I'll admit that I'm not the most romantic person on the planet (Charlotte would be the second person to tell you that).
Not really big on hugs. Kiss hello? NMD. It's not that I have anything against these things. They're just not part of my romantic DNA.
That doesn't mean I don't like romantic songs. Oh HELL no. There are some terrific ones that Charlotte and I both love. We've chronicled our (almost 34 years) life together with a soundtrack that ranges from Cole Porter to The Shins.
So, with Valentine's Day almost on top of us (great metaphor for the #1 sex holiday of the year AMIRITE?) I'm offering up a Baby Boomer V'Day Playlist to get you in the mood. If at least ONE of these songs isn't on your playlist, then Dude, you're a bigger curmudgeon that me. And you don't really want to go there, do you?
The Boomer Brief Valentine's Day Playlist
Fly Me to the Moon (In Other Words) - Diana Krall
This classic has been recorded by everyone from Ol' Blue Eyes to Rod Stewart, but the version l like best is from Mrs. Elvis Costello (Diana Krall).
Have I Told You Lately That I Love You? - Van Morrison Listen to the lyrics and I think you'll agree that this Van Morrison song captures the Celtic singer's charm better than just about anything. This one line has kept more men out of trouble than just about anything ever written.
Silver Springs - Fleetwood Mac
Nobody belts out a rock ballad better than Stevie Nicks and this is one of her best. Charlotte makes me play it every time we watch our Fleetwood Mac DVD.
Pretty Woman - Roy Orbison
Who doesn't love this song? If this video featuring Orbison playing with everyone from Jackson Browne to Bruce Springsteen doesn't have you tapping your feet, then you should make a doctor's appointment.
When You Say Nothing At All - Allison Krause
If I'm lucky enough to make it anywhere near the pearly gates, I bet the angels sound a whole lot like Allison Krause. This song is guaranteed to give you goose bumps.
I'm Still In Love With You - Al Green
Every Valentine's Day playlist has to have at least one Al Green song. It's in my contract with the WBF (World Blogging Federation).
Crazy - Patsy Cline
I love this video from the 1950's of Patsy Cline singing one of the songs that made her a legend. Does anyone express heartache better than Miss Patsy? Nah...didn't think so.
I Can't Tell You Why - The Eagles
This song from the Eagle whose name nobody remembers (Hint: Timothy B. Schmidt) is one of the Eagles' best-loved songs - and a BIG favorite of Charlotte's.
Someday Soon - Judy Collins
I love the crossover country/rock vibe of this Collins classic. The tempo is upbeat and the message is don't-stand-in-the-way-of-love-or-I'll-run-you-over-with-my-pickup-truck perfect.
Wonderful Tonight - Eric Clapton
Slowhand never said it better. This one line has kept more men out of trouble than just about anything ever written.
Letter from Home - Pat Metheny
This is the only instrumental on the list and it is - without question - the most hauntingly beautiful song I've ever heard.
How Sweet It Is To Be Loved By You - James Taylor
This song just makes me smile. And if it will do that for a crotchety old bastard guy like me, I'm guessing you'll like it, too.
Prepare your own Mexican quick fix with this Chipotle-inspired bowl. Carbs are moderated by filling the bowl with beans, extra veggies and chicken. No need for rice, since the beans count as carbs.
Tips:
If you love tomatoes, increase the quantity to 1/2 cup, but note that the carbohydrates will also increase.
If preparing this recipe for one person, cut all of the ingredients in half. Or simply prepare the full recipe up to the end of step 2 and store leftover chicken and vegetable-bean mixture in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave on High for 1 to 2 minutes, or until heated through, and continue with step 3.
Health Bite: The iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper and zinc in black beans help to keep bones strong and healthy.
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and @CharlotteBoomer
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