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Last week, I took the train out to Chestnut Hill because I was feeling the need for a city break.

As much as I enjoy urban living, I periodically feel my soul signaling me to spend some time in the quietness of the burbs.

I think it’s important when you live in a city to know when to get away, even if it’s just a one day hiatus.

A change in energy does the mind, body and spirit good.

My day started out exceptionally well, because upon entering the underground train station at Center City, Market East, I began to hear the most exquisite sound of violin music.

I don’t know whether I’ve ever shared this with you guys before, but the violin is my favorite musical instrument, along with the cello. The sound of strings, for me, carries the emotion of a musical piece. Strings go right to the center, piercing the heart; telling a story.

As I walked closer to the music, I saw a sight that stopped me in my tracks.

My eyes focused on three young ladies, who were probably in their mid-teens, playing a classical piece that was so amazingly breathtaking, it gave me chills.

I stood there for about 5 minutes, taking in not only the sound, but also the touching sight of these three young people playing with such joy and utter reverence.

I noticed they had one of their violin cases opened in front of them, so that if anyone wished to donate money they could. As you know, I’m not one to hand out money on the streets to everyone asking, but I will give when my heart tells me to. And this was definitely a time when my heart said so.

And what totally delighted me was that when I looked into the violin case, it was filled almost to the brim. People were walking by, reaching in their pockets without any hesitation; tossing in bills with pleasure.

Watching the reactions of the passerby’s was an experience all its own.

This was one of those special moments you sometimes have in life, when it feels like a Paul Anka “Times of Your Life Kodak Moment”; wanting to capture the whole experience on film, so that you’ll never forget it.

Anyway, after they finished their song, I went up and introduced myself and asked if they were attending a music school here in Philly, which they were. I conveyed to them how much I appreciated sharing their talents with us, and that they added such beauty to the world.

They were very modest and shy, smiled, and then said thank you.

I knew I wanted to blog about this, so I asked if they wouldn’t mind me taking their photo, which they consented.

While on the train out to the burbs, I began reflecting on what I had just experienced.

Here were three remarkably talented youngsters, who were out there sharing of themselves.

They didn’t expect or even asked to be compensated, but rather made a passionate offering to the world; allowing their offer to speak for itself.

They approached life with an attitude that I strongly believe in.

It’s not HOW we make a living that’s the thing.

But rather, how we OFFER our living.

With passion.

Strings go right to the center, piercing the heart; telling a story....


Thank you, three young ladies. YOU. ROCK.

58 comments:

  1. Good morning Ron!

    I hope you enjoyed your little getaway. I used to leave town about once every couple of months and get a hotel room by myself just to get away and rejuvinate. Those times were priceless to me.

    I used to play classical violin when I was young. There is something warming about strings. I love that these young girls are passionate about playing something meaningful and sharing it with whomever they can. You don't see that very often any more.

    Thanks for sharing this!

    Have a wonderful week!


    XOXO

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  2. This is going to crack you up Ron, but when I was picturing what you described, I pictured girls wearing prom gowns!!! LOL! Because I agree with you, string music is the most beautiful! I am fascinated by kids who can play those instruments. It looks so difficult. I tried to teach myself acoustic guitar and gave up!

    Thanks for sharing a neat experience and BRAVO to those girls!

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  3. How lovely. I'm so pleased you gave something to show your appreciation. I agree with you about the violin, it can produce so many different sounds and it does 'haunting' better than any other instrument. I love it. Have you ever listened to Danse Macabre? If you have you'll know exactly what I mean. I might post that one and see what the reaction is.

    Here in the UK we have classical violinists playing in shopping areas. I have been told they do it to raise money for their orchestra but I'm not sure if it's right.

    Thursday is story day, Ron. Have a wonderful week.

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  4. oh they're beautiful
    the woman on the right has such an amazing look on her face
    I wish them all good things

    thanks for sharing them

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  5. Wow synchronicity at work here Ron. Just last night we were watching a new series on TV (Call The Midwife) and one of the characters was a violinist. Hearing her play (though it may have been a recording of course) just touched my heart. I commented to MWM "I would have like to have been able to play the violin".

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  6. Hello Lady Dianne~

    Yes, aren't they beautiful? And to watch them in person (playing their violins)....they glowed. When I first heard the music, I thought it was CD that someone was playing on a boombox, because it was flawless.

    I have a feeling these three young ladies are going to go far!

