ARCHIVES SECTION D: "MIXED BAG"   11.   1-20-09: "Congratulations America!" 10. 11-18-08: "My Letter to President-Elect Obama" ♫ 9.     6-08-08: "Obama, History, and Hope"  ♫ 8.     5-26-08: "Memorial Day 2008" 7.     3-08-08: "Happy Birthday"  ♫ 6.     4-19-08: "Stanley Kamel Remembered" ♫ 5.     4-14-08: "Miracles, Music, and Midlife" B ♫ 4      3-01-08: "A Quick Little Chat" B 3.     2-09-08: "My Aunt Dot" ♫ 2.    1 -12-08: "A Conversation with..." 1.   12-08-07: "Youth In Those Old Bones"   ♫ Music-related content.  B Book review. Bay Heart Music Blog is best viewed using Internet Explorer Browser. Bay Heart Music is a registered trademark. Established 2004. As a matter of courtesy and the law, please do not copy Bay Heart Music files.

	Topic of the Day D.11. “Congratulations America!” January 20, 2009    My bones ache from the walking, cheering, and otherwise consuming today’s inauguration of America’s 44th US President. I had the good fortune of receiving tickets to the ceremony. My young daughter joined me to experience this historic event. The tone of the trip was unlike that of many fellow revelers. No galas, no late night parties, etc. Rather, it was the activity of being a proud escort to a young person as we ushered in a new day. No apologies; just the duty of being a mother at this point in history.   There’s not much I can add to the Obama blog-o-sphere about the day. Photos and images from around the world pervade every known media outlet. Tears of pride could fill rivers. Yet, I feel I must offer something to the universe in honor of this rare experience. The chill in the air was offset by the warmth in my heart. The sights and sounds of the day will linger in my mind for decades. So too, will I recall the wide-eyed awe on my daughter’s face.   The inauguration of President Obama means that Americans can believe in the possibility of better days. Personally, I am concerned that healthcare has become the caviar of social services. Today, we can pick ourselves up from the economy’s sucker-punch and walk courageously in a new direction. It’s said that living well is the best revenge. As our new president took his oath of office, fueled with hope, we can get back to living well. I want that for my family and all Americans.   Topic of the Day D. 10. "My Letter to President-Elect Obama" ♫ “We Believe In Your Dreams”-- Where Hope Sings November 18, 2008   I dedicate the song I wrote, “We Believe In Your Dreams,” to President-elect Barack Obama. I am a member of the Conejo Valley, CA “Yes We Can” Team. The song was originally developed as an inspiration to build houses of hope. Appropriately, it now serves as an inspirational message to the 44th President of the United States. The song was my anthem as I phone banked, trained volunteers, and did data entry for the Campaign for Change. To hear the song, please refer to the music file below.*   I had donated to the Women for  Obama campaign in spring 2007 where the future First Lady spoke of her husband’s vision for America—his dreams. However, it wasn’t until after the Democratic National Convention that I realized I wanted do more. I become an active Obama volunteer.   Complete strangers came together in a neighbor’s home and ran an amazing enterprise for change. My job entailed making calls to Nevada, Missouri, Florida, and other battleground states. Our team ran data entry like scientists. We all celebrated as if family at approximately 8P PST on November 4th when Senator Obama was declared the next President of the United States.   I’m sure my story is not unlike thousands of others across America. However, the most striking accomplishment from this experience for me is the undeniable unity for change from folk of disparate backgrounds. It is magical seeing Obama/Biden bumper stickers around town. Strangers give knowing nods to one another as we recognize a fellow “Yes We Can” member. We believe in your dream, President-elect Obama.   "We Believe In Your Dreams"© Written by Cheryl Farrell [2:26] Click the play button to hear music. Topic of the Day D. 9. “Obama, History, and Hope" ♫ June 8, 2008   Earlier this week, Senator Barack Obama made history and as a result, brought new hope to the world. Much has been written about his historic rise to become the presumptive Democratic candidate for President. It’s certainly been written for much broader audiences than this little corner of hope. However, his accomplishment cannot be acknowledged enough.   His story is the triumph of principle over race, present over past, and hope over fear. It must be celebrated. It means that no matter what you are going through, hope is very much alive. It reminds us that aspirations for a better way can be and are rewarded. No matter what follows in the months leading up to the November elections, it’s already a hope-filled world.   I admire all the candidates who fought hard for their beliefs and campaigns. To me, it isn’t about one person being better than another. It’s about a moment history when a particular path is before us and we can walk it together—regardless of who we supported.   You’re invited to visit a blog called Web Tea, that has a full set of videos chronicling Senator Obama’s amazing journey. The web link is below. I also invite you to visit the Bay Heart Music Prayer Room link on the topic of daring to dream.   