And when I'm open wide with nothing left to cling to Only You are there to lead me on.

Artist- Sanctus Real
Song of the day- I'm not alright

I had dinner with one of my favorite people tonight. One of those people you can just vomit all of the going's on in your life cuz they totally get you, and feel refreshed. As I was driving home I was thinking of this song he sent me several years ago when I was in a much darker lost place. And what a strange comfort it was to just accept that I wasn't okay and build up from there. How I used to scream this as I drove in my car and how good it felt. And how even now when I still feel this way sometimes I can scream this and it still feels pretty good, and I still have people I can vomit all my going's on in life and that feels pretty good too. So if you're in need of a scream or a vomit (boy this blog got gross fast) this one's for you!


Sanctus Real - I'm Not Alright
Video Codes at www.roxwel.com

If weakness is a wound that no one wants to speak of
The "cool" is just how far we have to fall
And I'm not immune, I only want to be loved
But I feel safe behind the firewall

Can I lose my need to impress?
If you want the truth I need to confess

I'm not alright, I'm broken inside, broken inside
And all I go through, it leads me to You, it leads me to you

Burn away the pride
Bring me to my weakness
Until everything I hide behind is gone
And when I'm open wide with nothing left to cling to
Only You are there to lead me on.

'Cause honestly, I'm not that strong.

I'm not alright, I'm broken inside
Broken inside
And all I go through, it leads me to You
It leads me to You
Closer to You

And I'll move,
and I'll move,
and I'll move,
Closer to You (x3)

I'm not alright I'm broken inside
Broken inside
I'm broken inside, Broken inside
And all I go through leads me to You
Leads me to You

I'm not alright, I'm not alright
I'm not alright

... that's why I need You.

Let me fill your heart with joy and laughter Togetherness, well that's all I'm after

Artist- Mariah Carey
Song of the day- I'll be there

Today was quite stressful and exhausting and I'm pretty sure I didn't know what I was doing half the time. I spent hours in coping groups, attempting to lead coping groups, observing patients, attempting to talk to patients, and kicking butt at jenga. I felt completely frazzled but couldn't get over what I kept seeing and experiencing. People looking out for each other, taking care of each other. Patients physically helping other patients do what they couldn't do on their own, supporting, reassuring, complimenting each other and even us. These people in the middle of crisis, some at the hardest points in their life, still taking time to care for each other. I saw it in staff, in my fellow students, in my co-leaders, if we stumbled we help each other out, we'd ease the awkwardness or aggression, we'd be there for each other even if we didn't have the answers. "Togetherness" as a patient said today, and I might have to agree. My safe place is when it's not you against the world but you and people standing by your side when you might just be able to conquer anything, even the worst of times life has to offer. But today's song goes out to my friend Kelly who has the ability to reply to almost anything I say with a song lyric and therefore got this song stuck in my head today. Just being there for people, on the phone, side by side, or driving miles away to do it, you being there will make all the difference.




You and I must make a pact, we must bring salvation back
Where there is love, I'll be there
I'll reach out my hand to you, I'll have faith in all you do
Just call my name and I'll be there
Chorus:
And oh - I'll be there to comfort you,
Build my world of dreams around you, I'm so glad that I found you
I'll be there with a love that's strong
I'll be your strength, I'll keep holding on - yes I will, yes I will
Let me fill your heart with joy and laughter
Togetherness, well that's all I'm after
Whenever you need me, I'll be there
I'll be there to protect you, with an unselfish love I respect you
Just call my name and I'll be there
(chorus)
If you should ever find someone new, I know he'd better be good to you
'Cos if he doesn't, I'll be there
Don't you know, baby, yeah yeah
I'll be there, I'll be there, just call my name, I'll be there
(Just look over your shoulders, honey - ooh)
I'll be there, I'll be there, whenever you need me, I'll be there
Don't you know, baby, yeah yeah
I'll be there, I'll be there, just call my name, I'll be there...

It's not far to never never land No reason to pretend And if the wind is right you can find the joy Of innocence again

Artist- Christopher Cross
Song of the day- Sailing

Though a Britney Spears "Glee" makes my teenage heart sing with joy, my adolescent heart gasped at the mention of one of my secret genre loves, easy listening. Today's song was what a ten year old me may or may not have wanted to use to declare her love to the boy down the street who often threw water balloons at her. There is so much wrong about this song, this video and his jersey wearing two guitar playing self. But often I find easy listening is so wrong it's right. Though I probably wouldn't declare your love using it unless you're on a TV show where they often do...theoretically speaking of course. So for you softer souls out there who sometimes just wanna sail away and find serenity, this is your jam!



It's not far down to paradise
At least it's not for me
And if the wind is right you can sail away
And find tranquility
The canvas can do miracles
Just you wait and see
Believe me

It's not far to never never land
No reason to pretend
And if the wind is right you can find the joy
Of innocence again
The canvas can do miracles
Just you wait and see
Believe me


Sailing
Takes me away
To where I've always heard it could be
Just a dream and the wind to carry me
And soon I will be free


Fantasy
It gets the best of me
When I'm sailing
All caught up in the reverie
Every word is a symphony
Won't you believe me


It's not far back to sanity
At least it's not for me
And when the wind is right you can sail away
And find serenity
The canvas can do miracles
Just you wait and see
Believe me

When I was a child everybody smiled, nobody knows me at all

Artist- The Weepies
Song of the day- Nobody knows me at all

So tomorrow's quiz / all of today's studying was devoted to major depression, bipolar, and suicide which doesn't quite leave one in a great mood. Studying it did make me realize how important it is to have a support system though and how easy it is to isolate ourselves. Though I love getting to know people I used to hate sharing anything about myself, still kinda do. It seemed safer, not having to risk revealing just how vulnerable you really are or not as cool as you try oh so hard to be, or not as put together as you might seem. If you build these safe walls no one could get in so no one would turn their back and leave too. But we are built for community, it's in our very beings. The need for each other. The most love I've ever felt in my life is when I'm being surrounded by a community of people who took that time to know me, to break down my walls or wait them out, to really see me at my highs and lows and love me just the same and to still need me as much as I needed them. I hope you find your community, cuz I promise you there's people out there who can't wait to love everything about you. That want to know you if you let them.



