My cousin and I "playing" my grandparent's piano. I'm the one dressed like Beetlejuice with beads. I have this thing. This obsessive thing. Where I get an idea in my head and it just won't go away. It's usually about making something happen. Like going to a certain place, eating a certain thing, learning a certain skill, obtaining a certain object. Sometimes it's no biggie. I just think and dream about whatever it is that is occupying my thoughts. Sometimes I completely forget about it and move on with my life. Sometimes I work on it gradually and it pans out eventually. Sometimes it spirals out of control and I HAVE to make it happen. These are the crazy times. Oddly enough I was talking to my sewing ladies about this the other day. Sometimes, not often, but sometimes. I HAVE to make whatever it is I want happen. Usually you guys, it's something super stupid and insane. Like a purse. Or a motorcycle (yes, that's how that happened). I will go to whatever lengths (obviously within my means) to make that little dream come true.
Today we are not talking about that scary sort of absolutely-have-to-make-it-happen-determination, but just of the normal obsession. I've been obsessing for years about obtaining piano. I don't really even play you guys, I just need one. My sister and I got a keyboard for Christmas when I was like 12? And I immediately claimed it and obsessively taught myself how to play. Mostly just the treble clef because that's the kind of sheet music I could read. But a little of the bass too. I could play most of Pachebel's Canon with both hands. I obsessed over that too. I loved loved loved that song and was determined to play it. I spent hours and hours learning the keys and notes and line by line I taught myself how to play the piano with that song. Which was cool because then I could play other songs too. At least with my right hand. My grandma had this lovely piano book of songs from the Sound of Music (it's been a lifelong love, y'all) that I inherited (possibly swiped?) and viola, I could now play music from it!
I couldn't tell you if I still remember how to play, but I really really wantneed a piano. Not a new fancy one, just a piano. Made of wood with keys that plink. And maybe a little bench. I've looked on Craig's List and you can find some and for a good deal too, but unfortunately we have no where to put it. AND we live in an apartment with the thinnest of walls and ceilings and I refuse to be that neighbor. Although some of my neighbors more than deserve it. But one day, when we have space and a home that's maybe not rented and attached to other homes, I will own one. And I will relearn how to play and maybe even splurge for legit lessons. Because I want to annoy the heck out of Mr. Hogan with my misplunked keys over and over. Because a home full of music is a happy home. And because my grandparents had a piano and when I was little I thought it was the most magical thing. And if any thing you guys, I'm all about magic.
Do you have songs that instantly put you in a good mood? I do. I have a lot of these songs. I am very much about staying positive and upbeat, anyway I can. There's so much bad crap in the world, I don't want to add to it! A good attitude can get you a long way. So sometimes when I'm feeling down, to lighten up a bit and remind myself that life is mostly wonderful I'll jam out to some of my favorite pick me up tunes.
Let's go over a few of my favorites! We'll go with a top 5, although this is an ever evolving list. And yes, I realize the majority are shamelessly girly, but don't hate.
That's Not My Name by the Ting Tings. I love this song. It is my ultimate go to if I need to get pumped and excited about anything. I don't know where I first heard this song, I want to say it was while I was waiting tables... Regardless, I've played it a gazillion times (it's #6 on my top played songs ever on itunes) and it has yet to get old. It's so upbeat and fun and it makes me happy. And things that make me happy are okay in my book.
My Love by the Bird and the Bee. I guess there's something about a good beat and clapping that I just can't resist. This song is so fun, so lighthearted and sweet. And a blast to dance to. In your living room. Alone. In pjs. Not that I've ever done that of course, I've just heard rumors. Side note, I am not at all a fan of either of the previous two videos. Good songs, bad videos.
Dog Days Are Over by Florence + the Machine. Clapping beats? Again? I guess I'm predictable. I love everything about Florence + the Machine. This song was my introduction the them and it's still one of my favorites. Singing to this in my car = happy place (for me, any other living creature present would be in hell and would probably tuck and roll out to save their ears). I like to joke that this is Sophie's theme song, the Dog Days Are Over.... get it? SO CLEVER, I KNOW.
No You Girls by Franz Ferdinand. Whoa a song sung by a male!? Congrats Franz Ferdinand, y'all are the only dudes on this list. I love this whole album, but this song (and Ulysses which is just about tied for this spot) is my favorite. This is gettin' ready to go out and do fun stuff music! Plus also a blast to solo-living-room-dance to.
Countdown by Beyonce. First, I love Beyonce, forever. Second, how freaking adorable is this video? I think there's even clapping. This song is extra cute and so fun. Makes me think of me and my boo and how crazy I about that fool (too corny?). There are so many of her songs that make me happy. Girlfriend's got it goin' on. If only I could dance like B!
Are you happier now? I sure am. Feel free to hate all of these songs, everyone has something different that makes them smile. Upbeat songs that make you want to sing and dance, that's my bread and butter. Making my world a happier place, one clap at a time.