    "the woman on the right has such an amazing look on her face."

    Love her EYES!

    Thanks a bunch for stopping by, dear lady. Have an awesome week!

    X to you and the gang!

    P.S. hope Siren and Isadora are doing better.

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  7. Good morning Akelamalu~

    WOW!!!! That certainly IS synchronicity at work - how COOL!!!

    "Hearing her play (though it may have been a recording of course) just touched my heart."

    That's exactly how I feel whenever I hear a violin. For some reason, their sound touches me deeply.

    And it's ironic that you mentioned playing the violin yourself, because when my father was a young child, he took violin lessons, but gave it up because he said it was very difficult to learn.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, m'dear. Have a wonderful day and week!

    X

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  8. Good morning Diane~

    "I used to leave town about once every couple of months and get a hotel room by myself just to get away and rejuvinate. Those times were priceless to me."

    Yes, isn't it GREAT to take a little getaway every once in a while? Even just day (or two) makes me feel revived and renewed.

    Oh WOW......you played classical violin?!?!?!?!? How freakin' fabulous is that? As I shared with Akelamalu, my father also took violin lessons when he was a child, but stopped because he said it was very challenging to learn. I think it was more that his mother wanted him to take lessons, therefore I don't think his heart was in it.

    " There is something warming about strings."

    You said it, girl!

    I once was in the Puccini opera, La Boheme, and when I first heard the FULL orchestra playing with us, it was the sound of the violin section that brought tears to my eyes. Bellissima!

    Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing your experience with the violin. Isn't it cool how through blogging, we discover so many cool things about each other we never knew!

    Have a super week!

    XOXO

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  9. Hey there Bijoux~

    "This is going to crack you up Ron, but when I was picturing what you described, I pictured girls wearing prom gowns!!!"

    Bwhahhhhahahahahahaa! Yes, that DID crack me up!!!!! But I can TOTALLY see how you pictured that!!!!

    We have so many people here in Philly, who stand on the street corners sharing their musical talents. One guy, sets up a speaker with a microphone; playing karaoke music on a recorder and then sings along with it. He gets all dressed up in a suit and tie, and sing his heart out. And even DANCES while he's sing. Honest to god, the guy is faaaaaaabulous!

    " I agree with you, string music is the most beautiful! I am fascinated by kids who can play those instruments. It looks so difficult. I tried to teach myself acoustic guitar and gave up!"

    Isn't string music so beautiful? I even like the sound of a harp. Yes, my father took violin lessons when he was a kid, and also gave it up because he said it was SO difficult to learn.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, dear lady. And thanks for the GREAT morning chuckle.

    Have a grrrrrrrrreat week!

    X

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  10. Sounds like a wonderful way to spend a day away! Funny how many us in the 'burbs go over to Philly for our days trips and you guys have to get the heck out of town for some of yours.
    Even though I appreciate a variety of music and instruments, especially since my son plays guitar and hubby is learning piano, the violin is still my favorite overall.

    'They didn’t expect or even asked to be compensated' ...
    Sorry, but I have to disagree with that. What?? I'll wait for your head to stop spinning. LOL My thought is, if they had a violin case open in front of them, then yes, they were expecting donations. Okay, maybe 'expect' isn't the right word. I think they were certainly hoping to receive money though. If there were absolutely no thought of compensation on their minds there would be no place to leave money. I don't think it's wrong to set up a little performing area at the train station, it's a neat little way to share your talents and a nice treat for the passersby. And from what you said, they were delightful to listen to and many people enjoyed them. Not meaning to be snarky today, I'm sure they played joyously, but an open guitar case screams cash. LOL

    Have a wonderful week!

    OH and on Valerie's comment.... Danse Macabre is FABULOUS!!! It's by Camille Saint-Saens. I have it for violin and for piano (Lizst) too. Check it out!

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  11. Good morning Valerie~

    " I agree with you about the violin, it can produce so many different sounds and it does 'haunting' better than any other instrument. I love it."

    Yes, haunting....that's the PERFECT word!

    " Have you ever listened to Danse Macabre? If you have you'll know exactly what I mean. I might post that one and see what the reaction is."

    No, I've never heard of Danse Macabre, but will check it out on You Tube - just the name sounds so interesting!

    "Here in the UK we have classical violinists playing in shopping areas. I have been told they do it to raise money for their orchestra but I'm not sure if it's right. "

    Ooooo....how wonderful! We have some other talented people here in Philly, who also play their violins, trumpets, Sax, and singers too. It's so cool to be walking down the street and hear them!

