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"The soup that won the war."

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With the December wintry days comes the desire for comfort foods to warm the body all the way to the bone. It is not unusual to find stew, chilli, gumbo and soup on the daily menu. Up for celebration is a special soup with quite a bit of history behind its creation according to legend.

Taste of History & The Original Philiadelphia Pepper Pop Soup
Click HERE!

December 29 is...
Pepper Pot Day

Pepperpot Recipe with Lamb


A Bit of 'Pepper Pot' History According to Legend...
In the midst of war, there was always the existence of a battle for food: “Philadelphia Pepper Pot soup” is a thick spicy soup first created on December 29, 1777. During the Revolutionary War, an exceptionally harsh, miserable winter was experience by the rag-tag Continental Army band of some 10,000 troops in Valley Forge. Officially, the basic ration per man per day was a pound of bread, a pound of meat or fish, a quart of beer, and a pint of milk. In reality the army often went days without bread, or meat, or both. The absence of meat almost led to mutiny for the quite literally, half-naked, diseased and starving troops, along with the accompanying women and children.

General Washington instruction his chief cook, Christopher Ludwick, to gather whatever food he could find to feed the frail soldiers. In Washington's own words as the story goes , make a soup “that will warm and strengthen the body of a soldier and inspire his flagging spirit.” The chef was able to find scraps of beef tripe, vegetables, and a lot of pepper. He mixed the ingredients together with some other seasonings and created the hot spicy soup we now know as pepper pot. It became known as "the soup that won the war."
Compare the Philadelphia Pepper Pot to one labeled 'Authentic' Pepper Pot...
Philadelphia Pepper Pot Soup.
Sliced onion, 1/4 cup each 1/2 lb. honeycomb tripe, cut in cubes, chopped celery, chopped green peppers, 11/2 cups potato cubes, 4 tablespoons butter, 1/2 teaspoon peppercorns, finely pounded, 31/2 tablespoons flour, 5 cups hot White Stock, 3/4 tablespoon salt, 1/2 cup heavy cream.
Cook vegetables in three tablespoons butter fifteen minutes; add flour, and stir until well mixed; then add remaining ingredients except cream. Cover, and let cook one hour. Just before serving, add cream and remaining butter.
 
Authentic Pepper Pot Soup (Recipe)

Pepper Pot is also a Caribbean dish and is the national dish of Guyana...

http://jet-chef.blogspot.com/2008/12/today-is-pepper-pot-day.html
 Guyana Pepper Pot (Recipe)

http://www.photochefs.com/2014/02/13/a-bowl-of-pepperpot-soup/
 Jamaican Pepper Pot (Recipe)

 There are many different versions of the soup, but they all are a hot and spicy dish...

http://jet-chef.blogspot.com/2008/12/today-is-pepper-pot-day.html
 Pepper Pot Soup (Recipe)

http://www.saveur.com/article/Recipes/Classic-Pepper-Pot
 Classic Pepper Pot (Recipe)




Is your mouth watering yet?


yum, yum, yum . . . yummy!



Next on the Calendar...All things BACON!

Texas: Authentic Western Snapshots (amid Colors of Splendor)

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This Day in History: December 29, 1845

Texas,The Lone Star State, The Beef State, The Banner State, The Blizzard State, The Jumbo State

Texas State Motto: Friendship 

A Bit of Trivia...

Remember the Alamo
The Alamo was once a Spanish mission that was turned into a battleground for Texas independence. Mexican soldiers, lead by Santa Anna, outnumbered, attacked, and defeated the Texans and Tejanos who sought refuge in the mission. The quote, “Remember the Alamo” was the war cry of those soldiers who later attacked and defeated Santa Anna. The Alamo is considered the cradle of Texas liberty and the state's most popular historic site.

Bluebonnet Lake Vista Texas Sunset  
A hardy winter annual native to Texas, the Bluebonnet was adopted as the "State Flower of Texas". This is the most commonly seen variety along roadsides and in uncultivated pastures throughout the state. Flowers are densely arranged on a spike with a characteristic ice white terminal tip.
How did Texas get its name?
Texas is from the Caddo Indian word "teyshas" (meaning "friends" or "allies"). In the 1540s Spanish explorers took this to be a tribal name, recording it as Teyas or Tejas. It came eventually to mean an area north of the Rio Grande and east of New Mexico. The alliance concept is also incorporated into the state motto, which is simply "Friendship."
Probably the best known nickname for Texas is The Lone Star State, which originates from the star on the 1836 flag of the Republic of TexasThis flag, and subsequent variations of it, all featured a lone star, representing defiance, pride and — most importantly — independence from Mexico. The world-famous "Lone Star" is not only found on the Texas flag but also the great seal, the state commemorative quarter, and is recognized as the official state gemstone cut of Texas. Reference to The Beef Stateis perhaps more likely to be heard in connection with Nebraska; however, "The Beef State" is also one of the nicknames for Texas. This is attributed to the state's cattle ranching and beef production. The nickname, The Banner State, signifies a leading position, a front-runner, and probably originated from Texas' political influence based on her large population. Texas has also been called The Blizzard State because of the frequent wind storms which sweep over the state.
And finally...Texas became known as The Jumbo State. In 1882, P.T. Barnum brought the largest African elephant ever kept in captivity from London to the United States to be used in his circus. The elephant's name was Jumbo. The elephant came to signify anything that was unusually large. Texas, the largest state in the Union, became known as "The Jumbo State" at that time.
http://www.smithsonianchannel.com/sc/web/series/701/aerial-america/3396082/texas
To capture Texas, you need to go big, and this aerial exploration spans thousands of square miles to reveal the great sites of the Lone Star State. Witness its lush forests, forbidding deserts, and shimmering modern cities. High-altitude views of landmarks reveal a rich, complex past where bloody battles for independence began and where the era of American idealism ended one dark November day. From humble beginnings to boastful proclamations, see why "everything's bigger in Texas."
The first European setters in Texas were Spanish missionaries who founded San Antonio in 1718. The frontier forts and American Indian Warssilent sentinels of a bygone era, are a testament to the frontier days of Texas. African-Americans, European immigrants, and Anglo-Americans came to remote regions of Texas to guard the mail routes and wagon roads, and to protect the settlers moving west. After many smaller insurrections, the Texas Revolution secured Texas' independence from Mexico in 1835. Texas eventually negotiated with the United States and joined the Union on December 29, 1845, as the 28th state. The largest river in Texas is the Rio Grande and the capital of Texas is Austin.

Texas is located in the south central part of the United States.

