Gaga and a Few of my Favorite Things

When we lived in Europe, we often found ourselves driving to Piding, Germany.  We always stayed at a lovely Gasthaus the Pension Einzinger. Unfortunately, I don't think it exists anymore. The beds were pure heaven layered with eiderdown comforters that wrapped around you like a warm cocoon.  It was a quiet in that little town with the exception of the gentle mooing from the cow next door and the church bells in the morning.  It was a welcome respite from the city noise in Frankfurt. 

 

But it wasn't just the wonderful hospitality of the host that drew us back.  It was its proximity to Salzburg just twenty clicks (that's kilometers) Both my husband and I were completely enchanted by the city.  I still can't decide if I loved it because it was a magical place or if it was magical because the movie The Sound of Music was filmed there.   Honestly it really doesn't matter.  I love both the movie and the city.

Usually, I do not watch the Oscars.  It is not my favorite type of show, but on this occasion, I decided I would record it.  I was so glad I did because towards the very end Lady Gaga gave a stunning performance of songs from the Sound of Music.  As a pop singer, she rarely gets the chance to showcase her full vocal range, and I was thrilled she got to do that on such a grand stage. 

Then Julie Andrews appeared, and I’ll admit, it brought tears to my eyes. Her voice was once one of the most extraordinary gifts in music, and I often wonder: if she hadn’t suffered the throat problems that silenced that brilliant voice, would she have been the one singing those songs that night? Still, Lady Gaga stepped into those very large shoes with grace and strength. It was a beautiful tribute, and seeing Julie Andrews again felt like a reunion with an old friend.