    Thanks so much for stopping by this morning, dear lady. Have a wonderful week!

    X

    P.S. Ooooo.... looking forward to Thursday's post!!!!

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  12. Great post, Ron. I'm so glad you wrote about these talented young people.

    Years ago I interviewed a young woman who was giving a violin recital at a local high school in Connecticut. I asked her what it was like playing before all those people and she said "You just let the music take you." That was nearly 20 years ago and I've never forgetten those words.

    Street muscians provide a soundtrack to our lives and they make urban living just a little bit more bearable. And I love your observation:

    "It’s not HOW we make a living that’s the thing. But rather, how we OFFER our living. With passion."

    Excellent! Have a great week, buddy!

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  13. Hey there Mary~

    " Funny how many us in the 'burbs go over to Philly for our days trips and you guys have to get the heck out of town for some of yours."

    HA! Yes, isn't that funny????? Like I shared, I think a change in energy/scenery does us good, doesn't it?

    "Even though I appreciate a variety of music and instruments, especially since my son plays guitar and hubby is learning piano, the violin is still my favorite overall."

    OMG....that's right, I totally forgot your son plays the guitar, therefore I KNOW you have an appreciation for strings.

    "My thought is, if they had a violin case open in front of them, then yes, they were expecting donations. Okay, maybe 'expect' isn't the right word. I think they were certainly hoping to receive money though. If there were absolutely no thought of compensation on their minds there would be no place to leave money."

    Yes, I can see your point. I suppose I should have been more specific in my meaning. You see, when you live in a city you witness so many panhandlers asking, and even aggressively demanding money on the streets.

    These young ladies were not, they were simply offering their talents, and yes....most likely 'hoping' to receive donations.

    It was the "energy" in which they were doing it that was so touching to me.

    They were making a sincere offering.

    "Not meaning to be snarky today, I'm sure they played joyously, but an open guitar case screams cash."

    No, I don't think you were being snarky at all. You brought up a genuine point, so thank you.

    "OH and on Valerie's comment.... Danse Macabre is FABULOUS!!! It's by Camille Saint-Saens. I have it for violin and for piano (Lizst) too. Check it out!"

    Yes...I can't WAIT to check out Valerie's recommendation because just the name alone sounds sooooooooo interesting! And I'll check your recommendation too!

    Have a GLORIOUS week, neighbor!

    X

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  14. Hey Rob~

    Thanks, buddy. The second I saw these young ladies playing, I knew it was something I wanted to share.

    "Years ago I interviewed a young woman who was giving a violin recital at a local high school in Connecticut. I asked her what it was like playing before all those people and she said "You just let the music take you." That was nearly 20 years ago and I've never forgetten those words."

    LOVE it, Rob!!!! "You just let the music take you." Bellissima!

    "Street muscians provide a soundtrack to our lives and they make urban living just a little bit more bearable."

    You said it! And that's one of the COOLEST things I enjoy about living in the a city - it's like a background musical soundtrack!

    Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing on this post, Rob.

    Always enjoyed!

    Have a SUPA' week!

    X

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  15. It’s not HOW we make a living that’s the thing. But rather, how we OFFER our living. With passion. - BRAVO!
    Thank you for sharing this heart lifting story. This made me smile so big and warmed my heart.

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  16. Hey there SuziCate~

    You are so welcome. I knew when this happened last week, I wanted to share it in a blog post, because like you, it lifted my heart and made me smile. BIG!

    Thanks a bunch for stopping this morning. Have a wonderful week, my friend!

    X

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  17. This post is sweet music to my ears, Ron! Beautifully written and touching. I'm sure they appreciated your positive feedback and encouragement very much. Not to mention your money. :)

    My daughter briefly took up the violin, in 5th grade. Sadly, she decided not to continue...too bad! I thought she was pretty good.

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  18. Howdy Mark~

    Thanks, bud.These gals REALLY impressed me, not only with their talent, but also the manner in which they were offering. I was more than happy to share some money with them.

    "My daughter briefly took up the violin, in 5th grade. Sadly, she decided not to continue...too bad! I thought she was pretty good."

    So glad to hear that!

    Yup....my father did the same thing when he was a kid, however, I don't think his heart was really into it. Plus, he said it was a very challenging instrument to learn.

    Always FAB seeing ya, Mark! Mucho thanks for stopping by!

