I got a request from one of our newer friends on the concert group, Tressa, for songs about memory for a Thursday theme. I was intrigued by where that theme could lead, so that’s what we’re doing this week. And it has me thinking about memory in myself and in those around me. We often ask each other what our first memory in life is. I usually say I can remember swinging on a swingset when I was maybe three years old, but I honestly don't have any recollection of that anymore. Most of my memories of early childhood are tied up in family pictures and Super 8 movies that reinforce what I think I remember. I can definitely remember sitting in class in Kindergarten and playing with friends. Then I think I can remember most of the milestones that happened throughout my life, but when I compare that to what my wife Jen remembers or what my siblings remember there are often discrepancies. When my mom was alive she would often comment on one of the memories that I would share onstage that, "That never happened." I think sometimes she would just be kidding, but it gave me pause. I think if I had to write a memoir it would be mostly spun memories. I think that is normal. It's quite common for us to craft our life and our story the way we want it to be, and if it doesn't harm anyone I think that's okay. Like everyone my memory is getting a little worse year by year. I always say, "If I don't write it down it will be forgotten within a couple minutes." And that is often true. That can be a very good thing to guard us from worry and grief. So this week we will delve into some songs about memory for the Thursday online show. I don't think we'll get too moody or nostalgic. This will be a fun exploration!
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What have I been up to?
My senior facilities went very well last week. The one facility that I had not been back to since before COVID still had many of the folks I remembered, and it was so good to see them.
My Thursday online show of Spring songs was very sweet with a bunch of friends and some really great songs from all over the spectrum. It was a hoot!
My Sunday online show of favorites was a blast too with lots of good folks and a wide variety of songs. Every week is an adventure on Sunday nights. I never know quite where it will go, but it never disappoints!
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What am I up to this week?
I have nine senior facilties this week, and I'm looking forward to every one. I love serving others in this way.
My Thursday online show 7-8:30 will be memory songs as I spoke of above. I've had a lot of good requests, and I have a good list of ideas that truly will explore the idea of memory. There are lots of little gems to take out and wonder at this week. Come on out and see where it leads!
My Sunday online show 7-8:30 will be favorites and requests as always. We have such a lovely group of folks who support each and other and the music, and you're always welcome to join in!
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Colorado Springs next week
If you will be in the Colorado Springs area next week I'll be playing for a memorial service next Wednesday for a good friend and frequent member of my online audience, Lodzia Jordan. I met Lodzia and her husband Edward 20 years ago in Canon City, CO, when I was playing at the St. Cloud Hotel. They stayed in touch with me over the years from California, and Lodzia was always a bright presence with fun letters and even favorite treats from her homeland of Poland. She will be missed. Any and all of our Munch Bunch family are welcome at her service. Here are the details from Edward.
SERVICES FOR LODZIA JORDAN
Dear Munch Bunch Friends, Funeral services for my dearest wife, Leokadia Irena (Lodzia) Jordan will be held in Colorado Springs on Wednesday, 20 April, 2022. Lodzia, our family, and I would be honored by your attendance. Funeral Mass will be at 11AM in Corpus Christi Catholic Church, 2318 N. Cascade Ave (just north of downtown, across street from Penrose Hospital). Tom will be singing some of Lodzia's favorite hymns. Interment will follow at the AF Academy Cemetery; we will proceed in a group through the North Gate - driver will need to show license and that should be it.
Immediately following, the family will host a reception for all our guests at the Cliff House, 306 Canon Ave., Manitou Springs, so we may meet you and you may have something good to eat before the drive home. Our Granddaughters are preparing a video for the reception to remember Lodzia's life, so you will have a chance to know her better, even while saying goodbye.
Lodzia told me she wanted people to wear cheerful colors, so please do. Black suits will be just for the priest and myself. If you like, we invite you to wear something with a bit of purple, lavender or lilac, which were Lodzia's favorites.
I need an approximate count for the reception. If you think you might attend, please text me at 805-300-1166. Again, that's just to get an approximate count and not a "commitment".
Thank you,
Edward Jordan
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That's it for this week. Life continues to be interesting, and we build new memories every day.
Best always,
Tom
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Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing an online concert of memory songs
Where: facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts
When: Thursday, April 14, 7-8:30 pm mountain time
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing an online concert of favorites and requests
Where: facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts
When: Sunday, April 18, 7-8:30 pm mountain time
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