Texas State Flag

Texas State Seal

Texas State Seal Reverse


Texas boasts a plethora of designated state emblems. Catch a few in the video with some close-ups presented afterward.
Texas State Sport: Rodeo

http://www.statesymbolsusa.org/Texas/Flower_Bluebonnet.html
Texas State Flower: The Bluebonnet

Texas State Bird: Mockingbird







http://www.statesymbolsusa.org/Texas/Prickly_Pear_Cactus.html

Texas State Shell: The Lightening Whelk

In 2009, a resolution was passed to amend the name of the Lone Star State Dinosaur changing it from the Braciosaurus to Paluxysaurus Jonesi. It is estimated that this dinosaur measured 70 feet long and 12 feet high at the  shoulder, and weighed as much as 20 tons.
 For all State Symbols of Texas click HERE!


Authentic Western Snapshots
(amid Colors of Splendor)


Intriguing shades of brown
Absorbed in the serene
Hues of espresso and latte
 Monopolize the scene


  Authentic Western snapshots
Roping of longhorn steer
Boots, spurs, cowboy hats
 True Texas atmosphere


Dotting the horizon
Pump jack dinosaurs appear
 Some up close and personal
Pumping oil year after year
 

See beyond the obvious
  Grandeur to behold
Tallgrass prairies during sunset
Shimmer as spun gold

http://handofbelapeck.typepad.com/blog/2013/02/wednesday-wanderer-blue-bonnets-of-johnson-county.html

Multi-faceted splendor
Fields, pastures, open ranges
Bold as though hand painted
As each season changes


Once twiggy mundane landscapes
Now blankets of bluebonnet blooms
Petals stretch along countryside roads
Aromatic scents, finest perfumes

http://ericaseyes.blogspot.com/2009/08/blue-skies-in-texas.html

Under the expanse of bluest skies
'Til the turn of each new century
Eyes blink at shutter speed
Etching splendor into memory




Texas Facts and Trivia





During 2014, all 50 states have been covered according to the month in which each became a state of the union. Learn more about America, the Beautiful - the home of the free and the land of the brave. Take time to See the USA! Flying Over America will take your breath away so don't forget to exhale! 

After clicking the links above, click the image below, visit each state, but especially your home state!

http://www.pinterest.com/sharlashults/the-united-states-of-america/

America's Long Indian Wars: The Final Chapter

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This Day in History: December 29, 1890 


How did it begin, this hate for the Indian nation? They were, after all, native to America well before the arrival of the "white man." It was many thousands of years before the arrival of Christopher Columbus ships that a different group of people inhabited America: the nomadic ancestors of modern Native Americans. This, in fact, occurred more than 12,000 years ago when a land bridge connected Asia to what is now called Alaska.

So, why so much hatred? Did the so-called savages have no regard for human life? Was the "white man" solely a man of peace? While not all intentions may have been of a peaceful nature, did the savagery not hold true also for the whites? Were the buffalo not slaughtered simply to satisfy the greed of trappers and fur traders, whereas for the Indian, the buffalo was a necessary source for survival? Did Indian beliefs encompass rituals of devil worship and demons or were their beliefs something of a totally different spiritual nature connected to the land and totally misunderstood?


To the disbelief of many, not all American Indians were savages. A proud people humbled by their surroundings fought and died trying to preserve their unique heritage, language, cultural practices and spiritual beliefs. One of the saddest episodes in our history had already occurred (1838) when the Cherokee Nation stripped of their land was herded like cattle and forced to march a thousand miles through the wilderness under horrible conditions. The route they traversed, as well as the journey itself, became known as "The Trail of Tears" or, as a direct translation from Cherokee, "The Trail Where They Cried" (Nunna daul Tsuny.").

Historical Documents: Trail of Tears
By 1890, the armed resistance was over with the last of the Sioux being forced into reservation life at gunpoint. Life for the Indian nation as they new it was over. The only avenue left - spiritual guidance, not a conjuring up of spells and calling upon demonic souls but instead a spiritual awakening among the tribes of North America. Thus, entered the "Ghost Dance." 

Native Americans Online
The Native Americans believe we all have spirits, but while ghosts are generally considered evil spirits, the Ghost Dance Movement embodied hope with visions of the future without whites.


Within the Ghost Dance spiritual movement, thousands of Native Americans only longed to have their land restored and be rid of the white man. Unfortunately, the movement resulted in violence as many innocent Native Americans were slaughtered needlessly. On this day, December 29, 1890, in the final chapter of America's long Indian wars, the U.S. Cavalry kills 146 Sioux (men, women and children) at Wounded Knee on the Pine Ridge reservation in South Dakota. Read MORE. . . 

A Proud People
  Unhealed Wounds

Were their desires
indeed so bad
for the government
to take all they had?

Were their beliefs
indeed so wrong
for them to be stripped
of everything they owned?

How did it begin
this hatred so grave
of a life pure and simple
strong and brave? 

Within these questions
lies few answers
as hated continues
spreading like cancers

While no longer limited
to a single race
the fires still burn
at a rapid pace

Unhealed wounds
seethe beneath the skin
 suppressing real feelings
peace will never win

 ©12/29/2012
Sharla Lee Shults


Engineering Tragedy

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This Day in History: December 29, 1876

Bridges are surrounded by history...phenomenal designs, such as the Golden Gate Bridge, as well as railroad trestle bridges. Each share stories of remarkable engineering but neither without its share of tragedy. In the 20th century, disaster struck the Lacey V. Murrow Memorial Bridge when its place in history was secured by the collapse of the old bridge while under maintenance. This event is documented as The Biggest Thing Afloat Sinks since Murrow Memorial Bridge is one of the longest floating bridges in the world.



  • Today's Engineering Tragedy reflects the disaster of a railroad trestle bridge in Ashtabula, Ohio that occurred much earlier than that of the sinking Murrow Memorial Bridge. Unlike the earlier tragedy where lives were spared, such was not the case on this day. The lives of those who were spared forever changed with even more tragedy ensuing in the aftermath of heartache and devastation.


    Go behind the scenes of the Engineering Tragedy documentary film 
    for a closer look at the story about the Ashtabula Train Disaster of 1876.

       
    A Sneak Peak into the Collapse and Crash...
    At 7:27 p.m. the No. 5 rounded the final bend. Running between 10 to 15 miles per hour, she began her slow crawl across the bridge. At first the crossing proceeded normally. The bridge creaked as always, but held as the Socrates, the Columbia, and then the first few cars pushed forward onto the north side of the bridge. At 7:28 p.m. the engineer of the Socrates, Dan McGuire, heard the distinct sound of a loud crack. He knew immediately something was wrong, terribly wrong.
    The bridge was breaking apart. The engineer of the Socrates pulled the throttle and ran his engine the remaining few feet to the abutment and to safety. The other cars were dragged forward when the second engine, The Columbia, broke from the Socrates, crashed into the abutment, and fell in the gorge. Passengers were jostled and thrown about by a violent series of bumps when the cars derailed and the track disintegrated underneath them. Then there was darkness…silence…falling. Cars began to crash one by one into the frozen creek. It was a sickening and horrifying sound as the first cars slammed into the gorge, then the rest, falling or being launched off the edge, struck the car in front of it. [Source: Engineering Tragedy]
    When the all-iron railroad bridge collapsed during a raging blizzard, it sent the luxury train, The Pacific Express No. 5, plummeting 70ft into the frozen river. Of the 172 souls that were on board, only 75 survived (43.6%), most with serious injuries. Of the 97 who perished (56.4%), 47 were identified, 50 were unidentifiable. Loss of life did not reach the numbers of the Titanic since its passenger and crew capacity was much less but this incident has been declared the worst bridge collapse and train disaster of the 19th century in the United States.
      