When I was a child everybody smiled, nobody knows me at all
Very late at night and in the morning light, nobody knows me at all

Now I got lots of friends, yes, but then again, nobody knows me at all
Kids and a wife, it's a beautiful life, nobody knows me at all

And oh when the lights are low
Oh with someone I don't know

I don't give a damn, I'm happy as a clam, nobody knows me at all
Ah, what can you do? There's nobody like you. Nobody knows me at all

I know how you feel, no secrets to reveal, nobody knows me at all
Very late at night and in the morning light, nobody knows me at all
Nobody knows me, nobody knows me, nobody knows me at all

Did I say that I need you? Oh, did I say that I want you? Oh, if I didn't I'm a fool you see

Artist- Pearl Jam
Song of the day- Just Breathe

So I've spent the last hour and a half re-remembering why Pearl Jam is oh so amazing, and why Eddie Vedder is just plain cool on every level. I won't declare my love too loudly for fear my friend Nicole / Eddie Vedder's #1 love slave, I mean fan might beat me up. But I totally forgot about this sweet simple ballad of theirs. It's not your average ewwy gooey love song, but there is this worldly wisdom behind it that Vedder brings pretty much every time he moves or breathes. He described today's song as the happiest times of people's lives when they should just take in the moment and "breathe for a minute." I think its one of the things we forget to do the most. To appreciate, to enjoy, to be thankful for these little moments of perfection that run away from us so quickly. So today my wish for you and myself is many occasions that cause you to stop and breathe.



Yes, I understand that every life must end, aw-huh,..
As we sit alone, I know someday we must go, aw-huh,..
Oh I'm a lucky man, to count on both hands
the ones I love,..

Some folks just have one,
yeah, others, they've got none, huh-uh

Stay with me,..
Let's just breathe.

Practiced are my sins,
never gonna let me win, aw-huh,..
Under everything, just another human being, aw-huh,..
Yeh, I don't wanna hurt, there's so much in this world
to make me believe.

Stay with me,..
You're all I see.

Did I say that I need you?
Did I say that I want you?
Oh, if I didn't I'm a fool you see,..

No one knows this more than me.
As I come clean.

I wonder everyday
as I look upon your face, aw-huh,..
Everything you gave
And nothing you would take, aw huh,..
Nothing you would take
Everything you gave...

Did I say that I need you?
Oh, did I say that I want you?
Oh, if I didn't I'm a fool you see,..
No one knows this more than me.
As I come clean, ah-ah...

Nothing you would take,..
Everything you gave.
Love you till I die,..
Meet you on the other side.

You're too old to lose it, too young to choose it And the clock waits so patiently on your song

Artist- David Bowie aka Ziggy Stardust
Song of the day- Rock n roll suicide

One of my friends was talking about another David Bowie song with me today and it got me thinking about one of my fav halloween costumes (minus the mullet and plus the face painted lightening bolt!) and how much I loved this concept album, especially this one song. I feel like this is always a good end of the night song after a long night out or a long hard week out or a short life as a martian glam rock prophet here to save the world, you know the usual. Wherever you are on the spectrum, at the end of the day it's always nice to know you're not alone. There's at least a Ziggy Stardust from Mars who's got your back...and if you don't believe me I'll break out the old costume to prove it.



Time takes a cigarette, puts it in your mouth
You pull on your finger, then another finger, then the
cigarette
The wall-to-wall's calling, it lingers, then you forget
oh oh oh oh
You're a rock 'n' roll suicide
You're too old to lose it, too young to choose it
And the clock waits so patiently on your song
You walk past the cafe but you don't eat when you've lived too
long
oh oh oh oh
You're a rock 'n' roll suicide
Chev brakes are snarling as you stumble across the road
But day breaks instead so you hurry home
Don't let the sun blast your shadow
Don't let the milk floats ride your mind
So natural-religiously unkind
Oh, no, love! you're not alone
You're watching yourself but you're too unfair
You got your head all tangled up, but if I could only make you
care
Oh, no, love! you're not alone
No matter what or who you've been
No matter where or when you've seen
All the knives seem to lacerate your brain
I've had my share, so I'll help you with the pain
You're not alone, just turn on with me
You're not alone, let's turn on and be
You're not alone, gimme your hands
You're wonderful, gimme your hands
You're wonderful, gimme your hands

This is where we break it down

Artist- Flight of the Conchords
Song of the day- Think about it

Maybe it's the three hour power struggle debates in theory class, or spending days deconstructing some serious mental diseases, the drug deals and the homeless outside my back door, the endless civil wars fought by children I choose to read about so I can feel "informed about the world", the daily heartache I hear from people I love, or my own personal demons aiding to my newest lack of sleep and over thinkingness. I think these two of my favorite musicians some up my feelings and make me think.
....and then laugh smile again.



Children on the streets using guns and knives

Taking drugs and each other's lives

Killing each other using knives and forks

And calling each other names like dork



There's people on the street getting diseases from monkeys

Yeah that's what I said their getting diseases from monkeys

Whys this happening please whose been touching these monkeys

Leave these poor sick monkeys alone

There sick they've got problems enough as it is



A man is lying on the street some punk has chopped off his head

And I'm the only one who stops to see if he's dead aaoohhh

Turns out he's dead



That's why I'm singing Aaaaoooh what is wrong with the world today?

What's wrong with the world today *mumbles* never said nothings wrong with it

Uooo what is wrong with the world today?

Think about it think about it think think about it



Good cops get framed and put into a can

And all the money that we're making is going to the maaan



What man whose the man when's a man a man why's it so hard to be a man

Am I a man? Yes technically yes...



Oohh come on sont zootka they're turning kids into slaves

They're turning kids into slaves just to make cheaper sneakers

But what's the real cost '€~cause the sneakers don't seem that much cheaper

Why are we still paying so much for sneakers when you got little kid slaves making them

What are your overheads?



Well at the end of your life you are lucky if you die

Sometimes I wonder why I would even try

Why try

I saw a man lying on the street half dead

He had knives and forks sticking out of his leg

He said Ahh ahh ahh ahhhhhhhhwww

Can somebody get the knife and fork out of my leg please

Ooh could somebody please remove these cutleries from my knees

Yeah yeeeahhh

This is where we break it down

This is where we break it down

We'll break it down

What are they doing their breaking it down

What do they do and now their keeping it funky

Just having a funky jam and then we're going to drop the beat

And then we'll bring it back *wails* Up

Wah wah wah waaah!



