentioned that in his initial contact with you. I know it does not include meeting Andre but hopefully if we get backstage he will happen to wander by!
Sorry I did not answer you sooner but the letter came the day Honi died and we were so upset and still are. Thank God for giving us happy days like Andre's concerts. All my best to you and your wife. See you in the Spring!
Jeanine, YES THEY ARE FRONT ROW CENTER SEATS! I was the first person to order tickets for Jacksonville. Two weeks before they were even announced to the public. Again I am sorry for your loss.
May God Bless
Bob Ruark
hi folks!
MAASTRICHT Sunday 6 July tickets...
have just seen on www.ticketmaster.nl site.. ON SALE 10 am Dutch time, 9 February !!!
Anyone got any hints as to how to get a decent seat? because for the Friday 4 July, I failed miserably.. their web site crashed due to pressure.. then I phoned a number in maastricht, but cannot remember which one, to be told they could only sell me tickets if i could pick them up in the next few days.. a bit hard to do that from italy !
My thoughts and prayers go out to those affected directly or indirectly by the tornadoes this past week.
So many people lost everything, my heart goes out to them.
I'm sure you all know by now that André is back!!! I'm so happy. Was a long time since we last heard from him.
He's working on a new cd, which is VERY exciting news! I can't wait to hear it. It's nice to look forward to
AndreRieuFans.com is very saddened to learn of Benny Neyman's passing.
Our hearts & thoughts are of Benny, and with his Life Partner Hans.
http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=nl&u=http://www.telegraaf.nl/prive/&sa=X&oi=translate&resnum=1&ct=result&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dhttp://www.telegraaf.nl/prive/3241629/_Benny_Neyman__56__overleden__.html%3Fp%3D1,1&hl%3Den&sa%3DG
Yes, I was very sad when I heard of this but not too surprised. He had a hard battle to fight. I'm glad his pain is over. When I first heard of Benny Neyman it was at the Maastricht concert with Andre and he sang his Ode To Maastricht.What a lovely tribute to his & andre's town. I liked him immediately. I also love the song he made popular, especially in the Netherlands,"why I still whisper your name", I watch it on you tube all the time. What a lovely young man he was. Also i've been keeping track of another Andre guest, Russell Watson, who i think sang in a silvester punsch video. I like him very much. Ironically he has had a tough time with a brain tumor, just having finished a 5 week round of radiotherapy.I pray for him & his family also & hope for a better outcome for him. We never know, do we, what will come into our lives so we had just better be thankful for each day we have.
Oh I am so sorry to hear about Benny Neyman's death. I just loved him and so did Clyde. We particularly love his "Ode To Maastricht" which we thought we might hear again if we ever get to Maastricht but now since I heard of his illness and now death I feel very bad about it. Shirley thank you telling us about the song on YouTube. I will go look it up. I also pray for Russell Watson. We liked him immediately also. Yes life is so fragile that is why I am doing all I can to help anyone who needs help, pray for those who need prayer and picking up with my church work and my violin practice even though I feel so sad lately not only about Honi but our best friends losing their granddaughter. They still do not know the cause of her death and she was only 24. The autopsy was inconclusive and they have heard nothing from the lab down south.
Yes SALLY I did get your email about Honi and I thank you so much. MARIANNE thank you also for your kind comments and anyone I may have missed. I really appreciate your thoughts and prayers. It takes a long time after having her for 17 years. I am sure all of you who have lost pets know this. Hugs to all of you
From the Maastricht Newspaper the Limbuger.
Zanger Benny Neyman died
11.26 | Benny Neyman have died Thursday on 56 person whose birthday it is age in its place of residence Soesterberg. That its life partner and manager Hans van Barneveld have announced. Neyman suffered from cancer.
http://www.limburger.nl/apps/pbcs.dll/frontpage
It is front page news today. The newspaper is in Dutch but you can use a website translator to convert it to English to read. I always use Alta Vista Babel Fish. My thoughts are with Benny's family.
Dear Friends. I am saddened by the passing of Benny Neyman. My thoughts & prayers go out to Hans, his life partner
We shall miss his beautiful renditions of the songs we were fortunate to hear
over the years. Especially his "ode to Maastricht". One blessing for Benny, is that he's no longer in pain & is at peace. These tornadoes in the U.S. are
both terrible & unusual for this time of year. I don't know if it is all due to global warming, but the seers & prophets have been warning of violent storms, earthquakes etc for some time so
maybe it is time we all tried to be better, kinder folks to our fellow man
& just hope it is enough. The little baby who survived the tornado is a bit bruised & battered, so that is some kind of miracle. The news didn't say if his Dad had survived, so it will be nice to know if he has at least one parent left. Hope Shirley is over her "bug" The most recent flu bug has been very nasty. Folks in my building
were very ill, but I only had a really bad day with high fever, but it took some time to recover, but it did leave
a residue of damage to my short term memory, so now I'm forgetting some things that are important, so Now I write myself notes. It's necessary as if
I forget that I've taken my morning meds
& then repeat the regimen, I could get into a lot of difficulty. I didn't have a stroke, but the effect is somewhat the same. You just never know what part is going to be vulnerable, & being aware is also a two edged sword. Hope
your neck is better Sally. Mine came from a whiplash car accident in 1952 & of course it is now full of arthritis.
Have limited range of turning from side to side, but you do learn to compensate
I wonder when the guest book on Andre's site will be up-dated, there's been no new letters since Jan 31st, & of course still nothing on the Perth concerts. They would have to be in mid-December, after the two Sydney concerts. Apparently there are two complete sets of the Schonbrunn decor. Hope that it is still on as the folks there are on
pins & needles waiting for word. We won't get a concert in our area until 2009, but although it is disappointing, we have to share our Maestro, with the world. I know he wants to go to South America & Mexico & I can see him going to South Africa to answer the call from those folk too. My prayers are also with Jeanine & Clyde, with the loss of "Honi". We give our love to our furry friends & when we lose them we are bereft, but we still have the memories
which we recall from time to time. Same as losing a loved one, they are remembered by those left behind, & there in lies one's immortality. Love to all
Marianne
I've been thinking of Benny Neyman and wondering how he was doing. I'm so sorry to hear that he has passed away. He was such a great entertainer. I loved the song "Ode To Maastricht" and listened to it all the time.
My heart and thoughts go to his family and loved ones at this time, may they know that he was thought highly of, and he made so many people happy with his music.
He was such a joy.
hello all,
i cant believe benny has pasted on what a wonderful man!
on a good note i am going to be throwing an andre rieu party for the denon and i cant wait. are you also going to do one jeanine ann?? well see every one later!
-jeff
I was listening to Benny on the way home from work the other day, and I just knew...I could feel that he has passed. It was a sad moment, and sad for his life partner Hans.
A happier note is the Denon Ambassador Parties for Andre Rieu. A great idea!
The only TV/DVD I own is hooked up to the cable in my bedroom. So, I think I will not be giving a Denon party. We can all sit on the bed and look at Andre!!! The other bedroom is where I put everything I don't know what to do with plus the cats' litter boxes so that won't do either! Already have the things they're offering anyway although it would be a good way to introduce people to him. It's still surprising how many people never heard of him. Three months until I go to another concert.
Dear Friends Just a note to ask if anyone knows why Andre's guestbook hasn't been up-dated since Jan 31/08. \Andre left a note telling us that a new
cd was in the works, & he's off on the European tour. 1st Viennese night is Dussedorf, Mch 18th, so they will be very busy moving the decor around. All the other concerts are regular presentations, which is great. Don't expect any concerts in our area until at least 2009 or 2010. I read someplace that he hopes to bring the World stadium tour to more places in the world
and in North America. Still no word on Perth, but I have read that the stadium
would be the Subiaco. There is a window
after the Brisbane concerts, as I had heard that there were two complete sets,
& they would play leapfrog to get from venue to venue. The window is up to Dec
12th & 13th. It's a long way from Sydney
to Perth, but could be done by trans-shipping via the rail line across the country, & the JSO could fly. It would work & then all the gear could head home for the Xmas break. There is a World stadium stop in Paris France, on,
my 75th birthday, Aug 29th/08. What wouldn't I do to go to that venue, but it is a dream. Would need a huge lottery!! win, but it sure would be fun.
I was reading Kati's poem about being a senior & all the stuff that doesn't work
quite right anymore. I will say that the memory seems a bit better, but still
not back to the way I was. I will know as I see the specialist on Feb 12th. weather permitting. We are having a bout of winter storms, with arctic outflow, temps in the minuses, & snow,
but nothing like the weather back east,
but even west coast is getting more snow than usual, & so many folks just don't know how to drive in the stuff & no snow tires. They get the heavy wet snow & we get what I call sand snow, very small flakes & wind Brr!! I sure hope it is winter's last blast, but except for some very cold weather we've had a nice winter for our area, but since it started in mid-Nov. it has been a long one. How is everyone? Have
you heard anything of Carol LaCore, Sally? I know she has some kind of illness, with medicine infusions monthly
I miss her comments very much. Otherwise
things are okay here, Love to all Marianne
Hello Marianne & All you Wonderful Fans!
I am finally back and think I'll be tuning up the site and blog. Send any articles to me and I will put them up with the new edition coming out.
Kisses to everybody!
I see that Andre has left his latest message, thanking Zurich for two great concerts. Now he will soon be off to Austria & Germany. what a busy man he is! Only a short time now til he hits the states again huh? Last night I was watching a bit of the grammys, which I seldom do, but hey, TV programming leaves one searching for anything entertaining. I was especially interested in seeing who might be in the classical nominations. One of my favorites won an award for best choral performance. If you've not heard it before it might be worth your time to listen(if you like that sort of thing). It's a cd of the Berlin Radio Chorus performing Brahams "German Requiem". IMHO, it's outstanding! I especially like the part "How Lovely Is Thy Dwelling Place". Absolutely beautiful! The name of the cd would be Brahms Ein Deutsches Requiem/Simon Rattle.(in case you're interested). just my little sharing thoughts for today.
hello sally i have a question. Who is hans to Benny? is that his wife i dont know what gender Hans would be is that a male or female. i read somewhere that he will be missed by hans but i cant figure out who that is.thanks!