    http://engineeringtragedy.com/The_Story.html
    Before

    http://engineeringtragedy.com/The_Story.html
     After

Time in a Bottle

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Today in Music History: December 29

Many performers have gone before their time. Some became members of the bizarre 27 Club while still in their prime. Others were victims of horrendous accidents, overdoses (drugs & alcohol), many plane crashes. Memorable songs and performances hold a special place in our hearts as we listen over and over again to the limited number of recordings left behind. So much music has died through the decades as epitomized in American Pie. Successful chart toppers were not realized in life for many whose songs hit the top of the charts after lives were cut short.

Welcome into the Spotlight...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Croce
Jim Croce in 1972, photographed by Ingrid Croce.

http://www.biography.com/people/jim-croce-20872021
Jim Croce:an American singer/songwriter of upbeat and empathetic, melancholy songs with a visually-rich lyrical style

Between 1966 and 1973, Croce released five studio albums and 11 singles. His singles "Bad, Bad Leroy Brown" and "Time in a Bottle" were both number one hits on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. The album I Got a Name released on December 1, 1973 included three hits: "Workin' at the Car Wash Blues", "I'll Have to Say I Love You in a Song", and the title song, which had been used as the theme to the film The Last American Hero released two months prior to his death. Jim Croce did not take music seriously until he studied at Villanova University, where he majored in psychology and minored in German. He graduated with a Bachelor degree in 1965. Croce was a member of the Villanova Singers and the Villanova Spires. When the Spires performed off-campus or made recordings, they were known as The Coventry Lads. Croce was also a student disc jockey at WKVU (which has since become WXVU). [Source: wikipedia.com]
Songfacts:Jim Croce wrote this song the night that he found out his wife, Ingrid, was pregnant. The couple had been married for five years, and Ingrid found out she was pregnant when she went to a fertility specialist. She recalls a mix of terror and delight in Jim's reaction when she told him the news. The child was a boy named Adrian, who grew up to become the singer-songwriter A.J. Croce.
The song was never intended to be a single - it was released on Croce's first major-label solo LP You Don't Mess Around With Jim in 1972. The album had already yielded the #8 title track and #17 "Operator (That's Not the Way It Feels)." His second LP, Life And Times, had given Croce his first #1 single, "Bad, Bad Leroy Brown.""Time In A Bottle" became a hit over a year after it was first released when it was used in the ABC made-for-TV movie She Lives, about a woman dying of cancer.
1973Jim Croce scored his second No.1 US single of the year when 'Time In A Bottle' went to the top of the charts 14 weeks after he was killed in a plane crash. On September 30, 1973 a plane carrying Croce and five other people crashed upon takeoff as he was leaving one college venue to travel to another 70 miles away. He was 30 years old.
No.1 singles on this day...



  • 1960 Cliff Richard was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'I Love You'. The singers fourth UK No.1 and his first Xmas No.1.

  • 1984Band Aid were at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Do They Know It's Christmas?' and Madonna was at No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Like A Virgin.'
  • 1990 Cliff Richard has his 12th UK No.1 single with 'Saviour's Day', his 13th UK No.1 single and his second Christmas chart topper.
 
No. 1 Albums on This Day... 

1999 UK music paper The Melody Maker published it's Music of the Millennium Poll of albums placing The Smiths 'The Queen Is Dead' at No.1.
2012 According to sales data, Adele’s 21had overtaken Oasis’ (What’s The Story) Morning Glory? to become the UK’s fourth biggest selling album of all-time. Latest data confirmed that, Oasis’ 1995 second album had sold 4,555,000 copies to date, while Adele’s 21 has surged ahead with sales of over 4,562,000 copies. The news came just over a year since 21 overtook Amy Winehouse’s Back To Black to become the UK's biggest selling album of the 21st Century.


Yes! It really happened...

1999Three ferrets named Beckham, Posh Spice and Baby Spice were used to lay power cables for a rock concert being held in Greenwich, London, England, (workers were not allowed to dig up the turf at the Royal Park). Organizers found that rods could not push the cables through the tiny tunnels, which frequently bend and dog-leg. The ferrets were eased into tiny nylon harnesses with wires which where then attached to a rope, the animals ran into a series of ducts which were under the stage like rabbit runs, leading the cables with them. The ferrets instinctively make for any hole in the ground and are enticed to the end of the duct by a slab of smelly meat. The New Years Eve concert featured Simply Red, Eurythmics and Bryan Ferry.




And the music goes on beating to the rhythm of the changing times...
  



All things BACON!

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Pork, aka the other white meat, has found itself moving up and down the scales of nutritional value for years. The problem being its fat content, which is actually what makes pork taste so good. One of the most popular pork cuts is, of course, bacon. The aroma. The taste. Hard to beat, especially at breakfast time!

American Bacon, or “streaky bacon” as the British like to call it, is generally cut from the fatty sides of a pig’s belly, thus, the name 'Pork Belly'. The flavor of bacon is so delicious people have been known to eat it like candy...one cannot stop with just one piece. Wouldn't that be like eating one potato chip? Bacon can definitely be described as the 'Meat Candy'. Now Canadian Bacon, known as “back bacon” to the English, is made up of the 'tender loins' located on the back of Piglet and his swine friends. By this time, you are probably wondering why all the discussion about bacon. It's celebration time!   

December 30 is...
Another Bacon Day



During the latter part of the year, Bacon lovers get a whole month (November) and two special days (September and December) devoted to the 'pork belly', 'meat candy' and 'tender loin' of the pig. While International Bacon Day or simply Bacon Day is an unofficial observance held on the Saturday before Labor Day in the United States (Labor Day is traditionally the first Monday of September), other factions celebrate Bacon Day on December 30th. 

http://www.pinterest.com/cpparalegal/my-love-for-bacon/
For the bacoholics, here are some very unusual bacon ideas that avoids the fat and calories with some serving as terrific gag gifts...

http://www.elizabethany.com/2012/12/gift-guide-for-bacon-lovers.html 
Like the sweet taste with your bacon? Perhaps this dark red bacon-flavored frosting is a dream come true! Keep a tube of Bacon Frosting on hand to finish off a dessert masterpiece, add sweet smoky delight to any dish, or indulge in a delicious squirt right onto your tongue. Rumor has it the astronauts have been asking for bacon in a tube for decades!
  
