for my friend over yonder

A friend just reminded me of an album that I love. It defined a huge time in my life. A time when I fell in love, found myself so happy I could burst, and just felt alight with inspiration. I used to listen to this album constantly. I'd listen while I wrote, while I walked, while I lay on my bed at night. I'd sing along, harmonise; I breathed the music in.

And eleven years later, my lovely, inspirational friend who lives over the sea, so far away and yet so close, without knowing just how much I love this music, posted a video of one of the songs on her blog. She loves this song—it means countless beautiful things to her and her family. And reminds me of one of the most precious times of my life.

I listened to the song and thought, "Yes, of course. Of course you love this music too."

This is my favourite song from the album (which is called Mermaid Avenue, by the way). It's Way over Yonder in the Minor Key by Woody Guthrie and is performed by Wilco, Billy Bragg and the beautiful Natalie Merchant.

And I'm posting it for you, Jennifer, with love and smiles. So many smiles!