Web Tea http://webtea.wordpress.com/   Bay Heart Music Prayer Room Topic: “We Believe in Your Dreams” www.bayheartmusic.com/prayerroom/id27.html/ Topic of the Day D. 8. "Memorial Day 2008" May 26, 2008   Today is a special day. It’s a time to remember the brave men and women who died serving our country while in the military. As with similar holidays, it has become a time for sales and outdoor festivities. As such, we may impulsively place a “happy” in front of a greeting for the day. In the rush of the day’s activities, a disconnect is understandable.   Nevertheless, we cannot forget what the day is really about. It’s about remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice, so that we can be free. It’s easy to take our freedom for granted. That’s why the holidays purposely slow us up to be deliberate in acknowledging the day.   I recently sent an email to an associate and wanted to close the message with something related to the coming holiday. I wanted to send good wishes until we corresponded again. I wrote something along these lines:   I'm always at a loss for ways to acknowledge the Memorial Day holiday. One doesn't have a happy day in this case. Perhaps it’s appropriate to wish you a peaceful day.   I might now add that I wish you all a reflective day—full of gratitude.    Topic of the Day D. 7. "Happy Birthday!"♫ March 8, 2008   Most ideas for blog entries and essays seem to arrive at my doorstep. Perhaps there’s some underlying psychological explanation for ideas that come. In any case, I delight when ideas present themselves. So, this morning a birthday greeting came to mind. No, it’s not my birthday, but it’s someone’s birthday somewhere. I send you greetings today. If you had a birthday recently, I send you belated greetings. If you had a birthday anytime in the past year, you too are remembered. That should cover everyone!   Actually, I’d like to acknowledge three special musicians who share March 8th birthdays. Their talent was inspirational to me growing up:   Micky Dolenz (The Monkees) Mike Allsup (Three Dog Night) Carole Bayer Sager, Composer (“Through the Eyes of Love”)  What does this have to do with hope? Everything. Birthday celebrations are reminders that folk are thinking about you. You are not forgotten. Knowing that, you can get out bed one more time and feel confident that the day will be kind to you.   As it turns out, I happened to have a birthday song I wrote a few years ago. (What a surprise!) I recently posted it on my Prayer Page. The page link is noted below. It’s entitled, “I Celebrate the Day” (You Were Born). I hope you enjoy.   MUSIC PAGE LINK: www.bayheartmusic.com/prayerroom/id39.html Topic of the Day D. 6. "Stanley Kamel Remembered"♫ April 19, 2008   Every once in a rare (TV) while, a character comes along who feels like a good friend. For me, that was actor Stanley Kamel's character, Dr. Kroger on the TV dramedy, “Monk.” He was the psychiatrist to Tony Shalhoub’s obsessive-compulsive character, Adrian Monk on the self-titled show.   I'm not sure why the good doctor touched me the way he did. Surely good writing makes for a good show. But, Mr. Kamel brought good writing to life. I will miss his work greatly. Perhaps because of Dr. Kroger’s patience and care for Monk. Poignantly, the show’s theme song, “It’s A Jungle Out There,” written by Randy Newman speaks to the need for that kind of care. Dr. Kroger’s voice was calming. He reminded us that it's okay to be at odds with the universe as long as at least one person cares. Therein lies the hope.   About 10 days ago, the world learned of Stanley Kamel’s passing of a heart attack. He was 65. The USA Network link below offers more details.   www.usanetwork.com/series/monk/ Topic of the Day D. 5. "Miracles, Music, and Midlife" B♫  (Book Review) April 14, 2008   On a recent visit to a bookstore for my young daughter’s book-buying treat, I stumbled on an amazing book for me. It seemed to jump off the display, as if counting on me to catch it with willing arms. The last time a book “found me” was in April 1999 when I came across “Callings” by Gregg Levoy. I didn’t expect to find the same degree of comfort and hope from this new book. In fact, I am so busy that I wasn’t sure when I’d have the time to read another “self-help” book. I bought it anyway. I knew I’d have travel time soon, and perhaps could get in a few pages.   As it turns out, I began reading before my trip started and I’ve been consumed with it ever since. So, what’s the title of the book? Who is the author? What’s so great about the book? Indulge me a bit longer before I answer your questions.   It may seem premature to write a book review after reading only 20 of the 216 pages. I can read at a brisk clip; however, this book overflows with insightful messages. It takes time to highlight passages (sometimes whole pages), scribble margin notes, and ruminate it all.   In the past, folk of a certain age who make fanciful and unusual choices would be labeled as “going through a midlife crisis.” These days, baby boomers have lots of company as we process aging. (I’m a card carrying member!) This processing can be easy or it can be hard. Fortunately, the author of the book makes it easy.   