Jelly Beans have been around for eons loved by kids and adults alike. What a grand idea to simply pop a jelly bean into your mouth when a bacon craving hits! Quick & simple treat convenient to have on hand any time. Um-m-m-m? But...what about the taste? Is it possible to capture the succulence of bacon sizzlin' in the pan? Watch the video, then, perhaps try some of your own. You be the judge!
http://mcphee.com/shop/bacon-soap.html
Now, this just might be a bit much! Think about the smell of your favorite 'greasy spoon' restaurant. Yep, the one that fries everything, seasons with bacon grease and makes the best country breakfast in town. Um-m-m-m? Do you want your whole body to smell like your breakfast? BTW, Bacon Soap is the soap preferred by dogs.
This just may be taking the love of bacon a little too far! 'Nuff said!


Setting the humor aside, we are all familiar with the deliciousness of bacon that can accent almost any type of food. Here are a few suggestions...
 http://www.quickneasyrecipes.net/breakfast/
 Bacon-Egg Breakfast Cups (Recipe)

http://kitchenrunway.com/maple-bacon-apple-baked-french-toast/ 
Maple Bacon & Apple Baked French Toast (Recipe)

http://paleospirit.com/2013/bacon-heirloom-tomato-frittata-with-basil/
 Bacon Heirloom Tomato Frittata with Basil (Recipe)

http://passthesushi.com/maple-french-toast-bacon-cupcakes/
Maple French Toast & Bacon Cupcakes (Recipe)

http://www.porkbeinspired.com/recipes/sriracha-bacon-caramel-popcorn/
Sriracha Bacon Caramel Popcorn (Recipe)
 
http://www.porkbeinspired.com/recipes/bacon-wrapped-pork-loin-with-peach--blue-cheese-stuffing/
 Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Pork Loin (Recipe)

http://peggygurney.com/recipes/bacon-cheese-potatoes/

Bacon Cheese Potato Casserole (Recipe)

 A Bit of 'Piggy' Knowledge...
It is common knowledge that bacon is pork, thus, coming from the pig. Our thoughts now shift from where bacon comes from to more specifically Where Bacon Comes From on a Pig.
The side cut has more meat and less fat than the belly. Bacon may be prepared from either of two distinct back cuts: fatback, which is almost pure fat, and pork loin, which is very lean. Bacon-cured pork loin is known as back bacon.
A definition of heaven: Homemade bacon!

Ready for some bacon? Only one thing missing in the video for enticement: smell-o-vision!



*****

Is your mouth watering yet?
 


yum, yum, yum . . . yummy!



Next on the Calendar... Stay Tuned!



Shindig!

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Today in Music History: December 30

Google's definition of a 'shindig' is a large, lively party, especially one celebrating something. It is an interesting little word with spellings with and without a hyphen. The origin of the term 'shin-dig' or 'shindig' can be found at World Wide Words. For sure, it is a perfect title for an American television musical variety series. The actual show Shindig! ran from 1964 - 1966 featuring the biggest acts in rock 'n' roll performing their latest hits. 
Top American and British recording artists that were featured included Marvin Gaye, Petulia Clark, Jackie Wilson, Jerry Lee Lewis, Ian Whitcomb, The Rolling Stones and Manfred Mann. Jimmy O'Neil was the series host. Weekly regulars included The Blossoms, featuring Darlene Love , " The Shindig Dancers", Bobby Sherman, The Shindogs rock band and The Righteous Brothers who debuted their now legendary "You've Lost That Loving Feeling". Regular house band members included Billy Preston and Glenn Campbell.
Howdy-hi, Shindiggers! We've got a 'Shindig!' for you that's so far in, it's out of sight! ~Jimmy O'Neil's opening line for each show.





1965The Kinks, The Who, Manfred Man, The Hollies and Gerry and the Pacemakers all appeared on tonight's episode of TV pop show 'Shindig!' The US series featured "British invasion" bands and performers throughout its run.
  • No.1 singles & other hits on this day...



    1967The Beatles scored their 15th US No.1 with 'Hello Goodbye', Gladys Knight and the Pips were at No.2 with 'I Heard It Through The Grapevine' and The Monkees at No.3 with 'Daydream Believer'.
    2001Nickelback went to No.1 on the US singles chart with 'How You Remind Me'. In an interview with MTV, Nickelback's lead singer Chad Kroeger said that he wrote the song about his old girlfriend Jodi, who he had a rather dysfunctional relationship with. He kept the lyrics very ambiguous, however, which accounts for much of the song's success, as many people could relate to an ex who started pointing out all of your faults at the same time and caused considerable heartbreak: "This time I'm mistaken, for handing you a heart worth breaking."
 
2013Bruce Springsteen's latest album 'High Hopes' briefly appeared for download on Amazon's US site for several hours, two weeks ahead of its scheduled release date. Although it was subsequently removed from sale, the record had now appeared on several file-sharing sites. The album's official release date was listed as 14 January.




And the music goes on beating to the rhythm of the changing times...
  

Toast the New Year!

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With the celebration of New Year's Eve comes the ever popular toast of the evening as flutes are raised containing the quintessential wine of celebration and good cheer...festive, bright, sparkling CHAMPAGNE! There are many sparkling wines on the market but there is only one champagne and it is produced exclusively within the Champagne region of France, from which it takes its name. 


December 31 is...

National Champagne Day


There is a bit of controversy over this day's celebration. It is thought the reason everyone celebrates December 31st as National Champagne Day is because of the New Year's Eve saying - "It's Champagne Day!" It is champagne day as far as the New Year's celebration goes but as far as the National Holiday, it is more likely August 4.

Without further ado, break open a bottle of bubbly! Raise your glasses with a toast of good cheer! Prepare to ring out the old and ring in the new at the midnight hour. Maybe even start celebrating early by playing host to a champagne breakfast. Since the beverage is classy champagne, the accompanying breakfast should be of a similarly high standard, including rich foods, such as, salmon, caviar, chocolate or pastries, Eggs Benedict... foods which offer a little more flair than the ordinary 'bacon & eggs' breakfast. Not a bad way to end the year...good food, good cheer!

http://www.foxnews.com/leisure/2014/12/30/best-champagne-alternatives-for-festive-and-affordable-new-year-fete/Not a Champagne drinker?  
Perhaps you are not a connoisseur of the fine wine, Champagne. This is a possibility for various reasons but the number one reason is more than likely its cost. After all, the average price of Champagne has risen gradually since 2007 and runs the range of around $50–$55 per bottle — with specialty bottles costing easily three to five times that much. Never fear! There are alternatives! Check out the Best Champagne alternatives for a festive and affordable New Year's fête!

One year ends, another begins
Family & friends gather around
Tradition never changes
Anticipating that final sound

'Tis cause for celebration
 Not occasion for feeling blue
Letting bygones be forgotten
Saying hello, bidding adieu

Pop the cork, pour the bubbly
Raise glasses with good cheer
Ring out the old, ring in the new
Shouting "Happy New Year!"