-jeff
Hans and Benny are a couple, he is male and a nice guy.
brgds René
Jeff,, Hans is a male.. i never heard of a female 'Hans'.
Hello everyone, you are right Sally, the Ambassador parties for André, that Denon has suggested, is a fabulous idea!
Yes, André is busy isn't he? Amazing what you can do when you love what you do!
Shirley, I have never heard of the Berlin Radio Chorus...and I would think that anything by Braham's would be beautiful. I'm sorry that I missed that segment. I didn't watch the Grammy's, I guess I just didn't realize they have anything classical on there. Shows you how often I've watched them over the years.
Now I can't wait to hear it, ha...I will have to look it up now! Thanks for sharing Shirley.
Take care everyone, hope you are having a great day/evening.
DearJeff. Hans was Benny Neyman's life partner & was a man as far as I know. The Dutch are far more open about their relationships than we in the U.S & Canada are. At my age I don't really think too much about cross genders. If
people are content & happy, what harm is it? Hopefully we are getting a bit more tolerant about our fellow human beings, & really as lone as it hurts no-one, what does it matter. Love to all Marianne
I WOULD LIKE TO INVITE EVERYONE TO SEE MY LATEST PHOTO SHOW. I THINK IT IS THE BEST ONE I HAVE EVER MADE. ANDRE RIEU'S BEAUTIFUL MUSIC,THE PHOTOS OF HIM AND THE JSO AND PHOTOS OF THE DANUBE RIVER ALL COME TOGETHER IN " THE BLUE DANUBE"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZaYFmJU0mA4
I HOPE YOU ENJOY IT (I think Andre would like it) Any comments are welcome!
All my best
Bob (Grandpa to be)
Bob, I loved the photoshows. There are some wonderful photos. Keep up the great work. Marilyn
I hope that all who might be interested get a chance to catch this movie on TV, or at least maybe rent it. It's called MUSIC OF THE HEART, with Meryl Streep. it is a true story about a violin teacher, Roberta Guaspari, who teaches inner city students. In this movie, the main character, for some reason, reminds me of Jeanine Ann. (I've already told her that). Anyway I hope you'll look for it.
Hi Shirley,
You are SO RIGHT about MUSIC OF THE HEART. I was introduced to the movie by another André fan, Eddie Schiro, who just happens to live relatively near me in Shreveport and who is a band director at one of the local schools. We were talking music related movies and when I mentioned one of my favorites, Mr. Holland’s Opus, Eddie said that if I enjoyed that then I would probably enjoy Music of the Heart, a copy of which he keeps at school for showing to his students for inspiration. Boy, did I ever enjoy it, so much so that after renting and watching I ordered my own copy to watch and share with others. I can only say that it is one of the great music biographies made, and recommend it to all my André/JSO fan friends. Go out to your local video rental store and pick up a copy and enjoy. You might not find it at your usual video rental store, the Blockbuster store closest to me that I usually rent from didn’t have it but another Blockbuster across town had it in stock. It was well worth the effort to track it down and drive a couple of extra miles to pick it up.
Try it, you’ll like it! I promise..
Moderator Lawrence
I really enjoyed this movie! I watched it quite a while ago and was quite impressed with it. Thanks for mentioning it Shirley, I had forgotten all about it until now. I'm going to have to see if I can find it and watch it again.
Hi all, I see some of you commenting on Brahms German requiem.
Yes, it is fantastic.. very moving.. and if you like it, then get hold of Mozart's requiem, and then Gustav Mahler's 2nd symphony, called the resurrection symphony..
Many of you will know, I am a mega Andre & JSO fan, however, when I heard them do the 'Ode to joy' from Beethoven's 9th.. I shivered slightly..
An orchestra of 50 and a choir of 7.
Go and hear this piece performed by a 'full' orchestra i.e. 100/110 musicians plus a choir of 100, and you will what I mean..
I was 'brought up' on strictly classical music, and I was very lucky; in my late teens I went to numerous concerts in London, at the Albert hall & Festival Hall.. the London Symphony Orchestra was my favorite; at that time their chief conductor was Andre Previn. As for soloists, Yehudi Menuin and Vladimir Askenazy (pianist) were the best.
Don't get me wrong; I adore Andre, and the JSO, they are cute, good looking, and very talented; as an orchestra, they number about half a full size one, yet, for the most part, they produce a tone that is equal, and most often better.. because they love what they do.
Andre, your version of the Bolero is spellbinding, but please don't meddle with Beethoven's ninth..
I am off to the concert in Munich Olympic hall 20 Feb, then to Maastricht for the 3 nights, then to Paris World Stadium Tour, so please don't even think of telling the person, who eats, sleeps and dreams Andre, that she is not a true fan, because of one small criticism.
Go and check out the Brahms......
Hi Adele,
I don't doubt you are a great Andre fan like all of us here. You must remember that Andre is not doing classical music (even though he is classically trained) therefore he brings his style with some classical mixed to those who love his music. I don't think Andre "meddles" with any classical music, he only interprets it in a way that people who are not accustomed to classics can relate to.
I hope you have a great time at the concerts you will attend. Hugs
I understand what you are writing Jeanine Ann. Between the ages of 6 - 19,I myself have had the opportunity to sing in six different languages, study classical theory and practical vocal, sing in many different churches or buildings, from requiems to arias.
I enjoy all music whether meant to be "classical" or just plain ordinary "love of the music" impression. What is soothing to the ear and soul is quite inviting no matter who or how many are providing it.
Love Much Grace
Hi dear Grace,
I didn't realize that you had all that classical training. That is wonderful. Do you still sing as often? Love and hugs
Here is my Valentine for all my wonderful friends! Love and hugs
Jeanine Ann
Jeanine Ann, I think I am having a deja vu moment! Just kidding! As before, such a handsome card with Andre could be given anytime of the year, not just Valentine's Day! Make sure there are lots of roses and hearts! Love the dancing sparkles too, it's very fetching!
Much Love Your Friend
Grace
hope you all nad a good valentines day,i dont eat chocs being a coeliac but thanks for the nice pictures.love from nicolejoyxxxx
For your evening enjoyment! Hugs
Another beauty Jeanine Ann. This one reminds me of hmmm... warmth of a summer sunset, sparkle of life in a flower, calm rippling of the tides of the seas as they roll in, and of course music quietly playing in the distance to lull you to sleep. Paradise
Thanks for this lovely site Jeanine Ann.
Love Gracexoxo
Thank you dear Grace. So glad you like it. I have many more. I just love making them. It is lots of fun. Have a beautiful weekend. Big hugs
It has been over 20 years, since I am now 43 years old Jeanine Ann, since I was given the privilege to do what I adore most - Sing. My parents could not affort to send me to school in Toronto after highschool, so I went to college and book business. A wise choice since I have had the privilege of working with some wonderful people. You never know where life will take you. I sing to my son (even before he was born!) and my family, and to myself (in the bathtub, great acoustics!). If I were to take up lessons again, I probably would gain my voice back to a "professional" level in due time. As you know the human voice never ages! You just have to practice, practice, practice!
Now, I enjoy listening and singing to music at home and I enjoy going to concerts with friends and family.
Thank you for asking though, I really appreciate the care of thought. You are truly a genuine person.
Much Love
Grace
hey every one thanks for the responce about Hans and Benny! To me it does not matter about the stauts of someone. "to each his own" any way i have not ever heard of the name Hans so i was not sure of the gender but thanks for cleaing it up. the reason i did not know the gender was because when they sing the song in andre rieu in wonderland carman was Hans and it got me confused lol. thanks all!
see you later
-jeff
VALENTINE'S GREETINGS TO ALL: yep, I'm back. I look forward to turning on my computer daily to look & see if there is any "new" mail. So, on this up-coming VALENTINE'S DAY - I am sending my friendship and good wishes to all my André buddies. True friendship's are very hard to find, but we have something
very much in common, bringing "us" all together to share in love, music and world peace. "André Rieu, Marjorie and Pierrer", and THE JSO !!!
Judith, very nice words! A very nice way of expressing your Valentine's wishes.
Judith, very nice greeting.I want to also wish all Andre fans a very Happy Valentines Day. Feb. is "heart month" anyway. But I have to say.. move over Andre! I now have a new "top dog" who has won my heart, a little beagle named UNO. His beautiful brown eyes and charming personality have won me over. I think even Andre would love him!
Jeanine Ann, I like your valentine.
Marianne, I wish you all the best.
Shirley, I watched UNO take his place into the spotlight that night. He shore was an excellent looking beagle; his markings looked like someone painted them on. I was speaking with my daughter
about his winning, and asked if her golden lab could place for an award. Her reply to me was, "mom, if AARP opens
a competition for the most spoiled, lazy
babied, un-attentative dog", maybe her goldie has a shot. Just thought that was too funny since she beat me on that thought. Arf-bow-wow and a paw print.