*Both go to town with the wailing*



Then we'll take it low

Fading out fading out

We're talking about the issues but we're keeping it funky

We're fading out we're just fading out

Why they getting quiet they're just fading out

Love is tough, time is rough on me

Artist- First Aid Kit
Song of the day- Hard believer

So today I had to speak in class about my worldview. 15 years of private school, 5 months in missions, and 6 years of writing luckily prepared me for the only thing I've known what I'm talking about since nursing school started. Knowing exactly what I think is true about life and how I see it always felt like the most important thing I could do. How did I know my christianity didn't come from my southern culture or my parents? How was I supposed to figure out if working towards my own dreams and comfort or feeling out of my comfort zone at all times but getting to help other people was more important to me? To try and take the world on on my own or have faith in something that people might think I'm insane for believing exists? To me I couldn't move forward in life till I figured this out...not that I'm at all close to completely understanding anything or having doubts 80% of the time, I'm human.

Maybe it's because I've had to live my life in constant defense of my beliefs, of being different, or of not being compared to jerks who share my religious title but hurt so many people around me. But I was surprised or maybe surprised that I was surprised that some people who might not have religion to explain themselves couldn't find words for their worldviews. They walk through life, they make choices often the same ones I make but maybe don't have my fancy theological words to express themselves. Maybe that's why theory is important? I don't know. But what was even more interesting or frustrating is how ridiculed they felt for not knowing. And how desperate I was to want to help them explain it. But I couldn't. I realized that when god's not the answer I don't know what the answer is. That's my own comfort I guess, but it also spurred a curiosity to know people more, deeper, who don't have my answers, to get them to want to know themselves deeper. Cuz what I see in these people is so much beauty and power and love but none of that matters when someone can break that confidence by questioning these wondrous things in yourself that you don't have words for yet. I woke up with this song in my head and though I don’t necessarily agree with what it says and is a bit offensive to my own beliefs at times, it’s honest and pure and I totally get where it’s coming from. Whatever you believe or don't believe or don't know what you believe yet take comfort in knowing we’re all just trying to figure it out. It’s one life and it’s this life and it’s beautiful.



So you ask for my opinion
Well what is there to say
To be honest and just foolish
Won't make you wanna stay
You've got to go on and get moving
I can't do that for you
Got so many plans and so much you want to do

Love is tough, time is rough
Love is tough, time is rough
Whoaaaa on me

Well I see you've got your bible
Your delusion imagery
Well I don't need your eternity
Or your meaning to feel free
I just live because I love to
And that's enough you see
So don't come preach about morality
lyricsmusicvideo.blogspot.com
That's just human sense to me

Love is tough, time is rough
Love is tough, time is rough
Whoaaaa on me
On me-eeee .. on me-eee ...

And it's one life and it's this life
And it's beautiful
(repeat)
And it's beau .. beau .. beau ... beautiful

Love is tough, time is rough
Whoaaaa on me

Read more: http://lyricsmusicvideo.blogspot.com/2009/10/first-aid-kit-hard-believer-lyrics.html#ixzz10RbYTOfV

There'll be good times again for me and you

Artist- Carol King
Song of the day- It's too late

So my psych patient today sang to me many many songs to my delight. But this Carol King one stuck with me and I don't think I knew why till I re-listened to the whole thing again. Being sung from that place where you have already been broken, know it, know what happened wasn't good, that you tried to make it but you couldn't, is quite profound when sung by someone on unit. I'd maybe stay sad about this but it was sung with such joy that it's hard to be too upset, especially with the amazingly written last verse. So here's to being taught lessons by people you try to help. Let them help you back, it's never too late.



Stayed in bed all morning just to pass the time
There's something wrong here
There can be no denying
One of us is changing
Or maybe we've just stopped trying

And it's too late baby, now it's too late
Though we really did try to make it
Something inside has died and I can't hide
And I just can't fake it

It used to be so easy living here with you
You were light and breezy
And I knew just what to do
Now you look so unhappy
And I feel like a fool

And it's too late baby, now it's too late
Though we really did try to make it
Something inside has died
and I can't hide it
And I just can't fake it

There'll be good times again for me and you
But we just can't stay together
Don't you feel it too
Still I'm glad for what we had
And how I once loved you

But it's too late baby, now it's too late
Though we really did try to make it
Something inside has died and I can't hide
And I just can't fake it

Don't you know that I...
I just can't fake it
Oh it's too late my baby
Too late my baby
You know
It's too late my baby

Everybody dies, but not everyone lives

Artist- Superchick
Song of the day- Cross the line

My melatonin just kicked in so I'll make this short and sweet. Superchick is awesome, this song says it all. I hope it makes you get up and head bang, jump off things in dramatic fashion, and cross some lines.



Follow the leader, stay in the lines
What will people think of what you've done this time?

Go with the crowd, surely somebody knows
Why we're all wearing the emperor's clothes
Play it safe, play by the rules
Or don't play at all - what if you lose?
That's not the secret, but I know what is:
Everybody dies but not everyone lives

I'm gonna ride like I've got the cops on my tail
I'm gonna live my life like I'm out on bail

I'm gonna be out front, gonna blaze a trail

I'm gonna cross that line

Everybody freeze - don't step over the line
Don't stand up, they'll shoot down the first one who tries
Try to change the world, they'll think you're out of your mind
Revolutions start when someone crosses the line
They want us to lie down, give into the lie
Nothing has to change, and no one has to die
That's not the secret, but I know what is:
Everybody dies, but not everyone lives

Your nearness is all I need, no more or no less

Artist- Villagers
Song of the day- The Pact (I'll be your fever)

So I was about to post one of my favorite though quite depressing Bright Eyes songs cuz I've found studying psych makes it difficult for me to not want to listen to songs about life stressers and the human condition. However,maybe what we all need is just a little pick me up instead? Here's a song my friend Mike just sent me and well it made me happy. And sometimes, nay, always, it's good to have a little happy for no good reason. So here's an excellent jam from the Villager's bathroom counter to you, just cuz.