    Enjoy your week!

    X

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  19. What a Wonderful story and experience to share. I too love to see and hear a real good musician out there on the street just giving away the sweetness of music. I too, like you, will give when my heart gives me the nudge. The picture does provide an even more provocative example of the day's experience.

    Thank you for sharing.

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  20. linda@VulturepeakmuseMonday, February 06, 2012

    ron, this piece so touched me...and thank you for sharing the photo of the sweet girls as i pictured them differently....another gift of seeing reality, young black women! very unusual where i come from.

    thank you thank you xoxoxo

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  21. Good afternoon Linda~

    You are so welcome, dear friend. It was an honor to share these three remarkably young ladies.

    "very unusual where i come from."

    This is why I enjoy living in a north east city. We have a wonderful cultural blend of ALL people. I truly enjoy being surrounded by variety.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, Linda. Have a spectacular week!

    ((((( You ))))))

    xoxoxoxoxo

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  22. Hey there Mr. Dave~

    You are so welcome, sir. It was a joy to share these talented and sweet young ladies. Meeting them was such a touching experience.

    "I too love to see and hear a real good musician out there on the street just giving away the sweetness of music."

    You said it, bud! There's nothing like it!

    Thanks so much for stopping by, Dave! Always great seeing ya!

    Have a glorious week!

    X

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  23. Mo and I can never walk past anyone playing good music in the streets. Music lifts our souls and if they can do that, we are happy to give what little we can :)

    Busking is something I always wanted to do when I was young, but although Jim (my hubby) and I carried our guitars everywhere we went, we never did get around to it. Maybe it's because back then we were quite affluent, so the need wasn't there.

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  24. how awesome! Thanks for sharing such a great story. Strings tend to evoke such a strong emotional response, I believe because it is the instrument whose sound most closely resembles the human voice. What a sparklingly brilliant experience - must have made the entire day richer. xoxo, Diane

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  25. Hello Diane~

    "Strings tend to evoke such a strong emotional response, I believe because it is the instrument whose sound most closely resembles the human voice."

    Thank you sooooooooooo much for sharing that Diane, because I seem to remember a looooooooong time ago, either reading that or perhaps someone else told me, but forgot.

    Well then, that's probably why I feel so drawn to the violin I guess, I can hear it speaking.

    Yes, it was a very sparkling experience; making the day richer. Cool, cool experience. And I'm so glad they agreed to having their photo taken because I really wanted you guys to get the whole 'feel' of being down there in the train station.

    Thanks a bunch for stopping by, my friend. Hope you had great Monday, and have a great week!

    X to you and Cristybella

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  26. Hiya Babs~

    "Mo and I can never walk past anyone playing good music in the streets. Music lifts our souls and if they can do that, we are happy to give what little we can :)"

    That's exactly how I feel too! And what I truly love about it is that these folks are out there sharing their talents (playing instruments, singing, dancing) with us; spreading JOY! And it's funny, because sometimes someone will be playing a musical piece or singing a particular song that totally fits my mood. Here in Philly, we have a lot art universities and colleges, therefore you see many students out on the streets simply 'doing their thing.'

    Busking. I have to be honest and say that I've never heard that word before, so I Googled it. So THANKS for teaching me something, my friend!

    Always FAB to see ya, Babs! Hope you enjoyed a great Monday! Have a wonderful week!

    X

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  27. Wow..what a treat! Yaknow, I admire the passion in those performers--and the courage. Pure guts to stand out there and solely rely on what magic you create at that moment in time. And that musta been some magic! I'm glad it was recognized by the audiences they played to. And wow that they let their photo be taken. What beautiful young women, thru and thru.

    I'm hopeful that getaway did the trick for you. I'm thinking I need one of those myself--was kinda looking forward to patio time that got interrupted and rescheduled......but I'll make other arrangements in the interim. Gotta do whatcha gotta do, eh?

    I'm sure all things happen for a reason--which is why I'm glad you were at the right place on the right day to receive this gift of courageous passion that was presented to you.
    I'm going to trust the process will do likewise for me.

    And I'll take popcorn.
    JUST in case.

    ;-)

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  28. Hiya Mel~

    "Yaknow, I admire the passion in those performers--and the courage. Pure guts to stand out there and solely rely on what magic you create at that moment in time. "

    Yup! You said it perfectly! It takes guts and passion. And these three young ladies had it. Plus, amazing talent!