Dear friends. Had my appointment with the specialist re the memory lapse, answer double up on Omega 3, & the hand will be scheduled for surgery after I see the specialist is Lethbridge Apr 2nd
Don't think it will be any worse than the left hand & maybe I will no longer get the bit where I'm unable to hold a pen. At least there is hope for a solution & tho it is a tedious surgery, I think I will be able to drive myself home after the operation, like I did with the first one on my left hand. As you get older you have to learn not to be a wimp & just get on with the necessities. It doesn't require full anesthesia, just a local & with one & one half hour, I should be home before the freezing comes out, & at that point I want to be close to my own bed. Now if I don't have any other age related glitches, I will be quite content. Docs look at my back & wonder how I am still on my feet, & that is because I refuse to give up & sit in a rocker. If you do you just rust out that much faster. I hope to exceed my Grandma's longevity of 95, & with now debilitating illnesses I should top 100 years. Then we shall see how that goes, as long as one keeps mind & body active it could last a very long time. Hopefully I will
see at least one more live Andre concert, & that would be just super. Love to all Marianne
Where can I find pics and profiles on the orchestra ? I am interest in all of them- but I (and millions of other no doubt) just love Carla Maffioletti.
Andre does not have a "dud" looking sort in the orchestra - he is a genius
Hi Cary, Watch your emails. I sent you an email with links in it.
You are right, Carla is so pretty & Talented, as are all of the JSO.
Dear Friends. We are under a blizzard watch for the whole day, then Friday we get a chinook & the temp will go to plus 6 degrees. Then it will be sloppy streets etc, just have to go slow & easy
Note I said now debilitating illnesses, but meant no illnesses that sap one's health profile. I am so thankful to be healthy with just a few glitches. The Doc yesterday did a nerve test, on both hands. It is a shock treatment to determine the extent of nerve damage. Will get the results on Feb 28th. Surgery is the only option & if it goes
like the left hand it won't be too bad.
I was back to work at that time, in four days, & just had to make sure I kept the incision clean & dry, & that worked very well. Don't expect this one will be any worse. Both wrists were injured in a tumble, plus the repetitive
use which led to the carpal tunnel syndrome. That I can live with. It is not surprising that we are getting the last gasp of winter at this point, but
we had some cold in Jan, but no blizzards, which is the norm for our area. Happy Valentine's to all the friends on the blog, love to all Marianne
Dear Marianne: I read about your illness and surgery. Just to let you know someone is thinking of you and wishing all goes well, which I am sure it will. Have a Happy Valentine's Day Marianne. Get well soon!
I wish all of you a very Happy Valentine's Day! I hope there is Romance, Love and Happiness for you...and a few chocolates would be nice. Roses are beautiful too!
Happy Valentine's Day to all!
AT LAST!!!! PERTH has been confirmed 22 November at Subiaco Oval. Go for it!!!!!
How are the tulips growing????
I have seen bulbs in the nursery here in Australia and that reminded me of them. We should plant our bulbs and Sweet Peas on St Patrick's Day after having stored them in the fridge for a few weeks.
"Virtuoso's slip destroys priceless Stradivarius"! Not Andre thank goodness! This was a headline in a London newspaper. The violinist is young David Garrett. He slipped and fell down a flight of stairs & landed on his violin case. What a disaster, it will probably never sound the same even if it can be fixed. I understand this is a 290 yr old Strad. How heartbreaking for this young man! I have heard of someone else, can't remember who, that left one in a taxi, but did recover it, and the another left theirs on their doorstep. It was stolen but he also got his returned. Gosh, wouldn't this make your heart stop???
Oh how sad. I feel sorry for David Garrett. His name sounds familiar but not sure where I heard it. Now if I fall on my violin, no loss except I like it because I have played the first little song on it. No big deal - just Ba Ba Black Sheep - isn't that where everyone starts? That may be all the farther I get!
HAPPY VALENTINES DAY everyone. I hope your day is as sweet as all of you are. BIG hugs today.
Hi everyone, I knew that name was familiar. He has a MySpace page. Take a look at his bio. It sounds incredible that he was playing at the age of 4 and I mean playing with an orchestra. At age 8 he was playing with the London Phil. and orchestras like them. Hugs
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=164021693&MyToken=f8dc8d92-6d21-4910-ab5e-6957b1a79c18
The violin he was carrying was a Guadagnini 1770 if I recall and this happened in December. He was loaned a Strad for a Valentine concert in the U.K.
For your evening relaxation!
Jeanine Ann
An absolutely beath taking picture Jeanine Ann. You are wonderful on this site at giving people belief in wonderful things. This picture reminds me of the sea, of dreams, that no matter how difficult life seems, there is serenity in music.
Thank You for your caring and sharing in all of us.
Much Love
Grace
I hear the strains of BEAUTIFUL DREAMER!
More "Eye-Candy" for me. Thanks Jeanine Ann, I was just going to post a thank you your way for the Valentine Eye-Candy
of André. Being diabetic, sweets are out of the question. But now, I have the
best of the best "Imported Sweets" that my heart could ever desire. Now, oh boy,
oh boy, I got me some Sweet Dreams to boot. This is the very best Valentine's Day a gal could ask for. P.S., don't wake me, I'll get back to you Valentine
friends, if I ever return from my set- sail dreams with my main "sweetie"! WOW, what an excellent substitute for ole chocolate....sweet dreams.
Mariann Peters, wow, carpal tunnel, what
an evil little ailment; but not to worry
I had both my hands operated on. I have excellent results, and what a difference
functioning without numbness, pain, you name it. When I had my nerve tests, my right had had no sensations when they did their testing. They were a bit concerned, but it has been five years now and a world of difference. You will be fine. I'll pray for a speedy recovery
that will put smiles on your worried face. Sending you smiles and sunshine.
Webmaster Sally, I am working on words of encouragement for you also; as my cervical neck is way-out-of-wack. I just recently received a "absolutely" not for an operation to repair the damage. But, this has not effected me, as I have been preparing for two years now. I actually have made friends with my pain (whata ya nuts?) but it does ease the tension. But I will get back to you on my editorial. André beckens me on the DVD, I must run (better make that walk). Sending you positive vibes, take the pain one day at a time, and let the music make its adjustments to your pain. Oh yes, I purchased a cervical neck thingie, where you put it in the microwave, than on your neck. Feels great while it lasts. But keep the spirits "UP", and you are never alone in this suffering. {i shoulda been a nun }, you nailed that comment Jeanie Ann! Hugs to all. Good-nite.
Dear friends. I think the Good Lord gives us pain but never more than we can bear. The older I get, the more things I find that don't work quite as well as they once did, but you can't give up, you just keep going regardless, because if you ever stop you might no get going again. Reminds me of the little engine that could. I do neck exercises, turning from side to side, up & down back & forward just to keep me so I can look around me. If I don't, I would have to give up driving myself around the town. So far I can shop for myself, as well as other people
& April 2nd I will drive myself to Leth-
bridge & back for the consultation on my hand. The surgery will be some time later, & that will be a trip I won't drive because of anesthetic. It's one & one hours away, so if it's just a local
the freezing would be coming out before I'd get home, & one shouldn't drive under those conditions. Just as bad as drunk driving!! Think I will have an Andre day to-morrow & play dvds all day
Just remembered that it is only Friday
coming up so will save it for Saturday
as its all sports & that's not my cup of
tea. I have music on the t.v. & on the computer & I sit in the middle so I listen to both. I hadn't heard about putting a cervical collar in the microwave, but I expect it would be of help. I keep moving my neck so it doesn't freeze up, just as I do for my shoulder, which I injured many years ago
but tho' I can't carry much more than 5 pounds per arm I can still pack in my own groceries. If I have too much, I have a little cart that works very well.
We are to be without our elevator for a month, for replacement reasons, & I really don't know how some folks on the 3rd floor will manage, as we do have at least half the residents on this floor
that can't climb stairs. I still can, but have to take my time. It's actually harder to descend that to come up the stairs. Hope all are well. Love Marianne
Just wanted to say hi from Boynton Beach, FL. 80 degrees. Left Maine in a snowstorm, we already had 10 inches in the morning and it was still snowing hard. Made it to the airport by the skin of my teeth. Home next Tuesday. A nice little break from snowstorm after snowstorm. Have to get home and see how my kitties are doing!
Dear friends. We got our chinook to-day temp 5 above no wind & a bright beautiful day. Winter is just about over
which suits me just fine. I like balmy spring days, when the air is soft. Can't really complain too much as we've not had a bad winter like we sometimes get. My main window faces north so I can see the arctic low coming right at me, but I also have an east window that lets the sunshine in. Our building is full of seniors, some of whom are slated
for the nursing home as they can't look after themselves. We lost one of our longtime residents last Sunday, & every-
one has mixed emotions. One is sad to see her go, but the other is that she is no longer in pain. Our human efforts
really have a beginning, middle & end & as long as you have family to remember you, you have your own slice of immortality. If you can just help one of your fellow human beings, you have a
clear conscience that you've done your best. Hope everyone is well Love Marianne
Hi dear Marianne,
I just love to read your letters. You have such a positive attitude about everything. I am sorry you lost a friend there on Sunday but I know she is in a better place with no pain.
I hope we will have an early spring. Daylight savings time is just three weeks away so that is good news. I could hardly believe that Lent was so early this year but that means an early Easter. I planted 6 little Andre's in a pot after keeping them in the fridge for 6 weeks, only one is popping up so far. That was an experiment. All the others are planted outside. I will have these extras to plant in Honi's place in the garden this fall.
