Gratitude Friday - Music

Gosh, I realize that I haven't posted a Gratitude Friday post in such a long time. It's not that I'm not grateful for things...it's just that sometimes I just don't get the inspiration to write about anything in particular and I don't want to ramble about just anything. But today, as I was driving to work and I was listening to my iPod in the car, I realized that I am truly grateful for music. Music can move me to tears or bring a big smile to my face. I have a really good memory for music and so I remember times in my past when a particular song was playing. When I hear the song now, it will instantly bring me back to that place. For instance, when I hear "Harbor Lights" by Boz Scaggs, I am transported back to my Senior Prom so many years ago and being in heaven slow dancing with my then special guy. Or when I hear "A Bridge Over Troubled Water", I remember sitting with my cousin in Italy and feeling so special because I could sing along to an English-speaking song. All those memories come fleeting back to me whenever I hear those songs.

I like all sorts of music, except maybe classical and opera. I'm not sure why I never really gained an appreciation for these, but I just didn't. And for me, music is all about the emotion that it imparts. Classical music makes me nervous. The changes in tempo and rhythm leave me feeling on the edge and jittery. I enjoy pieces that are melodic, those that have meaningful words, and those that have a great beat. Yes, even rap and hip hop!!

I have an extensive collection of Italian music as well. I think Italian lyrics are always so romantic and beautiful. I can picture myself having someone sing those beautiful words to me!! At times, I can even daydream about it. Whenver I am on a plane, I have the iPod earphones in my ear and I will seldom be moving along to the beat in my seat! I call it "seat dancing"!!

Music is all about memories for me, as smell is for lots of people. It reminds me of places, people, events, and so many other things.

Here's a special Thank you to all the musicians for their contributions to my happiness!!

Dancing the Night Away

Last night, Da Mario's restaurant in Saratoga hosted their annual Italian Festa. This was the first time that I attended since my husband and I just discovered this gem of a restaurant about 8 months ago. My date for the evening was my new friend, Melissa. And we had a wonderful girl's night out. The atmosphere was electric with live Italian music played by Giuseppe and Dino (they do this when they are not being waiters at the restaurant!!) Sandro, the owner, was busy getting everyone out onto the dance floor. Both old and new Italian tunes were played and everyone was dancing. We even did a conga line which went through the kitchen and out into the back parking lot and then around the building to the front of the restaurant!! Saratoga hasn't been this lively for a long time!!! But not only did they have dancing - they had a great buffet with their amazing food, and unlimited wine!! The staff was attentive and always made sure your glass was full! All in all, I'd have to say it was a total success for the restaurant and all the guests! Can't wait for next year's event!!!!!!

Italian Festa in San Jose

Last night, we attended the Italian Family Festa in the Willow Glen neighborhood of San Jose. It was a great event!!! There was so much activity on Lincoln Ave! From street vendors, to food booths, to wine stalls - all were bustling. But, by far, the best entertainment was the live music. We stood (yes, standing room only was left) to listen to Italica! They played traditional Italian music with an upbeat! The energy was electrifying and you couldn't help but move to the beat! Just watching the little kids out dancing, along with those who actually know some dance steps kicking up their heels, was so much fun. Of course, it helped that the evening was absolutely spectacular - warm with a slight breeze! And being with good friends - what more could we ask for :)