1. May 31, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   What a wonderfully warming thought Debbie, especially on this chilly Winter nite. xx
   
2. June 1, 2010 elizabeth ward wrote:
   
   hello kay just been reading your messages, so glad that there is someeone from England as keen (to say the least)on Andre as much as I am.
   would love to hear from you on {redacted} Would also love a duvet with andre on (litarally) to cuddle into. best wishes
   
   Elizabeth     England
   
3. June 1, 2010 Elizabeth Ward wrote:
   hello debbie. I really love the idea of an Andre quilt. It is good to see someone from england as mad about Andre as me. Please get in touch on elizabethward10@talktalk.net.
   

1. May 31, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Indeed....mmmm xx
   

1. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Elaine, I agree with you! When I first found Andre it was a little 'ho-hum, who is this good looker with a violin, Classical taste & a Castle of all things!!?? - more of the high brow etc.,??? I then by chance saw one of his concerts on Ovation and was attracted as his music which was much of what my Mother sang with her beautiful voice during her life, and in a style which was meant to reach and please the people in Classical taste. I cried so much for sooo long!. We lost her 20 months ago. I found much healing from Andre's music & concerts. I then came to follow Andre out of curiosity. I follow him today, not only because I love his music & talent, and find him incredibly handsome as all of us do...and dream - haaa!!!! ...but to know that he is a wonderful human being, a man who believes in the unity of family & Community as well as pursuing his own talents. By my standards, and what I see, hear & read about Andre, - he is a man of very high values & moral standards, even though he 'plays' with us all to some degree....and of course we all love that, and do the same!
   I love to see him 'adore' his grand-children and show teary affection & emotion to his sons, and to read that he loves Marjorie so much although she is camera & travel shy.
   Although my World is 'miniscule' compared to Andre's, I was raised in a family that shared all of it's gifts, loyalties & hopes and plans for the future no matter how hard life was. We were just blessed that my Mum was 'the one' in our family to gift us with her gift of Classical music, with much fun and lack of 'high brow'. I can't help feeling that Andre incidentally appeared in my life after Mum's passing to help me grieve and move on....I am now a loyal fan of Andre: strength of character in any person means a lot to me, despite their gifts & attraction...xxxx
   
   1. June 1, 2010 elaine burch wrote:
      yes i tgo had a mother who took me to see LIBERACE,years ago and, but it wasnot till i heard andre' that my heartjumped in my throat andwhat a goodlooking and talented man he is.he has high morals and loves marjorie and his sons and his grandchildren, my mom pased away 12 years ago now. and she would have loved andre and his music.
      
   2. June 3, 2010 Elizabeth Ward wrote:
      Hello Jan, I have just read your story today and am really moved by your comments on Andre and how his music has helped you, for sometimes especially if I am feeling low or lonely I listen to Andre's music, I have learned quite a lot about him and his wonderfull family on this site and I agree totally that this man is a great example of family values, Humanity,and lots more, He does more to unite people from all over the world more than any politican
      ever could through his wonderfull music and personality. My favourite piece of music which I find so comforting(always brings tears) is "The Rose". Bye .Take care. Elizabeth
      
      1. June 3, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         Hi Elizabeth, and thanks. I can't help myself at times. If it were only just for Andre's music I probably would not have considered joining this site as I've never in my life joined a Fan Club; I would simply have just bought his cd's and enjoyed his music alone. It is all that I have found about him along the way - he truly is amazing in many ways and it is all of that which makes me such a Fan. (Politicians - blah!!!). Good to see you here!
         Jan xx
         
         1. June 5, 2010 Elizabeth Ward wrote:
            thankyou for the welcome Jan I really enjoy this sight and talking with people like yourself. best regards Elizabeth
            

1. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Since I just found out today that my central heating needs replacement...WHERE ARE SUCH ANDRE SNUGGLY BLANKIES????????? WE NEED THEM - NOW !!!!!
   
   1. June 1, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
      Gee Jan things are really falling apart at your home.  You need something special to make your day.  Let me see what I can find. 
      
      Did someone mention something "quirky" Andre does with his tongue in some DVD????  I don't think I can take it but try me.  I am going to be seeing him in 20 days!!!!!!!!!!  At encore time I will  be standing right in front of him ohhhh I think I am getting weak already.  Can you imagine what it was like standing right next to him smelling his cologne????!!!!!!!  He had his hand on my shoulder and I put my arm around his back.  He is so tall next to me so that is the only place my arm would go.  Oh gee must go and stop talking about this.  Hugs
      
      
      1. June 1, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
         PS:  The lyrics with the photo were really the end of the song which Shirley posted which was sung by the Carpenters.  Cannot take the credit there but the lyrics are true for me. : )
         
         
         1. June 1, 2010 shirley wrote:
            Jeanine Ann, my memories went a bit farther back, first heard the Andrew Sisters sing that one.
            
      2. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         I can cope - I'm a strong woman! (Haaaa!!!! - cry!)...Things have been worse so it's not such a big deal - just 'the pits' for a short period of time.
         Cologne???????? I'd be in Heaven on that alone! Have you ever met an Aussie male??????? (Don't repeat that)!!!!!
         European men really have the 'edge' in grroming here!!!!! (I'm single).
         I only hope that I make it to the Melbourne concert...and get as close as I can....
         Somethin' special from you would be lovely!!!!!!
         Just look for the 'tongue'...and after your husband has dragged you up from the floor - just pass it on!
         BIG HUGS!!!!!!!!!!!
         
      3. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         'Short term' falling apart things are just a nuisance-blaaahh!!!!
         In 20 days we need LOTS & LOTS of gorgeous pics from you Jeanine Ann.....
         I can't quite handle hearing about your 'touchy feely' experience with the Man...(Ooooh, I hope I can get decent tickets for Melbourne 2010!!!!!!).xxxx
         

1. May 31, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   How true this is Judith. There is a price to pay for everything in life, no matter how good it seems or is, and we still need our dreams to keep us alive! xxx
   
   1. May 31, 2010 Judith wrote:
      I also know that, but - I want it, I want it, I want it. THE PICTURE ~ Just to clear
      the ranting rage: I want it. There I've said it but you'll just never know.
      
      1. May 31, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
         Hello miss naughty mind Judith.  Do you want to re-think your other post or shall I approve it? I thought I will give you a second chance (haha)
         
         
         1. May 31, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
            Too late for 'Miss Naughty Mind' - we've read it! Humidity has been known to drive people bonkers. Perhaps stay off the wine today (is it Judith who sometimes posts than she's enjoying wine with Andre?).
            I was watching Andre with 'Bond' playing Victory on You Tube. These very sexy, scantily clad & gorgeous young ladies (& very talented)playing up to Andre, and vice versa. I think that might be most excited I've seen the Man. It's a wonder we didn't see his tongue dragging along the stage floor....(ha, ha)...Jealous, me????? YESSS!!!!!
            
            1. May 31, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
               I try not to think about that Jan - I get too jealous also!  So when I watch that DVD I fast forward that part.  Silly me, huh?   I get green with envy (haha)  Hugs
               PS:  The answer to Judith's question is no - it was not strategically placed.  Didn't even think about it.  I just post the stuff, I cannot control where the arrows go (haha)
               
               
               1. May 31, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
                  Okay girls it is bedtime here and I am tired so I will say goodnight and I hope you all have pleasant dreams of you know who.  Hope I do too. : )  Be back to tomorrow with lots of Andre stuff including the column he writes for a Dutch magazine.  Some of you who are new might have missed his previous columns.  See you tomorrow.  Big sleepy hugs.
                  
                  
                  1. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
                     That'll be something I haven't seen, and look forward to...sleep well - we need your sparkle!
                     
               2. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
                  I loved these girls ( I used to look somewhat like those blondes many, many, many mooooons ago)- JEALOUSY kicked in when I saw Andre drooling & I wished I was there. Not quite sure whether I was jealous over his attention to them or jealous over my long lost looks.......ALAS...age...time...flab...droopy bits...need I go on?????????
                  So, I guess I would be lucky if I weren't sitting right next to you at an Andre concert, ha????????
                  (This has nothing to do with how each of us looks or presents - I just get the message that 'any woman' is an enemy if within 'coo-wee' of you at any Andre Concert). I shall bear that in mind!
                  HOPE I can get tickets for Melbourne in October - doesn't appear to be sold out yet....fingers crossed, as I haven't been able to purchase yet & hopefully still available in the next few weeks.
                  (THANKFULLY, Melb. is a long way from whre u are & I haven't heard you say that you were paying a visit).Pheewww!!!
                  CHUCKLES, LOVE & HUGS!!!!!!!!!!
                  

Can't I pretend

That I'm locked in the bend

1. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Ooooohh!!! One too many Reds ! ??
   
   1. June 1, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
      Jan are you up real late or up real early.  Cannot figure out when you sleep. : ) Hugs
      
      
      1. June 1, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
         Hi to Jan from Audrey my sister.  We are at Starbucks and I have my computer so I can still keep an eye on you.  How many "reds" did you have?  : )
         
         
         1. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
            Ooohh!!! You're dangerous JA!!!
            Hi Audrey, nice to meet you - you must keep your Sister in line-she can be quite wicked for a Church going Lady!!!
            Not many Reds at all, I've not long had surgery remember??, and it's only Tuesday night! Just enough to keep me warm without 'other' adequate heating.
            Anything else you'd like to know? I could be here for a while and sleep in all day tomorrow! Such a boring day to day, having to be 'housebound' between 7.30 am and 5pm for a Technician to turn up on only 30 minutes notice....
            What's daylight again?????????? No wonder I'm 'D' deficient lately....HA, BIG HUGS!!!!!!
            
      2. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         Oh dear, so, sooo late, umm, early I mean.....not sure if it's a Full Moon just now......
         I work very strange hours these past few years - not the normal 9 - 5 that I once did for many years....
         How was Starbucks?
         Are you ready to rock and Rieu?
         
         1. June 1, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
            I am still here Jan (at Starbucks).  Computers are very mobile nowadays.  : )  What kind of work do you do or shouldn't I ask? 
            
            
            
            1. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
               Did I already say that you are dangerou with that portaable computer equipment?
               I worked predominantly in Banking & Finance for 35 years (started work age 15). Went back to study in my early forties in the area of Clinical Hypnotherapy, Personal Counselling, Psychotherapy. Thank God I did this, as I had a nasty accident almost 4 yrs ago which changed my life for the worst...,.now concentrating on re building my life and my Career. xx
               
               1. June 1, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
                  Very impressive Jan!!  Yes, you did say I was dangerous but I am not really.  I am  very shy and not at all outgoing (except on the computer haha)  You can ask Shirley, she knows me.  Sorry to put you on the spot Shirley but I need help.  I love talking about Andre but I am quite shy and a good girl.  In other words I am all talk. (I think) haha
                  
                  
                  1. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
                     oops for the previous typo's....
                     I mean 'dangerous' as in 'always on the alert and on the ball and ready to act', (and most affectionately!).
                     I'm not impressive & neither is my life: I just love my work in helping people to move foreward in life, as I truly know how difficult this can be - even for those who have lives they can't otherwise complain about!
                     Strangely, I'm a shy & quiet person too - although many think that I'm quite bold and 'very well put together' , dominant, forward etc., etc.,....- even though I shudder and shake at times...perception is everything - yet not always the truth. xoxo
                     I love being here with you All xxx
                     
                     1. June 1, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
                        We are very happy to have you here too Jan.  I like when people try to help others like you did. (do)  I am seriously very impressed.  I guess we are a lot alike and shy.  It is just Andre who brings out our naughtyness!!!  Hugs
                        
                        
                        1. June 1, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
                           Leaving Starbucks now for my home corporate office. haha  Later girls
                           
                           
                           1. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
                              Is that comment what's commonly known or referrd to as 'a wank?'
                              Later!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
                              
                        2. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
                           Likewise, I am happy to know you here. I'm a bit of a 'conundrum' to some I know, even to those who are close to me and love me....shy when you least expect and bold when you least expect it....sometimes perceived to be 'standoffish' when I don't intend that, shy & quiet one moment, naughty & bold the next (always reasonably 'proper' though-or try to be-ha,haaa!!!), predictable yet an enigma......none of it by particular intention - it goes and flows as it's meant to be in my little World.
                           I've visited a few Andre sites (including OZ)....I've seen sites containing more info. than this Site, yet get soooo much out of interracting with Andre fans on this site....
                           You are all just lovely, and quite naughty, and who cares???????
                           xxxxxxHUGS!!!!!!!!!!
                           
                  2. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
                     It's only my long term 'Corporate history' that gives me a very brave front...otherwise....total marshmallow and think I prefer the latter as that is by choice rather than direction!!!!!!!!!!!! xxxx
                     
                  3. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
                     HI JA (hope short form is ok on this message)- I'm 'reserved' more than shy! Sometimes come across very differently due to Corporate background. I'm a good girl too - !!! (wasn't always but have been for a long, long, long time)....Sometimes I think it's just as well that I had great experiences in my young years and have a great memory - ha, haaaa!!!!!!!!
                     Sometimes I'm ALL TALK too. (Corporate training - damn!!!). These days I would absolutely 'die' if put under some forms of pressure, yet people generally would not know this (ha, ha)...I do though, have a great sense of humour and can laugh at myself as well as anything or anyone else! This site & you Ladies do me good - we all know that Andre is 'untouchable', yet he feeds us emotionally ... this is no sin!!!! I hope we all are getting something positive out of our interactions here - I sure need it for now!!!!
                     LOVE & HUGS!!!!!!
                     Jan xxxx
                     
                  4. June 1, 2010 Shirley wrote:
                     Sorry Jeanine Ann, I was gone for awhile but here I am to the rescue. haha
                     So, who is the "real" Jeanine Ann? In my opinion, a very honest,sincere & trustworthy person, who just wants everyone to know about Andre.
                     And again, in my opinion, anyone who thinks otherwise, well, it's their loss. I would trust her with my life. And that's the truth!
                     
2. June 2, 2010 CONSTANCE wrote:
   Drunk on good music and fun. Me too!
   

1. May 31, 2010 Debbie wrote:
   Hi Kay.
   A few suggestions for you all available here in the UK, Live in Australia: Live in Maastricht 3: also The Best Of Andre Rieu Live on a single DVD or there is a DVD set of three of Andre Live. All are very good as you would expect from the Maestro.
   Hope this helps.
   Hugs xx
   
2. June 1, 2010 Josephine wrote:
   Oh yes Kay we will definitely have to do that. That will get us in a tizz. I can't wait for September don't know about you. Just in case we may be near each other ,it would be a shame if we were close and didn't know. I am in Block A3 Row U seats 45/46 xx
   

1. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   How can any red blooded woman get past this during the course of any day?
   Wooo-hooooooooooo !!!
   
   1. June 2, 2010 CONSTANCE wrote:
      LOLOLOL MY BLOOD IS RED TOO.
      YOU LADIES ARE MAKING ME LAUGH.
      
      I am looking forward to the next concert.
      

1. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   So true Fay! I'm a lot younger than you and would still probably have a heart attack if I were so close to this gorgeous man!
   He is a wonderful role model indeed, which is why I've come to love him so much more. I have been fortunate to have great and wonderful male role models in my life......from what I see, hear and read....Andre compares very, very well and is much respected by me in many ways. xxxx
   I just need to keep hold of the 'gift'.
   
   xxxx
   

1. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Judith, I can keep your naughty mind quite amused an busy now (I think)!
   -You noticed the position of the arrow, even though quite irrelevent.
   -You have an educated awareness of why men wear 'suspenders/braces'; especially when wearing Tuxedos.
   -You have noticed 'no creases' in his trousers....one mark of an elegant & well dressed man...
   -You have noticed how he successfully camouflages his 'tummy bulge' (it's ok to say that!!!!).
   -Cufflinks, collar broach & waistcoat (or vest) depending where you're from are verrry classssyyyy!!!
   So tell me, Judith - what type of 'undies' does he wear?????????????
   
   
   xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
   
   1. June 1, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
      Girls let's keep this blog clean!!!!  haha
      
      
      1. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         So, do you need ongoing support to keep the site up and running or what????
         My theory is that - if Andre can give it out, he can not only take it, but invites it!
         Given that Marjorie is 'script writer extraordinaire' amongst other things - she obviously approves!
         So, what's the problem again Jeanine Ann?????
         Are we not payiong enough homage and attention to the 'actual' music????
         We can change, alter behavioural patterns etc......if we must!!!!!
         
         1. June 1, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
            Huh???
            
            1. June 1, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
               Okay girls I am off to pick up my sister for a Starbucks treat!  I will see you later - Judith keep your little mouth shut my dear!!!
               
               
               1. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
                  Enjoy Starbucks! HI to your Sister! Wanna bet that Judith can't keep quiet (being very polite here)?????????? (he, he, heee)....Unless of course she;s under serious threat!
                  
               2. June 12, 2010 Judith wrote:
                  How long must I keep my mouth shut???????
                  Seems like a harsh form of terminology, for a deed I am not quite sure that I am
                  supposedly to have committed. To ere is human ~ to forgive is divine. What gives??
                  Conspiracy, me thinks.
                  
                  1. June 12, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
                     Hey Judith, what are you taliing about here? Not something I've written about I hope. What conspiracy? xxx
                     
         2. June 1, 2010 Josephine wrote:
            Bravo Hear Hear One womans clean is another womans mucky xx
            
      2. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         Jeanine Ann, Are you suggesting that I am 'dirty' in some way????????
         I seriously think NOT !
         Shame....shame.......shame.............
         
         1. June 1, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
            Oh no Jan I would never suggest that.  You are as clean as all of us haha. 
            
            
            1. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
               Of course, my dear!
               Born & raised a good Catholic girl!!!....and non religious since I worked it all out in life, Only if my Dad's asking - I'm still a good Catholic girl!
               (Think he may know differently though!!!!). xxxx
               
   2. June 1, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
      Oh please don't ask Judith this!!!!!!  It is a secret!!  : )
      
      
      1. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         Whaa??? Who you talking to and what about????
         Oh!!!!!!!!!
         I'm gagging on a glass of Red here - it's cold in Melbourne!!!!!!!!
         Can't wait for Judith's response!!
         
         (naughty, naughty, naughty!!!!!!!!!!!)
         
         xxx
         
         1. June 14, 2010 Judith wrote:
            ...naughty, naughty, naughty, what are you all waiting for me to say?? go back to
            June 1, 9:05am, where it all started, and I was asked to: keep my little mouth shut.
            Why, what did I do? Insinuated? What did I say that was so awful?? Also, what is the response Judith is suppose to make????
            
            1. June 14, 2010 Shirley wrote:
               hahaha, you've kept quite for far longer than I thought! Since it was Jeanine Ann who gave the order only she can give you permission to speak. haha
               
               
               1. June 16, 2010 Judith wrote:
                  Oh, ho-ho-ho and no-no-no, when our Miss Jeanine Ann say's ZIP-IT, Judith 'listens'
                  no, IF's, AND's OR BUTT'S.........
                  
                  1. June 16, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
                     Hi Judith, I like that - no "if ands or butts". : )  Did you see our darling on the Today Show?  Wasn't on much but was he ever gorgeous!!  Just wet my appetite for Sunday and Monday.  I needed that fix!  Hugs
                     
                     
                     1. June 16, 2010 Judith wrote:
                        Oh boy, I sure did. I sat in front of the tube, as if I were watching The Mickey Mouse Club ~ I just wished they would have devoted the entire TODAY SHOW to Andre and the JSO. Thank you for always remembering all the fans at home and NOT on site to see up 'close' and wonderful, our Maestro and JSO.
                        Thank You once again, I was looking for
                        you, but they panned soooo fast.
                        
            2. June 14, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
               Ok Judith I still want you to keep your sweet little mouth shut but you remember the photo I sent to you that I found on the web.  I didn't take the photo and I certainly would not post it and now I know we have these ladies so curious that they could scream but please don't say anything about anything concerning Andre about anything : ) he may or may not wear.  That is all I can say.  Hugs
               
               
               1. June 14, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
                  Okay different subject- first of all Cotton is better as far as the ear infection is concerned.  Thank you for the prayers.  She must still take the antibiotics and ear drops since it is not entirely gone in the one ear and still may have a perforated eardrum.  He could not get her to hold still long enough to get the scope in and take a photo.  He did take some photos and will discuss them with his wife who is also a Vet.  She goes back in two weeks.  The balance he thought should be better and she could have had a small mini stroke but not sure without x-rays.  So at least the antibiotics are working.  The eardrum will heal I believe.
                  
                  Tickets just came for Baltimore today!  I was afraid they were lost because the concert is Sunday.  The are first row but section 1 to the right.  I should be able to get some good photos there.  I preferred section 2 but just happy I have first row so I can get out at the encores and have a ball!!!  So it has been a good day, thank God.  Hugs
                  
                  
                  1. June 14, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
                     Good to hear that news Jeanine Ann and hope Cotton continues to improve. xx
                     
                  2. June 14, 2010 WebMaster Sally wrote:
                     Please give Cotton a bunch of Kisses for me.  I am glad to hear she is getting a little better and pray for her continued improvement.
                     
                     
                     1. June 15, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
                        Thank you so much Sally.  She has been kissed!!  Hugs
                        
                        
                  3. June 15, 2010 Debbie wrote:
                     Hi Jeanine Ann.
                     Great news about Cotton, I expect you were relieved with the news from the vet.
                     We will keep praying that Cotton makes a full recovery.
                     Love. x
                     
                     1. June 15, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
                        Hi Debbie, Thank you so very much for your prayers and concern.  It is so nice to have friends like you.  I really do appreciate it.  Love and hugs to you.
                        