I hope you have a wonderful weekend Marianne. I hope your hands improve. Hugs
Happy Saturday, everyone. I hope Saturday is going well for everyone. I have spent Saturday listening to new Cds. Jean-Pierre Rieu's "Azur" for one - I love his style of quiet piano music. I have also gotten some new stuff from one of my big favorites - Loreena McKennitt. I could listen to her stuff for hours. I have been adding to my brother's collection from the 50s, 60s, and 70s. Does anyone remember Neil Diamond? Rock stars in general. I love Roger Whittaker. It's been a fun day. I went on a wild flower nature walk and who should be a member of the group was Rhoda Love, who is the ABSOLUTELY BEAMING mother of Stanley Love, who is one the astronauts who has been doing spacewalks for the last few days. His parents live in Eugene Oregon, my hometown. She was telling us all about it. It was exciting for all of us. Other than all of this, I got a batch of books from the Library, so have been a couch potato this afternoon. Have a great Sunday, everyone. Hugs, Marilyn
I remember Roger Whittaker but I'm not familiar with Loreena McKennett. Like Marlene, i will find out about her. I do remember Neil Diamond, love his songs SONG SUNG BLUE &MORNING HAS BROKEN, which I think Roger has done also. Ah, the music of our lives! Remember Percy Faith, Leroy Anderson, Roger Williams, Simon & Garfunkel, Nat King Cole,Les Paul & Mary Ford,Johnny Mathis, Al Hibbler,Henry Mancini? Just a few of my favs. When I was working at a soda fountain, during my school years, the songs that were played til they drove you crazy, Johnny Ray's "Little White Cloud that Cried", Doris Day & Frankie Laine's "Sugar Bush"! Remember a little cute song named "Snoopy vs The Red Baron"? My brother's favorite or anything by the Beach Boys! Just a few memories on this Sunday morning. Marilyn, what are you reading? I go to the library all the time. I just finished reading a book by Don Hoglund, NOBODY'S HORSES. It's a true story, don't know if you'd like it or not but I found it interesting.
Last night I listened to the whole Beethoven 6th symphony, what a beautiful piece of music that is! My oh my, what would we do without music???? and books!!!! and friends!!!
Those three things, music, books, and friends are among my most favorite things in life. So much music to think about and enjoy. So many books (what will I do with them all?) I keep thinking that one day I'll be snowed in for a few of weeks, or go on a loooooong vacation with nothing to do except read my books. And then there's the friends...Yes Shirley, these are all incredible things.
Haha...I loved "Snoopy vs the Red Baron".
The music that touches your heart and soul, I love it all. I listened and watched "André in Wonderland" last night, late, very late, and the music is fabulous.
How do you like this gem! This was on MySpace so I give credit to Caramia.
For this one I had to sit back a really examine...I feel a little nostalgia. A song perhaps of remembering a time long ago. Andre appears to be enjoying it whatever it is. He appears lost in the realm of wonder. Just lets his violin do its thing without a care. Behind that face, what is he thinking, hmmm...
Love Engracia
Jeanine, this is one great picture. All I can say is WOW. I use a picture of André for my desktop picture that I got off of his website a few years ago where he has a similar wonderful look on his face, but it is more of a front face view. There is a similar feel however. Thanks a bunch. This is yummy! Hugs, Marilyn
mmmm, this one reminds me of The Song of Volga...., or maybe Meditation.
Hi everyone. It's late but I wanted to say hello to all of you.
Yes, Marilyn, Jean-Philippe's new cd "Azur" is quite beautiful. I listen to it often. It's a very beautiful and peaceful cd. He certainly composes beautiful music.
I have never heard of Loreena McKennitt, I will have to look her up and listen.
Well, have a great Sunday everyone!
Hi girls, I read about you chatting up some real oldies but goodies. I love Nat King Cole and Vaughan Monroe's Dance Ballerina Dance or just Ballerina. I also love Johnny Mercer's GI Jive. I only know of one female singer doing thing number and that was Rosemary Clooney. I love Rosemary's Slow Boat to China. Another goodie is Rosemary's Botcha-Me song. Well that is enough nostalgia for now. Have a great day and keep singing a happy tune!
Love Grace
Dear Friends. What would our world be without music. It would be so barren it does not bear contemplation. The music industry is finally beginning to swing back to the nostalgic, which is a good thing. We've had about all the rap, heavy metal, which to me is just so much ear hurting noise. Very few songs for the past 6 or 7 years have been worth wasting one's time. We had a beautiful day to-day, warm with soft spring breezes. Might still get a last blast of winter as we still have to get thru March, which can at times be a little grim, but at least we know that it isn't going to last nor will we get the arctic flow, which is really brr time. Can't wait for Andre concerts somewhere even PBS. which is good but not like a live performance. The audience is also a lot of fun to watch the reactions, from both the music & the performance of the man himself. When
he makes his entrance down the aisles of the venue, he has people mesmerized,
before he ever hits the stage. Just amazing. I need an Andre injection of music so think I'll play a dvd. Love to all Marianne
Did anyone happen to catch the 60 Minutes last night? A young conductor, Gustavo Dudamel, was featured. I'd never heard of him before. He does seem to be charming & charismatic & what a bundle of energy he has! He said". I love music. Music for me is my life, it's not my job. And I think this is something very important to bring - the love for the music". Who else does this sound like?
Shirley, Andre looks a lot better with your eyes open!!!
A Special Poem for a Special Lady
By: DL Fitzpatrick
I picked a purple rose today.
And as I caught its sweet perfume.
I saw thy lips in the petalled lei.
Soft-smile amid the bloom.
My senses opened wide for thee.
And would not by effort close.
Thus, I bowed in humble glee.
And kissed thy purple rose.
Then I placed it in a vase.
And hallowed it with prayer.
And while I mused on its grace.
I vowed to leave it there.
It suits beauty as thine own.
For like a rose thou art.
A kindred rose quaintly grown.
But with a poet's heart.
Kissed I thy rose with very love.
And when the nightfall came.
I gave they purple rose thereof.
They sweet and lovely name.
And since, alas, thy rose must die.
And fall in disarray.
I shall bring thee by and by.
A purple rose bouquet.
Love Grace
That is so beautiful Grace. Thanks for sharing. Love and hugs
Thanks Jeanine Ann. As you know about my feelings regarding the colour purple! I came across this one when I was reading about the different colours of roses and their meanings.
This is to all the Great Ladies on this fan site. You are all incredible!
Love To All
Grace
Thanks Jeanine Ann. As you know about my feelings regarding the colour purple! I came across this one when I was reading about the different colours of roses and their meanings.
This is to all the Great Ladies on this fan site. You are all incredible!
Love To All
Grace
BEAUTIFUL! never read it before, love it!
Thanks to you Shirley. This is for you and all the other lovely ladies on Andre's fan site. Without you wonderful people, well this site would not be as wonderful as it is! I love reading all about your lives and adventures.
Love to you all
Grace
Well Grace, you certainly add to this site yourself! As for purple, I love it also. My birthstone is amethyst, my flower the violet, and the Andre tulip is a purple, and one of my favorite oldie songs was Deep Purple, "when the deep purple falls over sleepy garden walls", and that's all I can remember, but the melody is beautiful. So... what's not to love about PURPLE?
Shirley you must be a February baby too. I love purple. In fact it would be easier to list the colors I don't like and that would be brown, grey and blue. I have one little Andre and it should pop its little head out any day. I will take a photo of it if it does. None of the other 5 bulbs did anything as yet. I am hoping for the outside bulbs in the spring. Hugs
"and the stars begin to twinkle in the sky,
in the mist of a memory, you wander back to me
breathing my name with a sigh"
In the still of the night once again I hold you tight
though you're gone, your love lives on when moonlight beams
and as long as my heart will beat
sweet lovers we'll always meet here in my deep purple dreams"
wow Jeanine Ann,that's great! kind of a sad song but doesn't "deep purple dreams" sound beautiful? yep, I'm a Feb "baby" too but it was on a sad day for you so we'll move on. I should have planted at least one Andre bulb for inside, guess I'll have to wait til spring & hope for the best. Our weather can be so darn unpredictable. You know how you like the expressions on Andre's face? There is one I wish I could see up close in a picture and as far as I know I've only seen it on the song he does, my Father's Favorite, when he first starts to play, before they go off into fantasy land, do you know the one I'm talking about?
Oh Shirley, I am sorry I missed your birthday. I just had no idea. I never wanted to miss YOUR birthday so now I will wish you all happy days ahead for the whole year! I will send a photo of little Andre if it shows shows its face.
I am trying to remember the expression you are talking about on "My Father's Favorite" but I will tell you Shirley if it is out there anywhere I will sure try to find it for you. I love looking for stuff!
Happy Birthday to You, Happy Birthday to You, Happy Birthday dear Shirley, Happy Birthday to you, and many more...
I hope your birthday was a grand one. Wishing you all the love and happiness your way, and I am sure there is lots already!
Much Love
Grace
...and the starts begin to twinkle in the sky. But as long as my heart will beat, sweet lovers will always meet, here in my deep purple dream. How is that? I think that is.
Hope your day was great.
Love Much
Grace
Dear Friends. Thanks Grace for sharing the poem about the purple rose. It is truly sweet!! The blog has been very quiet for some time. No real update on Andre's site, but I expect that is because Pierre is getting ready for Dusseldorf world stadium tour. The logistics of the moving & erection of the set is awesome & one heck of a lot of sheer worry & work. I do hope that is goes as smooth as glass & they get all the glitches settled before the Aussie tour. I see some folks have already missed out on tickets for the Subiaco Oval in Perth. I can see a second concert there as is all the Eastern cities & Adelaide. All of Oz, have really taken our Maestro to their collective heart, & the dvd & cd sales
are just off the charts. 7 time platinum for either N.Y Memories or the
Wonderland dvd. Don't think even the Beatles attained that high level. Jean-
anne, I hope the rest of your Andre' tulips finally decided to make their appearance. Growing plants is so gratifying to us all. Something like watching our children grow. Just made a jello fruit salad for our pot-luck this evening, even managed to open the can of fruit. The hands aren't much good, but hopefully that will improve once I have the surgery, which will be some months down the road. Don't see the specialist until Apr 2nd & then it's wait for a space in day surgery. Oh
bother. I started using cold blue ice,
plus the finger sleeves & wrist brace,so
I can at least get a few hours of sleep at night. Two hours at a time is just not enough & then the other night I couldn't remember if I had taken my night meds, so didn't take them & when I realized that I hadn't taken them it
was too late at 4 a.m. Needless to say the whole of the next day was a washout
Tried to nap in the afternoon. & that didn't work either. To-day I'm okay, thank goodness as I have a ream of work to do. Just beginning the tax routine,
but am still waiting for T-4's, which is like your W5 slips. I've done income tax for folks for over 60 years, as I started in my mid teens. Now I have to get my bank sorted out, they took something that is not mine so I've had cheques bouncing all over the place, which is a kick in the butt at 35.00 a
pop. Very aggravating to say the least
& very stressful to boot. We shall have another sunny day altho it's only minus 12 just now, 8:30a.m., but it will warm up in the afternoon so that's okay. I've written a book again so I will sign
off for now, love to all Marianne
Marianne, some one has got their wires crossed. No tickets for the Perth concert have gone on sale as yet.