    " I'm glad it was recognized by the audiences they played to. And wow that they let their photo be taken. What beautiful young women, thru and thru."

    Me too. The most delightful sight was watching the reactions of the passerby's. You could tell that they truly appreciated it. Yeah, and I'm very glad they consented to a photo because I really wanted share them with you guys.

    "I'm hopeful that getaway did the trick for you."

    Yes, it did. And this is why I LOVE taking little day trips because it renews and balances me. And seeing these three ladies was also a big part of that.

    "I'm sure all things happen for a reason--which is why I'm glad you were at the right place on the right day to receive this gift of courageous passion that was presented to you.

    I'm going to trust the process will do likewise for me."

    (((( Mel )))))

    Thanks so much for stopping by, dear friend. Always a DElight to see ya!

    Have a wonderful week!

    X

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  29. It's funny how art moves people. Music, paintings, photographs, writing...they all illicit emotional responses. Some touch people deeply. I often find myself laughing, scowling, befuddled, and crying at certain works of writing, theater, and music. Glad to see that there are others out there who experience similar emotional responses. And it's nice to see that art is not dead, but rather alive and well and playing on a street corner near you!

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  30. Howdy Herman~

    You so TOTALLY nailed it!

    "It's funny how art moves people. Music, paintings, photographs, writing...they all illicit emotional responses. Some touch people deeply. I often find myself laughing, scowling, befuddled, and crying at certain works of writing, theater, and music."

    Yes! And watching these three ladies last week, made me feel exactly as you just described.

    Deeply touched and moved.

    "And it's nice to see that art is not dead, but rather alive and well and playing on a street corner near you!"

    Amen! And that's one of things I really enjoy about city life. It's right out there everyday.

    Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing, buddy. So nice to see that there are others out there who experience similar emotional responses.

    Have a SUPER week!

    X to you and the family!

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  31. Ron, there's just not enough of this in today's world! How fortunate you were to stumble upon these three! I miss getting away! We haven't been able to utilize the RV with the price of gas. We are thinking of selling it, but nobody is going to want it with the price going UP! I just keep hoping against hope that it is going to drop!! My ex husband's daughter is a wonderful violin player. She is only about fourteen. She is such an awesome player! She is very, very passionate about it. I believe that shows in the music!! Have a great day!!
    xo
    Jeanne

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  32. How fun to go to Chestnut Hill. It is so nice to get out of the city once in a while. Music is so universal. I remember having a string quartet at our wedding and it made it so special. I think we sometimes forget how amazing experiencing live music is. When it's impromptu, it can be magical.

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  33. What a beautiful and touching story. I really enjoyed it. They look SO young! I love when people do things like that too!

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  34. Good morning Jeanne~

    'Ron, there's just not enough of this in today's world! How fortunate you were to stumble upon these three!"

    Yes, I agree. And that's one of the cool things I enjoy about city living, the fact that everything is right out in the open - right in front of you. It's kinda like being at a HUGE open fair, with people sharing their goods and talents.

    "We haven't been able to utilize the RV with the price of gas. We are thinking of selling it, but nobody is going to want it with the price going UP! I just keep hoping against hope that it is going to drop!!"

    I understand completely, because when I had a car the gas prices were just starting to climb. I'm so glad that I no longer own a car because it saves SO MUCH money.

    How wonderful to hear about your ex husbands daughter playing the violin!!! Since posting this, I've discovered that many of my readers have either played the violin themselves, or know family members who do.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, dear lady! Have a wonderful week!

    X

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  35. Hey there Jen~

    Don't ya just LOVE the Chestnut Hill area? The day I went, I met several new shop owners who just recently moved there and love it. It's such a charming and artsy town.

    "Music is so universal. I remember having a string quartet at our wedding and it made it so special."

    Oooooo....how cool that you had a string quartet at your wedding! I bet it DID make your day very special; adding a beautiful ambiance.

    " I think we sometimes forget how amazing experiencing live music is. When it's impromptu, it can be magical."

    You said it! MAGICAL!

    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Have a terrific week! Talk to ya later.

    X

    P.S. again, I LOVED your most recent post!!!!

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  36. Hiya Peg~

    Thank you. When this happened last week, I just knew I needed to share it.

    "They look SO young! I love when people do things like that too!"

    Me too. Seeing this, gave me a fresh outlook on the kids of today because I've become so cynical about the younger generation losing their ability to socialize and experiencing human contact because of all the technology of cell phones, computers, text messaging, etc.