Hits, Debuts & Trivia

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Today in Music History: December 31

Here we are at the end of yet another year! New Year's Eve of decades past leaves a couple of hits in its wake, a few live debuts and definitely its share of tidbits of music trivia. Happy New Year!


  • No.1 Hits


    1955 Based on sales from stores, radio and jukebox plays Billboard named 'Unchained Melody' by Les Baxter the No.1 US song of 1955.
    1966The Monkees started a 7-week run at No.1 on the US singles charts with the Neil Diamond song 'I'm A Believer'. Also No.1 in the UK in 1967.
     

    Live Debuts

    1961The Beach Boys made their live debut using their new name when they appeared at Long Beach Civic Auditorium, California.
    1963The Kinks made their live debut when they played at the Lotus House Restaurant, London. Now recognized as one of the most important and influential rock acts of the era, brothers Ray Davies and Dave Davies remained members throughout the group's 32-year run.
    1973 Australian band AC/DC made their live debut when they appeared at Chequers Bar in Sydney.

    1991Ted Nugent donated 200 pounds of venison to a Salvation Army soup kitchen in Detroit with the message 'I kill it, you grill it'.


    An X-rated D12 shirt has become the highest-selling t-shirt of the year in the UK, according to retailer HMV. The shirt, which features singers Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera, was HMV's best selling t-shirt, outselling shirts for Limp Bizkit, Blink 182 and Slipknot. D12 collaborator Eminem has referred to both singers in his lyrics. Meanwhile the biggest-selling poster and calendar for 2001 went to our very own pop princess Kylie Minogue.
    2001 UK record chain HMV listed the best selling music products over Christmas: 'No Angel' by Dido was the best selling album, Kylie Minogue sold the most calendars, Kurt Cobain: 'Heavier Than Heaven'was the best selling book and D-12T-Shirtwas listed as the No.1 seller.
    2003 Ringtones.co.uk announced that Beyoncé's No. 1 hit 'Crazy In Love' was the best selling mobile ringtone of the year. 'Fly On The Wings Of Love' by XTM was the second biggest ringtone and R. Kelly's 'Ignition' was third.

    2005 The John Lennon song Imagine was voted the nation's favorite song a quarter of a century after his death. A UK radio station conducted the poll of 7,000 listeners. The Beatles were voted into second and third place with 'Hey Jude' and 'Let It Be.'





And the music goes on beating to the rhythm of the changing times...
  

What is in your 2014 Time Capsule?

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Okay, everyone, only a few hours remaining...Goodbye, 2014 & Hello, 2015! Time to reflect back on the past year suspending in time those moments which are held dear to our hearts...changes, births, deaths, happy times, heartache. All the events that are part of life. There is archive after archive holding memorabilia of the past but what holds that which is personal?  Diaries, still photographs, videos, movies perhaps. As you look back over the course of the past year, what moments do you want to capture in 2014 to be viewed in the future?

Think time capsule. During your youthful years, did you ever participate in burying a time capsule, perhaps as a part of a school project or simply with a few friends? Maybe you created your own treasury of keepsakes planting it under a rock or mound of earth in the backyard, stashed away in the attic or hidden behind the paneling of a wall in your home. Perhaps it contained some kitschy souvenirs—gadgets and record albums and the like. 

Time capsules are not limited to any one particular 'container' so to speak. They can be as small and simple as a cigar box or a whole trunk full of stuff of the times. Within the technological age of the 21st century, the time capsule can even be digital holding gigabytes of data, photos, videos, audio files, etc. 

What is in your 2014 Time Capsule? Your time capsule is a step back in time preserved until time for its resurrection. Prepare a time capsule either personal items in a box or digitally to be re-examined a year from now at the dawning of 2016. What has changed your life in a significant way? What is your favorite food? What do you feel you could NOT live without? What will you do differently during 2015? These are just a few thought questions to ponder but get to work and get it laid to rest...at least for a year. It will be interesting to re-investigate 2014 at the end of 2015 when 2016 arrives.


AULD LANG SYNE 2014

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Today in Music History: December 31, 1997

In less than two hours, we will pay witness to the end of 2014. With its ending comes a new beginning: A new year filled with promise and hope. Promises and hopes come in the form of resolutions for some while others enter the year without resolve.



Embrace the past. . .

Before looking ahead, let's step back in time to the year 1997. It was on this day, December 31, 1997, when an American Hall of Fame pianist made his last appearance on this earth thereby no longer performing before live audiences.
 
Do you remember Floyd Cramer?
(October 27, 1933 – December 31, 1997)
 

Floyd Cramer was an American Hall of Fame pianist who was one of the architects of the "Nashville sound". He was known for his "slip note" piano style, where an out-of-key note slides into the correct note. Wikipedia

Click on the caboose and enjoy the scenery!

http://www.openmyeyeslord.net/Train%20Ride.swf
 


Take the Train Along with Me! Enjoy the music of Floyd Cramer. Awesome slideshow!

Empower the present. . .


We are in the final hours of New Year's Eve reflecting upon the past year and waiting in anticipation the arrival of 2015! With New Year's Eve comes immense celebration: partying well into the night and even beyond the bewitching, magical midnight hour. Families and friends gather to "ring out the old and ring in the new!" amid the socialization of dancing, singing, eating, drinking and watching or lighting fireworks. Many will attend a watchnight service, a late-night Christian church service

As the hands of the clock approach midnight, billions of pairs of eyes worldwide will be fixed upon the dazzling lights and bustling energy of New York City's Times Square. Whether physically present within the square itself or glued to the television screen, adrenalin runs rampant with anticipation. A global tradition awaits commencement. The world holds it breath as the famous New Year's Eve Ball descends slowly...10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, until the clock strikes twelve.Tall and short glasses are raised as voices in unison shout ...
"Happy New Year!"

 History of New Year's Eve
Watch the History of New Year's Eve Times Square Video

Enrich the future. . .


As you move past midnight into the dawn of 2015, may your thoughts be affixed upon resolutions of joy, peace and happiness. Look to the future in ways of enrichment for America: recovery and renewal! Remain attuned to changes that are wanted, more importantly needed, for hope, faith and courage to remain in the forefront of our nation.

Happy New Year! Many blessings for a Happy and Healthy New Year to all our veterans, troops, and their families.

Auld Lang Syne : Lyrics

Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And never brought to mind?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And auld lang syne!

Chorus.-For auld lang syne, my dear,
For auld lang syne.
We'll take a cup o' kindness yet,
For auld lang syne. 

  

 

New Year's Day

January Happenings

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Welcome to the month of...