Do what you did yesterday, go on repeating
'cos my heart's only on fire when you are the teacher
You take the torch and I, follow the leader
You'd be my master and I'll be your fever

You told me your past was taken by thieves
Since then you've been running in search of reliefs
You don't know when it's coming, I don't know either
You'd be my master and I'll be your fever

The angels are singing, words written for you
Trumpets are telling of your beauty and truth
But you've been working it out for yourself like some over-achiever
So just be my master and I'll be your fever

Your nearness is all I need, no more or no less
Your highness I bow to thee and to thee this I confess
I was lost in a forest but now I'm a believer
So you'd be my master and I'll be your fever

So do what you did yesterday go on repeating
'cos my heart's only on fire when you are the teacher
You take the torch and I, follow the leader
You'd be my master and I'll be your fever
You'd be my master and I'll be your fever
You'd be my master and I'll be your fever

And love is not convenient; it does not cease at your command. You might take and leave it, but love is all I am.

Artist- Dawes
Song of the day- Love is all I am

I love when my friend Pete gets excited about a band, because I know from our endless list of shared loves, that I too must fall in line with admiration. His newest favorite, along with Rolling Stone and much of the folk community is Dawes. This new trend of male folk groups is quite to my liking for boys with guitars and harmonies is a straight musical line to my heart. But if you are starting to get sick of all the Bon Ivar, Mumford and Sons wannabees, don't pass by Dawes cuz you might miss some most excellent songwriting like today's song. My mom often likes to make me feel bad for getting mad at her constant worrying by retorting, "well I'm sorry I just love you too much." This tends to just get under my skin more but unfortunately I understand where she's coming from. Love is the greatest thing in the world but it can also cause you to obsess and worry and over think and make you look like an idiot and is out of your comfort zone a risk a good chance you'll get crushed, stomped on or at the very least, make you vulnerable. And yet it's all we are. I guess it has to be the best thing in the world if it can also cause all that. So here's to you out there, may you keep being all that you are, even amongst all the crazy it may bring...and no mom this still doesn't give you an excuse to worry.



I need a silent true-way to admire.
Like you as a sunset, and I as a wildfire.
And I can let the day go...

I've locked up these words, in fear that I'd say them wrong.
Is it love as a mountain, or love as a simple song?
And the moment that the two meet
has now laid itself at your feet.

And love is not convenient; it does not cease at your command.
You might take and leave it, but love is all I am.
Love is all I am.

I need a boundless, soft way to commend
Like you as a temper, and I as it's tender end.
And however long your fits last
I will live within your shadow cast.

And love is still your stranger; it does not respect how much you'll stand
You might be love's reminder, but love is all I am.
Love is all am.

I need a graceful, proud way to let go
To smile and accept the things that you don't know
The losses and the gains blurred
The weight of these as last words

And love is not excitement; it's not kissing, or holding hands
I'm not some assignment; no, love is all I am
Love is all I am.
Love is all I am.

You look like A perfect fit For a girl in need Of a tourniquet

Artist- Aimee Mann
Song of the day- Save Me

One of my sister's all time favs became mine as well after seeing P.T. Anderson's film Magnolia. And if you have 3 hours to spare in your life I think it is possible you might hate the film but will fall in love with this songwriter who Anderson uses brilliantly throughout this film about the relationships of victims and villains, with an uncanny ability to humanize both. Though I still don't understand the raining frogs aspect, the acting alone still makes this film one of my favs. Mann received an Oscar nomination for this song and after hearing it, I've loved everything she's ever done before and since and can't wait to see her again tonight for what I think is my 5th or 6th time...though my sis is still beating me. This song in particular mixes that unspoken desperation I think we all look for in any kind of relationship. To not just be loved but saved from ourselves, from loneliness, from those who'd rather judge than get to know us. And in the context of the film I think it's interesting that this concept doesn't exclude anyone, not even the cruelest of people, the drug addicts, those with a past, that a** hole on tv, even Tom Cruise, we all are looking for someone or something to save us. If you're on the hunt today know you aren't alone, we were all meant to be saved.


Aimee Mann - Save Me
Uploaded by samithemenace. - Explore more music videos.

You look like
A perfect fit
For a girl in need
Of a tourniquet

But can you, save me
Come on and, save me
If you could, save me
From the ranks of the freaks
Who suspect they could never love anyone

'Cause I can tell
You know what it's like
The long farewell
Of the hunger strike

But can you, save me
Come on and, save me
If you could, save me
From the ranks of the freaks
Who suspect they could never love anyone

You struck me down
Like Radium
Like Peter Pan or Superman

You will come to save me
C'mon and save me
If you could, save me
From the ranks of the freaks
Who suspect they could never love anyone
'Cept the freaks
Who suspect they could never love anyone
But the freaks
Who suspect they could never love anyone


C'mon and save me
Why don't you save me
If you could save me
From the ranks of the freaks
Who suspect they could never love anyone
'Cept the freaks
Except the freaks
Who suspect they could never love anyone
Except the freaks who could never love anyone

Whatever you want to do Is alright with me 'Cause you make me feel, so brand new

Artist- Al Green
Song of the day- Let's stay together

Sorry for the song of the day delay, I was quite preoccupied last night singing my little heart out via karaoke with some fantastic singers/classmates/friends/fog machine. I'm not quite sure what it is about pop songs, making a fool of yourself, and drinks that can bring people together. Perhaps it was the constant cheering and dance breaks that helped. But at one point between back dancing, singing Heart till my throat cracked and eating pizza at 1:30 in the morning I thought about how lucky I was that God keeps being really nice and giving me fantastic people in my life who always like to make asses of themselves with me. It's a true gift. So for you and all your fellow asses out there. This one's for you.



I'm, I'm so in love with you
Whatever you want to do
Is alright with me
'Cause you make me feel, so brand new
And I want to spend my life with you

Me sayin' since, baby, since we've been together
Ooo, loving you forever
Is what I need
Let me, be the one you come running to
I'll never be untrue
Ooo baby

Let's, let's stay together
Loving you whether, whether
Times are good or bad, happy or sad

Oooo oooo ooo ooo, yeah
Whether times are good or bad, happy or sad

Why somebody, why people break up
Oh, and turn around and make up
I just can't seeeeeeeee
You'd never do that to me
(Would you baby)
'Cause being around you is all I see
It's why I want us to

Let's, let's stay together
Loving you whether, whether
Times are good or bad, happy or sad

Let's, let's stay together
Loving you whether, whether

You became the light on the dark side of me.