Gosh Marianne, I always think it's cold here til I see what your temps are! We are now in for a high of 30° with wind chills of 14 & I'm freezing! "The north wind doth blow and we shall have snow"... I guess it can ,as you always say,"always be worse".Good luck with your upcoming hand surgery. I was wondering and wanted to ask everyone what your gas prices are in all the different areas. Ours are now 2.78, which I'm sure is a lot cheaper than some.Also,there is a web site that has the dutch word of the day, really interesting, but I think I'm not too good at that!! I'm still trying to master the English!
Dear folks I wrote out the "Purple rose"
poem & it recalled to mind a very old song called "Deep Purple" It was by one
of the early soul singers, had the name in my head & it just went pfft. It'll surface down the road when I least expect it, it may have been Duke Ellington & dates back to the early 40ties, A lot of the old music is coming back , a bit jazzed up, but still recognizable & they don;t tamper with the melody as change some of the emphasis on the phrasing so parts of the lyrics become more important than they way the original singer had presented them. I wish I had some of those old ink-spot 78's from that era,
but with move from my big house to the mobile home, & then to Brooks, a lot of my stuff just melted away, Salvaged some of it so what did survive my den of thieves, has become doubly precious
I don't know if it was sheer stupidity on my part or as much as my naivete in
trusting fairweather friends, Likely a combination of both. The perps paid for their wrongdoing with their lives, Not at my behest, but because they had crossed the honor line between thieves & their own pals, tried them for their actions & found them guilty. That was one terrible time for me, but I survived, a little bruised & battered,
and much wiser I hope. Still have my faith in my fellow man, but the innocence is a whole lot less. But you pick up the shattered pieces & be thankful for what has survived. I will send for some Andre tulip bulbs for next fall & plant some here at the apartment & some in my daughters' garden.
The east is still getting winter's last gasp, but here it has been bright, sunny, no wind & really quite pleasant.
Don't have to bundle up like Eskimo,
with heavy parkas, scarfs & hats. I much prefer a light jacket & then you don't feel like a stuffed penguin, We had pancakes, bacon sausage, syrup & my jellied fruit salad had only a spoonful remaining, so I'll snack on that before I go to bed, Love to all Marianne
Hello everyone on the fan site. I trust you are all or have had a wonderful day. I received my CD's and book by Marjorie Rieu called My Music My Life. I have ordered it for two reasons. One being myself as an Andre and Marjorie Rieu admirer. The other is for my mother, who first took me to see Andre and hi JSO. It was love at first sight for me!I ordered the cd's: Andre Rieu Songs from my Heart, Andre Rieu Live in Tuscany, and Andre Rieu The Flying Dutchman. Now my mother and I will have hours of musical fun! I cannot wait to read the book. I know that someone said it was a little outdated at 1996, but I believe when it comes to Andre and Marjorie's finest, Love and Time are everlasting, so who cares about the date. It's what that inside that counts! Only one request, Marjorie, maybe write another!
Love Much
Grace
Hello Grace, I am certain you will enjoy reading My Music, My Life. I am in the process of reading it and am enjoying every minute. Just because it was written in 1996 doesn't mean it is out of date at all. Everything Andre is doing today relates back to what he did earlier in his career. Cheers!
Hi Lyn, thank you for the great advice on the book. It is indeed very insightful. It tells not only about Andre and his personl years as a boy and young man. It seems to always have a Way of saying it. Always there is this thread of love, passion, and grandeur dreams. Even in the soul of a child. I really do believe Andre is on his path in life. I pray he has many more years! A rose to Andre!
Grace, you will enjoy the book, I'm sure. I'm reading it for the second time and am enjoying it even more this time. The date doesn't really matter...it gives you some insight into his early life and how he became so passionate about music. That won't change. Wouldn't it be wonderful, though, if Marjorie could write another book covering the last 10 years since his popularity has exploded during that time.
You take the beauty of roses, you add the beautiful music of Andre Rieu and the JSO and you get my latest Photo Show "Roses From The South":
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Tux4wfO-lE
I hope you enjoy!
DJ (grandpa to be) Bob
Good morning, Bob. It's Sat. so I was catching up on the postings. I watched your latest photo show "Roses From The South" and wanted you to know that I really enjoyed it. So many beautiful flowers and André together. What a combination ! Yum. By the way, about when does "grandpa to be" become "grampa"?. Have a great day.
Thanks for your comment on my latest photo show (I really enjoy making them)
About late August or early September is the target date to become "grampa"!!
All my best
Bob
Hello everyone. Did you all see the Eclipse tonight? It was very interesting and beautiful. I couldn't help but listen in my mind, to the beautiful "Aria" from Madame Butterfly, from the dvd "Dreaming". Most beautiful. I love watching a "charged" André as he watched the night skies and the castle floating along in space.
I is so funny and familiar that you should mention an eclipse! My father Jimmy, who is in Paradise. He lived from October 1, 1927 to October 30, 2008. Anyway, he always used to tell we kids (5 girls and 1 boy)!that as Armstrongs, we had a relation to the space race (Neil Armstrong, who took a piece of the Armstrong Tartan with him in 1969, to the moon)! Dad was such a clown! He did also say something to us regarding eclipses. He believed that an eclipse meant a harbinger of good news to all those who saw it and to those who knew about it. It meant also that your deepest wishes would come true. So here is to your good luck and to many good omens that are about to be bestowed on those who know and believe!
My mother always did say she had really 7 kids: five girls, my brother and my Dad, little Jimmy! Love you Dad. See you in Paradise one day!
Love to All
Grace
Hi all, Just a reminder. Don't forget to vote for Andre and the other JSO members on the Persoon van het Jaar 2008 site. I hope I have got that right. I am trying to teach myself a few Dutch words as I go along too. Andre seems to be falling behind in the votes. Stem op Andre!
I see André has a new message for us on his website. "We've so many gorgeous new plans, can hardly wait to tell you!" Well now I can't wait to find out what those plans are!!
This is Andre's latest fan. My sister's cat Puddi
Puddi, a true cat after my own heart!I love to see you on the site! You both look like you are having a great time. You intrigued by that handsome violinist and that handsome violinist playing for the pure joy of music!
Puddi you are one special kitty. Don't ever forget it.
Puddi I Love You, oh and by the way, Andre I love you too! Sorry Andre, Puddi takes the cake in these!
Hey diddle diddle, the cat and the fiddle!
awwwawww. Puddi, you're so adorable and you have such good taste! It looks like Andre is playing especially for her.I love it .....purr.......
Cute! Puddi has impeccable taste! My cat, Lucy also watches Andre on television. I think it is the bow moving up and down that catches her eye just as Andre was fascinated as a little boy.
Hi all, making this brief. Puddi is a very "Class-Cat". Jeanine Ann, you and your sister have trained these kitties
in the Classical Arts. To everyone who spoke about the 'eclipse', I was out with the neighbors-we had a beautiful night for viewing. We were all in our nite attire, like I had on my l-o-n-g heavy fleece robe on-we looked like the peanuts cartoon, some had rollers, you name it we did it. BUT, this is the main reason for this posting: the movie you guys were talking about: "MUSIC OF THE HEART" is on telly Friday at 7a.m. on the FAMILY CHANNEL if anyone is interested. Hello to all new-comers, as I must really be behind. I have been keeping a day-to-day posting on the voting situation. I started in January, and have a journal up dated daily. Have a great night. Yea! Puddi nominated for number ONE kittie....cat-nip to all.
Just a post note to Jeanine Ann, I don't know about the rest of you- but that is how I have been watching André, for quite a while....imagine sitting/lying/hanging on to the TV face up close. That cat is smart!!!!
A Bedtime Story By Grace
Once upon a time there were five sisters. Each had their own identity; their mother made sure of that. They did though each have a purity and goodness that one might say could be a called a "gift".
The First sister was extraordinarily intelligent and was scholastically inclined. She was accepted for medicine at the top three Universities in her province, on a free scholarship.
The Second sister was very artistic. She could paint, draw, sketch, you name it. She even painted a portrait that hangs in an art gallery in a prominent city today. She created this painting in high school, from her own imagination. She called it Saturday's Child.
The Third sister was a natural healer. She worked endless hours saving lives, tending to the sick and injured; and as she did this, it was with dignity. She held the hand of many as they crossed over into Paradise. When this sister came home from such a night; sometimes, she would call her sisters and cry until her tears were empty. Then the sun came out and she was fine for another day.
The Fourth sister had a way to calm the tears and fears of children. She might have a dozen or more at a time; and, she always seemed to know how to mother them one and all.
The Fifth sister was able to sing like an angel. One day there was a the first music class in grade one. The music teacher Mrs. Orchard, asked the class to stand together and sustain a single note, breathing as needed. The teacher listened carefully to each and every one of about 30 children. When it was over, the teacher let all the children go but one. It was the Fifth sister. The next concert, this six year old girl was singing a small Latin song called "Hodie".