  

 With the month of January
Comes days of wintry chills
Snow, blizzards, even sunshine
Not without its share of thrills

What's happenin' to celebrate
Is exciting like a ski run
The entire month long
Foodie fun for everyone

Here are the choices
So take your pick
Have a sneak peak
With one quick click
http://www.food.com/recipes/bread-machine/quickandeasy
Bread Machine Baking Month
 *****
http://cafezupas.com/2013/06/celebrate-national-candy-month-3/
 National Candy Month
 *****
 http://www.artoftea.com/wordpress/2014/01/06/celebrate-national-hot-tea-month/
 National Hot Tea Month
*****
 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meat
National Meat Month
 And it is not just about beef!
*****
 http://www.the-socialites-closet.com/2014/01/benefits-oatmeal-skin.html
National Oatmeal Month
 Who says you only have to eat it?
*****
 http://www.deepsouthdish.com/2013/01/more-favorite-soups-for-national-soup.html#axzz3NbtyYBvW
National Soup Month
*****
 http://www.tastesoflizzyt.com/2014/02/10/honey-wheat-bread/
National Wheat Bread Month
 *****
 http://www.thekitchn.com/recipe-prunes-stewed-in-port-w-73953
Prune Breakfast Month
 

Is your mouth watering yet?
 

yum, yum, yum . . . yummy!



Next on the Calendar... Stay Tuned!

She Wrote the Songs

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Today in Music History: January 1

Happy New Year! Welcome to 2015! The music of today's focus reflects upon not only a person with a very successful singing career but also an author and the songwriter/co-songwriter (along with Gerry Goffin) for numerous successes of other recording artists. A string of classic hits and cherished album tracks were released in the 60s for a variety of artists. 

Welcome into the Spotlight...

http://www.theuncool.com/journalism/carole-king-music-review/

http://www.biography.com/people/carole-king-17169764
Carole King: American singer and songwriter who has written or co-written over 400 songs that have been recorded by more than 1,000 artists

Carole King has traveled a long and winding road in her still-going music career. Her birth name is Carole Joan Klein and she has played the piano since the age of 4. In the '50s, Carol Klein changed her name to Carole King, formed a band called the Co-Sines, and made demo records with her friend Paul Simon for $25 a session. While attending college, King met her soon to be song-writing partner, Gerry Goffin, who she eventually married but ultimately divorced. During the sixties, with King writing the music and Goffin the lyrics, they wrote a string of classic songs for a variety of artists.
Songwriting partners Gerry Goffin and Carole King composed a string of classic hits and cherished album tracks for a variety of artists during the sixties. A brief sampling: “Up On the Roof” (the Drifters), “One Fine Day” (the Chiffons), “I’m Into Something Good” (Herman’s Hermits), “Will You Love Me Tomorrow” (the Shirelles), “Take Good Care of My Baby” (Bobby Vee), “Chains” (the Cookies), “Don’t Bring Me Down” (the Animals), “Take a Giant Step” (the Monkees) and “Goin’ Back” (the Byrds). The prolific duo, who remained married for much of the Sixties, even tapped their babysitter to sing one of the songs they’d written, and the result was a Number One hit and a new dance craze: “The Loco-Motion,” by Little Eva. - See more...
http://blogs.forward.com/sisterhood-blog/128725/carole-king-natural-woman/ 

It was not until the 70s when King's successes in her own right came to fruition when she sang her own songs, accompanying herself on the piano, in a series of albums and concerts. Carole King has been one of the most influential songwriters of our time. 

1972Carole King started a three week run at No.1 on the US album chart with 'Music', her second US chart topper. Music is the third album by American singer-songwriter Carole King. It is a continuation of the style laid down in Tapestry. Carole King: Music stayed on the Billboard pop album charts for 44 weeks and was eventually certified platinum.
No.1s on this day...

 
1967The Doors made their first live television appearance lip-synching their first single 'Break on Through' on Shebang, KTLA-TV Channel 5 in Los Angeles. The single peaked No. 126 on the US chart mainly due to lack of airplay after censors objected to the drug use implied by the line "she gets high", which is repeated in the middle section of the song.




And the music goes on beating to the rhythm of the changing times...
  




Cats & Sci-fi

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Happy 'Mew' Year for Cats

 Happy Mew Year Day For Cats

Any cat owner will tell you that cats consider themselves to be far, far superior to us mere mortals. (I resemble that remark!) They most certainly feel entitled and deserving of all that life has to offer (quiet naptime, brushing, treats), so why not have a Happy 'Mew' Year Day For Cats Day just for them? Read MORE...

Have a Meowy Day! Purr-r-r-r-r-r...


 Science Fiction Day 

Sci-fi is a popular genre of books, videos and movies providing a mixture of excitement, adventure, mystery, horror and even romance. What truly makes it so enticing is the ever-lasting question that seeks an answer from the future, "What if that really happened?" January 2 was chosen as National Science Fiction Day because that day is the birthday of science fiction great Isaac Asimov
An influential vision came with a 1950 release, the story collection I, Robot, which looked at human/construct relationships and featured the Three Laws of Robotics. (The narrative would be adapted for a blockbuster starring Will Smith decades later.) Asimov would later be credited with coming up with the term "robotics."[Source: Biography.com]
Revisit or check out science fiction short stories, novels, and movies in celebration of Science Fiction Day!



A Unique Voice

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Today in Music History: January 2

With so many recording artists from the 50s, 60s and 70s sharing the spotlight in 2014, it is a refreshing change to hone in on a performer from the 21st century who has skyrocketed his way to international stardom by way of his unique voice. Drawn to musical theater and opera, at the same time this artist also grew up listening to pop musicians. He was especially interested in artists "who decided not to settle into one particular musical style—people like Paul Simon, who took folk music and put African music on top of it."

Welcome into the Spotlight...

http://blog.platinumrye.com/artist-we-dig-josh-groban/

"I'd like to be able to say that I put my foot in a little of everything, but that I did it intelligently. And if I make mistakes, I want to know that I learned from them."
~Josh Groban

http://www.joshgroban.com/frontpage#
Josh Groban: singer/songwriter/actor who has sky rocketed his way to international stardom

In 2001, Josh Groban burst onto the scene with his self-titled debut album Josh Groban which went double-platinum.He subsequently became a music phenomenom with musical genres to his credit including easy listening, vocal, operatic pop and pop rock. To date, Groban has sold more than 24 million albums worldwide and is the top selling classical artist in the U.S. of the 2000s.

At the age of seventeen, Josh Groban unexpectedly partnered with Celine Dion to sing "The Prayer." This might be the most heavenly duet on earth!  

http://www.pinterest.com/hnanzetta/josh-groban/
Josh Groban is not a typical twenty-something pop singer, and record store owners have had a tough time deciding just what bin to put his CDs in. Many of his songs are contemporary romantic ballads, but Groban, who is classically trained, also performs opera and sings classical songs in Italian, Spanish, and French. Regardless of the fact that he defies classification, Groban's fans number in the millions, and they have no problem locating or buying his music. Since bursting on the scene with his debut album in 2002, the gangly Groban has become a music phenomenon. He was the best-selling new male artist of 2002, and since then he has toured the world, performing to record-breaking crowds of all ages. Read more:
 
2008 Josh Groban was America's top selling artist of 2007, the 26-year-old whose hits included 'You Raise Me Up', had the best-selling album of the year with the Christmas compilation Noel, which sold close to 3.7 million copies. The second biggest seller was the soundtrack for Disney's High School Musical 2. The Eagles were 2007's biggest selling group with sales of 3.58 million albums.