Okay, okay, here’s the big reveal. The book is The Age of Miracles: Embracing the New Midlife, by the celebrated author Marianne Williamson.* While I was familiar with the genre of her past work, I had not read any of Ms. Williamson’s books. For her veteran fans, you will undoubtedly find my praise of her work redundant.   A favorite quote from the book has presented itself already, and is noted below. Each chapter is named for song title that folk of a certain age will recognize and appreciate. Her recognition of God in the equation, (rather IS the equation) is clear in her writing.   I hope to be back with a full review at the completion of my reading. I encourage you to read the book if you want a refreshing take on how to age with purpose and grace.   A favorite quote (one of many) … so far:   As we become more spiritually intelligent, more aware of the forces that underlie and cause all earthly reality, then issues of age begin to transform. Spiritual growth increases our sense of what’s possible. And as we sense new possibility, we can step into that possibility. With every word, every thought, every action, we choose what we wish to call forth in life. Old thoughts create old scenarios, and we can choose to let them go. [“The Age of Miracles,” p. 17]                                                                                                  Stay tuned…   * ISBN-13: 9781401917197 Publisher Hay House, Inc. (2008) Topic of the Day D. 4. "A Quick Little Chat" B (Book Review) March 1, 2008    “Out of the mouth of babes…” is a frequent expression of mine, inspired by the young ones around my house. One example is from a Mother’s Day gift I received a few years ago. My daughter, who was eight at the time, gave me a children’s book entitled, “While Mama had a Quick Little Chat,” by Amy Reichert.* I recently came across the book with its clever prose and eye-popping illustrations. I was reminded that multitasking mamas can be disconcerting to young ones.   The author provides a 30-page book for adults written in the voice of a young girl named Rose. Without giving too much away, Rose is instructed to prepare for bedtime while Mama tends to yet one more telephone call. All sorts of fanciful activities occur while Mama is preoccupied with her phone call.   I was notorious for “quick little chats” which, according to my cell phone timer, averaged 47 minutes. I purposely use past tense here because I think I’m better at limiting phone calls. (That’s my story and I’m sticking to it!) In my effort to squeeze as much into a day as possible, priorities get muddled. However, the needs of my children quickly clear up the problem.   With the kids becoming a more independent each day, my multitasking conflict isn’t as critical. Yet, the principle of focusing on what matters remains the same. If it’s not the phone, it’s email, or PDAs, or other forms of technology that steal precious hours of human interaction. I continue to work on balance. Maybe it’s enough just to be reminded of the value in prioritizing. This delightful little book did it for me.   * ISBN 0-689-85170-7 Antheneum Books (2005)   Illustrations by Alexandra Boiger Topic of the Day  D. 3. "My Aunt Dot"♫ February 9, 2008   Earlier today, I sang “Precious Lord” at the memorial service for Dorothy Mae Blair, my dear aunt. This gospel favorite was among those to be performed at her 90th birthday celebration, scheduled for today. Sadly, she took ill the day the party invitations were mailed to family and friends around the country.  She passed away ten days later. My aunt was the eldest of seven children raised in a rural town in east Texas. Her near century of life was remarkable as an educator, mother, and church steward. The tribute today gave witness to her faith and fortitude. In her lifetime, she could recall stories about slavery told by her grandparents. In the same lifetime, she saw images of a history-making black male candidate for the US presidency. Aunt Dot visited me a few months ago on the Jeopardy! sound stage to see the show being taped. The show’s host greeted her, not knowing that she was my aunt. He was likely intrigued by her poise and majestic persona. She looked like royalty.  I will miss my aunt. Her children, my cousins, will undoubtedly keep her legacy alive. So will I as I strive to do my work as she did: with dignity, faith, and willingness to serve where called. Speaking of a calling, an appropriately inspiring quote comes to mind by Gregg Levoy: "We want to use ourselves up, leave this life the way we entered it–complete–and die with a yes on our lips and not a no, making that transition, that final threshold, with some grace, with eyes wide open and not squeezed shut as if for a blow."*   "Precious Lord" Words & Music by Thomas A. Dorsey © 1938 (Renewed 1965) Unichappell Music Inc.  * "Callings: Finding and Following an Authentic Life," by Gregg Levoy. www.gregglevoy.com  Topic of the Day D.2. "A Conversation with..." January 12, 2008   I have interviewed individuals for written projects on many occasions. Likewise, others have interviewed me—typically, related to my work. This week, I wondered what it would be like to interview myself. What would I ask myself, and what would I learn? Please indulge my little exercise to find out. I hope you enjoy,  “A Conversation with… Me.”                   ____________________________________________________   Cheryl: Do you have a favorite Presidential candidate? If so, who is it and why? Me: Well, these are exciting times. I’ve been around for over five decades, and I cannot recall the type of election fever we’re experiencing now. I’ve seen pictures of long lines of voters braving the winter's cold. There were reports of insufficient ballots because of the record turnout. The proverbial water cooler is everywhere—hair salons, gas stations, and the dry cleaners. It seems everyone is talking about their choices—that's the essence of democracy!   Cheryl: Okay, thanks for that, but who is your choice?   Me: Well, I’m impressed with Barack Obama. However, the Clinton and Obama race is intriguing—certainly not for the faint-hearted. As they say in TV land, “stay tuned.” We are witnessing history.   Cheryl: Heard any good jokes lately?   Me: Actually, I heard a good joke from my 16-year-old son, Alec. I published it in our family’s annual Christmas letter. For proper attribution, it was courtesy of www.mormonhaven.com/shortj.htm  Here goes:   A man: God, how much is a million dollars to you?      God: It is but a penny. A man: God, how long is a million years to you?          God: It is but a second. A man: God, could you please give me a penny?          God: Sure, just a second. .  As I reported in our newsletter, matters of time and money are fitting topics for my son. He is very much aware of looming SATs and the cost of his first car. I tell him to “stay tuned.”    Cheryl: What’s your favorite location from your Jeopardy! Clue Crew travels?   Me: That’s a tough question. We’ve been to over 25 countries in the past seven years. Our adventures have been astounding. You are welcome to check out the Jeopardy! web page and click on “Clue Crew.” You’ll find clips of our many travels. [www.jeopardy.com]   Cheryl: Sounds great. Any last thing you’d like to share?   Me: Well, yes. A few days ago, I received online ads from three retailers. I shouldn’t be surprised as this is customary during new year’s sales. However, I found it curious that they all had gifts or services that support remembrance and hope—special topics for me. I’ve listed them on my blog page entitled “Inspirational Resources.” I encourage your readers to check out Red Envelope, Day Spring, and Lilly’s Reminders. Thanks for letting me share this information.   Cheryl: You’re welcome. That’s our time for now. See you next time?   Me: Absolutely, and thank you! The pleasure’s all mine. (wink, wink) Topic of the Day  D.1. "Youth In Those Old Bones" December 8, 2007   It is not an uncommon lament to turn a “certain age” and wonder when it occurred. So, I’m not sure I bring anything new to the topic of growing old… I mean "older." I just find it fascinating that I am no longer that cute young “thang” of yesteryear. I’ve been “older” for a while, but it still catches me by surprise when I’m called “ma’am."   What often triggers these disconcertment is a conversation that requires a time stamp. For example, I recently had a delightful reunion with childhood church friends. My mind was flooded with events of the past like fundraiser car washes and lunches at a nearby greasy spoon. Then the question came up, “How long ago was that?” I did the math and I sounded like my grandmother's feeble voice saying: “Oh child, that was way back in nineteen-aught something or other…” While a bit of an exaggeration, it was in fact over thirty years ago. Thirty years!   From similar reunions, I’ve learned that my peers have grandchildren the age of my kids. Not too long ago, I took my 10-year-old daughter shopping and the store clerk complimented my “granddaughter’s” good behavior. What! Early and late childbearing and stepchildren can explain this time warp, nevertheless it feels odd. Did I mention I thought I was still a cute young thing?   Not long ago, I was idling time with colleagues of mine. The conversation turned to a game of “Where were you when?” My instinct was to assume the classic query about President Kennedy’s assassination. I remember the day vividly, even though I was eight years old. To my surprise, the history my group wanted to talk about was…(pause here for effect) …OJ Simpson’s infamous Bronco chase. Okay, I suppose that’s fair game—I played along. I stated that I was getting the floors replaced in my third home. One of my colleagues raised her hand and said that she was coming out of recess that day. Yes, recess from junior high school. Did I mention I thought I was still a cute young thing?   Here’s another story. My young nephew remarked that Lauryn Hill’s “Killing Me Softly” was a remake of a Luther Vandross song. I shook my head incredulously and then shared the "history" of Roberta Flack. Even sadder, the 1996 song by Lauryn Hill of the Fugees is history to young people today.   Reminders abound of passing time. Yet when I’m surprised by them, I think of family, photos, and mementos that account for my age. Further, being older provides context for world events, creating hope instead of fear. I can lovingly embrace the recollections of folk a bit older than me. As well, I talk to young people and stay open to new experiences—hope also lives there.