All five sisters carried their gifts with them always. They knew that gifts so profound could never be diminished.
For ever and ever...Amen
Grace, your story fascinates me. First though, when I first saw your name, Grace Armstrong Hunt, I thought to myself, that sounds like an author's name. It just has that ring to it. Back to your story, like I said, it fascinates me. For one thing I always look for a "moral" to a story and I think I understand this one but would like your comments on it. This is beautiful and I "see" in it a truth about "gifts, or talents and that we all have certain gifts or talents and each one is a necessary thing. As I think about all my Andre friends, many of whom I've never met, each one has something that makes them special in my life, even if I don't know what they look like, I know them. I know their "gifts", and believe me, they are many and varied. Each one is important and necessary for the harmony in my life. So thank you all, those I've met and those I haven't, for your contribution to the enjoyment of my life. Andre fans are some of the best people on this earth! And thank you Grace!
Thanks Shirley for the lovely note. I am glad I have read and hopefully will meet some people on this fan site too!
I can describe myself: I have dark brown hair, light blue eyes, a bright smile, 5'6" tall. I have a MySpace if you want to see me. url:amazinggraceme.
I had the idea to go onto MySpace because, after the death of my dad in Oct 2006, I went from 135 lbs to 208 lbs by Nov 18, 08! I just turned 43, so I am giving myself the year of 2008 to get back to my natural weight of 135 lbs and body mass index of 22.1.
I am just loving it. Each month I have pictures taken to see the transition! I am going to make a calendar when I am done. Isn't that a hoot! I am already over 20 lbs closer!
Each day I write a poem, story, or just something that inspired me that day on the space. I will have a total of 366 (leap year)writings, which I will put in a book for myself and others who want to read it!
I figured out the core reason why I was eating. It was for emotional comfort, and the fact that I need a creative outlet. Now, instead of eating my feelings, I get them out on computer! It is amazing because the cravings and habits did change!
I will be attending the Andre concert in Ottawa, Ontario, On May 17th. Let me know if anyone on this site is going please. I would be most grateful to meet some fans!
Isn't Andre, Marjorie, and the JSO great. That also goes for Pierre and the behind the scenes people. They surely have a "gift" to give people the wonderful enjoyment of music, dancing, skating, you name it.
I have an idea, you can call me a nick name, that makes it fun! You can call me Gracie. My father was the only one who ever called me that. For everyone else it was Grace.
Well now you have it my dear Shirley, my age, weight, goals, life, etc. Not much more.
As for my bedtime story, I wrote it to inspire the youth of today to reach into themselves and find their "gifts". I hope it encourages them to know that they are special just because there is no one in the world like them but them! I encourage the youth today to find their niche and always keep it close. Nothing goees without worth.
Love You Much
Gracie!
Well "Gracie", I don't have to "see" you to understand that you are a very creative, caring person. And my dear anyone age 43 is young to me!! I have a daughter about your age. Your story to inspire the youth should inspire everyone no matter the age. I do wish though that people would realize the truth of what you say at a younger age. seems like too many want to be a carbon copy of someone else, not realizing the specialness of themselves. Congrats on your weight control. Isn't it true that we tend to use food as a comfort thing. Been there, done that! Still doing that!! I will look forward to more of your writings. I don't know anyone going to the Ottawa concert, can't remember about Marianne, which one she talked about. Could be that you might be able to meet her. Meeting the fans at a concert is like icing on the cake!
Shirley, I really love your interpretation of this story that Grace has given us. I don't think that I could improve on it in any way. I must agree with you that André fans are some of the best people on earth. Not many areas in life where you can call someone a "friend" without ever meeting them. It's like you know in your heart that they are friends.
I agree with you Marlene and Shirley. I must tell you also that Gracie is one amazing lady. I met her on My Space and she and I were at the same concert in Toronto in December and neither of us knew it (this was before we "found" each other on My Space. She is caring and a beautiful person. I love her dearly. She writes so beautifully and I look forward to her stories. When I am sad she always asks why and I know she does this because she is truly concerned about people. She always wants to help whenever and however she can. Grace is like all of you - caring and wonderful friends whom I have never met. I did meet Martha and she is a doll also, so sweet and helpful and talented.
On another topic, Cotton got a good report today. Her creatinine level is holding it was 3.1 (last month 3.2) but she lost 1 and 1/2 pounds so we must watch her weight. So all your prayers for Cotton are working and I thank all of you. Hugs for tonight
Thank you so much for the lovely compliment. Indeed it is rare that people can unite on a fan site and have that feeling of bonding of a friendship. Thank you very much again from my heart.
Love Your Friend
Grace
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
Dear Friends. It seems that the more I read on the site, the more I learn about the folks who write in. Think most folks have pets that live with us
My cat Fluffy & dog Pam, would both lay on the floor & watch t.v. especially if there were animal programs & they both watched sat morning cartoon with my children. Now of course I live in an apartment with no pets allowed except birds & fish, so I go & borrow my daughter's animals when I go to her house to visit, & both cat & dog know the sound of my car, so they are a lot smarter than we know, Love to all Marianne
Hello everyone..
I just got home from Munich , where I was in the very front row at the Olympic hall .
Am still swooning with the memories..
had a few disadvantages, i.e. you can't see the 'brass section', or much of Pierre's lighting effects,
BUT, gosh, you are close to Andre!
You just feel like walking over and tugging at his trousers! (not being rude!)
AND, he was pretty irrate as some of the audience were late.. He said 'we came from Holland, and we were on time'... it was even worse after the interval.. (he only gives 20 minutes) only about 80 % of the audiance were back in their seats... BOY did he ridicule them!! they took it in good heart. And he always does this.
I seemed to be the only one with an 'Andre & JSO scarf'.. no standing ovations (as far as i could see) maybe 6 or 8 couples moved themselves for the Blue Danube.. seemed like an audiance glued to their seats..
The programme was lovely; they entered down the centre aisle to 76 Trombones.. first half ended with 'Amigos para Siempre'..
2nd part opened with 'Granada' then Salome (from the Wunderland DVD/CD. A highlight was Carmina Burana, very dramatic..
Andre did his magic on a lady in the front row (not me!) and Mirusia was the angel. Carmen did 'O mio babbino Caro (as in Tuscany DVD)
As 'homage to Munich, they did the Hofbrauhaus music, and Pierre had arranged moving beer glasses as a backsdrop..
Carmen & Mirusia waved at me as they left the stage after their numbers (as I was waving at them)
I had the feeling that I was the only one in the entire place who was trying to be 'interactive'..
My opinion is, that these performers need feedback ....
However, the 'encores' went fine..
the German lady sitting next to me had some flowers to give Andre, but was not sure 'when and how'... I pretended to be an expert, and offered to help. When the 'official programme' (Radetzky March) came to an end, i had seen that there was a 'mob' waiting in the aisles to move forward, so i escorted her to the front, and then stayed there myself... and I have to tell you, that it is magical...
25 minutes pure pleasure and interaction.......
See you in Maastricht!
Oh Adele, sounds like you had a wonderful time. I know what first row is like - pure heaven! I am so happy for you. I have two front row seats coming up this year that I know of, the other two venues I am not sure at this time. Sounds like those people were glued to their seats that is why I always do my best to interact and my husband and I dance at every concert even though we cannot dance - just to be out there participating and I know it makes Andre happy when the audience interacts in some way. What did the Platin Tenors sing besides "Amigos Para Siempre"? I was wondering if they did the Pavarotti tribute.
Thanks so much for telling us all about it. So glad you had a great time. Hugs
Sounds and reads like a wonderful time for you Adele. I am glad you had such a great opportunity! Hope the rest of your travels are safe and fun. I envy you, I envy you! Just have a great time and enjoy yourself.
Much Love
Grace
Hi Jeanine Ann
Here is the programme for the Munich concert; to the best of my remembrance!
76 Trombones
Roses from the South
Mozart medley
Platin Tenors - something lively, I think it was 'this is the best day of my life' though in German of course.. They have done it on one of the DVD's but I don’t remember which one.
Then Andre did his lines re 'Luciano' and they sang 'Nessun Dorma'
Carmen Monarcha sang ‘O mio babbino Caro’
Amigos para siempre, Tenors, Suzan Carmen & Mirusia
(obviously I have missed a couple of items but simply cant remember for the moment)
Interval
Granada (orchestra & Andre)
Salome (orchestra & Andre)
Mirusia – song for one voice
Emperor’s waltz
Suzan Erens sang something from Phantom of the opera, I think the song that she secretly dedicates to her late father.
Suzan did something from the musical ‘Sissy’ I think it was ‘I belong to me’ but not 100 % sure.
Blue Danube
Carmina Burana – Platin Tenors / Suzan / Carmen / Mirusia
Hofbrauhaus (Munich beer hall music)
Radetzky
Encores
Strauss & Co
Traviata medley (Tenors & Sopranos)
Amazing Grace – with Manoe on the bagpipes
Brahms lullaby
Adieu mein kleine garde officier – Tenors & Sopranos.
WOW !
Thank you Adele. It was so kind of you to type the entire program for us. I appreciate it so much. Wasn't "Nessun Dorma" magnificant!! I told each of the Tenors as I saw them that they did such a beautiful job on that song and they said they really worked at it and you could tell.
Thank you again Adele and take care. Glad you had such a wonderful tiem. Love and hugs
"WOW" is right! Thank you so much Adele. what a great program, I'm doing a standing ovation and i wasn't even there!