Artist- Seal
Song of the day- Kiss from a Rose

My friend Mo emailed me the other day requesting that I write something about this fantastic song. And if any of you out there have a song you're itching for others to enjoy, or just wanna school me on good music, hit me up with an email! It's under the "Requests" icon on the side.
I'm guessing Mo's new found passion for Seal's hit had a lot to do with it's clever use on "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia". If you don't know what I'm talking about you should really watch and laugh and shake your head and be ashamed of all that is the witty show. However, as a child the song meant oh so much more as it encompassed my comic book nerd love for Batman...more accurately Robin, my first crush. I didn't say I was a normal child. I can't say the song has stood the test of time. But there is something about it's campy analogy of love as a drug, Seal in a silk shirt with bat signal back lighting, and glimpses into my tom-boy past that make me sentimental. There's still a part of me who's trying to figure out how to be a superhero. But seriously, what is a kiss from a rose on the gray? Is it good? bad? a disease?
Either way, here's to all you caped crusaders out there, and those of you who seem to save my life on a daily basis. This one's for you.




There used to be a graying tower alone on the sea.
You became the light on the dark side of me.
Love remained a drug that's the high and not the pill.

But did you know,
That when it snows,
My eyes become large and,
The light that you shine can be seen.

Baby,
I compare you to a kiss from a rose on the gray.
...kiss from a rose on the gray.
Ooh,
The more I get of you,
Ooh...................
Stranger it feels, yeah.
And now that your rose is is in bloom.
A light hits the gloom on the gray.

There is so much a man can tell you,
..there....................woa...
So much he can say.
there's so much inside.
You remain,
you.......
My power, my pleasure, my pain, baby
To me you're like a growing addiction that I can't deny.. yeah.
Won't you tell me is that healthy, baby?

But did you know,
That when it snows,
My eyes become large and the light that you shine can be seen.

Baby,
I've...
I compare you to a kiss from a rose on the gray.
been.............. kissed from a rose on the gray.
Ooh, the more I get of you
...ooh...........the..
Stranger it feels, yeah
stranger it feels, ...yeah.
Now that your rose is in bloom.
A light hits the gloom on the gray,

I've been kissed by a rose on the gray,
...I've been.......................I've...
I've been kissed by a rose
...been kissed by a rose on the gray.
I've been kissed by a rose on the gray,
...I've been.......................I've...
...And if I should fall, at all
I've been kissed by a rose
...been kissed by a rose on the gray.

There is so much a man can tell you,
..there....................woa...
So much he can say.
there's so much inside.
You remain
you.......
My power, my pleasure, my pain.
To me you're like a growing addiction that I can't deny, yeah (L)
Won't you tell me is that healthy, baby.

But did you know,
That when it snows,
My eyes become large and
the light that you shine can be seen.

Baby,
I've...
I compare you to a kiss from a rose on the gray.
been.............. kissed from a rose on the gray.
Ooh, the more I get of you
...ooh...........the..
Stranger it feels, yeah
stranger it feels.
Now that your rose is in bloom,
A light hits the gloom on the gray.

Yes I compare you to a kiss from a rose on the gray
I've..........been kissed from a rose on the gray.
Ooh, the more I get of you
...ooh...........the..
Stranger it feels, yeah
stranger it feels. ...yeah.
And now that your rose is in bloom
aah-ee-aah...
A light hits the gloom on the gray
aah-ee-aah...

Now that your rose is in bloom,
A light hits the gloom on the gray.

Oh, it feels like none of this is real I pretend that my heart and my head are well

Artist- Camera Obscura
Song of the day- Forest and Sands

My friend Blake appreciates good musical finds and is kind enough to share them with me on a regular basis. He made my love for Camera Obscura increase ten fold when he sent this to me. I tend to listen to it on repeat. It has summer sweetness with that hint of sadness, which is pretty much my fav kind of musical cocktail. And as summer officially ends and my fall quarter is in full swing, this chorus sums up my feelings of not adjusting very well. As my friend Suzanne likes to say, "Is this real life?!" As I study psych and are locked in with people (or what my school likes to call clinical rotation) who don't always know hallucinations from reality, I find myself sympathizing with them and understanding where they are coming from all too well. So here's to all of you out there also trying to get your act together and trying to understand what's going on. Let's fake it till we make it!...though maybe not the best advice for my psych patients. Oh well, music is a nice coping mechanism!







I'm in a van, and you're holding my hand
You're traveling with me through forest and sands
I've been innocently learning your language and you've been taking full advantage, haven't you?
Oh, don't say it's true
I've lost a friend, I've been silenced again
And we kissed once
Hey, but that was in lust
I know you need more than giving moments and sentimental stories and words only spoken seemingly
And I won't win your heart that way

Oh, it feels like none of this is real
I pretend that my heart and my head are well
But if the blood pumping through my veins could freeze like a river in Toronto, then I'd be pleased
You said I made you feel warm, said I made you feel warm inside

See you on the way up (On the way down)

Artist- Jenny & Johnny
Song of the day- Switchblade

I heard this song for the first time four years ago standing front row at one of my fav LA bars with some of my fav LA people, pretty much thrilled about life. There is very little that makes me happier than watching these two people perform, which means tonight I'm going to be quite ecstatic. Much has changed in the last four years with life's ups and downs, but to quote another great Lewis tune "you are what you love" and my endearing one sided relationship with their music has stuck with me as the heart of my ever beating love for music. Sure there are better written songs, better melodies, better live performers. But there is something about their music that is just me at my best and at my worst. So here is to you and your loves that stay with you on the way up and on the way down.