    There was such a sweetness and innocence about the way these three young ladies were out there sharing.

    Thanks a bunch for stopping by, dear friend. Have a terrific week!

    X

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  37. What a wonderful thing! It's those special moments that make it worth getting up in the morning, just in case they're going to happen! Optimism springs eternal! LOL

    You got a "gift" and gave one back - can't ask for better than that. Hope you enjoyed your getaway.

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  38. Hey there Lady Nitebyrd~

    "It's those special moments that make it worth getting up in the morning, just in case they're going to happen! Optimism springs eternal!"

    You said it. And I LOVE how you said it!

    "You got a "gift" and gave one back - can't ask for better than that."

    Yes I did, and I thank these three young ladies for sharing the exchange with me.

    And aren't they soooooooooo cute????

    Thanks so much for stopping by, Sis! Have a great day and week!

    ((((( You ))))))

    X ya bunches!

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  39. Ron, those kids are SO amazing! Not just because they have talent, but because they have the courage to stand in public and play! I'm so proud of them and I don't even know them!

    BRAVO!

    I absolutely LOVE string instruments. The peace I feel when I hear a violin or an acoustical guitar. I could listen to them ALL day.

    Thank you for sharing such an uplifting post. I wish more teens would do this. Imagine a town or city filled with MUSIC!

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  40. Hiya Pamela~

    " those kids are SO amazing! Not just because they have talent, but because they have the courage to stand in public and play! I'm so proud of them and I don't even know them!"

    I am too! And to have seen them playing was just the most wonderful thing. They were each very shy and reserved UNTIL they started playing and then, WOW, it's like this whole other energy took over.

    "I absolutely LOVE string instruments. The peace I feel when I hear a violin or an acoustical guitar. I could listen to them ALL day."

    Ditto, Pamela!! The moment I hear strings, my heart is touched.

    "I wish more teens would do this. Imagine a town or city filled with MUSIC! "

    Yes...can you IMAGINE????

    Thanks a bunch for stopping by, dear lady. Wishing you a faaaaaaabulous week!

    X

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  41. OH!!!!!!!!!! I loved LOVED this story!!

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  42. Morning Ronnie!

    You know every time I read a post of yours I like you more and more. It is so nice seeing people appreciate young musical talent. I always remember how hard it was to get people to care about music when I was in highschool. I was a member of the chorus and the band and chorus kids were always labeled "weird". To top it off I was a member of the drama club so to most I was down right crazy lol! So nice of you to share these three young ladies story!

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  43. I am a city chick thru and thru but there is nothing like little escapes into the wide spaces. And to get an extra treat of artsy, poetic moments like yours... once you return you just feel fulfilled;)

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  44. Bonjour Susu~

    Yes! Once you return.....you just feel fulfilled!

    Btw, I was thinking of YOU the other day when I went into a new women's clothing shop that just opened up here in Philly. It's called 'Free People'. The whole style theme is Bohemian! If you have some time, please check out their online store Freepeople dot com. I think you'll LOVE it!

    Thanks for stopping by, beautiful lady! Have a great week!

    Ciao ....X

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  45. Goooood morning Shae~

    Thank you, girl. And ditto to you! It's been such joy meeting you through our blogs!

    You and I are very similar.....

    "I was a member of the chorus and the band and chorus kids were always labeled "weird". To top it off I was a member of the drama club so to most I was down right crazy lol!"

    HA! I too was a member of the drama club in high school and was labeled weird/crazy. But hey...I AM weird and crazy!

    HAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

    Thanks so much for stopping by, Shae! Hope you're enjoying a grrrrreat week!

    X

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  46. Good morning Meleah~

    Thank you, girl. Glad you enjoyed.

    ((((( You )))))))

    Hope you're having a great week. Mucho thanks for stopping by!

    X

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  47. Oh Ron, there is nothing quite like beautiful music to soothe the soul! Violin is such a wonderful sound. I like it almost as much as harp.
    I feel the same way about our organist's voice in church. No matter how I feel, when I hear his voice, any stress or tension melts away & I am in awe. I think it's because, even though he has a Polish accent, his voice is very similar to a family member of mine when he sings. My uncle's partner has such a voice. He is a music teacher, too. They live in Minnesota, so I don't see them as much as I'd like to. It's amazing when they come here for Christmas, though. We always sing carols & his voice just shines!
    I really missed it this year since they stayed home in Minnesota. It was the first Christmas without my babcia & my uncle is her youngest son. His trips every year were mostly to visit her. The visits will be less frequent now but when we do see them, we have a blast. Hopefully soon, we'll get a chance to go & visit "the uncles"!
    Thanks for sharing & hope you're having a spectacular week! (((HUGS)))

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  48. *waving*

    Helloooooooooooo Collette! It's soooooooo great to see ya!!!