Hi all, the song from Phantom was sung by Mirusia (at least in Toronto) and is called "Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again" and she brought down the house. She has been singing that song since I first saw her in Miami. She sings it beautifully. I am trying to think of the Tenors song too and I can hear it but I am not sure which one it is. Hugs to all
thanks adele!! I weas going to ask that question but i did not want to ruin it for others i am so happy jeanine ann asked it!!! Funny thing about when you mentioned the phantom of the opera. 3 days before i go and see Andre on may 20th 2008 i will be in new york to see the phantom of the opera on broadway in VIP seats. wow that will be great to see the show and then here andre play a piece for it!!! thanks agian.
How are you doing Jeanine Ann, i cant believe you got front row seats!!! i am in the 6th row back on the floor section 2 so its right in the middle. Last year on his entrance he waled by me and said Hey! and he gave me a high five. I hope that it happens agian!!! See you later!
-Jeff
Can anyone give me the correct story? I keep hearing that Carmen Monarcha is no longer with Andre and the JSO. Is she coming to Australia? Is she still with this wonderful group of people? What is the truth?
Hi Joy, well Carmen was certainly in the Munich concert, Feb 20th.. she sang 'O mio babbino caro'...
dont know about the future..
Carmen, Carla and Suzan all left a couple of years ago. They keep reappearing and have agreed to do specials. Carmen was not at the New York special because she was already committed elsewhere. I believe they all agreed to appear at the Schoenbrunn concerts. Sometimes when they have nothing else on they tour with Andre for awhile and then do something else. I don't know what happened with Suzan, she was supposed to travel with Carla for something like 125 concerts. I saw an announcement where Carla was appearing but no mention of Suzan. Carmen appears in concerts and operas all over the world, particularly in Brazil where of course she is well known. Mirusia is still under contract to Andre so she won't be going anywhere this year anyway. After Australia who knows?
Does anyone know when they start a new program? I see from the Munich concert that the current one has been on for more than a year now. I assume by the time they come here in the spring there will be something new. Don't get me wrong, I love them all, but there's a lot of music in this world, and as Andre said, they have an immediate repertoire of 200 pieces they can play at a moment's notice. I don't mind seeing the same thing twice or three times, but after a year has gone by I want a new concert. The singers have sung the same songs for over a year now. I know that Suzan's song won't change at the Sissi concerts, but the others could. Mirusia has sung the same three songs since she joined. I love the angel but she could sing something new also. Same for the tenors. Seems as if Carmen has been singing Il Bambino forever. Time will tell. I just hope that Andre is not putting so much effort into the large concerts that he's sliding along for the other concerts. Hopefully he has more sense than that. I do hope that Suzan comes to the spring concerts but would like her to sing something other than I Belong to Me which we have seen numerous times already. (But if she does we'll enjoy it).
very sad dear joy if carmen monarca does not sing for jso anymore..nicolejoy
I'm not sure she is a regular anymore but only when she is available to join them. According to the Perth news she will be joining them in Australia.
Hi everyone. I was doing my workout today and I was thinking about Andre and his music. I come from a business and marketing background. Some ideas crossed my mind.
Demographics: Andre's demographics attract mostly women born in the baby boomers years. They are the largest population on earth today. These are women born between 1946 - 1966, Ages 62 - 42.
The next question would be where would these women go to be opened to the world of Andre's music?
1)Spas: Registered Massage Therapists:
Create a Four Cd Set that encompasses the four elements. Violin softly with ocean in the background, Violin softly with the sound of wind blowing, Violin softly with nature sounds, and Violin softly with fire burning.
Manicures/Pedicures: Return to the four romantic languages: Spanish: Violin with steel guitar and castanets softly to a calypso beat. Italian: Violin with accordion softly and harp. French: Violin with accordion and harp softly.Latin: Violin with calypso drums, steel drums, a constant soft beat.
Create the imagination in the womens'minds as they are being pampered of romance, softness, tenderness, keep it soft and loving. Get into the mind of a women in this age genre, get into the core of her soul and bring out her desires that are kept hidden by the daily grind of work, housework, kids, etc.
Upper Scale Hairstylists: Same versions as manicures and pedicures. Add a bit more upbeat with the romantics. Add vocals, both male and female together, singing in melody and harmony. Love and tenderness of a twosome. Plant visions in the minds.
"People want what they see" a famous saying by Sandra Dee. The eye remembers for a short time at first then, when the concert is over, visions come to mind and stay there. The ear hears and remembers a longer time. It yearns to hear soft, tenderness. Why? Because it is not there in the workplace grind.
When you go grocery shopping next time, listen to the music, it is soft, baby boomers know the songs, melodic. Those born after 1966 would call it "elevator music"; but the baby boomers love it.
Suggestions for show: Add Flamenco Dancers with Castanets, female dancers in rainbow coloured dresses, men in black with matching rainbow accessory on Spanish suits. Violin with Spanish soft beat.
Latin: Steel Drums, All types of drums, calypso type costume, palm trees, ocean etc.
French: Eiffel tower in background with streets, think Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant style, accordions, painters, mimes, etc., Think Vaughn Monroe, Dance Ballerina Dance with a single Ballerina dancing.
Italian: Gondolas, Barber Poles, Accordions, think Dean Martin, Mario Lanza, etc. "That's Amore" sung accompanied by violin and accordion.
One more thing: most baby boomer women workout: classical upbeat music style. Something classical with a constant beat throughout.
Just seeing Andre's gorgeous face on the front of the CD's will also be great!
Some suggestions, who know it might be fun!
Love Grace
hello all,
since i have been going to andres concerts on the eastcoast for the past 4 years, suzan , carla and carmen have all been there i hope that they are there agian! jeanine ann please go to my pictures on my mypace and you will see the pictures of carmen in her new opera.
thanks
Jeff
I see that Andre's guestbook is now open again and in the "news" section there is a happy Birthday picture of Sanne and Nadejda. Also, one comment that fascinated me was from an african fan who asks if it's true that Andre plans to have a special guest at a concert. I'd never heard her name before. I assume she's from Holland & she does have a web site and on you tube she has a video. Her name is Melissa Venema. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9UAqaE-XzS0 So, maybe we are in for some "new" things.I have to agree with much of what Virginia says. It's time for something new and fresh. Even though I enjoy the music I'd love to hear something new and different. I'm not too much into the Stadium tours. I think the Toronto concert must have been fantastic according to all who went, but do you want to see it over and over again?Same for the singers, let's give them some new material, there's certainly many pieces they could do with their talents. Hope I don't sound too critical here, not my intention, but I thought Virginia said it well and I do agree, and especially the part about "no matter what we always enjoy whatever Andre has for us" Guess that's just my 2¢ worth.
Yes, new things from André are always accepted with an open heart. I've bought a particular cd, because it had just one song on it that I hadn't heard him play. It's like it's a driving force to hear that new, previously unplayed song from André.
I realize also that it's difficult for him to have a different concert everywhere he goes. When we see a concert here, doesn't mean that everyone has seen it..so I understand that André needs to allow all to see that particular concert. I appreciate that, because some of the songs are so beautiful, that I would be disappointed if I couldn't hear them, live.
Unfortunately, I believe that André and the JSO are not coming to the West coast this year, at least not to the Pacific Northwest. That said, I would love to hear any kind of concert from André at this moment, no matter how many times I had heard it, because I know that I will have to wait a long time to hear one again. Does this make sense?
"André in Wonderland" was unique, entertaining and more different than anything I've seen previously. I loved the program and hope that everyone has a chance to see it. It's programs like this that make me know that André does give us diversity.
If André did nothing except stand on the stage and play his violin, I would be happy with it, because it's him.
André and the JSO bring the concerts to LIFE, no matter how many times I've heard it.
Marlene, you sre right about the music, i guess I was talking, more or less, about the songs the singers do. Even then, I guess that any program is better than no concert at all, which is where I am right now! Remember, sometime back, when we all talked about the pieces that we liked? You had a list of several that are not ordinarily played at the concerts,but were on certain cds or dvds. i liked the list you made. I'd like to attend a concert like that. Would love to hear Song To the Moon, or the clarinet concerto that Manoe does so well, or Haydns Serenade.love to hear them at a concert.Maybe I just haven't been to the right concerts!
Hi everyone, I agree Marlene. I have seen 4 concerts (2007) and two were identical in April and May and two were identical in December (Stadium tour) and I agree that Andre could just stand alone and play his violin and that would be ok with me. I would still be glued to him. I think everyone should be able to see the current tour because I would hate for anyone to miss even one song on the agenda because they are all so beautiful and specially picked by Andre for us. I think too that Andre may not be in the West Coast area this year unless he can work it out somehow especially with the Australian tour but then I feel that the East Coast will suffer next spring (maybe) because he will have to get to the west coast sometime (unless Australia is not on the agenda in 2009). But we really don't know at this time so I think whatever concerts we can get to, we should. I can get to any concert on the east coast but usually not above New York. We only go to Florida concerts because we do all our medical things there in the spring. Our doctor is in Fort Myers but I don't know what will happen when we get too old to make the trip (except to fly) because it is a long drive. I would love to go to Maastricht just one time while we can. I know some of you were thinking about 2009. I think Kati mentioned it and also Martha Strickland and I think Lorraine. It would be a great trip especially to see Andre in his home country. Well, we will see but I do hope Andre gets to the West Coast for all of you who live there. I am so blessed to have 4 concerts this year and I am very thankful. At this time in my life Andre's music and concerts are my lifeline.
Hugs to all today.
Good morning. Yes, it would be nice to hear a little more variety. One of the many reasons why I love the Live in Vienna concert was that there are lots of different songs than what we usually hear. That concert is one of my favorites.