It's the one long year of Saturday nights
In the city of a million suns
Sleeping through the afternoon
With your latest only one
You had her every way from Sunday
And on Monday morning too

You used to dine out on a dollar
With a switchblade in your coat
You had your young mind in the gutter
You had your feet on the ground

See you on the way up
(On the way down)
See you on the way down
(On the way up)
See you on the way up
(On the way) down
Ah ahhh
Ah ahhh

It was poverty that kept you sweet
And dreams that kept you young
The money started rolling in
You stopped having any fun

You used to dine out on a dollar
With a switchblade in your coat

You had your young mind in the gutter
You had your feet on the ground

See you on the way up
(On the way down)
See you on the way down
(On the way up)
See you on the way up
(On the way) down
Ah ahhh
Ah ahhh

You used to dine out on a dollar
With a switchblade in your coat
You had your young mind in the gutter
You had your feet on the ground

See you on the way up
(On the way down)
See you on the way down
(On the way up)
See you on the way up
(On the way) down
Ah ahhh

We ride it together, ah-ah

Artist- Dolly Parton & Kenny Rogers
Song of the day- Islands in the stream

There was a close competition between the winner of today's song and the great Barbara Streisand / Barry Gibb disco duet! But at the end of the day I had to pick this other amazingly written Gibb classic. For though I'm a big Babs fan, Dolly Parton can always charm the socks off of me even when she screws up a song. If you're like me when you think of duets you think of this song. And with good reason. It's a pure, innocent and new kind of love that makes you think you can take on the world and about truly treasuring the person by your side. Maybe it's too optimistic, too cheezy, too country...but sometimes it's important to celebrate too much. ah-ah!




Baby when I met you
there was peace unknown
I set out to get you
with a fine tooth comb
I was soft inside
there was somethin' going on

You do something to me
that I can't explain
Hold me closer and I feel no pain
Every beat of my heart
We got somethin' goin on

Tender love is blind
It requires a dedication
All this love we feel
Needs no conversation
We ride it together, ah-ah
Makin' love with each other, ah-ah

(chorus)
Islands in the stream
That is what we are
No one in between
How can we be wrong?
Sail away with me to another world
And we rely on each other, ah-ah
From one lover to another, ah-ah

I can't live without you
if the love was gone
Everything is nothin'
if you got no one
And you did walk in tonight
slowly losing sight of the real thing

But that wont happen to us
and we got no doubt
Too deep in love and
we got no way out
and the message is clear
This could be the year
for the real thing

No more will you cry
Baby I will hurt you never
We start and end as one
in love forever
We can ride it together, ah-ah
Makin' love with each other, ah-ah

(chorus)

Sail away
Oh come sail away with me, with me

Love, like a road that never ends How it leads me back again To heartache

Artist- Peter Cetera & Amy Grant
Song of the day- Next time I fall

I've gotta say that as much as I love the city of Chicago, I might just love the band Chicago even more. I don't know if any man has a more distinct singing voice than Peter Cetara and besides Don Henley in the 80's few others were milking their duet abilities than Cetera. I have a special place in my heart for this duet with Amy Grant who was the closest thing to a rockstar for many a christian kid back in the day. I really have no idea what this song is implying, if it's getting back together with an old lover, or telling an unassuming stranger you're about to fall in love with them. Nor do I understand what the video is trying to say with it's interpretive dance, Grant's windowpane angst or Cetera's bangs. But it is about learning from one's past, how heartache can teach us something about ourselves and how we're able to grow from it and declare our love to unassuming strangers...ok maybe not always the last part. But here's to a littler growth for next time, whatever or whenever next time may be for you today!



Love, like a road that never ends
How it leads me back again
To heartache
I'll never understand
Darling, I put my heart upon the shelf
'Til the moment was right
And I tell myself...

(Chorus:)
Next time I fall in love
I'll know better what to do
Next time I fall in love
Ooh, ooh, ooh
The next time I fall in love
The next time I fall in love
It will be with you

Oh, now, as I look into your eyes
Well, I wonder if it's wise
To hold you like I've wanted to before
Tonight
Ooh, I was thinking that you might
Be the one who breathes life
Into this heart of mine

(Repeat chorus)

(Bridge:)
Next time, I'm gonna follow through
And if it drives me crazy
I will know better why
The next time I try

(Repeat chorus)

Next time I fall in love
Oh, whoa, oh
Next time I fall in love
Ooh, ooh, ooh
The next time I fall in love
The next time I fall in love
It will be with you

Who’s got it figured out Left right, left right got it figured out

Artist- The Dead Weather
Song of the day- Treat me like your mother

So my mom was just telling me how much she enjoyed my blog, hopefully that won't change after this song. Though I'm not one for unneeded violence, I do like my share of badassness. And today's song proves that duets aren't just for the love filled souls, but also those a little more hardcore and leathery. Jack Black's newest band The Dead Weather is all about the loud, the intense, and apparently the wearing of all black and shootings in backyard suburbs. I don't really like this video, there's really nothing happening besides face to face machine gun mayhem that goes on far too long. But I like the end when they have both run out of bullets and Black stairs blankly with his gun up covered in blood and bullet holes. They've let out all the aggression they can and what's left? Nothing. He doesn't feel better, or even any closure, all he can do is walk away after the fight completely filled with holes. Ohhhh the symbolism, how I could just eat it up. It's not the fighting that can free us, but the aftermath that truly stands to test our strength. Maybe today, that's important to remember.

Treat me like your mother — The Dead Weather from Banya Concept on Vimeo.

Don’t act like you can’t act
I always think you do it
You better learn to shake hands
Treat me like your mother

Don’t act like you can’t act
Stand up like a man
You better learn to shake hands
Treat me like your mother

You came up, too late
You came up, too late now
You came up, too late
To do a thing

Come on look me in the eye
You wanna try to tell a lie
I’ll bet you can’t and you know why?
I’m just like your mother

Look me in the eye now
You wanna try to tell a lie
You can’t and you know why?
I’m just like your mother

You came up, too late
You came up, too late now
You came up, too late
Play dumb, play dead, play straight

Who’s got it figured out?
{play dumb, play dead, play straight}
Who’s got it figured out? Play straight
Time to manipulate

M-A-N-I-P-U-late
M-A-N-I-P-U-late
M-A-N-I-P-U-late
M-A-N-I-P-U-late
Am I too,
Am I late
Am I too
Am I late
Am I, am I, am I, am I,
am I too
Late

Who’s got it figured out
Left right, left right got it figured out
Who’s got it figured out play straight

Stand up like a man
You better learn to shake hands
Look me in the eye now
Treat me like your mother

Come on, look me in the eye
You wanna try to tell a lie?
You can’t and you know why?
I’m just like your mother

Play dumb, play dead
Tryin’ to manipulate

You blink when you breathe an d you breathe when you lie
You blink when you lie
You blink when you breathe an d you breathe when you lie
You blink when you lie
You blink when you breathe an d you breathe when you lie
You blink when you lie

Who’s got it figured out
Left right, left right got it figured out
Who’s got it figured out, play straight
Tryin to manipulate
Who’s got it figured out
{Left, left right} left right left right
Who’s got it figured out, play straight
Tryin to manipulate

You blink when you breathe an d you breathe when you lie
You blink when you lie

I was never no, never no, never enough, But I can try, I can try to toughen up.

