Summertime

Summer is here and to help welcome it and set the stage for fun, sun, parades, festivals, picnics, BBQs and just plain old hanging out in the yard or park, have a listen to, Summertime from Porgy and Bess.

I've loved this song from the first time I heard it and a few years back when I took singing lessons, (why no one is banging on my door to offer a contract is a mystery:), this song  was part of my repertoire.

A wonderful song for a fun-filled time of year. Ella Fitzgerald, among others, sang it beautifully. Sam Cooke's version is my favourite, however, for sheer fun, here's Billy Stewart's rendition. Kick back and have a listen. Shaking of body parts is encouraged.

Happy Summer! 

Will keep you posted. 

Happy Father's Day to Single Mothers

One of my daughters just wished me a Happy Father's Day. I actually laughed out loud and then gave this some serious thought, because as a divorced single mother, raising three daughters on my own before the eldest was even ten, I have had to be both mother and father to my girls. 

It was not always easy but I am so happy I was able to raise my daughters and provide some wisdom to help them  along the way to adulthood. It helped that I was raised by both parents, Charles and Viola, and I drew on their guidance to help me guide my daughters. 

Single mothers, don't despair. Do the best you can and be available for one-on-one discussions with your kids (by the way, this part never ends:). You won't have all the answers but I believe your children will appreciate a genuine effort. Years go by quickly and in the blink of an eye, they will be adults making their own way through life, hopefully drawing on the guidance you provided. 

So, to all you women who singlehandedly raised your children, providing motherly and fatherly advice, have a Happy Father's Day! You've earned it.  

Will keep you posted.