Hi Marilyn, that is my favorite concert too mostly because he played so many songs that we usually do not hear all the time. I love all the Vienna music, the Three Tenors sang "You Are My Hearts Delight" which I have always loved and never heard it sung and I thought Dagmar Kollar was just delightful with my favorite "Vienna City of My Dreams" and to top it off with "Adieu" was just spectacular. I could play that concert every day and unlike Schonbrunn we see more of Andre in Vienna concert.
Hi Jeannine. We certainly agree on this concert. I feel the same way you do. Have a wonderful Birthday. Hugs.
Yes, Shirley, I too, would love so much to hear Mirusia do other songs. I very much enjoy her and know that there are tons of songs out there that she would sing beautifully. The one's she sings now are awesome. She has such a beautiful voice that a variety would be wholeheartedly accepted...just to hear "more".
And I so agree with you on "Song To The Moon", it's a most beautiful, romantic, peaceful song.
Thanks for the "you always make sense" words, ha, I really try...sometimes I just don't know.
TO MARLENE WARREN, WELL SAID,REGARDS,NICOLEJOY.
In Australia Andre fans are so thrilled that we will have the opportunity to see Andre and the JSO live on stage. Except for those fortunate enough to have been able to go to one of his concerts overseas, it will be a totally new experience for most of us. Even though the program appears similar to that on the Schonbrunn DVD, I don't think too many people will be disappointed.
Since I 'found' Andre five months ago, I have been purchasing Andre CDs whenever the budget will allow. To a lesser extent I have purchased some DVDs although, since Ovation Channel shows at least one each week, I am concentrating on CDs for the time being. I am particularly enjoying a couple of his earlier CDs, Strauss & Co and Wiener Melange because they provide some variety in the tunes to those on the later CDs and the DVDs although like previous bloggers have said, whatever Andre has for us is great.
Dear Friends. Still a while before the hand surgery, which if it is no worse that the left hand although it has had much more time to deteriorate, hopefully it can be repaired Funny how,
old injuries come back to pester us years after the original injury. The arthritis is there but bearable & that won't go away, but so far I can type on the computer, altho the typewriter is a bit more difficult. Thank the Bon Dieu for all the friends on the blog. I do get lonesome all by myself at times but I get the music going & it's not so bad.
The worst thing you can do is sit & stew
& feel bereft, & that is the time to count one's blessings & they are many so
I can't really fuss too much. At least
on the blog we can share our ups & downs & each one of us has things we would change if it were possible, so I thank you all for bearing me up when I get a bit blue. We have a few days of Feb left, but March begins on Friday, so
the fine weather will follow. I was telling my son that November air is hard & brittle, but the Spring air is soft & feathery, that caresses the skin gently. My cup of tea totally!! At time this apartment just stifles me & I have to get outdoors in the air, but at least it has warmed so I don't have to bundle up like a penguin. Much prefer
as few clothes as is decent. One day I will get brave & wear my pink bikini & shock everyone. At times I like to be a bit outrageous, just to stir the pot, & wake folks up. We have a beautiful world
& we must enjoy But still try to fix the raggedy edges which need repair. The soothing & healing coming from Andre's music is a true gift beyond price & I for one listen to his music along with like musicians on my memory channel, which goes 24/7. If it goes off in the night I wake up. to get it started yet again. The picture of Andre
the sailboat on the lake is just so serene & it makes one dream beautiful
thoughts & memories. To Frank Steins, all my thoughts & prayers on the passing of your Father. In my family I am the last senior standing & it is a rather lonely pinnacle, but I have two children, grandkids, & soon in mid-April
will a great-gramma. That is a milestone, which when I was 20 years was an eon away. Time does have a way of creeping up on one. At 75, I sometimes feel ancient & then something comes along & hey its only a number & I am blessed with good health, can still drive to do my shopping plus all the other errand I do for other folks not able to get around. We'll be without our elevator for a month due to it needing replacement, so I can see me getting in shape for those who can't manage stairs & parcels. Will be busy &
all know I am available. Liked the pics of Puddi, expect he was listening as well as following Andre's bow & finger
movements. Love to all Marianne
Hello Marianne, Glad to hear from you again. I was worried that you may have been sick when there hadn't been any comments from you for a few days.
Congratulations to the soon-to-be great-grandma.
Isn't time creeping up on us all? The older we get the faster time seems to go and now it seems to be going at a gallop. Summer in Australia is over and we march on into autumn which is a very pleasant season as far as I am concerned - not too hot and not too cold. I don't like the heat of summer, although this year hasn't been too bad, except for last Saturday when the temperature in Brisbane reached 41.6 degrees C. Phew!! I hope for Andre's sake (and for the JSO) that we don't get temperatures like that when they are here in December. Hugs. Lyn
Marianne,I was wondering about you. I really wish you well on your hand surgery. I'm sure it is difficult to type at all.BUT YOU DO! I admire your spirit. I too, am awaiting Spring,the stir of new growth excites me. I have to smile at your comment on your pink bikini. That I want to see!
Hi all, Marianne I hope all goes well with you and your hand surgery. You sure do have the right attitude and I am sure all will go very well for you. You will be in my prayers as always.
Shirley, do you want to see more photos of Puddi? I have more which I can post. I also want to share a few photos of Andre in Frankfurt that were just taken last night. I got them from a friend. Will try to get them on tonight, if not tomorrow morning. Hugs to all
These are the very latest photos of Andre taken last night - hot off the press! Hugs
Shirley if that music turned you into a marshmallow, these photo should turn you into jello
Those are great shots, I like the middle one, I call it "THE MAN AND HIS VIOLIN". I notice the charming & handsome Franco in the background too. Yes Jeanine Ann, more Puddi pics too.
Thank you for placing the photos Jeanine Ann.
Andre, as usual, is displaying to his audience his love for his music. He looks great and appears to be enjoying himself, a true professional.
Keep up the great work Andre, you and the JSO are wonderful.
Love Grace
Query: Can anyone tell me from what work the KI MO NO song comes from? Thanks in advance. More snow again this weekend.
Hi Virginia,
The "Ki Mo No" routine appeared in the 2003 New Year's Eve DVD titled "New Year's Eve Punch" (Silvester Punsch). It is track 3 on the DVD, titled "Im Salon zur blauen Pagode".
Lawrence
Hi Virginia,
The Ki Mo No song also appeared in Andre Rieu in Wonderland. Interestly, it comes from the operetta, The Land of Smiles by Franz Lehar. Cheers. Lyn
Tonight 10:00° (German Time) pm you can look at André Rieu in the MDR via Internet.
click www.mdr.de/riverboat click Riverboat - MDR - Talkshow - aus Leipzig and go downward click Riverboat als livestream and you can see and observe André. have fun
Thanks, René. That should be lots of fun. Best wishes, Marilyn
Thanks for this information, René. I took a late lunch at work so I could watch it (it came on at 1 pm here in California) and, with the help of my daughter who studied German in college, was able to understand a little bit of what he was saying. Gotta love technology!!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY to one of our favorite people,MS JEANINE ANN. Yep, she's a leapling baby. We love you girl and wish you the happiest of days.
Happy Birthday Jeanine Ann. May your day be full of love and happiness!
Love you much
Grace
xoxoxoxoxo
Thank you Grace, Shirley, Lyn, Marilyn for the happy birthday wishes. Actually those photos were for my birthday (just kidding) but they did make me feel a lot better. My day has been filled with lots of love because of all of you.
Clyde got me a music stand for my birthday so now I have something to put my music on besides my scrapbook table. Thank you again my sweet friends. Hugs
Happy birthday Jeanine Ann
I hope the day is memorable in some small way.
thank you for your long established record of positive contributions to this blog.
Thank you Bill. All of you have made this a special day. Hugs to you
Okay it is nite-nite time here in the east. See you tomorrow. Sweet dreams all.
Well ring a ding ding! Music of the night or a good wake up call. Both sound and look great to me! As in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Truly Scrumptous!
Love Grace
xoxoxoxoxox
Happy birthday, Jeanine Ann. Hope you have a wonderful day.
I agree, more Puddi pics please.
Hugs. Lyn
Happy birthday, Jeanine Ann. Hope you have a wonderful day.
I agree, more Puddi pics please.
Hugs. Lyn
Hello everyone. Thank you René, very much, for the link to the Riverboat/André/talkshow. I'm sure we will all enjoy observing André!
Jeanine Ann...HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! I didn't know it was your birthday today. I hope it's a beautiful day for you, and you are having a lot of fun! If I was closer, I would bake you a cake.
Marianne, you are quite a gal. You have a lot of wisdom in your heart, if everyone lived as you did, this world would be in a better place.
Lyn M, 41.6 c is just too warm for me to think about. I'm glad it will be cooler for you now. Is it humid as well?
The song "Ki Mo No" is really enjoyable. I have fun listening to it and watching it on the new André in Wonderland dvd.
Jeanine Ann...thank you so very much for sending in those wonderful pictures of André, if they don't turn your knees to jello, nothing will.
Hope you are all having a wonderful day! It's Friday! Have a great weekend too.
Hi Marlene, The humidity on that day was around 60%. Brisbane's geographical location is on the Queensland coast and in the sub-tropics so our summers are generally warm and humid. Fortunately though our temperatures don't often rise above 35 degrees C. Perhaps one occasion every couple of years. On an average summer's day the max is 29-31 degrees and in winter about 22-24 degrees dropping to 8-10 degrees overnight, although we get the odd winter morning when the temp drops to 4-5 degrees.
I forgot to add that my André Tulips are starting to peek through! I'm so happy.
Happy Birthday Jeanine Ann. I hope your day was very special. And thanks for posting those wonderful pictures...WOW...what a handsome guy!!
Thank you Kay. I really appreciate your birthday greeting. Yes Andre is a real heartthrob isn't he!!! Hugs
WISHING A VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU,JEANNINE ANN,BLESSINGS,NICOLEJOY..