Artist- She & Him
Song of the day- Change is hard

Once I told my sis I was doing a week long tribute to duets, she immediately asked if I'd include She & Him. A favorite of us both, and the indie duo to beat at the moment, M. Ward's masterful guitar and Zooey Deschanel's old school singing style always make me feel cooler just listening to it and was almost worth waking up early every morning back in the day just to go running with or "accidentally bump into" Deshanel in the silverlake reservoir....though clearly my not being a morning person won that round. I love this breakup song from their first album. I hate change, though I seem to encourage it all the time, it's never not once been an easy thing to do. In any aspect. If I could keep a place a relationship a time in my life at the moment of its perfectness I would happily do so. But alas, life is the opposite and the new experiences never seem to stop coming whether good or bad. Sometimes life forces us to change, sometimes we want change, and sometimes we know it's the right thing to do even when it hurts. So here's to the ever changingness of life, let's toughen up and see what's out there next for us!



I'm all outta luck but what else could I be?
I know he's yours and he'll never belong to me again.
I did him wrong.
So don't brag,
Keep it to yourself.
I did him wrong.
I was never no, never no, never enough,
But I can try, I can try to toughen up.
I listened when they told me
If he burns you, let him go.
Change is hard, I should know.
I should know.
I should know.
So I'll keep my head down
If you keep it quiet from now on.
In the halls I'd rather hear silence than the bell of new love.
So don't brag,
Keep it to yourself.
I did him wrong.
I was never no, never no, never enough,
But I can try, I can try to toughen up.
I listened when they told me
If he burns you, let him go.
Change is hard, I should know.
I should know.
I should know.
I should know.

Although, the sun will never shine the same, I'll always look to a brighter day.

Artist- Mariah Carey & Boyz II Men
Song of the day- One sweet day

So technically this might not actually be a male / female duet, but I've always seen Boyz II Men as one music power entity anyway. And who didn't love this fantastically cheezy, sad, 90s jam? It still holds the record as longest running #1 on Billboard, so don't you tell me you don't love every diva-out minute of it. I've never wanted to hold my headphones to one ear, wear cut offs and shake my hand so badly! Today as I started a new week of school, I realized just how split apart my dear nursing family is this quarter. How our sweet little cohort that could is divided into varying classes, leaving the nice support system that took me 8 months to create slightly disheveled. The emotional cheeze-ball inside me knew only one song could discribe my feelings...though I never thought the one sweet day that would bring us all back together would be Saturday mornings, bittersweet. So if you're missing those far away, up in the sky, across miles (emotionally of literally), or just not by your side at the moment, shake those hands and sing it proud.





Sorry, I never told you, all I wanted to say.
Now it's too late to hold you. '
Cause you've flown away, so far away.

Never, Had I imagined, yeah, living without your smile.
Feelin' and knowing you hear me.
It keeps me alive. Alive!

And I know you're shining down on me from Heaven,
Like so many friends we've lost along the way,
And I know eventually we'll be together.
One sweet day.

Picture a little scene from Heaven.

Darling, I never showed you.
Assumed you'd always be there.
I took your presence for granted.
But I always cared
And I miss the love we shared.

And I know you're shining down on me from Heaven.
Like so many friends we've lost along the way.
And I know eventually we'll be together.
One sweet day.

Picture a little scene from Heaven.

Although, the sun will never shine the same, I'll
always look to a brighter day.

Yeah, Lord, I know, when I lay me down to sleep,
You'll always listen, as I pray!

And I know you're shining down on me from Heaven,
Like so many friends we've lost along the way,
And I know eventually we'll be together.
One sweet day.

And I know you're shining down on me from Heaven,
Like so many friends we've lost along the way,
And I know eventually we'll be together.
One sweet day.

Sorry, I Never told you, all I wanted to say

Oh your mouth is poison, your mouth is wine

Artist- The Civil Wars
Song of the day- Poison & Wine

There has recently been quite the revival of male and female duets in the last few years. I'm most ecstatic of course for the pairing of my musical loves Jenny Lewis and Johnathan Rice. Since I shall be seeing them in a week I thought I would ring in my ridiculous, obsessed, some might argue stalkerish excitement by celebrating some of my other fav musical pairings. My newest discovery is thanks to my Texas Friend Jennifer Ashley who I would dare say has better musical taste than me and knows immediately what I shall love. Within seconds of hearing this duo I was hooked from that twanging harmony that I love so well and have recently made the discovery that my favorite love songs are sad ones, hmmm. Either way, the truth in every contradicting word they sing stings in just the perfect way. And reminds me of the power and danger we have with every word we speak. We are built up and broken down on a daily basis by people's words and have the ability to do the same. Perhaps being a writer I'm more obsessed with this concept, but thinking about it, I couldn't get over how much my mood depends on what people say to me and perhaps why I'm consumed with the need to please people so I can keep getting the good kind of words. Granted this isn't a great characteristic but it's like that verse "reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." It's a beautiful, dangerous weapon we carry, use it well...or at least harmonize when aiming to kill.