  • No.1 Singles on this day...

    1954Eddie Calvert started a nine-week run at No.1 on the UK singles with 'Oh, Mein Papa'. This was the first No.1 to be recorded at Abbey Road studios in London and stayed at the top of the charts for 9 weeks.

  • 1999 Chef went to No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Chocolate Salty Balls (PS I Love You)'. Chef appeared in the cult TV series South Park, the voice was that of Isaac Hayes (who had a hit with Shaft in 1971).
  • 2005 Winner of TV talent show, X-Factor Steve Brookstein went to No.1 on the UK singles chart with his version of the 1984 Phil Collins song 'Against All Odds'.
  • No.1 Albums on this day...

    1965Elvis Presley went to No.1 on the US album chart with the soundtrack from Roustabout, Presley's eighth No.1.

    1971 The George Harrison album All Things Must Pass started a seven week run at No.1 on the US album chart, making Harrison the first solo Beatle to score a US No.1 album.
    1981 Abba were enjoying their sixth week at No.1 on the UK album chart with Super Trouper.
    1994 Meat Loaf started a three-week run at No.1 on the UK album chart with Bat Out Of Hell 2-Back Into Hell

    2000 Travis started a six-week run at No.1 on the UK album chart with The Man Who.

    2005 Green Day were at No.1 on the UK album chart with their seventh album American Idiot. The album went on to be nominated for seven Grammy Awards, winning the Best Rock Album of 2005.

 

Yes! It really happened...
1968 The entire shipment of John and Yoko's album 'Two Virgins' was seized by authorities in New Jersey due to the full frontal nude photograph of the couple on the cover. The album was eventually wrapped in plain brown paper in record stores.




And the music goes on beating to the rhythm of the changing times...
  















albums
1965, Elvis Presley went to No.1 on the US album chart with the soundtrack from 'Roustabout,' Presley's eighth No.1.

1971, The George Harrison album 'All Things Must Pass' started a seven week run at No.1 on the US album chart, making Harrison the first solo Beatle to score a US No.1 album.

1981, Abba were enjoying their sixth week at No.1 on the UK album chart with 'Super Trouper.'  

1994, Meat Loaf started a three-week run at No.1 on the UK album chart with 'Bat Out Of Hell 2-Back Into Hell.' 

2000, Travis started a six-week run at No.1 on the UK album chart with 'The Man Who.'

2005, Green Day were at No.1 on the UK album chart with their seventh album 'American Idiot.' The album went on to be nominated for seven Grammy Awards, winning the Best Rock Album of 2005.


Cherries & Chocolate

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- See more at: http://www.caterbid.com/blog/?p=3800#sthash.BO5iu6lc.dpuJanuary 3 is...
Cats & Sci-fi                                        Messiness is Part of the Picture!




Facts on Chocolate-Covered Cherries
  • Chocolate covered cherries usually consist of cherries smothered in chocolate sauce and refrigerated overnight.
  • Chocolate covered cherries have been in production since 1864.
  • Cherries are a fruit, a super-fruit which is really good for you.
  • The cherries are covered in sugar before being dipped in the chocolate sauce.
  • Cella’s chocolate covered cherries have a 100 percent liquid center for an extra gooey taste.

 Chocolate Covered Cherries are sold primarily at Christmas and Valentine's Day but can be made at home any time, any day of the year.

The two most common varieties: liquid center & marzipan center


https://www.google.com/search?q=chocolate+covered+cherries+with+liquid+centers+recipe+images&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=-OenVIf_NYKUNriwgagB&ved=0CCAQsAQ&biw=1147&bih=515#facrc=_&imgdii=_&imgrc=4zYgzSnSKdXC_M%253A%3BCXws5s9cAfvqPM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fsweets.seriouseats.com%252Fimages%252F20111205-41-chocolate-cherry-cordials.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fsweets.seriouseats.com%252F2011%252F12%252Fchocolate-cherry-cordials-like-russell-stover.html%3B610%3B458
Chocolate Cherry Cordials w/ Liquid Centers (Recipe)

http://veronicascornucopia.com/2010/02/11/cherry-cordials-chocolate-covered-cherries/
 Chocolate Cherry Cordials w/ Marzipan Centers (Recipe)

Of course, the choco-cherry cordials are a scrumptous mouthful by themselves, but have you ever tried incorporating their deliciousness in other recipes?

http://www.craftsy.com/blog/2014/01/making-chocolate-covered-cherries/
Chocolate Cherry Stuffed Cupcakes (Recipe)


Is your mouth watering yet?
 

yum, yum, yum . . . yummy!

Pop, Country, and Christian

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Today in Music History: January 3

Crossover artists are recognized as having a hit in a genre other than that which they achieved their initial success. They often have a tough time finding their 'fit' in the music industry. These recording artists must market themselves to showcase a wide range of abilities, while at the same time being careful not to lose their uniqueness or true identity. 

Welcome into the Spotlight...



http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/howard-kerbel/bj-thomas_b_5653938.html

“All I am is just another guy. I’ve been very lucky. I’ve had a wonderful life, I’ve been a husband and a father who cherishes his children and now I’m a grandfather, and I’m motivated like all these teachers and preachers and mothers and fathers to help my kids grow up with character and self-respect. I hope that doesn’t sound too grandiose, but that’s what it comes down to. It’s what I’ve tried to do with my music and with the majority of my life.” ~B.J. Thomas
http://bjthomas.com/about/bio/
 B. J. Thomas:singer/songwriter of the 60s and 70s who
owns one of the most distinctive voices in American pop music and whose hits appeared on the pop, country and Christian charts

The "B.J." in B.J. Thomas stands for "Billy Joe." Thomas started singing with a church choir in Houston when he was 14. Some of his hits include: 'Everybody's Out of Town', 'I Just Can't Help Believing', 'Hooked on a Feeling', 'Most of All', '(Hey Won't You Play) Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song', and 'Rock And Roll Lullaby'. B. J. Thomas is a five time Grammy and two time Dove Award winner who has sold more than 70 million records and is ranked in Billboard’s Top 50 most played artists over the past 50 years. His late 70s and early 80s foray extended into gospel music, which earned him the first four platinum albums in the genre’s history: Home Where I Belong, Happy Man, You Gave Me Love and Amazing Grace. Four of the five Grammy Awards were earned from his work in gospel. Within the country music genre, in 1981, on his 39th birthday, Thomas became the 60th member of the Grand Ole Opry.