                        
            3. June 14, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
               Hi Judith, I am just having fun with you, you know that.  We were just getting into a comment about something here that should not be talked about.  You are not to blame nor do you need to stop commenting on Andre.  What would we do without your happy comments!!??  I want you to be yourself at all times and that is a sweet self.  Just stay the same sweet person and funny lady you are.  Keep posting sweetie!!  I know you love Andre as much as I do - well maybe haha!  Hugs
               
               
            4. June 14, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
               Thank goodness this one's sorted (Jeanine Ann's response to this) ha, ha...'I' was starting to worry myself! xx
               
      2. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         There are no secrets once the truth is revealed!!!!!!!!!!!
         

1. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hmmmm....such a gentle man, a Dreamer with vision, and such a 'Boss' with Business acumen as well! I'm an eternal Dreamer, Romanticist & optimist in some ways, as well as a grounded, solid 'Earthgirl' (how confusing & contradictory at times)...
   Keep your dreams Elaine - they keep you alive! I do so hope that I can get tickets for Melbourne In October this year. I don't know that I'll ever meet the Man, but can imagine your pleasure at having done so.
   Without our dreams, we are nothing! I'm happy to see you here!. xx
   

1. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   OOPs! I'm a bit confused now. Are these poetic words by Jeanine, or original lyrics? I may have to back track on response Jeanine! xx
   
2. June 1, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   Fay, I certainly remember the old 78's. I used to go across the street to visit with a friend of my grandmother's, she had an old wind up Victrola & a lot of those 78's.On many a summer evening, we would sit out on her porch swing, listening to Enrico Caruso(her favorite) & a lot of the Viennese waltzs. I remember reading about Andre's father-in-law's collection of records. I think my friend had as many. What I found interesting about Andre's story was how they went about finding all that sheet music. What an undertaking that was. We only have about 3 old 78's left now, only save them for memories. lots of 45's & lps too. Time went too fast, now it's all cds, or whatever else. I've had some of our older music, from records, put on cds. do they even make record players anymore? We do still have one but it never gets used.
   I was so happy when we first ran across Andre on TV. A lot of the music he played, I hadn't heard for a long time.
   

1. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Good evening! 9.46 pm here in Melbourne. Vry chilly as opposed to UK humidity. I have rellies in Keighley, West Yorks - where are you again????
   WHAT quirky thing? did I miss something in my mesmerised state of scrutiny???? The crooked smile??? or somethign else???? Have u ever noticed the tongue 'thing'????? (If u haven't already, u probably won't be able to cope)!
   
   xxxx
   
   1. June 1, 2010 Josephine wrote:
      Hi Jan He sort of purses his lovely lips and pushes them forward. Almost as if he was about to give you a kiss on the cheek -Dreaming again. Anyway I love it. What, come on, What's the tongue thing?Tell Tell. I live in the South of England in Hampshire and very lovely it is too xx
      
      1. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         Hi Josephine!
         I'm in Melbourne (born in Yorkshire & close relatives still there). Yorkshire is a lovely place, as is where you live...I hope to get there one more time at least in the future, especially whilst my closest & most cherished relatives are still there.
         You're killing me with the 'lips' thing - yes I have noticed! (Don't anyone tell me this Man doesn't know that he has sex appeal - haa!!!).
         I was so gob-smacked with the 'tongue thing' that I can't even remember where it was from. As my household 'things' have bombed out, it must have been on You tube or on Ovation Channel in recent weeks; I will have to back track and let you know. If you loved the 'almost kiss you on the cheek' - be very prepared in advance!!!!
         xx
         
         1. June 1, 2010 Debbie wrote:
            Hi Jan.
            Dare I ask where abouts in Yorkshire were you born, myself I was born in Northallerton, North Yorkshire.
            Hugs. xx
            
            1. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
               Hi Debbie, I was born in Bradford, lived in Keighley, West Yorkshire. xx
               

1. June 1, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   wow Jan McG, all i can say is McGwhiz! Sounds like you are operating under Murphy's Law, you know,if anything can possibly go wrong, it will(or something like that).BTW, seems strang to hear you talk of cold when we ,here in the USA are into the 90°F. chin up, things will get better.
   
   1. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Yeh, Murphy's law OK (I'm of Irish background so that makes sense). Also understand from relatives in West Yorkshire, England that they can't stand the heat these days!!!!!!! When I was a kid in UK, there was no such thing as a hot day! Here in OZ, we're all over the place no matter what the season....Blame the Ozone layer?????????? Not to worry, the dogs will keep me warm, not to mention Andre, whichever way I can get a dose right now - ha, ha!!!! Take care! - HUGs, ... 'JAN' (previously Janice) xx
      

Photos of the Day. . . . .


Andre In Maastricht        Owner unknown Please claim it if it is yours
                                       so we may give you credit.



Andre In Toronto 2007        Photo. . . .Jeanine Ann

1. June 1, 2010 Josephine wrote:
   Well Jeanine Ann I dearly wish I could claim him as mine !! But of course that will never ever be. Oh sorry did you mean the photograph?Thought maybe you meant Andre
   xx
   

1. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Kay, I hope you enjoy the concert! Hoping I can get the seats I want for Melbourne. I so envy Fay & Elaine; what a pleasure it must have been. xx
   
2. June 1, 2010 Josephine wrote:
   Hi Kay. well I think you have got better seats than me because you are in the centre and can see himself full on. I am at the side. I am worried I have not got decent seats but when I booked,which as about one minute after they went on sale those seats were apparently the best available. I shall just have to get up out of my seat and move around the O2 to find the best ogling spot. I so wish I could get to meet him but if I did I don't know what I would say to him I would probably be dumbstruck I could hardly tell him what was in my thoughts now could I?xx
   
3. June 1, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   Kay, I don't remember where else I've written about meeting Andre, but I have met him also. He is very nice & polite, and has a nice chuckle too. When my husband was trying to take a picture of me with Andre, he forgot to open the lens of the camera, & with a chuckle, Andre says "it might help if you open the lens". we had a good laugh about that one. Another time I asked Andre to autograph a sweatshirt & we walked over to a table so I could help hold it taut while he signed his name. It was elbow to elbow & I surely did smell the cologne then. All in all, he's a very, very nice man. I felt very fortunate to meet him at all & I'll never forget it.
   
   1. June 1, 2010 Josephine wrote:
      OMG You lucky lucky lady to get close enough to this gorgeous man to smell his cologne. I wonder what he wears. I would collect,bottle and wear his little pearls of perspiration if I was ever lucky enough to get close enough OMG those PHEREMONES xx
      
      1. June 1, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
         Hi Josephine, unless he changed he wears Jako.  Of course my husband now has that.
         
         
         1. June 1, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
            OF COURSE! I shall bear that in mind for the next male in my life so deserving of my attention! Thanks Jeanine Ann!
            
      2. June 1, 2010 Kay wrote:
         Yes what a lucky lady Shirley - i am so envious, perhaps Josephine and i will have to rush the stage ha - if i had the nerve (which i don't) Just wish he would do another tour here next year but don't think he will. That would be something to look forward to after the 02. Watching Albert Hall dvd and all i can say is same as Jan Mmmmmmmmmmmmmm xx
         

1. June 2, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   Good day Josephine. I guess I could be reserved, depending on the situation, but usually am more outgoing & talkitive.I think it's true though that in each of us there is a little bit of all of us. I love talking to people, about everything. Really prefer face to face because it's sometimes hard to write your real meaning on paper & sometimes it's easy to be misunderstood. I try to write like I would be talking to you, but I am a slow typer . sometimes the thoughts come faster than I can write.
   As for making a "grand entrance" into a room of people, just don't think of it that way, there's always one person at a time to focus on, then you go from there.I think to meet Andre is kind of a shaky experience for any of us fans, that just means you show respect for him. That's much better than being a pushy fan. I think you would do just fine.
   

1. June 2, 2010 Elizabeth Ward wrote:
   Hello Josephine. I live in County Durham
   . Hampshire is a beautifull county. I have been to some of it's lovely places when on holiday.
   thankyou for getting back to me . I have just found this site. and anyone who likes(loves) Andre I would be honoured to call a friend. take care. kindest regards. Elizabeth
   

1. June 2, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   Well now Debbie, who would be "bored" at those lovely words? Words spoken from the heart are never boring. Thank you, I did enjoy it!
   
2. June 2, 2010 Elizabeth Ward wrote:
   Debbie, I have just read your poem it's fantastic. Do you mind if I copy it for my Andre scrapbook. the line"then you look down and give a big smile" That smile is planted in my head and it does wonders if i happen to be a bit low.
   
   Elizabeth
   
   1. June 3, 2010 Debbie wrote:
      Hi Elizabeth.
      Thank you for your comment about the poem, yes of course you can copy it, it was just something that I wanted to share, with all Andre fans. It did take me along time to pluck up the courage to submit it.
      Hugs xx
      
3. June 2, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Wow Debbie, I love this. You do the man great justice. Thanks for sharin. xxx
   
4. June 3, 2010 Judith wrote:
   Debbie, I really enjoyed your poem. You have a wonderful talent, hope we can look forward in your sharing more of your seemingly easy way of making your words flow right from the heart.
   

1. June 2, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
   Debbie, 
   
   Your poem is just lovely.  I love poetry.  Thank you so much for sharing.  Hugs
   
   

1. June 2, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Fay, in case you have OPTUS Tv up there, Maastricht ll is on again - Ovation Channel Friday night at 10.15pm.
   I'm leaving the violin thing alone - once again I've already waffled on and 'hogged' space here to start the month off and can't stop once I start, and looking forward to some great comments from my Andre friends.ha, ha........xxxx
   

1. June 3, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
   Hi Shirley, that is funny (not the tornado part) but the CD.  I played that same one on our trip to Florida and I had really never played it before.  I never heard of some of the songs either but it was a good one.  We were singing in the car and I was driving and the faster Andre played the faster I drove.  I always do that.  I get carried away.  Luckily I am still a good driver especially on the interstates.  Clyde loves those sing-a-longs and so we were entertained all the way down and back.  So glad you stayed safe last night.  Those storms can be bad.  I remember times in the closet in Florida and twice here in our area.  But you have them much more often than we do.  Have a great day.  We take Cotton to the vet today but only to get her knots combed out.  She is long hair as you know and at 17 does not groom herself.  We get what we can but she bit us several times and that is not like Cotton.  The vet seems to think she is so sore in certain areas from arthritis and she hurts when combed.  So we let them comb and cut where necessary.  Will also have her weighed.  She is losing weight because she just eats off and on.  We have had this for years (2002) as you know - force feeding her, all kind of meds.  Poor Kitty.  We love her so much.  I just pray we can keep her a little longer.  Hugs
   
   
   1. June 3, 2010 Shirley wrote:
      Oh Jeanine Ann, I remember when we had our Miss Kitty, she was a long hair too & she hated to be groomed, I still have a bite mark scar she gave to me one day. We started taking her to the vet too, just to be groomed. Once they gave her a lion cut, & poor kitty, she hated that. It's almost like she was ashamed to be seen. I never let them do that again. Now our kitty, Jazz, is a short hair but she loves to be brushed.. naturally!... haha Those that don't need it love it, those that do seem to hate it, that is unless they have been groomed from the beginning. But our cats have usually been rescue cats & who knows their history. One thing about your Cotton, she has been well loved. I know it will be hard when she finally has to go, but lucky kitty, to have had those years with you & Clyde. It's never easy to lose a fur baby, they always have a piece of our hearts. I still miss my Miss Kitty, my beautiful calico.
      
      1. June 3, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
         I know Shirley, I still cry when I think of Honi and our long ago love - Muffin.  It took me over 5 years to get to the point where I could get through a day and not dwell on losing him.  Now I cannot even think what would happen when we no longer have Cotton.  But will not dwell on that.  The only reason she hates brushing of course is because it hurts her due to arthritis and she is sore around her kidneys.  So we will begin bathing her like we did in Florida.  I know they hate it but it must be done.  I don't know if I was here when you had Miss Kitty but calicoes are beautiful.  Our Patches is a calico but she likes to be brushed.  Micetro is little but she is still very scared and if a car or a truck goes by the house, she is under the bed.  But she was a stray too and so was Patches.  Cotton was a shelter kitty but who knows who had her and her history.  Hugs
         
         
         1. June 3, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
            I must tell all of you this - our vets have a resident kitty named Aramis and when we went in today I noticed his treat jar was gone and he was shaved in two places.  So when we inquired the girl told us that Aramis had a sonogram because he was sick and they didn't know what was wrong.  So it turns out that everyone who comes in (including us) was giving him treats from his jar and he was getting sick on them.  So no more treats for Aramis.  Today he laid on my lap while we were waiting for Cotton and he was purring and loving all the attention.  He is getting better now.  Hugs
            
            
            1. June 3, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
               It's just awful when pets are sick or struggling in their old age. I've lost a dog & a cat myself in the past 6 years & know how heart-wrenching it can be, as well as how delightful and comforting it is to have them in the first place. At 17, Cotton has done very well and is obviously very well treasured - beats my Pepper who was with me for 14 years and I thought that was amazing. HUGS!
               
               1. June 3, 2010 WebMaster Sally wrote:
                  Hi Jan,   Nothing can best your Pepper in your Heart.. and that's how it should be.   To this day I cry when I think of Dewey.  He was a big beautiful Norwegian Forest Cat.  He was built like a bruiser, coming in a tall as a dog and weighing 24 pounds, but he was sweet as honey and never had an enemy.  I had Dewey for 18 years and it was not long enough.       Muffin lived 15 years and oh how my heart ached when she left for the Rainbow Bridge.  She lived her life to look at us adoringly and be petted.
                  
                  I am sure most of us feel the same about our Pets.  I am thankful to have every moment with them, and look forward to seeing them again one day.
                  
                    Sally
                  
                  1. June 3, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
                     Ooh, you bet Sally! Do you have pets now?
                     My (Black Toy Poodle) Zoe died about 5 yrs ago (only 5 yrs. old), that also broke my heart. Jazz (my Staffie/King Charles Cross) is over 12 now and never been sick which is wonderful. I also have a Papillon name 'Bronte', just over 4 yrs. old, bred slightly bigger than the normal breed. I can't imagine life without them and think that we all are blessed when we have loyal, faithful pets who love us too.
                     -Even though I constantly complain about dog hair being the bane of my life-! x
                     
                  2. June 4, 2010 Prudence wrote:
                     

                     Our animal friends can teach us much about life and love.
                     A great Indian chief once said
                     

                      

                     "What is man without the beasts?

                     If all the beasts were gone,

                     men would die from great loneliness of spirit.

                     For whatever happens to the beasts

                     soon happens to man,

                     all things are connected."

                     
                     
                     1. June 4, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
                        Thanks for this Prudence,
                        I believe that animals teach us much about ourselves. My pets have been 'healers' in my life during difficult and lonely times.
                        
                        xxx
                        
   2. June 4, 2010 Virginia wrote:
      Joey (Johann Strauss) doesn't like to be groomed either, although he does a reasonable job of doing it himself except for some of the hard to get at maats, and of course he's a Maine coon. He was a stray for the first six months of his life. Once in awhile I get a couple of swipes in and the vet does the rest of the mats when she comes here for any reason. Hercules is beginning to realize that the brush won't hurt him. I think he'll soon allow me to brush him. Benny and Eddy love to be brushed. My first two cats (Alex and Samson) absolutely loved to be vacuumed. What a joy that was. The ones I have now hide when they see the vacuum coming out.
      
      1. June 4, 2010 WebMaster Sally wrote:
         The personality of each cat is so unique and interesting.  Dewey allowed me to brush him, but he would rather just have been cuddled, whereas Muffin .. all I had to do was pick up the brush and she came running.  I had a pet sitter when we went to Disneyworld and she told me that Dewey followed her around as if to question what she was doing in his house, but Muffin would see her and run to her brush .. as if the sitter had forgotten where it was.
         
         My current cats Monster and Timmi are totally different.  Monster stand frozen afraid to move while at the vets, which is where she and Tim get their bathes.  Timmi however is so timid, they have to unroll him, from the fluff ball he put himself into ..just so they can find his head and face.   All is well when the bathing is over.  They both know they are looking good and come home feeling fancy.
         
         1. June 4, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
            What treasures, they can be so funny! All I have to say to Jazz is 'wanna bath?' and he'll head right where I want him to. Bronte (long,silky hair) came to me just before my back injury so has been a nightmare for grooming & bath time. He instinctively knows before I run a tap or pick up a brush, runs circles around the house, all over the furniture until he thinks I've stopped, then rolls on his back on the sofa as if to say - ok, if you must, come and get me!
            It's become a ritual and I've just gotta laugh!!!!
            I love it (NOT) when they are bathed, then run amock through the house & over the sofa..... Mobile doggie groomers are looking good lately!
            Still, wouldn't have them any diffrent, they do make me laugh!
            
2. June 3, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Shirley, nothing like a good storm as long as there was no damage, and glad to hear you were at least in good (Andre) company to get you through the night!
   

1. June 3, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   Oh our weather will improve, sooner or later. we have a saying around here, "if you don't like the weather today, stick around, it will change tomorrow". We are in that period now where it turns hot during the day 7 then a cool front will move in & that stirs up the weather. One good thing, Andre's music is fitting for all kinds of weather.
   
   1. June 4, 2010 Josephine wrote:
      Yes Shirley He surely is A Man For All Seasons!! XX
      

1. June 4, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Ha, haa!!! That's cute, my toy Poodle Zoe used to do that (I called her a 'little tart').
   Animal lovers are 'special' - just as 'Andre' lovers are.
   Jan xxx
   
2. June 4, 2010 WebMaster Sally wrote:
   Aww, I can picture you pets together Debbie.  I bet they are adorable.
   
   Sally
   
   1. June 4, 2010 Debbie wrote:
      Hi Sally.
      Can you imagine it at night, me in bed thinking about Andre, with two cat's one on my pillow, purring in my ear, and the other cuddled up with the greyhound who is on her back with legs in the air.
      xx
      
      1. June 7, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         Hi Debbie, I know I've responded to this before, - but - the mind really boggles when I read your message again!
         Have a wonderfully warm, snuggly Andre nite....and tell that Greyhound to behave herself - serious behavioural issues here! Where did she learn them from ? (ha, ha, haaaa)!!!!!!!! xx
         
         1. June 8, 2010 Debbie wrote:
            Hi Jan.
            Well to think that I go to bed with two cats, one greyhound on her back with legs in the air, I do have my friends dog occasionally for an overnight stay, yes that is a greyhound as well, can you picture it at bed time, two cats and two greyhounds on the bed and Me trying to squeeze into a little space, with my full size Andre cardboard cutout, Oh!! dear I will have to work on that.
            Hugs. xx
            
            1. June 8, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
               Hi Debbie, do you really have a full size Andre cardboard cutout???  I wish they would either sell them at Andre's concert or put them in record stores so I could get one.  I have been dying to get one.  Bet my husband would like that. haha
               
               
               1. June 8, 2010 Shirley wrote:
                  Jeanine Ann, if you ever find one, be careful where you put it. My sister once got a cardboard figure of her favorite football player & set it up in her dining room. Her son came home late at night, not knowing about it, & thinking it was a prowler, threw a vase of flowers at it.
                  
            2. June 8, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
               Debbie that's funny! I used to have my 2 dogs & cat sleeping on the bed so know what it likes. I had to stop that after my back injury cos I couldn't keep up with the extra work /animal fur. You might have to make a choice between the amimals and your Andre cut-out; how long whould he last with all those animal paws right next to him - ha!!! xx
               

1. June 4, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   Jan, we all did that Oprah thing awhile back, didn't work then & I don't think it will now. I don't care for her either, for reasons I won't mention here.
   
   1. June 4, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Thanks Shirley, good to know that there is similar opinion for whatever reasons. I really was trying to be as diplomatic as possible whilst giving my own reasons for not agreeing with a suggestion.
      xx
      
2. June 4, 2010 Elizabeth Ward wrote:
   Hello Jan . I totally agree with you that Andre does not need to be on Oprah.
   All I will say is that Andre is honest and himself he does not act. He does not need this show
   
   1. June 4, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Hi Elizabeth,
      I really think I should have referred to Andre as 'an empowered Individual' rather than a 'powerful man', as we see his honesty!
      xx
      

1. June 4, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   Jeanine Ann will be back. Her power went out last night due to a storm.
   
   1. June 4, 2010 Debbie wrote:
      And to think Shirley, I thought she was trying to find those shiny black shoes, and take the dust off them.
      xx
      

1. June 4, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   Jan, I'm not sure what a "tragic" is. haha Anyway,Have you seen the Ode To Andre Rieu on you tube. It's a very clever fun music video, apparently done by a fan. Just go there & type it in.
   
   1. June 4, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      No, I haven't....but guess where I'm going right now - ha, ha !!!!!!!!!!
      
   2. June 4, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Ha, ha!! That was very clever indeed, and very well done! I couldn't hear all of her lyrics clearly but got the gist.
      Much effort went into that!
      - and don't we all need a Fireman around when we're watching the wonderful man?-
      xx
      
   3. June 4, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
      Shirley an Andre Rieu "tragic" is someone like me : ) 
      
      
      1. June 4, 2010 Shirley wrote:
         aha, ok then, but I always thought "tragic" was something sad or unhappy. Since this seems to be different, is it something like "hopelessly devoted to you"?
         

1. June 4, 2010 WebMaster Sally wrote:
   Hi Kay and Everyone
   
   On twitter you can "follow" people, meaning you can see every "tweet" they make.  If you stop following them, you no longer see what they write or have to say.  
   
   Something must have glitched or he was hacked.  Looks like Andre is working to fix it now.
   
   Sally
   
   1. June 4, 2010 Kay wrote:
      Thanks Sally, silly me never thought of that!! Can someone direct me to the man of the year vote, have lost the website. What is it with me lately must be watching too many Andre dvds or not enough!!
      
      1. June 4, 2010 Shirley wrote:
         Kay, I copied it down & saved the link. It was http://www.persoonvanhetjaar.nl
         
   2. June 4, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
      Just got an email that Andre is now following me and he was up to 388 : ) so he has a way to go. 
      