    "....there is nothing quite like beautiful music to soothe the soul! Violin is such a wonderful sound. I like it almost as much as harp."

    Isn't the sound of strings incredible? Yes! Yes! I too love the sound of a harp because it always reminds me of 'angels' for some reason. The sound of a harp is ethereal.

    "I feel the same way about our organist's voice in church. No matter how I feel, when I hear his voice, any stress or tension melts away & I am in awe."

    Oh, how lovely. Isn't it something how some people's voice can do that to us? It's like their voice touches a deep cord in us; reaching the heart.

    You uncle and his partner sound like such great guys! And I'm SURE they enjoy your company as much as you enjoy theirs. I bet all have a blast when you're together.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, dear lady. Hope you're enjoying this winter season. I don't know about where you live, but this winter has been very mild here in Philly. Although, we did get some snow today. And you know me....I LOVE winter and snow, I'm happy!

    Have a spectacular week!

    ((((( You )))))

    X

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  49. The violin is an exquisite instrument so full of emotion. I am sure it was a touching experience to come across, made even more beautiful by the outpouring from passerby's pockets. Glad it gave you pause Ron.
    xo

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  50. Good morning Katherine~

    "I am sure it was a touching experience to come across, made even more beautiful by the outpouring from passerby's pockets."

    Yes it was, and I think that's the thing that was the most touching about this experience. These three young ladies gave a sincere offering, and it was accepted by way of a sincere offering in return. It was really an awesome moment to witness.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Hope you're having a wonderful week!

    X

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  51. Such an AWESOME post. I play the flute... was a "band nerd." Even went to college for it. I can truly appreciate what these great kids are doing. Would love to know more about their parents!

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  52. Hey there Katherine~

    Thank you, my friend.

    WOW, you the played the flute? How cool! The closest I ever got to playing a flute was a clarinet. However, I only took lessons for about 6 months and then switched to the piano.

    "I can truly appreciate what these great kids are doing. Would love to know more about their parents!"

    Funny you mentioned that because I was thinking the same thing when I saw these three kids. I bet they have great parents!

    Always so nice to see you, Katherine. Thank you for stopping by. Hope you're enjoying a faaaaaaaabulous week!

    X

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  53. How awesome. As I was reading, I was thinking, "I hope he took a picture" and I knew you would since you always have your camera with you. :-)

    "It’s not HOW we make a living that’s the thing.

    But rather, how we OFFER our living.

    With passion."

    SO well said!

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  54. Hey there Chrissy~

    " As I was reading, I was thinking, "I hope he took a picture" and I knew you would since you always have your camera with you."

    HA! You're right, ever since I got this camera last year, it's GLUED to me because I know never know WHEN I'm gonna need it - like for this.

    Thanks a bunch for stopping by, girl. Hope you're enjoying an awesome week!

    Much X to you and the gang!

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  55. I was really enjoying our winter because it has been so mild. The temps are still in the '30's but now it has snowed twice in a week! It was only a couple of inches Saturday & about an inch today, but I have gotten used to the snow melting before it snows again...LOL! It will be Spring soon, so I can wait it out, I suppose;) Happy Valentine's Day, my friend! <3

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  56. Supposedly we're getting a BIG snow storm next week, but the weather has been so erratic, that I'll believe it when I see it.

    HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY, my friend!

    (((((( You )))))))

    X

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  57. cool, i was going to say, where's the photo and bam. now you have to take a video. i like recording street or subway performers when i go into the city. i absolutely love the violin. the guitar is my favorite, but the violin is sweet.

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  58. Hey there ladyV~

    Great idea! The next time I'm there, I will ask if it's okay to take their video.

    " i like recording street or subway performers when i go into the city. i absolutely love the violin. the guitar is my favorite, but the violin is sweet."

    Isn't it cool to see street or subway performers in the city? It adds such wonderful 'feel' to city life!

    Love the guitar too. Anything that involves the sound of 'strings' I enjoy.

    Thanks a bunch for stopping by, girl!

    X

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