1970B J Thomas started a four week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head'. The song was featured in the film Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. This won the Oscar for Best Song From A Motion Picture at the 1970 awards, where Thomas performed it. Bacharach also won for Best Score.
 Burt Bacharach and Hal David wrote this song for the film Butch Cassidy And The Sundance Kid, starring Paul Newman and Robert Redford. It was the first million-seller for the legendary songwriters.
No.1 singles on this day...


  • 1957 Guy Mitchell was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Singing The Blues.' (Tommy Steele and Marty Robbins had also released versions and Steele would replace this version at No.1). Also a US No.1.
  • 1963Cliff Richard was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'The Next Time / Bachelor Boy', both songs were from the film Summer Holiday. His sixth UK No.1.
  • 1967 The Bee Gees were at No.1 on the Australian singles chart with the single 'Spicks and Specks'.
  • 1976 The Bay City Rollers went to No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Saturday Night'. At the height of their US success, the Scottish group signed a deal to promote breakfast cereal.
  • 1999 Steps scored their first UK No.1 single with their version of The Bee Gees song 'Tragedy.'


1955 Elvis Presley appeared in Boonesville, Virginia. The 20 year-old singer was still a regional star, but by the end of '56 he had become a national sensation, recording two albums, including the hit singles 'Heartbreak Hotel' and 'Blue Suede Shoes', appeared on national television 11 times, played over 100 concerts and signed a seven year contract with Paramount Pictures.


And the music goes on beating to the rhythm of the changing times...
  



Messiness is part of the picture!

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Cherries & Chocolate!             Stay Tuned: Just a dollop will do ya'...maybe!

National Spaghetti Day 



There are times when we put something in front of a toddler with only one thought in mind, "Go for it!" Those words set the 'food moment' as one of the funniest, perhaps the messiest, times in the life of a child...that being, of course, eating spaghetti! There are no directions, no suggestions, no rules as to how to eat that which is set before him or her for the very first time. Any hopes on teaching manners at this point...totally out of sight, out of mind!
What about as an adult? Does the same hold true? Do options exist to slurp it, twirl it, cut it or just simply stuff it in and bite it? OR Must we, as adults, abide by any rules of etiquette? One major difference does exist between the dinner course for the adult vs. the child: The fork is now the utensil (spoon is optional), not the hands. Messiness is still in the picture!
http://www.foodrepublic.com/2013/01/04/ideas-dinner-tonight-national-spaghetti-day-recipe
One thing we can all agree upon is while eating spaghetti may be messy, it is awesomely delicious for any age. No need to ask what's for dinner when the tomato, garlic, and herb aroma wafts through the air. In addition, spaghetti recipes are endless not limited to an Italian pasta sauce recipe and can be prepared with or without meat. Click the image above for some different spins on spaghetti for dinner. Click the images below for an Italian spaghetti recipe and a Whole Wheat Spaghetti Salad!
http://food.innerchildfun.com/2013/07/easy-spaghetti-sauce.html
Easy Spaghetti Sauce (Italy) [Recipe]

http://www.kalynskitchen.com/2013/05/whole-wheat-spaghetti-salad-italian-sausage.html
Whole Wheat Spaghetti Salad Recipe with 
Italian Sausage, Tomatoes, Olives, and Basil Vinaigrette


Thanks Foodimentary for...

Five Food Finds about Spaghetti

  • The word, Spaghetti is the plural form of an Italian word spaghetto, meaning “thin string” or “twine.”
  • Pasta existed for thousands of years before anyone ever thought to put tomato sauce on it.
  • You can fry your leftover spaghetti noodles.
  • The average person in Italy eats more than 51 pounds of pasta every year.
  • According to Miss Manners (a.k.a. Judith Martin), "A fork is the only utensil that may be used to eat spaghetti while anyone is looking." No spoon necessary!
 Our feline friends do not seem to have any problem at all staying clean! 

Is your mouth watering yet?
 

yum, yum, yum . . . yummy!


"Reggie"

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Today in Music History: January 4

Many performers are known for their over-the-top performances, as well as their songs. Of these same performers, as well as others, some have stage names much different from their birth names. Through the years voices change, mellow down. For the spotlight today is a voice once classed as tenor, now baritone. His piano playing is influenced by classical and gospel music.

Welcome into the Spotlight...

http://www.milliontalks.com/topic/70-celebs-as-kids/page__st__20
 Do you know this kid? 
He started playing the piano when he was 3 years old.

What about now?
He was inspired by the stage performance of Jerry Lee Lewis.

"I wasn't a sex symbol like Bowie, Marc Bolan or Freddie Mercury, so I dressed more on the humorous side, because if I was going to be stuck at the piano for two hours, I was going to make people look at me."

http://www.biography.com/people/elton-john-9355335
Reginald Kenneth Dwight: British singer, pianist and composer who was one of the most popular musicians of the 20th century. Along with selling more than 250 million records he has found success on Broadway

Are you familiar with Reginald Kenneth Dwight? Of course, as long as you know that is the birth name of ELTON JOHN!When he decided to change his name, he chose "Elton John" because he wanted to honor saxophone legend Elton Dean, as well as Long John Baldry 

Elton doesn't write lyrics, his songwriting partner Bernie Taupin takes care of that. In 1967, Elton John, as Reg Dwight, and Bernie Taupin signed to DJM publishing. Their signatures had to be witnessed by their parents because they were both under 21 years of age. Taupin answered an advertisement for a lyric writer placed in the New Musical Express...the rest is history, especially Elton John's fabulous, over-the-top costumes and glasses for his elaborate concerts! 

1975Elton John started a two week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with his version of The Beatles 'Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds'. His third US No.1, the song featured John Lennon on guitar.


  •  No.1 singles on this day...
     
    1936Billboard Magazine introduced the first ever-pop music chart that ranked records on national sales; big band violinist Joe Venuti was the first No.1.
  • 1960Marty Robbins started a two week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with 'El Paso'. A No.19 in the UK. 
  •  No.1 albums on this day...
  • 1967The Doors released their self-titled debut album The Doors. Unique packaging of the album included each band members bio. 
    1992 Simply Red went back to No.1 on the UK album chart for a five week run with Stars making it the third time it had been at the top of the charts.
1968 The University of California, Los Angeles announced that students taking music degrees would have to study the music of The Rolling Stones saying they had made such an important contribution to modern music.

2004 Britney Spears had her surprise marriage annulled less than 55 hours after tying the knot at the Little White Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas with childhood friend Jason Alexander. They couple married on Saturday morning, during a night out in Las Vegas, but immediately her lawyers filed for an annulment, saying Spears 'lacked understanding of her actions to the extent that she was incapable of agreeing to the marriage.' 


And the music goes on beating to the rhythm of the changing times...
  






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