      

1. June 4, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Jeanine Ann, You and Cotton are in my prayers.
   LOVE & HUGS!
   

1. June 5, 2010 Josephine wrote:
   Ahh Gorgeous. I just love this man.
   

1. June 5, 2010 WebMaster Sally wrote:
   Hello Fay .. most DVD players now play both PAL & NTSC.  Those are just 'versions' if you will of DVDs.   Computers play both.  As long as the DVD works, no need to worry.    *Sony only plays NTSC.   Most others play both now.
   
   I agree with you about 'tragic' .  I'd never use that work in regards to anything about Andre unless I'd never heard his music.
   
2. June 5, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
   Hi Fay,  the term "tragic" does not mean that it is tragic to know Andre and his music.  It seems to be a term the Aussie's use to say that they are "hopelessly devoted" to Andre.  It would really be tragic not to have ever heard of him.  Hugs
   
   
   1. June 5, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Ha, haaa!!! Maybe it's a Queensland term, I've not heard such a saying in Melbourne before (or maybe I'm just outa touch).
      I'll just say 'I'm hopelessly devoted'.... HUGS
      
3. June 7, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Fay! Nothing 'tragic' about loving Andre - it's all good!
   Funny how 'colloquialisms' take over at times - especially here in OZ where the 'negative' seems to overtake the 'positive' in statements no matter how complimentary the statement or observation'. I've been made aware of this by English relatives who know me well. I'm not sure why this is, and after 44 yrs in Australia (I'm almost 53) I can still succumb to the negative phrases even though I don't mean to, and know differently!
   I'm loving this experience of interacting with Andre fans across the World! My World is Australia, with family & contacts in UK & Ireland. Styles of communication are different across the globe (you can say something positive which is accepted as negative in some other Cultures-just for one example).
   Keep on 'Rockin' & Rieu'in'.... xoxoxo
   

1. June 5, 2010 Debbie wrote:
   Hi Shirley.
   The Music industry have been moaning for some time now, the people they are blaming are the pirate downloader's, but as you say Andre is one of the lucky ones scooping everything up, we even want it before he has anything prepared for sale.
   xx
   
   1. June 5, 2010 Shirley wrote:
      Hi Debbie, well it probably is somewhat true about the downloading, the pirate ones for sure. I'm not sure why the sales would be declining except for that. I miss the old record store days where we could go into the store & listen to a record before we bought it. Those were mostly the vinyl days though. Seems like we went from records, then cassttes, then cds & dvds. I have so many old 45's & lps I still listen to occasionally, but I don't want to wear out the player.Now andre's, I look at the track listing before I buy, some are almost duplicates & I don't like to buy something for just one new song. ha, not like I haven't, but as a rule I don't. Do they have a Record Store Day where you live? I think it's usually in April of each year. It's usually at the smaller stores, not the big ones. Just curious.
      
      1. June 6, 2010 Debbie wrote:
         Hi Shirley.
         I agree with you about the good old days, when we could go into a record shop and we could listen, to the vinyl 45's and LP's before we bought them, but those days seem to have passed us by.
         I don't play my 45's or LP's like I used to, which in one respect is a shame as I have a large collection, but it is so easy just to put on a CD to listen to, I think we are all in the same boat about buying CD's just for one or two tracks that we haven't got, about the record store day, they don't have it in my area, but as far as I know they do in London.
         Take care.
         Hugs. xx
         
         1. June 6, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
            I remember those days too; wouldn't be surprised if they stopped as too many people were spending time in the shop listening and not buying1
            Did you know you can now buy conversion equipment (quite cheaply) so that you can transfer your old vinyls and tapes to your computer (copyright apllies of course), so for personal use only. xx
            

1. June 5, 2010 Elizabeth Ward wrote:
   Hi Josephine, I have also read whay Laura Stevens has had to say. she obviously hasn't seen many (or amy) of Andre's dvds. there are people of all ages, young mums ,children and an equal number of men as women in the audience. like all journalists I don't think she is 100% on her facts. Have you noticed Andre's graying sideburns latelt, I think it makes him look more distinguised(and handsome )than ever.
   Elizabeth.
   
   1. June 7, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Hi Elizabeth, I 'posted' on the Laura comment earlier.
      I just love the 'greying' sideburns as well as the extra 'character lines' in his face. Very distinguished! I really think that he gets better with age. I find that 'growing old gracefully' is much more appealing than trying to hold on to our 'perfect & sometimes plastic' looks of youth with surgical enhancements - No offence, but when we are young & beautiful we have no real character lines & hope u understand what I mean). Although I've only recently found Andre these past few years, looking back I see how he has 'grown into his own skin' so to speak,...not to mention his mind & any other way. IT'S ALL GOOD!!!!!!!!!!!
      Phheeeewwww!!!!!!!!!!!
      
2. June 5, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   Josephine, the only time I've seen Andre with "silver" hair, well maybe it was almost white, like one of those Mozart wigs, was in the Songs From My Heart dvd. I think it was a bonus track, and they were playing the song from Sense & Sensibilty (My Father's Favorite). He was having a fantasy dream with several of the JSO girls. They also wore those white wigs. Have you seen that one? Anyway, I wasn't crazy about that look, but if he turns a nice dignified grey, I think he will look stunning.
   
3. June 5, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Josephine I've heard that too! As well as 'lock up your Grannies'. Andre certainly 'bridges the gap' between all ages and it's great to see several generations enjoying him. It's a real compliment to Andre that some of the elderly will venture out to his Concerts where they wouldn't feel inclined to for many other events.
   As for Andre's greying hair - it makes him look very distinguished and I think he will always look (and be) gorgeous! xx
   

Don't you just love this look!!!!!!!   Oh my : )

1. June 5, 2010 Kay wrote:
   YES love that look, in fact i like all his "looks"
   
2. June 5, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   mmmm, works for me!
   
3. June 5, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Does it for me too!
   
4. June 6, 2010 Elizabeth wrote:
   Oh Boy how I wish he would look at me like that. in fact I would be delighted if he would just look at me. Oh those smouldering eyes.
   
   1. June 6, 2010 Shirley wrote:
      hahaha, now Elizabeth, you know you'd come unglued if he did!
      
      1. June 7, 2010 Elizabeth wrote:
         Hi Shirley, it's a risk I would be willing to take. He may even pick me up and whisk me off to his castle. Ah such wonderfull dreams eh.
         
         1. June 7, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
            Oooohh Elizabeth!!!
            Castles & fairytales are 'long gone' from my life!
            Would I let him play the strings of my heart for the time it would take us to dance between our own realities? ( YES!!!)
            REALITY CHECK!!!!!!!!!
            Hmmm.......what a dream, what a fantasy...and since part of my fantasy is a man of great character & loyalty & devotion, I guess I'be bombed out there too!!!!!!!!
            
            I continue to Dream on.....
            Love 2 U ...,. xxx
            
         2. June 7, 2010 Shirley wrote:
            haha,that's funny.i imagine there are many others who feel the same.I remember at one concert, we were in the third row & I watched a young blonde girl, in the first row, who was absolutely estatic because Andre would lean over in front of her as if he was playing only to her, that eye contact thing you know, & she was almost beside herself. It was so fun to watch & I'm sure it made her night.
            
   2. June 7, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Hi Elizabeth, don't we all? (pheeewww!!!!)....
      Given some things I've read about Andre, he is an inspiration in many ways other than his own musical talent. Seems he didn't always think of himself as sexy & appealing even though he was comfortable enough to expose some aspects of himself in some small & demure way to start with publicly. Being a devoted husband & Dad would perhaps contribute here. Just shows to me that a positive mind, maturity & experience, and positive support from others all contributes to our perception of ourselves and our own self-esteem. I feel that Andre has grown in many, many ways...(I'd hope thiis for all of us) and what he has learned about himself, he passes on in a very open way, yet a very honourable & discreet way....whether it be music alone, or sharing his past vulnerabilities and aspects of his personal growth. This is part of the 'MAGIC' we can all exerience in our lives. Andre is surely 'doing his job' in many, many ways and in many, many areas within his reach during his lifetime!!
      GOTTA LOVE THE MAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
      
      1. June 7, 2010 Elizabeth wrote:
         Hi Jan, I totally agree, we all can have our dreams and fancies about Andre, but this man is a fantastic role model for anyone. He has certainly made a lot of people think about what is important in life, I like his theory on If you are not happy doing something then don't do it.He has made me and i'm sure a lot of other people take stock of their lives and how they live it.
         The pleasure Andre and the JSO gives us all is a true gift. Marjorie and his family have every right to love him as much as he loves them. and that's wonderfull. Best regards. Elizabeth. Sorry if I have ranted on a bit. well more than a bit.
         I wondered have you read any of Marjorie's books on Andre yet. I haven't But I certainly intend too.
         
         1. June 7, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
            Hi Elizabeth, I thought it was me that 'ranted on' ha, ha!! No, I've not yet read Marjorie's book but certainly will be, I hear it's a good read.
            
5. June 6, 2010 Josephine wrote:
   Its a case of
   Quivers down my backbone
   Shakes in my kneebone
   Tremors in my thighbone
   SHAKIN ALL OVER !XX
   
   1. June 6, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Josephine, I'm with ya girl!!!!!! xxx
      
6. June 6, 2010 Marlene Warren wrote:
   Oh my goodness, yes...I DO love this look! Mmmmmmmmmm! It's one of my favorites.
   

1. June 5, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Mmmmm Jeanine Ann - yes, I enjoyed that too!!!!!!
   
2. June 7, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Oh Jeanine Ann, how could this man describe himself as 'a fat, ugly man with an egg shaped head?'(Inerview appx. 8-9 yrs ago). Then again, haven't we all seen, believed or perceived the worst in ourselves over the years, even though others see the beauty in us?????
   Doesn't it feel good to be more mature, grey hairs, flabby bits & worts 'n all, knowing that we have 'grown into' our own Individual beauty and unique being?
   Isn't it good that someone like Andre shares this on a very human level despite his ultimate success?
   If Andre can't be at my house in Melbourne this year, I guess I'll just have to push my way through the lines at Rod Laver Arena to get some close ups, and perhaps a 'whiff' of his Jako cologne!
   HUGS xxx
   

1. June 6, 2010 Kay wrote:
   mesmerized - thanks Jeanine Ann. Did you tape these?
   
   1. June 6, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
      Yes I did Kay.  So glad you enjoyed them.  Will take more this year - 2 weeks from today!!!  I am getting such butterflies.  I am terrible the day of the concert and this year we have two in a row - Sunday and Monday.  I will just barely get over the thrill of the one and I will be going again.  Oh what's a girl to do!  Last year in Wilkes-Barre, Pa. it was his first concert there and at encore no one knew you could go up to the stage and there I was all by myself.  Even Clyde deserted me.  I was waving my arms and taking photos and I kind of felt like a nut.  Hope they learned by now that he does not care if you stand there.  You can get great photos and you can make that eye contact that I love so much.  Hugs
      
      
      1. June 6, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         Thanks for the 'thumbs up' on that Jeanine Ann. I did wonder about that. xx
         

1. June 6, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
   Everything about Andre drives me crazy but I thought it was so cute when he did that with his legs.  I guess he knew I was there haha, right!  Hugs
   
   
   1. June 6, 2010 Kay wrote:
      He probably did, lets hope he remembers you and does it again this time, whoo!!. Lucky you 2 concerts - he is only doing one in London. Have seen your photo with Andre - with his arm around you - i know i could never have the pleasure! so i'll keep on dreaming. Oh well back to the dvdsxx
      
   2. June 7, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      For someone who says he's not a dancer, he's at least picked up some really suave, sexy and yes - cute moves & expressions along the way. Let's face it ladies, he doesn't have to 'dance all night' to give us our monies worth thre!!! xxx
      

1. June 7, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Fay, I was thinking 'Long Johns' - just testing the water amongst like minded cheeky fans! We all absolutely have respect for the Man & his Music, or we would not have not sought out this Site. Let's face it, he encourages some level of cheekiness, which is why we entertain this, - otherwise we would not be here.
   Andre has been my salvation & a huge part of my personal healing these past few years. Getting to know like minded fans this past while has 'added' to my personal recovery from loss, personal suffering & injury.
   Thanks so much for sharing, whether we all agree on the same thing at the same time, or not!
   You all are very important & welcome in my life! xxx
   
2. June 7, 2010 Josephine wrote:
   Oh No Jeanine Ann. Please don't get me all of a dither thinking about Andre in his underwear this time in the morning. I don't want to imagine him in long johns though Surely on stage under those sexy beautifully fitting trousers he would wear something far skimpier so he doesn't get too hot. Oh I am going to have a terrible day now with these thoughts. I won't be able to consentrate on anything. Mm Mm
   I am voting daily. The votes have inmproved a little I see. Andre gets an average of 65 daily but Michael still gets about 165 !!xx
   
   1. June 7, 2010 Judith wrote:
      Hi Josephine, glad to see that you are also a devoted daily 'voter', I have figured that I am able to vote each day at
      6PM and they accept all my votes. I was voting earlier and they would not accept my votes, so me thinks I have it down to a science. I see those voting for Michael, and his two children, which
      I feel, they have not contributed musically at this point in history. Oh well, you have a wonderful day, and keep
      reminding these fun loving gals to do their part in keeping Himself at the top of the charts, even if we all know, we would not have to cast our vote, and Andre would still be our number ONE! Sending you a day full of "smiles".
      
   2. June 7, 2010 Elizabeth wrote:
      Hi Josephine and Judith. I too, vote for Andre daily. After my morning cuppa I do my voting, I see he is at number 3 today, he was number4 yesterday, still if we all keep voting eh? He will always be our man of the year anyway, but it would be wonderful if he got the recognition he truly deserves. bye, Elizabeth.
      

1. June 7, 2010 Judith wrote:
   Greetings Jan McG, you are another talent
   in our group with your fine poetry. Keep them coming. I love reading the poems which many of our Andre fans compose from the heart. Have a musical Monday everyone.
   La-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-La!
   
   1. June 7, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      I just love to be in contact with you Ladies here, whether you like my poems or not; I've seen other poems and contributions on this site which I also love.
      'United we stand" ???
      Have a great 'Andre' week!!! xxxx
      

1. June 7, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
   Hi Fay, Cotton is doing a little better.  She is on antibiotics, both pills and ear drops.  She gets checked in 10 days and if the mass in her ear is smaller then it is infection.  Then she will stay on antibiotics for another 20 days.  Her eye looks better and she is eating for now so we are hoping and praying it is just an infection.  Thank you for asking and for your prayers.  I think Jesus liked all animals and probably had many cats and dogs in His village.  I think all animals were made for us by God to give us companionship and happiness, but with all this comes tears sometimes.  Any time you dare to love someone or something we must remember that they are only on loan to us for a certain amount of time so that means tears will come when they go back to God.  But I am sure we will see them again in our next life. 
   Have a beautiful Andre-filled day.  Hugs
   
   
2. June 7, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Fay, yes these are all reasons why we love the man in total rather than simply buy his music for that aspect only.
   The only thing i can add about your voting problem is to make sure that you vote only once 'in any 24 hour period; I think that's how it works. xx
   

1. June 8, 2010 WebMaster Sally wrote:
   Fay, Josephine and Elizabeth.. oh I am so so happy for you, and cannot wait to see Andre's ZA road tour myself.    I think it will be just as wonderful as you say!!
   
   Sally
   
   1. June 28, 2010 Julia Cape Town S.A. wrote:
      Hi Julie from Cape Town here, glad to see Andre's ZA road tour will be on DVD. I went to 2 concerts in Cape Town then Salzburg and have seats for his concert on Grand Parade In March next year. When will the DVD be released? Keep up your great work Andre.
      
      1. June 28, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
         
         Hi Julie,  So good to hear from you again.  Don't know when the DVD will be released but as soon as we hear anything we will post it here.  Keep checking back with us.  Big Hugs to you
         
         
2. June 8, 2010 Helen wrote:
   In one of the earlier episodes on South Africa, Andre had a very busy schedule with interviews, appointments and local trips that did not allow meal times. Not surprisingly he was hungry, and the TV cameras seemed to appear when Andre was asking for food or eating while working. I really enjoyed it. Chuckle.
   

1. June 9, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   Might just be the camera Jan. Sometimes my camera shots are not as clear or sharp as I'd like, probably the same for the coloring.
   
   1. June 9, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      I tend to think the same Shirley. I notice it with my own photos too, lighting can either enhance or detract especially with complexion, tone & colouring, even the features. Not that I've seen a bad shot of the man yet though!
      

1. June 9, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   Aren't we all glad that he didn't stick with his plan to open a pizza parlor? How many of us would have known him? Perish the thought!
   
   1. June 9, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Yeh Shirley, he could probably still make a good pizza today but I'm glad he stuck with his dream and shared himself and his talent around!
      

1. June 9, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
   Yes Jan he does have a date today - with ME!!  haha
   
   
   1. June 9, 2010 Josephine wrote:
      Ok Ladies. Lets not fight. You know I bagged Him first this morning but I won't be greedy I have had Him most of the day.I have laughed and cried with Himself while he performed Best of Live for me. I've had my lunch and afternoon tea with Him so I really have had The Best Of Him. Not much left for you ladies tonight so I'll be really generous and let you have him. I'm sure though knowing Andre (I wish)there will still be plenty of laughter and fun left in him to satisfy you both Enjoy and let me know how you got on !!x
      
      1. June 9, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         Aw Josephine, we're not fighting! Just keeping tabs on each other and taking lessons in sharing and not being greedy amongst friends (just like kids in a lolly shop - I mean, an Andre shop). ha, ha xx
         
   2. June 9, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      What a two timer Jeanine Ann, I thought it was with me! Just as well for DVD's, You Tube and other 'drool tools'. ha, ha!!!
      
2. June 9, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   Hey Jan, the other day you were talking about colloquialisms, the 'cheeky" i think I understand & I like it. The aussie's do have some different words for sure.And maybe it's just me, but I think the accent sounds a lot like some in the UK.Language is a facinating thing isn't it? I don't always understand it all but if it's in English I'm ok. It's the foreign ones I have no knowledge of. I once tried to translate the word "fan" in Portugeuse & it came out "ventilator". I'm still laughing about that boo boo. One thing for sure, music is a language that everyone can understand. BTW, I'm in the process of trying to read Blinky Bill, he a darling little critter. Have a great Rieu day m'love.
   
   1. June 9, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Hi Shirley. The Aussie 'lingo' as we call it, is a mixture of all other English accents going back to the convict days. I always thought I spoke well being originally English before becoming Aussie, until an English relative remarked on my 'Aussie twang' and the 'lilt' in my voice when speaking; Olivia Newton-John is a good example of what I mean there. Also that Aussie's speak in the 'negative'. Example, instead of saying 'you're absolutely right' they may say 'you're not wrong there', although I think we might have improved a bit in recent years. I've been caught out by using the odd 'Americanism' over the years - words that mean something totally different in English or 'Aussie' - very embarrassing with a particular American word referring to a body part which, in English refers to a totally different body part & has a different connotation. I think the Americans now use the word 'tushie'. The list goes on, but at least we can look such colloquialisms on the Internet these days to find out what the latest slang words mean if we haven't heard it before-ha,ha!
      
   2. June 9, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Shirley, 'cheeky' covers a few meanings; the most negative meaning of the word can mean 'insulting' but more frequently used here to cover milder terms in a more friendly manner (back-chatting, being a little saucy, a little on the borderline with comments, innuendo & behaviour)which is meant to spark lively banter but not offend. Used a lot with children instead of using 'adult' words with them which come across really strong. We're all kids at heart.
      Enjoy Blink Bill - you can tell me all about him....he was invented looonnnnggg after I finished with kiddy books. I think my last kiddy book was 'Dick & Dora' (England) ha, ha...showing my age....apart from all the other wonderful fairy tales of the past. xx
      
      1. June 10, 2010 Shirley wrote:
         Well I got interested in reading this when a friend told me about it & how most childern in Australia grew up knowning about Blinky Bill. I love reading childrens books too because I used to buy all the Little Golden books to read to my young daughter. I had never heard of Blinky so I am reading an ebook online,from the project gutenberg. So far I am only finishing the 3rd chapter of the first part, where Mrs Pimm chases Blinky around her store & he escapes and a lizard is leading him back home. Must be the child in me because I just love this little story & I know my daughter would have too.She became an avid reader because we read so many stories & now, as an adult, she works in our public library. If I had the actual book in front of me I could read it much faster but being an ebook it takes a little longer, but I will finish it.
         
         1. June 10, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
            Hi Shirley, only 'cos I don't have children of my own that I've not graduated to BLINKY BILL. I moved to 'OZ' in 1966 as a 9 year old, so will take your word from experience & knowledge as to when and how 'Blinky' was introduced to Australia or anywhere else.
            'Little Golden Books' - (collections) I know of, although not of my own childhood or current knowledge (bearing in mind that I don't have children of my own).
            Most of my childhood or fairytales were 'very old fashioned'. Some of these have been 'deleted' from current childhood education & development due to 'inferences' of inapproporiate adult/child relationship & behaviour.
            Don't know about you, but the old fashioned fairytale didn't do me any harm - it was just a fairytale to me & not an example of reality at the time!!!!!!!!!!!
            xoxo
            
            1. June 10, 2010 Shirley wrote:
               Nope, I don't think reading or hearing fairytales did me any harm either. They just bought out my imagination & I've often wondered, because some have a certain moral to the story, if they ever influenced any of my later life thoughts. I know fantasy from reality & realize sometimes a fantasy can just be how we wish life really was.
               

1. June 9, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
   Hi Inge, this has not been confirmed as to where the concerts will be held but I know he was working on an indoor venue as an alternative in the event of rain.  It is really amazing what Andre thinks of.  Thanks for the information.  Hugs
   
   
   1. June 9, 2010 Virginia wrote:
      I think the indoor site is only an alternate site. He said that he has always been so lucky with the weather that someday it has to change and he wants to have an alternative.
      