You only know what I want you to
I know everything you don't want me to
Oh your mouth is poison, your mouth is wine
Oh you think your dreams are the same as mine
Oh I don't love you but I always will
Oh I don't love you but I always will
Oh I don't love you but I always will
I always will

I wish you'd hold me when I turn my back
The less I give the more I get back
Oh your hands can heal, your hands can bruise
I don't have a choice but I still choose you
Oh I don't love you but I always will
Oh I don't love you but I always will
Oh I don't love you but I always will
Oh I don't love you but I always will
Oh I don't love you but I always will
Oh I don't love you but I always will
Oh I don't love you but I always will
I always will
I always will
I always will
I always will
I always will

Wait, they don’t love you like I love you

Artist- Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Song of the day- Maps

So I've spent the majority of the last couple of days in my car attempting to decipher GPS maps, iphone maps, google maps, and state maps often leading to longer ways, wrong ways or right ways with lots of traffic. However this morning the pain was a bit eased by my rediscovery of this album as I screamed along to Karen O whilst my probable annoyed passenger attempted sleep. But I shall forever cherish this slow jam as one of my top all time fav love songs, though I have no idea what it has to do with maps. Especially since I've grown to have more of a love / hate relationship with them after this weekend. Regardless, O's weird, raw emotion gets me every time when singing this chorus. And if you've ever felt the same, you'll fall in love with this song too.



Pack up;
I’m straight;
Enough;
Oh say, say, say;
Oh say, say, say;
Oh say, say, say;
Oh say, say, say;
Oh say, say, say

Wait, they don’t love you like I love you; wait, they don’t love you like I love you;
Ma-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-aps;
Wait! They don’t love you like I love you.....

Lay off;
Don’t stray;
Well, my kind's,your kind;
I’ll stay the same!
Pack up;
Don’t stray;
Oh say, say, say;
Oh say, say, say!

Wait! They don’t love you like I love you;
wait! They don’t love you like I love you;
Ma-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-aps;
Wait! They don’t love you like I love you!
wait! They don’t love you like I love you!
Ma-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-aps!
Wait! They don’t love you like I love you …
(guitar solo)
Wait! They don’t love you like I love you;
And wait! They don’t love you like I love you;
Ma-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-aps;
Wait! They don’t love you like I love you!
And wait! They don’t love you like I love you!
Ma-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-aps!
Wait! They don’t love you like I love you …

I just think if we keep out hearts together I just think if we build on this trust that we have for one another Maybe we can make this last a lifetime

Artist- Ray LaMontagne
Song of the day- Forever my friend

I'll be out of youtube / Internet range for a few days, so hopefully this song is good enough to last you in my absence...I personally think it is. So as you've noticed, more often then not, songs of the day tend to coexist with people that cross my path, whether for a moment, 10 years ago, or those who still just can't get rid of me even if they try. They either find this charming or will stop telling me things, not quite sure which yet. But the only reason I even started this self obsessed blog is cuz of one person. I'm not sure if my friend Kate suggested I start this blog cuz she was sick of me sending her songs all the time or if maybe she just knew I needed a musical outlet during hectic study days aka every day. But hopefully she won't get sick of at least one last dedication...(ok that's probably totally a lie but sounds really impressive). As you approach a day where things might seem to totally change forever, may you also be comforted that forever you will be the people you always have been to each other; your love, your friend, and your shared love for bearded men. Here's to you Kate & Kyle.



Who am I to tell her
Who am I to play god
Who am I to think I can go it alone
Something tells me girl this is bringing you down
Something tells me this is bringing me down
We've been through some changes
Always seem to hold on
Lately it feel like you can't take anymore
Something tells me girl this is bringing you down
Something tells me girl this is bringing you down
Forever my friend
Forever my love
Forever the woman that I'm thinking of
I just think if we keep our hearts together
Just think if we build on this trust that we have for one another
Baby we can make this last a lifetime
Who am I to tell her
Who am I to play god
I don't know just what's for real anymore
Something tells me girl this is bringing you down
Something tells me girl this is bringing you down
Maybe I'm wrong, maybe I'm right
Maybe it's the last thing you want to hear me say
I just think if we keep out hearts together
I just think if we build on this trust that we have for one another
Maybe we can make this last a lifetime
Forever my friend
Forever my love
Forever the woman
That I'm thinking of
I just think if we keep our hearts together
I just think if we will build on this trust that we have for one another
Maybe we can make this last a lifetime

We love this exaltation woh-oh, o-o-oh

Artist- Alphabeat
Song of the day- Fascination

Ever have those days that you're totally in a bad mood and you don't know why, but you're just waiting for the next thing to come and make you completely lose it. Yeah I felt like that today till this song came on my shuffle. It instantly reminded me of my friend Morgan (who gave me the song during one of our music parties) and all the crazy good times we had of midnight "whataburger" runs, hours of guitar hero where she totally schooled me, going to awkward clubs with a nice blend of hip hop and country, being picked up by high school boys at the movies, being pulled over by cops at church, and that just scratches the surface. All had during a time in my life I was convinced I would be miserable till I could go to nursing school, ha big laugh there. Anyway It reminded me how your day or your life can just turn around by a song, by amazing people who just jump into your life and make it better. So here's to those little lights that come our way and make you get up and enjoy life!



Easy living,
killed the young dudes,
in the high boots.
Teenage,
in the pace age,
that's when love burns,
now it's your turn.

Fascination
Fascination
It's just the way we feel.

Fn
It's just the way we feel. (yeah)

We love this exaltation (woh-oh, o-o-oh)
We want the new temptations (woh-oh, o-o-oh)
It's like a revelation (woh-oh, o-o-oh)
We live on fascination

Passion,
is our passion,
in the moonlight,
on a joy ride. in the snow
Easy living
killed the young dudes,
in the high boots. (oh yeah)

Fascination
Fascination
It's just the way we feel (come on).

We love this exaltation (woh oh, o-o-oh)
We want the new temptations (woh oh, o-o-oh)
It's like a revelation (woh oh, o-o-oh)
We live on fascination.

The word is on your lips - say the word
The word is on your lips - say the word
Find More lyrics at www.sweetslyrics.com
The word is on your lips - say the word
The word is on your lips - say the word
The word is on your lips - say the word
The word is on your lips - say the word
The word is on your lips - say the word
The word is on your lips - say the word
The word is on your lips - say the word
The word is on your lips - say the word
The word is on your lips - say the word
Fas-ci-na-tion!

We love this exaltation (woh-oh, o-o-oh)
We want the new temptations (woh-oh, o-o-oh)
It's like a revelation (woh-oh, o-o-oh)
We live on fascination (o-oh...)

Say the word now (fa-sci-na-tion)
Say the word
Come on say the word now (fa-sci-na-tion)
Come on (fa-sci-na-tion)