1. June 9, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
   Hi Kay,  Andre's concerts usually run about 2 hours and 40 minutes which includes a 20 minute intermission and of course it depends on how many encores he does and that depends on how receptive the audience is.  I will tell you though, the time seems to go so fast.  I take a lot of photos and some video so I can savor the time long after the concert is over.  Which concert are you going to Kay?  Hugs
   
   
   1. June 10, 2010 Kay wrote:
      Hi Jeanine Ann, Thanks. So hope the concert is that long. Although the amount of touring he is doing he will probably be exhausted time he gets here. I am going to the London 02 arena - September. Hope you have lovely time at your concerts (sure you will)xx
      

1. June 9, 2010 Jill B wrote:
   Don't worry too much about the weather Virginia. We saw Andre during a night of severe thunderstorms. Rather than detracting from the experience I think it added to it.
   The set looked magnificent through the rain, with tiny rainbows dancing off all the lights. The thunder and lightning during Bolero was spectacular. It seemed to come in on the pulse of the music every time. It was like the heavens were playing as part of the orchestra.
   The concert would have been unforgettable anyway, but I'm glad I saw it on a night of wild weather - it added to the thrill of it all.
   
2. June 10, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Virginia, I'm a bit the same way! Whether to spend on a Concert & risk the weather, OR being uncomfortable in huge crowds or physically, my best view perhaps being via video screen etc.,...(none of which appeal to me).
   The choice between buying all DVD's - I have only 8 of his DVD's and 2 cd's just now) that I can watch anytime, anywhere.
   I've not yet bought my Melbourne tickets. Watching closely, not sold out yet. I need to decide between what may be a 'once in a lifetime' Andre experience for me no matter the weather or how uncomfortable I may be. I will continue to collect the DVD's/CD's I've not yet got to keep me happy in the future. I obviously need to make a decision very quickly now! Yes, money is an issue for me between choices, - more so if it's a question of value in terms of getting a 'close up' experience at a concert. I may as well watch at home rather than beat the crowds to see him 'in concert' via video screen. Then again, that's my problem as I should have made sure that I could be 'firist in and best dressed' so to speak.
   
3. June 10, 2010 Judith wrote:
   YES, Virginia ~ you are a gal with 'Gusto'
   I believe you are someone that each fan on this sight have toyed with the idea, but lack the follow through, that includes me big time. I have been doing without for some time now, putting aside some collateral so in the near future I will be able to fund a trip for myself and not depend on anyone to
   make my 'Dreams Come True', last year was a night mare. This time I will do it
   correctly, by myself for myself. I wish you the happiest time in your life
   and inspiring those of us that have been
   'dreaming' for that Special Day!
   
   1. June 10, 2010 Virginia Baker wrote:
      Well, this concert looks as if it will be huge. There are seven sections across. I don't remember how many going back. I saw on Facebook that someone had already bought tickets although I hadn't seen it listed anywhere. (you can pick your tickets on the map) so figured this is going to be a once in a lifetime thing. I live quite frugally really, no longer smoke, almost never drink, don't need anything - have been trying to clean out. So figured it may not be that many years before I can't do it. A friend I was with in Maastricht last year and who will be there this year has decided to go also. So that will make it even nicer. I'll be okay if it rains so long as they make everyone put down their umbrellas. I don't know why this huge concert has not been announced as tickets are selling 13 mos. ahead of time and I was told I should receive mine in a couple of weeks. Slightly left of center, fourth row! Okay have to concentrate on Maastricht first.
      
      1. June 10, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
         
         Virginia where did you hear about the concert?  Thanks
         
         

1. June 10, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   My lovely Fay!
   I just checked the Internet and found that Hobbytex available again in OZ since 2006 at least. (Damn that some of my paints were still ok B4 I trashed them prior to 2006)!
   I wonder what I would need to do to obtain approval for some specific 'Andre' designs, bearing in mind that 'HOBBYTEX' is very durable but not always a 'very soft' in finish, and must be Individual pieces! The larger the area of design, the more 'coarse' the finish with HOBBYTEX as I know it.
   Hmmm...worth following through and gaining opinion on!!!!!! xxxx
   
2. June 10, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   I think it may also have been known as 'Artex' many, many years ago in Aus. - I'm boing back to the sixties now!
   

1. June 10, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   Wow Jan, I knew you must be a creative person because of the poetry you write. glad you're back to the warm fuzzies now. I'm not one who likes the cold either & I think it does get worse as we age. Actually I think your "verbal expression" is just fine. I don't think I've ever heard of Hobbytex but i know about china painting, which by the way, I have no talent at all in that line. Sounds like you did inherit your mum's talent & that classical sheet music collection would be great for those who play any instrument. Are you also talented that way?
   
   1. June 10, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Shirley, I also thought it was wonderful that my Mum & Dad stuck together like 'superglue' no matter what difficulties in life. They loved each other, they loved music, they lived to help & support each other, they were devoted to each other, they were the best of friends! No wonder I'm still single as I've never come across those values in my own lifetime! XXX
      
      1. June 10, 2010 Shirley wrote:
         Jan, I like the words about your parents. That's the way it should be. Those values are still out there but are rare. My husband & I will soon be to our 49th anniversary & it was not always fun & games, but we are also "glued". To laugh & love together through it all.
         
         1. June 10, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
            WOW Shirley 49 years of wedded bliss.  I am so happy for you and Dan.  When is your big day? : )   Hugs
            
            
            1. June 10, 2010 Shirley wrote:
               Twill be Sept.16th (1961-2010) Hope we both make it!
               
         2. June 10, 2010 Inge wrote:
            Shirley, one more year and you celebrate the GOLDEN , Vic and I still have 3 years to go, we made it to 47 this year in August. Of course in every marriage are ups and downs, but love conquers all, we would not be human.
            
         3. June 10, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
            That's a great milestone Shirley & always feels good to know that many couples are together for that long. xx
            
   2. June 10, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Oooops!!! It was Fay whio mentioned HOBBYTEX. xx
      

Rehearsing For Mainau










This is Daniel, son of Lara and Leon!
Photos. . . . AndreRieu.com

1. June 10, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   Great pictures, & I am especially fond of the name Daniel.
   

1. June 10, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
   You are quite welcome Josephine.  I love those photos too and isn't Daniel so sweet!  Congrats to you and your little nephew; is Blessing the same as Baptism?  I do hope that concert on Mainau will turn into a beautiful DVD!  That looks like a fantastic place.
   
   We are still struggling with Cotton.  She is on a very aggressive antibiotic treatment schedule with pills and ear drops and it really bothers her but the Vet said it is a massive infection and if we do not get ahead of it we will lose her to the infection.  We are so scared and feel sorry for her but it must be done.  Please say some prayers for her.  Thanks so much.  I really appreciate it.  Hugs to all
   
   
   
   
   1. June 10, 2010 INGE wrote:
      I WILL PRAY FOR COTTON, MY PRINCESSE HAD THE VERY SAME Symptoms AND GOT ALSO ANTIBIOTIC TREATMENT, BUT SHE DIED, I HOPE YOU ARE MORE IN LUCK. INGE
      
      1. June 10, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
         Thank you Inge.  I hope I have better luck too.  Sorry about your kitty.  Hugs
         
         

1. June 10, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
   
   Hi Fay,  what message are you referring to?  Hugs
   
   
2. June 11, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   Fay, I have to smile about your book smelling. I thought my daughter was the only one who did that. She did it ever since I can remember & still does it today. She smells them whether they are new or not.But she fans the pages to smell them.
   
   1. June 11, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      That might be the sign of a true lover of literature and learning!
      
3. June 11, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   I would agree about Royal Albert Hall. it is also one of my favorite dvds.After I watched it I was curious about it & I searched it on the internet.I wouldn't call it a "hall" either.Much too beautiful for that. I always wished I could attend a last night proms there. I can always listen to a BBC proms night on the radio & sometimes can catch it on a PBS channel. But I always thought the last night sounded more fun, like an Andre concert.
   

1. June 10, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
   
   Hi Dave, I will find out for you.  I just don't remember at this moment.  If anyone else knows, please post.  Thanks much.  Hugs
   
   
   1. June 11, 2010 Shirley wrote:
      I could find no Mozart medley so I'm confused as to what Dave is talking about
      
      1. June 11, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         Sorry to say I can't help Dave either but sure Jeanine Ann will find the answer for him. xx
         

1. June 11, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
   Hi Josephine and all,  just disregard the part of the message you do not understand.  That is HTML code which must have been attached to the message when I brought it in to the entry page.  That happens sometimes.  I cannot see it in the control panel which is where I view all the messages so if I cannot see it there I cannot take it off.  I only see it when I go to the page you view.  Sorry about that.  Hugs
   
   
2. June 11, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Josephine, how could the man get a good night's sleep with all of us women chasing him? ha, ha!!!
   Not sure what's happening with your voting stats. - I'm seeing daily numbrs in the hundreds...wonder if daily vote casts are according to the Country you vote from? - or something else silly. Andre's maintaining his position at the very least. Wonder when voting finishes - I haven't checked. Maybe we can boost our votes in the latest stages somehow.
   Please don't wear the man out Josephine. xx
   
3. June 11, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Actually Josephine, you are more on the mark than I am. I find this interesting when u consider that on Facebook/Twitter Andre is followed by tens of thousands of fans around the World! Yet again, I wouldn't have known about 'Person of the Year' without joining 'this' Fan site!
   The only way I found out about the Melbourne concert was on joining this site - alas! - too late!!!
   Gotta wonder!!!
   xxx
   

1. June 11, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Kay,I wonder if they initially try to 'pad out' all seating sections in case any concert isn't fully sold out, so that possible big empty spaces are less obvious. Seems to happen in OZ too. This is just a thought - I don't really know.
   
2. June 12, 2010 Josephine wrote:
   Oh Kay I just love your opening words.Really made me smile. If Only !!
   Yes I know what you mean about the tickets. I was sitting by my laptop and was ready to buy them the minute they went on sale. I thought it was strange that there were none available in Block A1 but realised later of course they had been bought up by big companies who are now selling them at a rediculously high price. I just hope they can't sell them for the price Happy day ( you will have if you are doing what your opening words say )xx
   
   1. June 12, 2010 Kay wrote:
      Hi , Jan you could be right - so far the concerts are not a "sell out". But i think what Josephine mentioned is true as well - you can't seem to get tickets anywhere near the front i think most of them go to celebrities and debenture seats. A friend of mine has such a ticket in 3rd row centre (more of an (acquantance) she doesn't want it so says she will give it to me. Well we shall see. Not getting to excited about it. So Josephine if i did - which is a big if- you could come down when people start to move around or dance. Not me i mean i'm too shy. xx
      
      1. June 12, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         Hi Kay, Josephine in no doubt right. I hadn't thought of that OR Celebrities and VIP's etc., I might call every few weeks just to keep track of what's available 'just in case'. xx
         
      2. June 12, 2010 Shirley wrote:
         I think the first two rows are mostly reserved for certain ones. But third row would be great. If you sit up much farther than that you get neck strain.
         
         1. June 12, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
            Hi Shirley, yes two front rows usually for 'a day with Andre' at $1500. xx
            
      3. June 12, 2010 Josephine wrote:
         Hi Kay. Wow is your friend/acquantance a celebrity then? Sorry to say this but is she nuts? Not wanting to go and see our Beloved
         Sweet of you to say I could come down the front but I am afraid I am all talk When it comes to it I will probably feel too shy and self conscious. Silly at the ripe old age of 62. Also my other half unfortunately has two left feet and no sense of rythm bless him
         But you never know if a fair few get up and I have partaken of a little dutch courage before the concert I may throw caution to the wind- only caution nothing else will I throw !!I may even surprise myself. Andre may bring out something in me I never knew I had
         I dooo hope so Have a lovely evening Gorgeous one here xx
         
         1. June 12, 2010 Kay wrote:
            Hi Josephine, She works at a large college don't know where- she is always abroad, not that keen on Andre she knows i am so she said i could have ticket if she gets it. I think it might be coming from someone she knows. But for all i know could be fraudulant - so if you see someone getting arrested it will be me.ha. I am also very shy and would no way dance wish i was the type but i'm not - and i'm older then you.xx
            
         2. June 12, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
            Hi Josephine, my husband has two left feet also and even had surgery on his right foot and had part of the bone removed and we both dance at every concert.  We are not good dancers either but there is nothing like dancing for Andre.  I have had that eye contact with Andre when he kind of "plays" with the dancers and that is so special.  I am a very shy person but Andre does bring out something in you which just makes you jump up and dance.  I stand in front of the stage at encore time and I wave my hands and jump around (depending on the song) and have a great time.  Also take some photos then too.  And when (and if) he does Marina - well!! - I am right there!!!!   At several concerts I was laying right across the flowers at the stage - it was so crowded but we were having a great time.  So girls - get up and dance.  Hugs
            
            
            1. June 12, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
               ha, ha - you laying across those flowers and somewhere near Andre' feet would be a pricelss picture in itself. xx
               

1. June 12, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   I haven't replaced my 'dead' DVD player yet Fay - must get onto it! I've been addicted to the 'Marina'clip these past fews days. I haven't been to a concert in some years, so would not have minded paying for the 'mid range' ticket as it's a 'one off' for me. All that is left are the 'restricted view' or $1,500 package. I wouldn't be happy to pay big $$$ for a ticket only to see him on a video screen in a huge & crowded venue. As much as I love Andre, I think I'll get better value out of a new DVD player and many more of his DVD's this year; as you say, the DVD's can be very personal. Better luck in 2011 if he's coming back and hope I'm on the ball! xxx
   
   1. June 12, 2010 Shirley wrote:
      I think you're on spot about the dvds. You always have front row seat with them & you've saved yourself big bucks. We certainly couldn't pay the $1500 range. Sorry to say, when the economy tanked so did we! We were very fortunate on our first couple of concerts to pay $250 a ticket & that included meeting the man himself, but that doesn't happen anymore. The farthest we've set back was about 15th row & I really didn't even care for that. The farthest I like would be about row 10, ah, but there's the rub, usually the most expensive too.
      
      1. June 12, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
         The farthest we've been was in Toronto about row 7 and that was too far back.  The closest was row 1 and it was Heaven!  The closest I would like to be in sitting on the edge of the stage right in the flowers.  : )  Think of the great shots I could get!  : )
         
         
         1. June 12, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
            For Dave, are you speaking about the "White Horse Inn" medley by an chance?  It follows "O Mio Bambino Caro".  Let me know.  Thanks
            
            
2. June 13, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi again Fay, I hope you don't think me rude here,as I'm looking for a portable DVD player myself I'm learning the differences between them (I am not technically minded or savvy).
   Are you sure it has truly died? Or does it need a long re-charge?
   If it's only ever been run by electricity, it's probably dead!!!! If you use both 'or' a combination of electricity or battery, all batteries have a maximum play time before needing a really good re charge or replacement.
   I don't mean to make you feel bad here as I know that I can easily forget important things about equipment which seems really obvious to those who are 'techically switched on'. Just wouldn't like to see you have to waste precious $$$$. Hope you had a wonderful date with Andre today, and yes, I'm still voting. xxx
   

1. June 12, 2010 Jill B wrote:
   Shirley
   There were three Blinky Bill books released in the '30s. Sometimes now you see picture books published featuring just one story from them but Wikipedia seems to have the full information on the originals.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blinky_Bill
   
   1. June 13, 2010 Shirley wrote:
      Thanks Jill, I should have thought of that myself. I did find out that I can even order some from Amazon, but I'd rather read then online if I can. and to top that off,there's a Blinky intro on You Tube. I love to read & I guess I even like children's books & movies too. I still cry over Bambi. I guess it's my inner child wanting to come out & play.
      
      1. June 13, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         Bambi?? Now that's getting to me. I didn't know Blinky Bill for reasons said before in recent comments.
         Bambi brings a tear to my eye too - even remember when my Dad was in hospital around 1967 and made a BAMBI (stuffed toy) in Occupational Therapy to bring home for me.....aaawww!!!! Inner child or sucker for softness of any description????? ALL GOOD!!! xxx
         
         1. June 13, 2010 Shirley wrote:
            Believe it or not, I just read Back Beauty for the first time last year. All those years before I had just thought oh, someday. I loved the quote in the last paragraph of Chapter 13, ""There is no religion without love, and people may talk as much as they like about their religion, but if it does not teach them to be good and kind to other animals as well as humans, it is all a sham." Now isn't that the truth! BTW, did you notice that when anyone puts 3 w's in a row it comes up as an almost link? I did that once so i started using only two or four.
            
      2. June 13, 2010 Jill B wrote:
         My first experience of the theatre was when I was 3 and my mother took me to see "Bambi".
         I vividly remember being horrified at this huge screen throwing colour and noise at me and then, the worst thing, Bambi's mother being shot and killed. I spent the rest of the film under the seat much to the irritation of my mother - she never took me to another film.
         Just this year the Disney Channel had "Bambi" on. I started to watch it but turned it off quickly when Bambi's mother was to meet her fate. All these years later I still found it distressing (and me who loves a good horror film). Whoever thought this scene was suitable viewing for children anyway?
         My very young grandchildren all love to watch Andre's Maastricht concerts - much more suitable viewing don't you think?
         
2. June 12, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Shirley, I just had a quick look on internet. Seems there may be more and also discovered that there a boxed DVD sets of Blinky Bill and his adventures. I'll have a better look a little later on for you. xx
   

1. June 12, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
   Hope you are feeling up now Kay.  We don't want anyway down in the dumps.  Why don't you buy your DVD's in Australia.  I know it takes longer but at Hans Music Spot I get free shipping but I do a lot of ordering there.  The man's name is Peter and just ask him if he would give you free shipping if you order all your DVD's there.  It is worth a try.  Just Google Hans Music Spot - Croyden and his site will come up. 
   
   
   
   Here is a nice photo for you of Andre at Schonbrunn. 
   
   I don't know how much "You Raise Me Up" was when I ordered it but it was less than 37 pounds.  Let me know if you cannot find Hans Music.  Hugs
   
   
   
   
   
   
   1. June 12, 2010 Kay wrote:
      Hi Jeanine Ann, will try that website thanks. Lovely picture thanks cheered me up alreadyxx
      
2. June 12, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Kay, that's a ludicrous price! Take Jeanine Ann's advice and order from here in Australia. I find the prices very much in line with all others, randing from $25 to $40 so far and postage charge not too heavy. I've ordered two at a time to save a bit further on postage xx
   
3. June 13, 2010 Elizabeth wrote:
   Hello Kay, I buy most of Andre's dvds from the Amazon site, some of them come from the US but they are no where near the prices you are paying. If they are priced in dollars then I use the currency converter first to find out how much in english pounds . I have just thrown out some of my invoices so I can't tell you the exact prices, Amazon lists the people you can buy from. hope this helps a bit, good luck .
   
4. June 13, 2010 Elizabeth wrote:
   Hi again Kay. I am hoping that when Andre's UK tour is done that the powers that be will see how many fans he has in this Country and start to sell his dvds right here. We can always hope eh?
   
   1. June 13, 2010 Kay wrote:
      Hi Elizabeth, Have looked at Amazon, most of the ones i want are still quite pricey and lots of region 1. Thanks anyway as you say we can still hope after tour... Are you going to his concert?
      
      1. June 14, 2010 Elizabeth wrote:
         Hi Kay, yes I am going to Andre's concert at the Newcastle upon tyne Arena whch is only about 10miles from my home in County Durham. I am so looking forward to it. I do hope the show is a sell out, just to show Andre how much he is appreciated in England. My son said as long as I don't throw my undies at him (like they do at Tom Jones Concerts ) otherwise he would never be able to see his violin to play it. Like many of you I am all talk about what I would like to do until I see him then I will probably just fall into a trance.
         and really let our hair down wouldn't it.
         
         1. June 14, 2010 Kay wrote:
            Hi Elizabeth, I don't think any of his concerts are a complete sell out- still 3 more months to go yet though. I would love to let my hair down and wave and join in, but knowing me i will just sit and clap - us British are too reserved.x
            

1. June 13, 2010 Moderator Prudence wrote:
   

   Welcome Helen

   

   
   
2. June 13, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Helen, and 'WOW' - I am both jealous and happy for you at the ame time. If I could have this Man's hands on my injured & continually painful spine, I'd be in HEAVEN!!! (Dream on!). I think it would be necessary to wash my lower spine though - ha, ha!!!
   I'm glad that you had such a wonderful experience! xxx (Jan McG/Melbourne)
   
3. June 13, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   PS Helen -m I'm not even suggesting that our lovely man would near a woman's lower spine by any means - I just think you 'get my drift.' xx
   
4. June 13, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   Hi Helen,great to hear from another Andre fan. You can jump right in any time you want. Your comments are always welcome.
   
5. June 14, 2010 Elizabeth wrote:
   Hello Helen I have only been on this site about three weeks, and I think it's fantastic, and a real tonic for anyone who is feeling low.Lucky you being so close to Andre. So pleased for you.
   
   1. June 14, 2010 Helen wrote:
      Hello Elizabeth,
      Yes I could not agree with you more Andre and his music are a real tonic for anyone who is feeling low. When I watch his DVD's I always have a smile on my face and go into another world.
      I think I could say that I am addicted to him!!!!
      It is good to know that others feel the same and I am happy to have found somewhere that I can talk and read about this wonderful man.I also find it fascinating that we come together from so many parts of the world and Andre is responsible for this all because he chose to make his dreams come true.
      Rieu gards Helen
      
      1. June 14, 2010 WebMaster Sally wrote:
         That's it exactly Helen & Elizabeth:
         
         Andre takes us to another world.  The world we wish was real.  Peace, Happiness, Fun, Laughter and sometimes Solitude and Reflection.  This music helps us when other music of today is annoying and seeks to harm those who listen, Andre's music brings us Joy.
         
         Here we can share our happiness as Friends!  And we understand how this music and man add so much to our lives.
         
           Happiness Always
         
         Sally
         
         1. June 15, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
            Hi Ladies, this is so, so true!!! We all need 'another World' away from our day to day responsibilities, challenges whether we already feel good and positive, or things are going less than we expect. Andre gives this in his music & sharing of himself, his experiences & feelings. We here are friends because of Andre. How good to know that one person can bring more friends and happiness into our lives without even knowing us. Thanks Sally! xx
            

1. June 13, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Fay, we don't miss much when we get 'up close and personal' with a DVD do we?, ha, ha!!! I wonder what your Religion/Faith is in light of what you share (don't answer if you don't feel inclined). I'm only curious cos of your comments & my upbringing which was Roman Catholic, (Mother - non denominational/Chapel), yet encouraging personal choices in adulthood. Somehow think (for now) that I have the best these days between Religion and own spiritual beliefs. I was born into a 'Patriarchal' belief system as anyone older than I am would probably have been, yet shunned this & found my own 'balance' between religion and faith & personal empowerment. This is not a challenge from me to you, only to gain an understading of my 'Andre friends' who share about themselves if they wish to.
   BLINKY BILL - I came to OZ just out of childhood. Recently shocked to know that he was first introduced to OZ in '1930 something'. Seems he went into hibernation for a bit then made a come-back (see my other recent comments for June). As I don't have children of my own, I have only sought out 'kid-stuff' when friends were having children.
   Fay, I understand that Marjorie doesn't like to be seen or photographed, various opinion on why/why not). I understand from some of her (interview) comments that this is 'all about Andre', and they have their own reasons obviously within the Business. I've seen various comments as to the why's/wherefore's of her absence etc....The few pics I have seen of Marjorie, she is a pretty & vibrant woman. The few interviews I have read, Marjorie is a very well educated, knowledgeable & talented woman and appreciates & demands her own Individuality which is perfectly understandable. I personally do believe that 'no one should stand in anyone else's shadow).
   I guess they have their own reasons for their own personal & partnership choices. If they feel good, and make us feel good - isn't this just great???? xxxx
   

1. June 13, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   I agree with you, Jan, about the top two. Their time has come & gone.They will always be icons, but good grief, this needs to be a living person, and who contributes more than Andre? you can't contribute anything when you're dead! only the memory remains.
   
2. June 13, 2010 Elizabeth wrote:
   Hi Jan, Ialso wondered about the top 2 on the voting list, yes they certainly have contributed in their time, but to give an award especially of this kind "postumusly" (soory about spelling) I do not think is right, After all Andre has been contributing for over 30 years now. and still goes on giving his all.
   

1. June 13, 2010 Moderator Prudence wrote:
   

   Of course you are welcome Jan McG. As welcome as the flowers in Spring.

   

    

   
   
   1. June 13, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Thanks Prudence,
      We're heading for Winter, yet have 'Spring Flowers' amongst friends & in our hearts here, so hope you are experiencing a really nice Spring & heading for a great Summer on the opposite end of the globe! (Despite the OZONE layer..hmmm!!!!). Who knows these days???
      
      xxxx
      
2. June 13, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   I think everyone is welcome.There is a blog welcome at the bottom left. Sally has certain rules to go by. In a nutshell, be nice.
   There's a little book I have called "ALL I REALLY NEED TO KNOW I LEARNED IN KINDERGARTEN".
   ". Share everything. Play fair. Don't hit
   people. Put things back where you found them. Clean up your own mess. Don't take
   things that aren't yours. Say you are sorry when you hurt somebody. Wash your
   hands before you eat. Flush. Warm cookies and cold milk are food for you. Live a
   balanced life. Learn some and think some and draw some and paint and sing and
   dance and play and work everyday.
   Take a nap every afternoon. When you go out in the world, watch for traffic,
   hold hands, and stick together. Be aware of wonder. Remember the little seed in
   the plastic cup? The roots go down and the plant goes up and nobody really knows
   how or why. We are like that".
   
   1. June 13, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Ah Shirley, that is so true. It might be the afternoon nap (Nana nap) I'm missing these days - ha, ha!
      Also be yourself without judging other's lives, enjoy, seek frienship & peace & much more. What we learned in 'kinder' shapes & forms our lives - the less we learned in kinder, the harder it is to learn these basic skills. Thanks for sharing Shirley!
      We all love being here, and all try to be very nice.
      xoxoxoxoxo
      

1. June 13, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   Jan, I think you can join in any conversation if you want. when you get a comment in your mail, just click "reply to this comment", then when you get here, click the "reply to this" at the bottom of the message.I think it helps keep a particular conversation on track. hope that helps.
   

1. June 13, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   haha, I think Judith is waiting for Jeanine Ann to give her permission to speak. Didn't Jeanine Ann say something like Judith, don't say anything?
   
   1. June 13, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Oh, I get it now! I lose track if the comments weren't 'yesterday'.
      
      JUDITH! Speak up!!!!
      
      xoxo
      

1. June 13, 2010 Kay wrote:
   Hi Josephine, I'm not too sure whether they will play on pal- thanks anywayxx
   

1. June 13, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Kay, he shows between 3rd & 4th on daily numbers. If you click on the 'score' tab he's 3rd place on the ongoing Leaderboard. xx
   

1. June 13, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
   Hello Debbie,  Cotton is 17.  We will get a report from the Vet tomorrow.  Please keep her in your prayers and thank you so much for asking.  Hugs and love to you.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   1. June 14, 2010 Virginia wrote:
      Oh poor Cotton. I hope she gets good news. Benny just turned 16 and he is very thin. He acts as if his joints hurt, has a hard time sitting down. But sometimes he'll surprise me and have a "cat fit." He almost died three years ago when he was chewed up by a dog, so I'm lucky to have him at all. Broke his jaw, injured his lungs, had to pull half his teeth. Am trying to sneak him extra food when the others aren't around but Fat Eddy shows up usually before I open the can. Nice rug by the way.
      

1. June 13, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   What is your country's anthem now? what a shame that times change. I have a poem, sent to me by a friend, a lovely poem about Australia.As I read the words I could feel her love for country. It's called My Country, by a Dorothea MacKeller. Everyone should love their homeland like that. Maybe it's the younger generations who really don't understand. Someone should tell them.
   
   1. June 13, 2010 Jill B wrote:
      "My Country" is still a much loved poem in Australia and Dorothea MacKeller much revered.
      I think it was 20 years or more ago that our anthem was changed from God Save The Queen to Advance Australia Fair. It was an unfortunate choice as most people didn't like the song and felt the words were old fashioned. However, the 'powers that be' said it was the best available......... The young ones know the words now from being taught at school, but a lot of older people can only manage the first verse.
      Many people think we should have the song 'I Am Australian' as our anthem. It is featured in Andre's "Live In Sydney" DVD.
      Anthems and flags are a sensitive subject. People have strong opinions about them.
      
      1. June 14, 2010 Shirley wrote:
         Hi Jill,I like the song I Am Australian, but since I don't live there my opinion doesn't count anyway. Some here say our anthem should be different too, but we just stick with what we got. You said your anthem used to be God Save The Queen"? Strangely enough one of our songs, My Country Tis Of Thee,seems to have the same melody. I often wondered if because so many first came to this country from England they kept the melody & added new words.
         
   2. June 13, 2010 Maxine wrote:
      To Faye, I learnt that poem as a child at school & I can still remember all of it.
      At High School we sang it but I can't remember all the music.
      
2. June 15, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Fay, how right you are about Aussies being less patriotic than most would expect. Having been born in UK, then moving to Aus. at age 9, I have seen how we've (not me or you) have become less patriotic. I see this also in regards to honouring servicemen/women. I feel some of what is shown outside Australia is 'just for show', with tradition maintained by a dedicated minority. (My opinion only). Who still observes a minutes silence on the '11th of the 'Eleventh. It's disappeared in many areas. xx
   

Rehearsal photos for the concert on Mainau.  This will make a beautiful DVD!!!!


                                          

                                           

                                           

                                             

                                               

1. June 13, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Looks as though it will be absolutely wonderful. Some of the costumes are amazing just as the scenery; really looking forward to seeing this.
   
   1. June 14, 2010 Kay wrote:
      Love the pics. Andre looks like he is mowing the lawn in one of them (he can mow mine anytime.)xx
      
      1. June 14, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         and of course you'd be right behind the man with a towel to mop his brow and a long cool drink - ha, ha xx
         
         1. June 15, 2010 Kay wrote:
            Well yes of course Jan. I would think i would have to have somebody mop my brow and give me a long strong drink haxx
            

1. June 14, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Helen, you're in the wars there! Hope you can get that done & have time to heal a bit before the Concert.
   I won't be up at 4am this Thursday I'm afraid as I have a full day & evening on Wednesday & work during Thursday.
   Hey, I love your little 'sign off' there!
   
2. June 14, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   My goodness Helen, that's quite early in the morning. Ours here starts at 7am,and I plan to record the whole show anyway, but I certainly will watching it too. Isn't it true,Andre and his music are good for whatever ails you? Like a healing balm it is.
   

1. June 14, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   I thought it was a beautiful tribute to the country she loved. you can really feel her feelings as you read. It really touched me. No, Fay, I don't live in England, although we have a family tree with a line back to there. I live in the United States, exactly in the middle, we call it "the heartland".
   

1. June 14, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
   Hi Ilse, sorry I did not get the poems from you.  You can send them to me at jeanineann@andrerieufans.com   I have no email address for Andre so I would ask that you send your message to him at  andrerieu.com   and put it in his Guestbook.  I will look forward to hearing from you.  Hugs 
   
   
   1. June 15, 2010 Brenda wrote:
      Hello Ladies!I only discovered Andre in January this year!I bought "Forever Vienna" as I thought it was good value with a free DVD.I got halfway through the first piece (Voices of Spring) and thought "WOW - WHO IS THIS GORGEOUS MAN AND WHY HAVEN'T I SEEN HIM BEFORE?I have since bought 5 more CDs and DVDs -also Marjorie's book!I have my seat booked for Birmingham LG Arena in September 23rd and I am so excited!!!
      I live in UK and am a retired widow with 2 grandchildren.I have loved reading all your comments since finding your website last week.I( would love to go to Maastricht but funds won't all it.
      Maybe next year?
      Regards to all Andre fans.
      
      1. June 15, 2010 Debbie wrote:
         Hi Brenda.
         Welcome to Andre's Guestbook, and join the big happy circle of Andre fans, we all have a great time talking, about this great man and his music, he certainly soothe's the soul when you either listen or watch one of his DVD's,
         I think we all go into a trance, when we see or speak about him.
         Love. x
         
      2. June 15, 2010 Moderator Prudence wrote:
         

         Brenda,nice to know you.

         

         
         
      3. June 15, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         Hi Brenda! I've not been here long myself, and still wonder why I've only recently (not even 2 years) found this wonderful man & his music here is Australia. I'm so glad I found this site, and continue to connect with other Andre fans across the World. I'm so glad you have seating for the Concert, and look forward to hearing of your experience. I think I've missed out on Copncert tickets here but will still check in frequently to see what's available. Good to see you here! kindest regards!
         
      4. June 15, 2010 Shirley wrote:
         Hi Brenda, you sound like so many of us when we first saw Andre. Now you're hooked too!
         I'm glad you will be able to attend his concert there. It will be the experience of a lifetime.
         I'd love to hear your thoughts after your first concert. Prepare to be wowed.
         
      5. June 15, 2010 Elizabeth wrote:
         Hello Brenda. You have just entered a sight where there is no turning back Only because you won't ever want too. I only found this sight about a month ago, and have really enjoyed the friedship, exchanging information and making comments about our great hero Andre the Great.So pleased that you are going to the concert at Birmingham, I am looking forward to the Newcastle Arena on the 30th September. and am HOPING to be able to go to Maastricht next year. If you need cheering up this is certainly the right site for you, we all love Andre and his wonderfull music.
         
      6. June 15, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
         Hello Brenda and welcome to the site.  I hope you enjoy reading all the information and talking with the fans.  Please feel free to post often; we will enjoy hearing from you.
         
         
         
         
      7. June 16, 2010 WebMaster Sally wrote:
         Hello Brenda, Welcome to AndreRieuFans.com !
         
         Isn't that the way it is with Andre?  We see and hear him, and presto...we have to buy the music.  I felt as you did when I first heard Andre.. where have I been?    It was so refreshing to hear such beautiful music, and have it played by such a charming group as Andre Rieu and his JSO.
         
         Hope you are having a great day.
         
         Sally
         
         
         

1. June 15, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   Maybe Andre could have lived here too.Read about "New Amsterdam"(New York City). There are many Dutch Americans living in several states. Maybe that is why Andre loves New York too.
   
2. June 15, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Fay, Ooohhh, what a thought! Although I think that if Andre lived if OZ it would be in Queensland (from his DVD's/intrviews)...how much he loves the humidity by what he has created around his Castle for his own comfort -(can't give you the exact terminology, details etc as I forget easily on which DVD saw this).. I've lived in OZ for 44yrs of my 53 years - no matter how hard I try, I still can't stand the humidity, (*I was born in the snow), so I guess that Andre & myself will never 'BE' in any other way than enjoyment of what he gives to me/us, unless he learns about Mt. Bulla & relishes the thought of snow covered grounds, settled in a Chalet, an open fire place, red wine, good food ...hmmmm (YEH, dream on!!!!)...aaahhhhh!!!!.....ALAS, Andre gives us something to dream on - and boy, what a dream!
   Have u got the DVD player yet? I must be off to K-Mart, Target or Aldi VERY, VERY soon!!!!!!! Think that ALDI has the best deals from what I'm told xxxx
   
   1. June 15, 2010 Judith wrote:
      Hello Jan McG, found my voice, and I to am
      doing a walk about looking for a new DVD player which will play the PAL version of many of my DVD's. BUT, seems there's always a BUTT; not being any or very mechanically versed, I will have a devil of a time putting points A and B together. Oh well, do I sound the same? Yours, till Butter-flies. hee-hee-hee.
      
      1. June 15, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         Ha, ha Judith, exactly why I haven't got a replacement yet. I would drive myself nuts gettting it up & running. I'll schedule it for next time someone with a bit of 'tech know how' comes over.
         Yep, you're sounding like you!!!!
         

1. June 16, 2010 WebMaster Sally wrote:
   Visit me in California!  It's our summer now.
   
   Did you see the new Video, Jeanine Ann put on the blog?  It was of Andre playing at Rockerfeller Center in NY this morning. 
   
   How was your viewing of Andre in Australia this morning?  .. What did he say or announce?
   
   Sally
   
   1. June 19, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Hi Sally, yes, the video was great.
      Andre was announcing to Aussie fans about Maastricht 3 being shown via satellite live, at Australian Movie theatres.
      What a shame he was on for only a minute or so!
      

1. June 16, 2010 Brenda wrote:
   Hi Josephine and all ladies who replied to me.Hope I'm doing it correctly ( never done this sort of thing before!)
   I missed the Royal Variety show ( don't know why) but have made up for it since then.Am attached to my laptop every day and have watched hours of wonderful videos via different websites.Been on Ineke and Ruud's website a lot!Also Harmony Parlour.
   I listen to ClassicFM a lot (how I heard about "Forever Vienna".Did you know thatAndre has FIVE CDs in the classcal top 20 - and "Forever Vienna" has been number 1 for nearly SIX MONTHS!!I was reading all your comments about never getting front seats despite booking on 1st day.I also was poised over the computer on the 29th March and asked for "best available" which was £90 plus £9.90 service charge!I got allocated Block 15 row T.Don't know LG arena so hope it's not too far back.It doesn't seem fair that front rows should be kept for "celebrities" and VIPS who may not be keen Andre Fans.What do you all think?Having said all that, I amI have SO looking forward to seeing HIM live and it's only money after all.I have played the Albert Hall DVD almost every day since January -made a few years ago I think?My favourite CD is "Dreaming" wonderful pieces by Bach and Mozart.
   Love to Andre Fans wherever you all are.
   

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1. June 16, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   Anybody notice the shoes?
   
   1. June 16, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
      To tell you the truth Shirley I was too excited and could not get passed that face.  He was extra gorgeous today.  Hugs
      
      
   2. June 18, 2010 Judith wrote:
      Yes-sir-eee Shirley, I noticed his shining beautiful shoes. I just loved how his happiness was beaming, as usual. The entire group looked so refined and elegant!! Normally when I am up and about, any other day, I would be still in my jammies - NOT Wednesday, I had curled my hair, put on the make up, new capri's and my special Andre blouse, (elegant white in color)
      as if I was going to a live Concert. I had a grand time, but it all went too fast, and my heart was feeling like, He's gone, he has gone. OH, me, Oh my, I am now dressed nicely and no where to go, therefore I put in a DVD and had my front row seats for my very own up close and personal Concert. After wards,
      I went to Star Bucks and treated my self
      to a tasty beverage. Ahh, what a lovely day. He had so many beautiful poses, HIS
      smile is so contagious ~ I just wish I was able to make me some copies of that
      "smile", I could do away with some of my medications. What a healing presence. mmmmm-mmmmm-mmmmm
      
      1. June 18, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         Hey Judith, I'm starting to 'dress up' for work lately, the first time in 2 yrs since I had my accident. I always made an effort to look as good as I could during my 36 year working life (for either work or personal life)before I had the accident. My life fell apart after this and losing my usual day job and my Mum along the way. I lost sight of my dreams, vision and 'myself' and became very disinterested in life. It's still sometimes a struggle, with or without medication (I hate taking meds)....you may be able to relate (from your above comments) to having everything 'on-hand' - clothes, make up, perfume, jewellery, grooming tools etc., yet not even acknowledging that it's all there, ready to choose & apply. If it only took me 10 mins. to make myself look good every morning when I worked full time - what's my excuse now? Not to mention just leaving the house to 'take yourself out for coffee' & enjoy the 'positive' thoughts going through my mind.
         ANDRE is contagious, infectious and a wonderful source of healing of the spirit! XXXX
         
         1. June 18, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
            Hi Ladies, just checking to see if you see all the messages now.  I just approved a bunch of them - mostly from Jan haha!  I know you are going to be jealous of me over the weekend but I can't help he is here first : )  But I am going to enjoy every single moment of this delightful gorgeous man on Sunday and Monday.  I will get some photos for you if all goes well - that is if my camera works okay.  Hugs
            
            
            1. June 18, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
               Are you saying that I talk too much? (ha, ha)!!!
               I'm quite willing to share - just don't wear him out before he gets to melbourne!
               (How dreadful does that sound in 'reality'????...NO, I wouldn't want to share in other circumstances).
               ENJOY !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! HUGS.
               
               1. June 18, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
                  Oh no I love hearing from you!   Just keep sharing.  I sit here and laugh because you are so funny - but I like funny or lets say sense of humor, that sounds better.  I will take very good care of Andre so that he will be in good shape for you - your concert! You know I just thought, wouldn't it be great if all of us could get to a concert together.  Wouldn't we have a great time!!  We would all be nuts but we would have a fun time.  It is just too bad that we all live so far from each other.  Luckily we have this blog to share our feelings.  I will enjoy the concerts Jan.  Thanks.  Hugs to you
                  
                  
                  1. June 18, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
                     Oh Jan forgot to tell you that I sent your email address to Judith. 
                     
                     
                     1. June 18, 2010 Judith wrote:
                        As always my dear friend Jeanine Ann, you are so thoughtful to have taken care of our e-mail agenda. Was it tonight the first Concert? ~ and if so I'll bet you are not able to communicate yet ~ you'll need some down time. But I am still up 1:05am and just wondering how the Concert went, and hoping you got up close and personal. Oh you lucky lady, can not wait till Clyde scoops you up off the floor so you can tell us all about Concert #1. Oh
                        I am just so excited for you, needless to mention I am going to pop in another DVD and pretend I am at a live Concert.
                        Now I am really getting that I wanna, wanna, wanna go to a real 100% live Concert. Keep dreaming Judith ole girl, hopefully 2011 for sure. Nightie night
                        for the sleepy heads and good morning to those of you in another zone.
                        
                  2. June 19, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
                     What a thought that is! Andre 'groupies' causing mass hysteria ha, ha!
                     Thanks for passing on the e-mail to Judith.
                     HUGS!
                     
            2. June 19, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
               Chatterbox here! Only responding to confirm it's working (ha!). No excues about the camera ok? Surely you've tested it; can't imagine how you'll feel if you come back with blank film.
               ENJOY! ENJOY! ENJOY! HUGS
               
2. June 19, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   The atmosphere is magic wherever they play, with or without the Castle.
   

1. June 16, 2010 Kay wrote:
   Thanks Jeanine Ann for video. I agree Josephine what a lucky lady indeed - am so jealous... To the last part of your post YES, we do indeed love the man (not forgetting the music of course), so much nicer though, him being so lovely).xx
   
2. June 18, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Josephine, just to get a close up pic. of this gorgeous and talented man at a Concert would be 'unbelievable and earth-moving'. How I would respond if I got as close as some (i.e. Jeanine Ann) in touching or enjoying a whiff of his Jako cologne...well, I just don't know....at least my Ambulance Membership is up to date - ha, ha!!!!!!!
   

Good Evening All.

There is a Dutchman we all know.
He gives us all a very good show.
He leads his orchestra the JSO.
Weaving his magic with his trusted bow.

Day after day we crave for more.
So off we go to the record store.
To get a copy of his dvd or even buy a new cd.
Then rush home to play it, whilst having our tea.

We sit and swoon over this Icon we love.
Sent to us from the heavens above.
He gives great joy to the young and old.
And we just love to have him to hold.

This man we have come to love and know.
The one that gives us all a great big glow.
We love you Andre yes we do.
Our beautiful gorgeous Andre Rieu.

Love. xx

1. June 16, 2010 WebMaster Sally wrote:
   That is an absolutely WONDERFUL poem !!!
   
2. June 16, 2010 Elizabeth wrote:
   Hi Debbie, you have done it again you clever girl. It's a great poem Debbie. Thanks for sharing it. X
   
3. June 16, 2010 Marlene Warren wrote:
   Very nice Debbie! I love it!!!
   
4. June 16, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   DEBBIE,THIS IS EXCELLENT! AMEN TO WHAT YOU JUST SAID.
   
5. June 16, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Excellent Debbie, I love it. Thanks for sharing it. xxx
   
6. June 16, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
   Debbie I just love your poem.  Thank you so much for sharing.  Keep on going!  Hugs to you.
   
   

1. June 17, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Elizabeth, I go straight to www.persoonvanhetjaar.nl/ and have no problems.
   
   1. June 17, 2010 Elizabeth wrote:
      Hi Jan thankyou, it worked straight away. will follow this way from now on.
      
      1. June 18, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         Glad to know it worked for you!
         If you click on SCORE in the top left hand tabs, you will see the overall 'Leaderboard'. Some fans are confused as they see only the number of daily votes, which is why they think Andre is sometimes 4th place as opposed to consistently third place. xxx
         

1. June 17, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   Hi Jill, I been missing you. thought you might have dropped off the face of the earth. Aha, Franco huh? I gotta tell you about the time a friend & I saw Franco, well actually the first time I saw him he signed my book, but this time my friend & I were sitting on a bench outside the hotel where Andre & co were staying, it was close to the concert hall so we were just sitting, chatting & waiting to go across the street, when Franco walked by. He was by himself & we smiled & said hello. He gave us that great Italian smile & spoke back to us as he walked on. My friend asked who that was & I told her, she wanted to get up & chase him! She thought he was so handsome, but we behaved ourselves. i really wish you can meet him, but please, be a good girl!
   
   1. June 17, 2010 Jill from Geelong wrote:
      Hi Shirley,I've missed you all soooooo much as well. No I haven't dropped off the face of the earth hahaha Although I sometimes feel like that first thing in the morning!! I have just been so caught up with running the friendship group I really had no idea how much work it involved!!! However we have had heaps of fun and with each meeting our numbers grow. Well, well, well so you bumped into the Italian Stallion (hihihi) and you let him go!!!! C'mon Shirley get a grip if I had of been you he wouldn't have even made it to the concert that night hahaha. Anyway I'm really looking forward to the Melbourne concert in October and will I be wandering around the arena eyes peeled for a certain Italian double bass player? You betchya Shirley, the most popular male JSO member doesn't stand a chance I will find him. I'm a woman on a mission!!! and you know how determined I can be. Hopefully I'll get photographic evidence for all of you. Now what do I say to him once I run into him hmmmmmmmm guess I'll just have to wing it lol
      HUGS JILL
      
      1. June 17, 2010 Shirley wrote:
         Jill,Jill, Jill, what are we to do with you? You do know he's a married man with children? Besides, you'd be like a dog chasing a bus, you wouldn't know what to with with it if you caught it! haha Now, I'll leave it at that before we both get in trouble. haha
         BTW, I'm glad your friendship group is taking off. it sounds like so much fun. I'll be looking for your reports & also your concert experience. Wish I could be there to control you a bit! haha
         
         1. June 18, 2010 Jill from Geelong wrote:
            Hi Shirley, yeah I know I just can't help myself!! Hmmmmmmmm a married man, hey, doesn't hurt to look though and I've heard he doesn't mind the odd peck on the cheek hihi!! Oh believe me Shirley I know exactly what to do if I catch up with him hahaha take heaps of pics of course!! hahaha.
            The Friendship Group is going to the cinema for the live broadcast of the Maastricht concert. Afterward we will all go for a meal together, should be a fantastic day. We are also talking about having an Andre dvd evening and would stay over at one of our member's house. We have so many plans in the works at the moment. However, Shirley what is best of all is the wonderful new friendships that have emerged, all because of Andre!! We really have a fantastic time and those who have just joined us and who are initially shy soon come out of their 'shells'. Jenni and I do our best to make sure that no-one is sitting back and not feeling included.
            Honestly Shirley when I think back to my first concert and my first contact with this blog I'm amazed at how Andre has changed my life.
            Anyway my friend WHEN I catch up with the good lookin Italian I'll steal a peck for you too. Should a miracle occur, and I run into Andre, I'll give him a kiss on the cheek and tell him it's from Shirley haha.
            Btw Shirley you know that I'm the shy retiring type. I'm not the sort of person that would lunge over a stage at an Andre concert hahaha. I promise I'll be good Shirley hmmmmmmm.
            Can't wait till the Melb concert. I'll take heaps of pics out and about the arena, during the concert etc. And yes Shirley my report of the concert. Hopefully everyone will enjoy it as much as they seemed to last year.
            BIG HUGS MY FRIEND JILL
            
      2. June 17, 2010 Maxine wrote:
         Hi Jill, When is the next meeting? I MUST get to one someday. I'm going to the Reading Cinema in Elsternwick on 18/7/10. Max
         
         1. June 19, 2010 Jill from Geelong wrote:
            Hey hey Max,
            How's it going we are going to the Live cinema concert as well on the same date. So we've decided not to hold a July meeting because of that. Our meetings are on the 2nd Saturday of each month and we are about to change venue. The restaurant we are using has been sold, unfortunately, and the new owner won't be opening during the day on a weekend. We will really miss the old owners and their staff as they were soooooooo good to us!!! Especially one of the waitresses who had become our unofficial photographer. You'll have to come down Max last week we had 12 and it was a long weekend. They're a fantastic mix of people, and a great time was had by all. I'm sure you'd have a ball. So to cut a long story short our next meeting will be on the 2nd week in August. YIKES hasn't the year flown before we know it we'll be celebrating our first anniversary!! Hopefully we can catch up with you in August Max.
            HUGS JILL
            
2. June 18, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Jill, Ooops, what did I say, or not-ha, ha! I surely am an Andre fan just in case I hadn't made it clear. I've been missing comments here due to (what I hope is some technical glitch)-not receiving blog updates. I haven't been able to obtain suitable tickets yet but will keep trying 'just in case'. Slim chance of good seats even though not sold out, just got all crossed & see what happens. I laughed at your comment about embarrassing your 16 yr.old...you've given her a good example & good grounding for when she hits 40! haha.
   

1. June 18, 2010 Jill from Geelong wrote:
   Hi Jill B,
   Ooooh I've missed each and everyone of you soooooooo much!!! How sweet that you were thinking of me this morning. I think about you guy often. Unfortunately life had become extremely hectic what with the group and some personal commitments. However 'I'M BACK!' (as they say in the classics!) and plan to get right back into things!! Can't wait to tell you guys about the Melbourne concert in October. Will I go insane or won't I hmmmmmmmm YOU BETCHYA hahaha lol. I'm really hoping to catch up with the stunning Franco outside of the arena!!! You can bet there will be heaps of photo pics of that!!!! Anyway great to catch up again. Hope everything is great for you and your family. Catch ya later.
   HUGS JILL
   

1. June 18, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Fay, Jasper is surely a product of his loving environment which is why he loves Andre & his music so much!!! You explain yourself very well, and I love to see your updates and comments.
   You - crazy? .... Nah!!!!!!! .... Just a bit of mean competition for the rest of us - ha, ha!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
   HUGS!!!!!!
   

1. June 18, 2010 Kay wrote:
   Hi Jan, GOOD for you. I'm sure you will be so excited you won't even think about going alone. I have tickets for 02 London - September, my niece and her husband are going, though they are not great fans.Like a lot of people they hadn't heard of him . But i am sitting by myself as i could get ticket a little nearer. (not half near enough - a -whole block back). I suppose one good thing about sitting by myself is that i can gaze at Andre in awe without my family laughing at me!!xx
   
   1. June 18, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Hi Kay, I love your vision there! I guess that at least 'no one' around me will know who I am or where I come from....so if I make an absolute 'twit' of myself it really won't matter, will it????. I'm in 'lower gold' in Melbourne, sounds ok but I really can't tell much from the map! ENJOY your experience & we'll compare notes. xxx
      
2. June 18, 2010 Jill from Geelong wrote:
   Hi Jan,
   A friend and I are going to the concert and meeting up with some others from various other Andre groups (I run one in Geelong). One person is even coming all the way from NZ to meet up with us!! If you like you could always join us before the concert where we'll go for a wander around the stadium. Just to see who's out and about hihi. You're also welcome to join all of us after the concert as we'll more than likely go out for dinner and a drink. You need not feel like you're alone then, we can't have a fellow Andre fan feeling lonely. You're sooooo right it would be scary just going alone and anyway sharing the experience with others is always much more fun. Maybe it would make it a little less scary being with other like minded fans. Anyway I'm sure no matter where you are sitting you'll be able to get a laugh out of one forty something fan going absolutely crazy YET AGAIN!! I just have a feeling that I'll probably outdo myself this year hahaha. So Jan if you see someone jump up on the stage and race towards Andre quickly followed by the Italian you'll know who it is hahhaha lol. My poor friend Margaret who I'm going with has no idea just how ENTHUSIASTIC I GET!!! hahaha lol. Hopefully Jan, we'll all get a chance to meet up with you at the arena, but I'll leave that with you to think about. Viva la Franco, sorry couldn't resist, that smile and long dark hair drives me insane!!!!!!!!!! hahahahaaha lol. Can't wait till Oct bring it on!!
   JILL
   
   1. June 19, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Hi Jill, it would be fantastic to meet up with you & your friends, so thanks for the invite. I'd surely feel less alone & nervous knowing that I'm meeting up with like-minded Andre friends. Let's keep in touch!
      
      1. June 19, 2010 Jill from Geelong wrote:
         Hi Jan,
         Glad to hear that you want to join us we'll make sure you feel very welcome. I'll keep in touch and closer to the date we can work out when and where to meet. Should be a fantastic night but just wish that the concert wasn't going to start at 6pm. That's a very early evening. Oh well at least it will make it easy to spot any JSO members that maybe wandering around outside the arena, hmmmmm think you know who I mean hahahaha.
         Oh yeah btw Jan about the problems you're having with blog updates, I had that problem too. I tried all sorts of things to fix the problem, all of which failed. I even had to enter in my name and email address etc each time I posted. But the worst thing of all was that it would only allow me to post once every 12 or so hours grrrrr. But finally for some reason after about 6 months it just started working all on it's own again. I have no idea what happened but I'm just grateful that it's working properly again. So my advice is unfortunately to just wait as frustrating as it is. And believe me I understand exactly how you feel!! Good luck with it, and try not to go insane with frustration like I did hahaha
         JILL
         

1. June 18, 2010 Moderator Prudence wrote:
   Prudence to your rescue. Sometimes we moderators get tied up with other things. Not sure where everyone is right now and I'm soon out and about again, but I shall return. You girls be good while I'm gone. One of us or all will be checking on you. Have a happy Andre day.
   
   1. June 18, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Hi Prudence, we surely don't expect you all to be 'on tap'.....I just thought that something had gone wrong 'technically'....take care and catch up with u soon. HUGS!!!!
      
2. June 18, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hey Judith! For some reason I am not receiving confirmtions to subscription and am missing out on comments. Not sure if it's a 'glitch' in the system or what! Maybe I was tooo cheeky and they bumped me off!!! (Oh dear)...I'm posting comments which show up, but unless I check in religiously & follow ALL, I don't know what's happening. Good to see you here again! GOT MY TICKET FOR MELBOURNE - woo-hoooo!!! I needed company but could only get 'single' tickets in 'acceptable' area (whatever that is)...my friend will be happy to know this as she is not an Andre fan & just agreed to keep my happy & supported. I'M TERRIFIED of going alone in a huge venue but have 4 months to work on this-ha,ha!!! I've missed you Judith, and hope that the site can rectify whatever has gone wrong!!!!!!!!!!! BIG HUGS!!!!!!!!! XXXXX
   
   1. June 18, 2010 Helen wrote:
      Hi Jan, Don't be terrified about going by yourself, I did last year, went with friends but had to sit by myself in the Arena. I was lucky and had a seat with a wall at the back so could stand and wave my arms around and clap and no one knew me,I talked to the people each side of me and as we know all Andre fans are friendly. The next night I sat with 4 friends up with the Gods and while Andre and the JSO were waiting to come out I called out Andre and he looked up and waved to us.I hope I can refrain myself this year.
      I agree the New York photos were soooo good, I would love to enlarge them and put them on the wall with my one and only poster. I have all the DVD's on the unit and 3 frames of photos from the signing and the 2 concerts. Talking about cats loving the music, I can hardly hear over the noise my budgie makes when I play the CD's and DVD's.
      Rieu gards (I found this sign off on another website but you can use it too}
      Helen
      
      1. June 19, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         Hi Helen, I think I'll stress about more before the actual Concert. I'm not used to huge venues these days. Jill from Geelong has invited me to meet up with her & friends before the concert so that makes me feel a lot better. I'm really looking forward to it! xx
         

1. June 18, 2010 Judith wrote:
   Howdy Missy Jan McG, would love to exchange e-mail with anybody willing to do so. This way I can't get into any legal
   trouble (ha-ha-ha) just making a funny. I do not want to break up this Andre family.
   Who's gonna take the plunge first?? And, to answer your question, yup, I have been,
   or rather I should say, my pc is acting a bit off today. Just look at how it is breaking up my wording. Anybody know how to correct this? It's like it has a mind of it's own. Scary.....
   
   1. June 18, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Hi Judith!
      Hopefully we'll be ok here soon. It's only cos there was so much activity here, then went silent that I worried & wasn't sure if it was a 'glitch' or 'my big mouth' (ha, haaa)!!!
      I will always be on the site, but just in case of future 'glitches' or 'human absence' it would be great to still be able to contact (and keep away from potential legal liability..ha, haaa!!! bad girls at heart)- or is that, good girls at heart?
      What's that about blaming your PC????? - Sure!!!
      My e-mail is - (Redacted)
      
      
      
      send me a message (once you've told me what your address is, otherwise it may go to 'trash' bin). xxx
      
      1. June 18, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         oooh! I guess that means we can't share personal e-mail addresses here!
         I thought it unusual, but did see someone else give their personal e-mail address in previous comments so thought I would try.
         At least we know that if we're not getting e-mails and the comments are still flowing as they have been - things are pretty well OK!!!! Just gotta hunt for the comments in unusuual circumstances - at least I figured out how to do that - much to Jeanine Ann's dismay - ha, ha!!! (JA came ack to a truck load of messages from me). I'd better give the girl a rest - she need all of her resources to prepare for Andre! xoxoxo
         
         Oh well Judith, just as well we'll be up and running very soon by the looks of things
         
   2. June 19, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Hey Judith, your e-mail box is full! - Thanks for the messages. Tried to send you something really cute & funny but it bounced back to me. I think my responses to your first two messages got back to you.
      xxxx
      

1. June 18, 2010 Kay wrote:
   Hi All, Yes Josephine he certainly did look great - but then he always does. I to hope Jeanine Ann doesn't wear him out too much i want something left for little old me too!.But he has sooo many concerts to do before he gets here will there be enough left for either of usxx
   
2. June 18, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Josephine, you might be looking at just 'daily votes'. If you click on SCORE you will see that Andre is holding third place on the Leader-board. There are some issues with notifications on the site...I thought it was just me being too cheeky and got bumped off -ha,ha!!!!
   

1. June 19, 2010 Judith wrote:
   Hi Elizabeth, I was up early my self. I had a group of hottie young men at my place early this morning. They were paving my entire drive way & easement. It was a hot early morning, 81 degrees, with a 90% of humidity. Poor lads were really sweating, as they took turns getting some shade under my gigantic willow tree. I took out some ice tea, ice cubes, cold bottled water, and the
   boys asked if they could use the water
   hose to cool off. It was grand fun to see them acting like a bunch of little boys, cooling off and just having some
   good fun. I'll be needing my drool bib later this evening as I'll be watching the Dreaming DVD ~ nice chatting with you, you have yourself a happy Rieu nite
   and I'll be talking with you soon. This humidity is really effecting my neck/back disc problems, looks like I'll be having a devil of a nite. I'll just zone into Andre's songs and will be feeling no pain. Take care ~ I also voted here at 6pm.
   

1. June 19, 2010 Kay wrote:
   Hi Elizabeth, I have looked at bookings for Maastrich problem is although i switch to English - still a lot of information in Dutch. I don't suppose i will ever get their, but if you do book - perhaps you would give me any information on bookings and hotels please, xx
   

  AP Photo

This is mostly for the photo!!


Andre Rieu, the violinist and his 55-piece Johann Strauss Orchestra on its “Celebration of Music Tour,” performing waltzes, polkas and other dance pieces. Mohegan Sun Arena, 255 Highland Park Blvd., Wilkes-Barre Township. Monday at 7:30 p.m. Presented in conjunction with WVIA-TV. 800-326-9842.

1. June 19, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Yeh, those eyes again; just gorgeous!
   
2. June 20, 2010 Elizabeth wrote:
   Oh Ladies I don't think I can blame my age now but i've come over all peculiar.
   Wonderfull feeling but perculiar.
   

1. June 22, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hey Judith!
   What's happening?
   Did you get my e-mail responses?
   Have you cleaned out your overflowing IN BOX?
   Is it my turn to be paranoid?
   Do I have 'foot in mouth'? hmm, perhaps I do!
   
   I'm missing you here!!!! Let me know that you're alive, kicking & still absolutely enjoying! XXX
   
   1. June 22, 2010 Judith wrote:
      Hi Jan. I been here, but every time I tried to send a message, I kept getting a pop-up box saying: try again! So I looked at the blog and this new gal on our site, her name is JanMcG has been posting and I can't get through. Yup, I cleaned out my In-Box, so I am eagerly awaiting for all your messages. I be missing you to. You are just a gal filled with so much wisdom, I get goose bumps absorbing all your knowledge. I am a very happy camper when I see your name and how on top of all the messages you are. I am going to try and think of a question, and see if you can give me the correct answer. You keep all of us
      happy and always looking at what you are going to say. Keep it up, I love it.
      You-go-girl!!!
      
      1. June 22, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         Hey Judith, it's 'your' personal e-mail that's the problem, not messages here-ha,ha!!
         Are you saying that I'm 'hogging' space here? I can go away for a while (not)! I've no idea why you wanna test me with questions; but go for it, I like a laugh!!! XXX
         
         1. June 22, 2010 Judith wrote:
            No, I was just teasing you, pulling your leg, acting like a little nit wit. Don't you dare go away, you are the life of this here party. Always love reading your reply. Keep rolling in. I can see how you gals are really looking forward to seeing
            the Man-Himself. Wish I was going to a concert this year.
            
            1. June 23, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
               Ha, ha!! Same here! xxx
               

1. June 19, 2010 Kay wrote:
   WHEW- that's all i can say!
   

1. June 19, 2010 Josephine wrote:
   Hi Kay. Yes I too am worried His Gorgeousness doesn't like Uk. The remarks he made when he visited Blackpool were less than favourable to say the least!!Yes I wish we could have a meet and greet or something but maybe Andre thinks not enough of us would want it. Lets hope he goes down a storm and next time something will be arranged
   Feeling all romantic and gooey now. Been watching His beautiful Self on youtube playing Plaisir Damour and Love Story. Better get back to reality now and wash the bloomin dishes xx
   
   1. June 19, 2010 Shirley wrote:
      Girls, I'm not sure what all he said but I don't believe he meant anything derogatory about the Uk. It could just mean that he hadn't gained a popularity there yet, enough to set up any concerts there. As many of you have said, he hasn't had much exposure there. I think once he played for the Queen, that must have helped some too. I think he must like your country or he wouldn't be wanting to play there. It's somewhat like here, he really hasn't, up to now, had much publicity here. Only word of mouth & a few times on our public TV. If someone doesn't tell us about him, how will we know? I'm hoping he will be a big success in the UK too. Royal Albert Hall is one of my favorite dvds. He doesn't actually have the meet & greets here anymore either. There are package deals where the tickets are higher & you may get to meet him or some of the JSO, I think Jeanine Ann knows about those, but the meet & greets are long gone. His popularity is growing all the time, but I still hear people say "why haven't I heard of him before now"?
      It does take years sometimes. I admire how he has gone about the world, spreading his music everywhere. A lot of grit & determination to play the music he loves so much.
      
      1. June 19, 2010 Kay wrote:
         Hi Shirley, I of course admire and love the man and his music, my favourite dvd is the Royal Albert Hall, and as is seen on the dvd the audience went mad for him, that of course was back in 2000. His tour has probably come about now because of the popularity of his Forever Vienna. I still have my doubts as voiced to an extent by Josephine and Elizabeth. He is not promoted enough over here i haven't seen his concert advertised once, and lets face it without publicity people will no know of him. I am only saying this because we Andre lovers in the UK so want him to be a success, and want him to return here.xx
         
      2. June 19, 2010 Debbie wrote:
         Hello Shirley.
         I'm sure you are right About Andre with any remarks he made, I can't think why Andre would make any bad comments about the UK, after all like myself and many more we only found out about Andre within the last seven to eight months, and now his popularity is growing in the UK, so now he feels it is time to tour. like you said it does take a lot of grit and determination on his part.
         Hugs to all Andre fans. x
         
   2. June 19, 2010 Debbie wrote:
      Hi Kay.
      Even though Andre has not toured in England, lets not forget that he has been to London, at the Royal Albert Hall,
      and he has also done a Concert in Dublin Ireland, but it does make you wonder why he has not toured England before now. Lets hope he has a great tour in September, and it won't take so long for him to come back, for another tour.
      Hugs
      

1. June 19, 2010 Kay wrote:
   Hi Josephine, i also asked Elizabeth. If you do go next year - would you kindly let me know how to book and get hotel- it's all double dutch on website ha. Well it's either Dutch or German - not much of a linguist. xx
   

1. June 20, 2010 Kay wrote:
   Hi Elizabeth, as Fay said you can get "Champagne Melodies" from Australia probably cheaper then here. I bought mine from hmv.com it was £24.99. Received it within 3 days.xx
   
   1. June 20, 2010 Elizabeth wrote:
      Thank you Kay will try this site first for Champagne melodies
      
2. June 20, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   The Champagne Melodies are different concerts at different times. You may have most of these songs on other dvds, but here is a track listing I got from mine & it came from Australia.
   
   
   1- Voices of Spring- live London 2000
   2. Die Schlittschuhlufer- live London 2000
   3. Lagunenwalzer - live Kerkrade 2004
   4. Wiener Praterleben (Sportpalastwalzer)- live Kerkrade 2004
   5. Wiener Blut--live Wien-2001
   6. Morgenblätter- live Trier 2004
   7. Schwarze Augen- live Hamburg 2002
   8. Kaiserwalzer-live Wien 2001
   9. Mein Liebeslied muss ein Walzer sein-live Tenerife-2002
   10. Gold und Silber- live Wien-2001
   11. Lippen schweigen-live Hamburg 2002
   12.Holzschuhtanz- live Tenerife-2002
   13.Sous le ciel de Paris-live Paris 2002
   14.Rosen aus dem Suden-live Hamburg- 2002
   15. An der schonen blauen Donau-live Wien 2001
   16. Strauss & Co- live London 2000
   17.Libiamo- live Trier 2004
   18.Rigoletto & Friends -live Maastricht 2005
   19.Im wellien Rossl Video Live, Trier 2004
   20.Second Waltz-live Maastricht 2005
   21.Marino Waltz-live Dublin 2003
   22.Wild Rover-live Kerkrade 2004
   23.Die kleine Kneipe-live Dublin 2003
   24.An der schonen blauen Donau-live Trier 2004
   25.Schneewalzer-live Trier 2004
   26.Radetzky Marsch-Live Trier 2004
   

1. June 19, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
   Thanks Fay, I surely will enjoy the concerts.  Went to Mass tonight because I know I will not have time tomorrow morning.  Will have to go through tons of traffic tomorrow in Baltimore but it will be worth it.  Will get some photos for you girls. 
   Someone mentioned meet and greets but I noticed there is none in Baltimore nor Wilkes-Barre, Pa.  I don't know about the rest of the country but they usually have a m&g with 2 members of the JSO.  Guess they changed that and just have the Andre Experience which not too many can afford, including us.  Take care and I will talk to you Monday morning - before the second concert!  That is if I get back in one piece and don't melt when Andre comes down the aisle.  Big Hugs
   
   
   1. June 20, 2010 Chris Roman wrote:
      I just got back from the concert. It was wonderful. However, the concert started at 6:00 pm, Andre played till 7:00 pm there was a 25 min intermission, he played 30 min and that was it. I was out of the concert door before 8:00 pm. I am sorry to say I was very disappointed. I paid major money to see him and thought his concert would be longer and it was not. His Vienna concert was wonderful this was a a disappointment..
      
      1. June 22, 2010 Kathy wrote:
         Hey Chris-
         This was obviously your FIRST Andre' concert. You missed out on about 45 minutes' worth of "encores". You must have hit the door running, or you would have noticed that the music continued after a brief round of "bravos". I learned the hard way a few years ago when I ran to the lobby, all set to hand out program guides for the local PBS station after the concert, and stood there for almost an hour before the concert actually ended. After seeing how Andre' scolds people who arrive late to their seats there was NO WAY that I was gonna slink back down the aisle at that point, so a few of the ushers and I had our own little dance party in the lobby.
         The June 20th Baltimore concert actually ended just before 9 pm. I worked the event for PBS and stayed well past 10 pm making sure that all of our ticketholders had secured their rides...even flagging down a cabs for a few little ladies.
         A word to the wise- the concert's not over 'til the orchestra leaves the stage.
         
         1. June 23, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
            Hi Kathy, I'm glad to see more comments on this. I rather took it from Chris's comments that she/he already had experience at an Andre concert. So I'm sorry if I've jumped the gun and offended Chris.
            I'd have no idea myself, so good to see a few 'Concert going tips' coming through from others.
            Thanks & have a good day (Jan).
            
            1. June 23, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
               Hi Ladies, sorry if you thought I left you yesterday.  Circumstances beyond my control made it happen.  We had a tornado (they think right now) come through at 5:00.  It started at Hershey and came through Mt. Gretna.  We have four homes with trees fallen on them.  One which is two doors away on our side, one across the street and two around the corner.  We were so lucky.  We had hail and heavy rain.  Our gardens are a mess so we have lots of cleanup.  Of course the power was off until 10:00 last night so I went to bed at 11:00.  I was too tired to write.  I am still so stoked after seeing Andre and that is all I can think about - maybe that is why the storm came through, to bring me back to earth!!  I will answer all questions.  I will also give a report with photos.  This will take some time.  I was going through the photos and the storm came through so I thought I had better get the computer off. 
               Will talk later today - promise.  (unless another storm comes).  Jill I was so close to Andre's feet that I was tempted to reach out but better judgment and Johann standing around took over and I behaved.  But I looked right into that face for every song and he looked at me and I could have died.  Clyde was right in back of me so that helped me stay in line.  Later girls.  Hugs
               
               
               1. June 23, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
                  Hey buddy Jeff have a great time in Boston tonight!!!   They had lots of new merchandise.  New shirts, tote bags.  My money just automatically came out of my purse : )  Hugs
                  
                  
               2. June 23, 2010 Shirley wrote:
                  Jeanine Ann,I'm glad you are all ok.I know a storm was headed that way, never dreamed there would be that threat, even Montana & one of the Dakota's had tornandos, so they're still around.Do what you have to do & we'll see ya later. We were out mowing at 6am this morning, before the heat set in. Later went to the ATM & they have a flagpole there, & on top of the pole sat a bird, don't know what kind, but it was singing such a beautiful song. I just sat there & watched & listened til it flew off, so that was my morning concert.Not even Andre could match that!
                  
                  1. June 23, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
                     Thanks Shirley, we are fine.  They are calling for the same thing tonight because the conditions are exactly the same.  I surely hope not.  Some homes have big holes from the trees.  We have so many big trees in the back and I always fear that one or more will fall on our big family room but what can you do.  I will add that they get on with the cleanup right away.  They were here in our community within five minutes and started to take the trees from the homes.  Now the power is another story but that is Met Ed for you.  We have a very bad setup and the slightest thing will interrupt the power.
                     Your morning sounds a lot more delightful than mine and I am glad it was.  I love to hear the birds sing.  We had a plant which I brought back from Florida and I hung it right outside the laundry room.  The deck is under roof so this robin chose the plant and we had four cute little robins this spring.  We were close enough to watch her and them every moment.  I even had all of them named.  The mom was Miss Molly and the babies were Ki, No, Mo and Jo.  I always name animals, maybe that sounds strange but if I have them around the house then they deserve a name.  Talk later.  Hugs to all.  Working on my report in my mind as I clean up around here. 
                     
                     
               3. June 23, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
                  Hi jeanine Ann, sorry to hear about the storms, damage and clean up neded. Glad you are safe anyway. Just as well you had Andre and still hae that pleasure on your mind. Also glad to hear that Cotton is still picking up. HUGS
                  
2. June 20, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   woohaha, "sax appeal"? good one !
   

1. June 20, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   The meet & greets now are very different from what they used to be.Now it's just these package deals, & as you say, they are quite expensive. But the "contact time" with Andre has always been limited, usually a brief photo or autograph & then move on, & at the time we went there was a limit of 100 people. But can you imagine, here you are, on tour, in many cities, so your time is limited anyway. You need to practice, you need your rest. Then there's usually a 2-3 hr concert to do. Andre has many things to concentrate on so his time has to be brief, he just doesn't have time for a sit down chat. People are lucky to be able to meet him at all, even for a brief moment. Too many people, too little time, then it's on to another city to do the same thing all over again.
   
   1. June 20, 2010 Josephine wrote:
      Hi Shirley Yes of course you are right How on earth would Andre find the time to meet us potty ladies nowadays. I don't know how he fits everything in anyway. I wonder if there are any other artists that do as many tours as he does.I shall just be only too pleased to see him up there on the stage in all his glory. Thank goodness he stuck with his dream even though as you say it took a lot of grit and determination. I really can't imagine him in a Pizza Parlour. Mind you I bet they would do a roaring trade with the ladies just to see his Gorgeousness. Imagine eating a pizza that has been cooked lovingly by his own fair hands. Imagine though those lovely hands kneading pizza dough instead of lovingly caressing his violin Well he can do either for me and I won't complain Mm Mm xx
      
      1. June 20, 2010 Shirley wrote:
         I think a lot of musicians do a lot of cross country tours but not sure how many. Life "on the road" has really taken a toll on a lot of artists though & many have gotten into uppers & downers because of it. At least Andre takes good care of himself & hasn't fallen into that trap. Too many get hooked on booze & drugs just to keep going. It's not a life I would choose. I don't know how many love what they are doing, but Andre absolutely loves what he does. I do believe "MY MUSIC, MY LIFE" says it all. Aren't we the lucky ones? If they had gone into the pizza business, no matter how good the pizza, a lot of us would never have known.
         
   2. June 20, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Hi Shirley, yes, that's why those tickets are so expensive; it's necessary to limit that opportunity for fans otherwise he would be absolutely swamped. Apart from taking valuable time away from everything he needs to do eo ensure a great Concert for everyone, could you imagine how 'anyone' would feel with hoards of fans demanding attention for a meet & great? I would think it would extremely taxing in many ways.
      
2. June 20, 2010 Helen wrote:
   Hi Jill, many artists don't attend their special events at all. Beside dinner, they give you a bag of goodies instead, if you are lucky.
   
3. June 21, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hey Jill, I've never known a 'meet & greet' to include dinner with 'Artist/Musician/Actor etc.,.....
   I can understand a 'huge' fee being set for a 'minimum meet & greet'.
   I would surely hate to be at everyone's mercy at my own expense (mentally, emotionally, physically). Could you imagine being at the 'beck and call' of hoards of fans after a hard day's 'yakka'?....It would surely 'do my head in.'
   It's a loss to many off us, yet an absolute necessity!
   XXXX
   

1. June 20, 2010 Helen wrote:
   Hi Jill from Geelong. Back the front. Sunday night is all but a sell out. Today the Sat night tickets went on sale. We just purchased middle seats about 5-6 rows from the front. Try again for the Sat night.
   
   1. June 21, 2010 Jill from Geelong wrote:
      Hi Helen,
      You made me wonder whether I had accidentally entered the wrong days. However I went back thru my posts and on Sunday June 20th I said that Mon morning at 9am tickets for the Saturday concert would go on sale just as they did.
      As for the seating availability and days I added the time and date I got the information off their official website. I did this because I was aware that seat availability would change thru the day.
      
      This was the correct info for those days according to ticketek website Seats are still available for Sunday night according to their official website (Tues 22nd, 12.23am AEST) although they appear to now be selling more. Now there are limited platinum seats, single seats gold and silver lower and silver and bronze upper still available for Sunday night.
      
      I also stated in the post with the details of seating availability that for Saturday concert the only seats not available for this concert was gold, silver and bronze SIDE/REAR VIEW. Hope you have a great time at the concert Helen what ever night you're going. But how could anyone of us not have the time of our lives!! Can hardly wait, last year was absolutely FANTASTIC!!!!!!!!!
      Cheers Jill
      
2. June 21, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hey Jill! Did you try to transfer your booking? I hope you gave it a go! Interesting that I found it difficult to get ticket(s) first time around....now all of a sudden there are better tickets available for Sunday!!!!
   My only loss is in Ticket insurance, otherwise I have a great seat for Saturday. I have no idea how this all works!!!!
   I spent so long 'on hold' this morning that I can only presume that many have tried to change their bookings. Otherwise it doesn't make sense that all of a sudden there are 'better seats' available for Sunday!!!! 'Go figure!!!' - Let me know what you're doing!! XXXX
   

1. June 20, 2010 Jill from Geelong wrote:
   Hi Jan,
   The Saturday concert has just been announced but tickets will only go on sale from 9am Monday morning. This concert will begin at 8 pm. I would have much preferred to go to this one as I'm not to thrilled about a 6pm start. Anyway still should be a fantastic evening. It will be great to catch up with you there.
   
   1. June 20, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Hi Jill, I've had a long wait to get through to Ticketek this morning but have managed to upgrade to a better seat for the Saturday night. Worth a try if you haven't already. Sorry I'll miss out on meeting you but am really excited that I've managed to get better seats. xx
      
      1. June 20, 2010 Jill from Geelong wrote:
         Hi Jan,
         What fantastic news that you were able to change and upgrade your ticket, you must be 'over the moon'!! I'm sorry that we'll miss out on catching up too but there's always more concerts on the horizon, thank goodness. I'm sooooooo pleased that you have gotten much better seats. Oh yeah, and if you see the 'good lookin' Italian (Franco) don't forget to tell him I'll be waiting for him Sunday night hahaha
         Cheers Jill
         
         1. June 21, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
            Hi Jill, I'll be sure to take some photos (as best I can) of the 'Italian Stallion' especially for you, and the 'shiny black shoes' for Shirley and others! As for me, - well, who knows!!
            I look forward to sharing our experiences as well as catching up with you in the future.
            I've already instructed Jeanine Ann not to wear him out before Melbourne....I'll do my best for you. XXXX
            
         2. June 21, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
            So Jill! I've back-tracked a bit here! Didn't realise which one Franco was - handsome young buck!!!! Younger than you (from what I've read)??? -Dare I ask - are you a 'Cougar', or a 'Cradle snatcher', or is this just a magnetic attraction foregoing physical age as a boundary??? I only ask because I prefer slightly older men to myself, even though I've been with much younger and much older - which might just put you out of the running between me and Andre (haa!!! -dream on!)..........
            Now that I know who Franco is, I promise to get the best photos I can for you on the nite.....XXX
            
            1. June 21, 2010 Jill from Geelong wrote:
               Hi Jan,
               Ooooooh how could you not know who the incredibly handsome............ 'Italian Stallion' is? haha lol Tisk tisk tisk Jan what am I to do with you hahaha. As for being a 'Cougar', 'Cradle Snatcher or anything else I'm all of the above haha lol. Oooooh boy but what magnetic attraction he has hmmmmmmmmm. I'll do you a deal on Saturday night (if you saw my other post you'll know I'm going both nights) you can have those 'dream boat' eyes and I'll have the...........'Italian Stallion all to myself hahaha lol DEAL?
               Cheers Jill
               
               1. June 21, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
                  Ha, haaaa!!!!
                  I don't doubt that Franco is handsome!
                  I don't think we need to do a deal here honey - if the Italian Stallion wanders past me, I'll point him in your direction - no questions asked. ME? ... well, what do I say? The Italian Stallion just ain't in the race....and neither am I in the race I'd be in..ha, ha!!!!!!!!!!
                  XXXX
                  

1. June 20, 2010 Josephine wrote:
   Yes Happy Fathers day. I don't have a Dad around now and I miss him, so thinking of him lots today
   Big Hugs to all Dads xx
   

1. June 20, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   Hi Elizabeth, no English subtitles. The speaking is either Dutch or German.
   
   1. June 20, 2010 Kay wrote:
      Hi Shirley - hope you don't mind me butting in, but my Champagne Melodies has english subtitles i bought it from hmv.com London.xx
      
      1. June 20, 2010 Shirley wrote:
         Kay, I don't mind you joining the converstion at all. Well, poopy-do! Guess it depends on where it comes from. This one was probably taped right off ZDF then. Oh well,at least the music was understood.
         
         1. June 27, 2010 Inge wrote:
            Haaaaaa, I am reading old stuff here, because I am far behind. My "Champagner Melodien" my kids bought in Germany for me it came also with an autgraphed picture and no English undertitle.
            

1. June 20, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Fay, that'll be a blast from the past. I wonder if they'll go so far back as to sing Puff the Magic Dragon for all the kids. Now, are you really thinking of Andre blowing raspberries on the tum's of his grandbabies or.........................?????
   You'd better find something else to keep your mind occupied Fay - ha,.ha!!!!! XXXX
   
   1. June 21, 2010 Kathy Prater wrote:
      Jan McG, Cannot let that one go. Peter Paul and Mary, the American folksingers were responsible for Puff the magic Dragon, not the Seekers, an Australian group.
      
      1. June 21, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         Hi Kathy, I've not seen you here before...I'm fairly new myself! You have me tossed there! I was born in 1957 so 'do' recall The Seekers singing PUFF THE MAGIC DRAGON...I have limited remembrance of PETER, PAUL & MARY....I can't dispute if your info. is true!
         (I'm only remembering what I can from my childhood days).
         Other opinions have been submitted today as well, so will be interested in feedback (only for knowledge & sharing, - not for challenge).
         Nice to meet you here!
         kind regards,
         Jan
         
         1. June 21, 2010 Shirley wrote:
            Jan,i think Peter,Paul& Mary made it popular here in the US, but I know the Seekers probably sang it in Australia too.In fact, I've heard it by several artists, but it really doesn't matter.The Seekers had a hit song here that really took hold & that was Georgy Girl. Remember that one? We all went around singing it all the time. And what you said about "challenge", I agree totally.
            
            1. June 21, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
               Hi Shirley - it's ALL coming back to me now!
               MORNING TOWN RIDE, GEORGIE GIRL, A WORLD OF OUR OWN, WE SHALL NOT BE MOVED, BLOWING IN THE WIND, CALIFORNIA DREAMING, CHILDREN GO WHERE I SEND YOU, I'LL NEVER FIND ANOTHER YOU....(Is Andre listening to the last one & don't I wish?...and am sure that PUFF THE MAGIC DRAGON IS IN THERE SOMEWHERE,,,....Oh dear, is this showing my age???????
               SO GLAD TO KNOW that some of you are older than I !!!! (ha, ha!!!).
               XXXX
               
               1. June 21, 2010 Shirley wrote:
                  Jan, I knew you'd remember. the folk singers seemed to be more popular in the 60's. My favorites were The Mama's & the Papas,Simon & Garfunkel,Crosby,Stills & Nash, & of course Peter,Paul& Mary. Now, this is showing my age!
                  
                  1. June 21, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
                     Ooohh Shirley!!! Folk or not, I remember all of the above plus other Genre's (that wasn't a word in my time!!!)... Gerry & The Pacemakers, Frankie Lane, Frankie Valli, Elvis, Sandra Dee, Doris Day, Nat King Cole, Frankie Avalon, Cleo Lane, Shirley Bassey, Beatles, Gary Puckett & the Union Gap, the Eagles, Diana Ross, Motown, - I could go sooo far back into the forties/fifties for my age group it's not funny - (My Mum did this to me!)...I was born in 1957!!!
                     I need to learn to ignore anything prior to 1960 if I'm to preserve my true age - ha, ha!!!!!!!!!!
                     I'm only 'twenty' - did you know that? ha, ha!!!!!!!!!!!!
                     
                  2. June 21, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
                     Actually Shirley, my exposure to Folk & Pop in the 60's was by way of being a 'rebel' in my household. My Mum brought me up on Classical which I loved but yet shunned cos of my Peer Group. Now, I miss my Mum and her music but glad I've had a taste of everything along the way as it's given me a very broad appreciation for music in 'most' Genres. xxx
                     
                     1. June 21, 2010 Shirley wrote:
                        Well those bring back memories too. Guess we all had our favorites in any genre.
                        I guess I like most anything except rap or hip hop, not saying against people who do, just not my cup of tea.
                        I really think Andre brings us the best of both worlds.A taste of classical, pop, & as I was thinking the other day,
                        even a little bit country. Remember Saane playing Yakety Sax? That's country. One of my favorite country
                        artists was Chet Atkins. Saw him on PBS a few weeks ago with the Everly Brothers & Mark Knopfler of Dire Straits.
                        I appreciate talent in all forms.
                        Hey, age doesn't matter in music tastes. You're only 20? Yeah & I'm a recycled teenager!
                        
                        1. June 22, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
                           Hi Shirley, I always thought 'Yackety Sax' was Jazz, so there you go! I love most music except heavy metal, rap, hip hop, techno, head banging etc., - if it's 'real music' and/or good lyrics I usually like it. I also loved the last three you mention. There are so many that I actually forget unless the name pops up somewhere. Yeh, I've been twenty twice, and heading way too fast toward the third time around-ha,ha!!!!
                           
                           1. June 22, 2010 Shirley wrote:
                              Jan, I know it's more jazzy than country, but Boots Randolph was very country. He was on the Nashville scene for years.He used to call himself a hillbilly saxophonist.
                              He did play a lot of pop & jazz, even a little rock too. I think a lot of country musicians were in that crossover style, where you couldn't
                              tell exactly which catagory to put it in. I know they used this song for a theme in the Benny Hill series. Don't know who wrote the song but Boots made it popular here, so we call it country. Here, where we live, country music is top banana. We have to go to the bigger cities to hear anything else. When our daughter was in her teens we would take her & her friends to hear the popular bands of their liking. I almost went deaf with the loud music! Their choice of music was the likes of Adam Ant & INXS. yikes! Ah, but then we survived it all. We first heard Andre on one of our public TV show, PBS. I always thought it strange that if, as they say, "Andre brings in big money", wouldn't you show him on TV more? That's why they only use him at pledge times, about twice a year. the phones ring off the hook. Same thing with public radio, where I've only heard Andre once. when they played a piece by Andre, their pledges went way up. Doesn't that tell you something?
                              
                              1. June 22, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
                                 Hi Shirley, well, I've never heard of Boots Randolph! Country Music in OZ was well hidden for some time, I think and not to mention only hearing the 'greatest of' from US. I love Johnny Cash, Loretta Lynn & those from that Era, in particular.
                                 Yes, I do remember Yackety Sax from Benny Hill - oh how I did love that show! INXS (in excess) was never a favourite of mine. The odd 'Adam Ant' I didn't mind. Just can't stand head-banging stuff...I need real music! Yes, we've only heard of Andre these past few years, yet there must have been so much commitment, work, planning etc., for him to make such a Grand Entrance on such a grand scale into our lives. Let's remember that he had little support from 'the knockers' & that total dedication & support within his Family Business have done this virtually by themselves! What an amazing feat!!!!! It's ok for others to talk about Andre 'bringing in the money' - but I'd hate to see his cheque book. I'm thinking that 'the Family' has & is doing an amazing job of self-promotion without ending up in the 'clutches' of 'rip-off Merchants'. Perhaps this is part of the reason we don't see as active promotion as we would think fit. Yes, Andre can and does 'bring in the money.' I feel that if Andre placed his business in the control of others, we would surely see much, much more in his support & marketing. Yet again - at what cost to him ultimately? I wish I had known of him much earlier, yet somewhat understand why promotion has been slower or not as avid or aggressive as we would hope for!
                                 Do I make sense? I'm not so sure sometimes!
                                 WE LOVE THE MAN!!!!!!!!!!-and I feel that Andre will continue to be even more 'high impact' as long as he has his 'eye on the ball' and moves with the times without losing his existing credibility for what he gives and has achieved. Including 'The Seekers' and 'broadening' the Genre is just a good example of 'inclusion' & moving forward with other ideas.
                                 XXX
                                 

1. June 21, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Fay, my love! Please don't end your life on bank robbeery charges - ha, ha!!! I know just how tuff life can be these past few years. You are an amazing woman to be caring for your daughter (who, by you previous messages is only a few years younger than me).
   I love to hear you share as 'your own woman', despite your trials in life.
   Isn't it just wonderful to see any man living his dreams,protecting his family, being true to himself - the list goes on!
   I missed out in life - but sure glad to have 'confirmation' that I don't need to take second best.
   I love hearing from you - take care!
   XXXX
   

1. June 21, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Jill, GOOD FOR YOU! I'd be there two nights myself if I could afford it.
   Hopefully our 'great seats' aren't too far apart.
   I'd still love to catch up with you & friends before/after!
   Keep in touch!!!!
   Jan
   
   1. June 21, 2010 Jill from Geelong wrote:
      Hi Jan,
      We'll have to co-ordinate to meet up Saturday night. Wouldn't it be funny if we were actually sitting next to each other lol. Well as far as I know there's only Margaret and I going Saturday night but if I know my friend Kathy from NZ she's probably already bought tickets for that as well. She's even more tragic than me hahahah lol. But I would still love to catch up before and after I can hardly wait Jan what a weekend!!! There is a bad bit I've noticed though in all Andre's concerts THE END!!
      
      1. June 21, 2010 Kathy Prater wrote:
         How can you possibly call me a tragic.I went to 1 concert in 2008, 2 concerts in 2009, 3 concerts in 2010 has now turned into 4 - I'm going Saturday as well, and next year I have booked Schonnbrunn for 1 July, asnd then onto Maastricht for whatever he announces later this year. That's not tragic!!!!!!
         
         1. June 22, 2010 Jill from Geelong wrote:
            Hi Kathy,
            Well if that ain't tragic I don't know what is hahaha lol. Actually I would love to be that tragic if my finances would allow it. Perhaps to follow them around the world for a year. Hmmmmmmmmmm what a year that would be!!! You have to give us a minute to minute report and pics of Schonnbrunn and Maastricht as well. Wow what a trip that would be. As for the 2 Melbourne concerts are you up to a bit of friendly pre-concert 'stalking' hahaha lol. Oh yeah and don't even consider having a photo taken with the........'Italian Stallion'. hahahaha lol. Keep in touch my friend.
            Cheers Jill
            
      2. June 22, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         Hi Jill, that'll be no problem. I'm looking forward to meeting you - just love people with a great sense of humour. I'm not on track with that comment about a Concert finishing early recently & hope all is well with Andre. Do you know anything?
         
         1. June 22, 2010 Jill from Geelong wrote:
            Hi Jan,
            Can't wait to meet you as well your sense of humour isn't to shabby either. We could be like the dynamic duo hahaha!
            As for last year I thought he was going to finish very early too. However my friend said that he'll keep going with encores if the audience screams for more. This was exactly what happened for us last year. The concert started at 8pm and to my amazement after about an hour (I think) there was an intermission. I couldn't believe it as according to the program there wasn't much left. However I think in the end after encores he finished somewhere between 10 - 10.30pm (I think). Maybe he wasn't feeling well the day of the other concert. That's certainly a possible. We really don't know what goes on behind the scenes. Or another alternate explanation is that the audience wasn't as enthusiastic as the Melbourne crowd hihihi....
            
            1. June 23, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
               Jill, we're just destined to have a great nite!
               
2. June 21, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Stalking??? I've had that done to me in the past but not thought of doing it to someone else - hmmm. (naughty girl, Jill - please behave: that's harmful)!
   I'm thinking you like your wine a little young & fruity, white, with expectation of a very strong finish to awaken the palate, and with a bit of a kick and some vigour, leaving you to wonder if you need more, or should take more???? Vodka or White Rum for a mixed drink or cocktail base?
   I prefer a really mellow Red, mature, it's flavour to satisfy & enrich the palate & encourage the savouring of a slow burning passion.....perhaps a Scotch, Whisky or Brandy to add a bit of extra heat to the mellow of the Red, and a Port to savour the sweetness of the experience!!!!!!!
   Who's naughty now??????? XXXXXX
   
   1. June 21, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
      Hey girls - whoooopppppiiiiieeeeee!  I made it through the night!!  I am now getting ready to go again.  The show was fantastic, Andre was gorgeous, seats were lousy.  We were in first row but so far to the left and the seats were so close to the stage that I could see no one except Marcel, Andre, girl on Viola (forget name, sorry Bill) Tanya and Stef on Piano.  I got a glimpse of Franco Jill but not close enough for a decent photo.  Looks like his hair is shorter but not sure.  We could see the sopranos but only a little because Andre was usually in front of them (from our vantage point), not that it was bad but I have so many of Andre from the back.  Got some nice close photos of Andre when he was at the front of the stage and at the encore I walked up but was on the left side of him.  HE DID MARINA!!   Not as saxy as the last time so I will see if he does it tonight.  Boy oh boy did I need that fix!! haha  Will work on photos and have a report later in the week.  Hardly got any sleep Saturday night and last night I got some so I could keep going today.  Okay see you later girls!!!  I am off.  Yippeeeeeee!  Hugs
      
      
      
      
      1. June 21, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
         BTW the "Forever Vienna" they are selling in America is a little different from the UK version and has a DVD with it with about 10 songs!  Of course I bought it along with some other goodies.  Hugs
         
         
         1. June 21, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
            Those 'little differences' tend to annoy me; makes me think I've missed out on something!
            Tell us about the other goodies once you've rested - we'll still probably be jealous!!!!
            SWEET DREAMS!!!!!!!
            
      2. June 21, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         Hey girl ! Glad you had a 'good trip'- ha, haa!!! Hope your photos come out OK.
         As for 'Marina' - well! The Man is well over 60 now, perhaps we should start to expect a little less with hip gyrations????
         I bet he was just gorgeous anyway,.... and that you drooled heavily .... and that you have lots to tell us when 'you have hit Earth once again'.
         Rest well tonite - we expect much in the next News!!!
         HUGS!!!!!!! XXXX
         
         1. June 21, 2010 Kay wrote:
            Hi Jan, I don't care if the man is over 60 i shall be hoping for lots of hip gyrations from him when he comes to UK.Whew. Hot in UK now - feeling hotter just thinking about it.xx
            
            1. June 22, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
               Hi Kay, we all love those gyrations eh? I can hardly wait for October. We're starting to freeze over here whilst you're hot; so I need more of Andre to warm me up-ha,ha!!! xx
               
               1. June 22, 2010 Judith wrote:
                  Now you see here Miss Jan, start counting from the word "WE", if I would have said that fifth word, I would have been put in the "TIME-OUT-BOX, cause, (judy) used a nasty word. Shshshsh.
                  
                  hee-hee-hee-hee=ha
                  
                  1. June 22, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
                     Oh!!!!!???? I'm confused, but glad to see you here.
                     
      3. June 21, 2010 Josephine wrote:
         WooWoo Lovely to see you Jeanine Ann
         Why does His Gorgeousness have to ge a Giant. I prefer him normal life size. I know he is tall but that is just plain daft Do hope your second night seats were batter for you Lotsaluv xx
         
      4. June 21, 2010 Shirley wrote:
         Jeanine Ann, you look lovely, & who is that handsome guy next to you? Why didn't you sneak that cardboard cutout into your bag?Know you are flying on a cloud right now but will wait patiently for your return. BTW, love your shoes! We love you girl.
         
      5. June 21, 2010 Judith wrote:
         Oh you look absolutely content with Andre (what if HE was a twin?)
         on each side ~ I wish I could sneak a little peek into your bag ~ oh I just wish
         I could have been at that concert, I tried
         to imagine what you were up to every half
         hour. Knowing our Jeanine Ann, I am certain she will have absolutely taken some fabulous photo's of Andre. Get a tiny bit of rest; something lite to eat before this next concert girl. Hope your seats are much better, and got my fingers crossed you get at least one SMILE PIC FOR ME, and millions of super
         new poses to add to your wonderful collectibles. Have a blast, and boogie,
         waltz, blow kisses, and just plain have a wonderful time. Can't wait till you are rested and start writing. xoxox
         
         1. June 22, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
            Hey Judith! Not sure if it were you asking about 'life sized Andre cut-outs!
            (If so) Did you know that 'some' Andre Friendship Groups actually have such thing?).
            If it was you asking, just look up the site on Andre Friendship Groups....if it wasn't you, then whomever it was might see this post.
            We need your 'sparkle' girl! Where are you? XXX
            
            1. June 22, 2010 Judith wrote:
               Yo Jan, girl? are you looking for me to get called on the carpet?, by asking for a cut-out? I am behaving myself while our
               Moderator is away and having the time of her life. You don't mess with Jeanine Ann,
               she may be a tiny gal ~ BUT her words carry a BIG PUNCH!! chuckle-chuckle......I need to be on my best behavior, as that tiny person (Jeanine Ann) has controls of the buttons, and I
               worship my Moderator, as she has promised me a wonderful smiling photo. I
               know all my friends will attest to JA, that I have been a model citizen and I played by all the rules. Sincerely yours, Judith
               
               1. June 22, 2010 Moderator Prudence wrote:
                  

                  But this moderator is watching you Judith!

                  

                  
                  
                  1. June 22, 2010 Judith wrote:
                     Dear Moderator Prudence, yes, I did forget
                     you were watching and helping out, but as you can see, I was a good doo-bee, no naughty business and I did not spend any time in the corner. I hope you give Jeanine Ann a good report. I love the pic
                     of that little girl. I will be chatting with you soon. BRAVO!! Excellent Job!
                     Gosh, you never know who is out there watching? Hi Andre, could I please have
                     a front row seat to your concert? Thank
                     You from the bottom of my heart. Say 'hi' to Marjorie, we'd all love to chat with her a bit. ta-ta for now. (ya never know)
                     
      6. June 21, 2010 Jill from Geelong wrote:
         Hi Jeanine Anne,
         You look gorgeous and the perfect Andre partner!! I hope you guys didn't wear him out too much as we want him in peak physical condition for the Aussie leg of the tour, hmmmmmmmmm can't wait. I'm going to both concerts in Melbourne too. I don't know how I'm going to wait till October!! I'm so glad that you loved the concert but how could anyone not. But what about Franco tisk, tisk, tisk Jeanine Anne surely you could have jumped on the stage and run up to him and take a pic. You could have always told him it's for Jill from Geelong in Australia hahhaha. I'm sure that would make all the difference lol. If you catch up with him at the next concert don't forget to tell him I'll be waiting lol. He'd probably change his mind about coming hahaha. Have a fantastic 2nd concert Jeanine Anne hope your seats are better this time. I can hardly wait to see your photos and report so we can all savor the moment. We're all thinking of you and the fantastic time you must be having!! Enjoy every single minute of your time Jeanine Anne you deserve it!! HEAPS OF HUGS JILL
         
      7. June 22, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         Jeanine Ann, you look like a tiny doll right there. Sorry to know seats not the best, but hope much better at the second Concert. I'm sure you're havin' a great time anyway. HUGS
         
   2. June 21, 2010 Jill from Geelong wrote:
      Hi Jan,
      Yeah I know 'stalking', but what can I say I'm a woman on a mission and I would limit it to the arena. I promise I'll do it in the nicest possible way of course hahaha. Don't worry I promise to behave. Hahaha you betchya I expect a strong finish to awaken the palate well put girl hahaha lol. Well all I can say is I'll have the fruity drink with a kick and you can have the more mature one as you so aptly put it. At least there wouldn't be any arguments. Jan it's more like aaaaaaaaaaaaah the sweetness of both experiences hahaha lol
      Cheers Jill
      
      1. June 22, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         Hi Jill, glad you appreciated the humour in that. I really don't like fighting over men. We're so brave talking here like this.... I know that I'm 'all talk' so it will be fun to see what you really do-ha,ha!!
         
         1. June 22, 2010 Jill from Geelong wrote:
            Hi Jan,
            Hahahaha I'll probably be the the same all talk and absolutely no action hahaha lol. Then on the other hand it might just turn out to be a very interesting night hmmmmmm. I'm frantically trying to learn a bit of basic Italian and I mean really basic hmmmmmmmmm wonder why that would be lol. Anyone got an Italian flag (SHIRLEY) that ought to catch his attention along with some choice Italian words strategically learnt to make like I actually know what I'm saying!! If I manage to pull that off oh no what happens if he replies in Italian hahaha what then? lol HELP I NEED AN INTERPRETER haha.
            SeeeeeeeYaaaaaaaa
            Jill
            
            1. June 22, 2010 Shirley wrote:
               hahaha, Jill, you crack me up.No, I don't have an Italian flag, only a Dutch one, and the only Italian I know is CIAO BABY! You might try that one. haha
               
               1. June 22, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
                  Ha, haaa!!!!!!!!!!!!
                  Jill's not looking for 'Ciao baby' ---
                  she's lookin' for 'Come here baby'..........(I don't speak Italian)...
                  (Do I really want to meet this woman???? - Scary, but most probably YES!!!). XXXX
                  
                  1. June 22, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
                     Hey girls, I am back!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  I just don't know what to say.  Physically and emotionally I am a wreck.  We danced both nights, walked all over Baltimore, stood in front of the stage all during the encores.  Last night had him all to myself because there were only three ladies there and he chose me to look at   whoooooohooooooo.  That eye contact is wonderful.  I was at the flowers again and he was standing right in front of me.  I could have reached out and touched him but I kept my hands on the camera.  No Marina last night but I got one anyway.  And on top of all this I fell in love all over again!!!!!    Oh my what can I say.  I must take a few hours now and Clyde and I will meet my sister for a cup of Starbucks to revive myself.  I can hardly walk today.  I am certainly not used to high heels for two days! 
                     
                     Which concert did Chris attend?  I could not read all the comments but saw that. 
                     Later girls.  Love you all!!!!!   Hugs and kisses.  HE RAISED ME UP!!!!!!!!!
                     
                     
                     1. June 22, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
                        PS:  We got out close to 10:30 and it began at 7:30!!!
                        
                        
                        1. June 22, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
                           Hoping I can take lots of PICS at Rod Laver Arena in Melb. - October! Some Venues have restrictions depending on enclosure/distraction to Artists on stage etc.,....
                           I'm 'up front and central' so no matter what the restrictions, I hope to get great pics. at last minute even if there are restrictions during Concert.
                           (forget about 'those' other comments - personal opinion only). WE STILL LOVE THE MAN!!!!!!!!
                           
                     2. June 22, 2010 Moderator Prudence wrote:
                        

                        Welcome back Jeanine Ann, we'll wait until you take a little breather.  I believe Chris was talking about Baltimore.

                        
                        
                     3. June 22, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
                        Hey Jeanine Ann, I'm 'absolutely stoked' that you had such a great time!
                        Forget about Chris - one Individual's personal opinion (you'll catch up on comments when you're once again 'EARTH BOUND'). Lookin' forward to photos!!!!!!!!! HUGS!!
                        
                     4. June 22, 2010 Shirley wrote:
                        I am so so happy for you! I can see it all in my mind, but I can hardly wait for your pictures. Enjoy your Starbucks & then when you rejoin us all on this planet, we'll be here, waiting.
                        hugs back atcha.
                        
                        1. June 22, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
                           Yes Shirley!!!!
                           Calling 'Earth-girl, calling Earth-girl!!!!!!!!!(Jeanine Ann).
                           Enjoy the stars .... but we need you here to share!!! XXX
                           
                     5. June 22, 2010 Jill from Geelong wrote:
                        Hey Jeanine Anne,
                        Sounds like a fantastic 2 nights, but then why wouldn't it be. Well, well, well having him all to yourself, good on you, must have been fantastic. BUT what about my FRANCO????? Was he as cute as ever? Now let the interrogation begin. Did he pose for any of your pics? Did you see any of the JSO out and about before the concert? Where were your seats for the 2nd night? You mentioned that you weren't really happy with you seat the 1st night,I think. Why didn't you just reach out and grab him Jeanine Anne? You never know what would have happened hahaha lol. I bet you are finding it difficult to walk after 2 nights of high heels. It must have been great for you to catch up with your sister as well again. Oh finally how does Clyde feel playing 'second fiddle' to the maestro??? hahaha lol.
                        Cheers Jill
                        
                  2. June 22, 2010 Jill from Geelong wrote:
                     Hi Jan,
                     Yeah 'Come here baby' sure is probably a good starting point hahaha now I have to think of more lol. As for the does he ever like to meet women? I've heard that the 'Italian Stallion' loves to meet his fans of the female persuasion hahaha. However he probably hasn't met such an avid fan as me hahaha. Drats, I should have convinced my daughter to come with us, he seemed to like her. He kept smiling and waving at her last year. Now that would have made a good starting point. PLEASE, PLEASE EVERYBODY DON'T THINK I'M UP TO USING MY DAUGHTER FOR DUBIOUS ACTIVITIES!!!
                     Cheers
                     
               2. June 22, 2010 Jill from Geelong wrote:
                  Hi Shirley,
                  Hahahaha Caio means either hi or bye but I need to say sooooooooo much more lol. I think I'm going to have to buy myself an Italian phrase book and flag. Have to do my best to impress hahaha. Only hope that my Italian sounds much better than last year. Shirley, if you remember Alex wouldn't tell me exactly what my pathetic attempt at Italian actually meant last year. She still won't tell me, YIKES!! But not this year I'm out to impress hihihi.
                  
                  1. June 22, 2010 Shirley wrote:
                     Jill, I remember. Maybe you should just speak English & stay out of trouble.
                     I told you, all I did was asked him to autograph my book. But at that time I didn't know you could get your picture taken with anyone but Andre, so I missed my chance there. Good luck.
                     
            2. June 22, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
               Jill! So, what's taken u so long in learning some very basic Italian, given your long term interest????
               Forget the flag honey....we're talking about a man here! If you gotta fly anything to gain attraction, why not a lacy black bra?????????
               (I just don't wanna be there when/if you do that)!
               We'll catch up for coffee/drinks first.....I'll leave you alone...then maybe catch up after...
               DEPENDING on what you 'do' or 'don't do' - I'll either be there or not! Then again, - I'm going for the mellow, mature Red, remember????????
               (I'm still dreaming)! XXXX
               
            3. June 22, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
               (Jill)
               INTERPRETOR?????????? Do you really need (verbal) Linguistics & translation?????. Isn't Andre's music enough (ha, ha)......Love (and lust) speaks all languages - no immediate verbal communication necessary)!
               Best of luck my friend (just remember that 'I will run' at the first sign of embarrassment to Self).
               XXXX
               

1. June 21, 2010 Kay wrote:
   Hi Elizabeth, Do you mean the classic britt awards, if so it was May. The pictures are on the guestbook here,if you look at earlier posts. Hope this helpsxx
   
   1. June 21, 2010 Moderator Prudence wrote:
      Kay, you are right. The picture is on the May guestbook, about the 14th I believe.
      On the left side of this page click on guestbook, it will take you to monthly guestbook archives.
      

1. June 22, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Thanks for sharing this Prudence. Very nice words. I've never come across it before.
   

1. June 21, 2010 Moderator Prudence wrote:
   I'm not sure when it was written, I found it in the Bluebook of Pianos. No one seems to know anything about the author either.
   I think it belongs in a frame, maybe to be hung in a music room ?
   

1. June 22, 2010 Elizabeth wrote:
   Hi Fay, I can only think that Andre might have had very good cause for the concert not to come up to expectations, I hope he is not ill, or perhaps something was not right for him at the venue, or he could have something on his mind that was bothering him, I am sure that he would be very upset himself if he thought that he hadn't given 100%.
   I'm sure that this is only a "one off" and let's all hope that he is O K.
   
   1. June 22, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Hi Elizabeth (and Fay)...I totally agree with your comments Elizabeth, which is why we're all concerned about the comment (which none of us seem to know the real facts about). It is not at all 'Andre style', so let's pray that, as you say, it's a 'one off' and that all is and will be well. xx
      

1. June 22, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hey Jennifer, who knows! This was a surprise to us in 'OZ'...;.perhaps you will get a nice little surprise there too!!!
   

1. June 22, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   So glad that Andre has chosen to invite 'The Seekers'...so much a part of my childhood! Not sure if he also has 'Dame Edna' on board for October....give me 'The Seekers' any day!!!...I have dual Citizenship between UK & OZ - I am very proud of both! It's not quite fitting that our National Anthem be 'God Save Our Queen'.......'I am Australian' sums it up (in my mind) for those who were born here & choose change & growth, and for those who came here to make a difference-and did! XXX
   

1. June 22, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   Josephine, I think the post was on up the page, about the 20th. this person, not sure if it's male or female said the concert only lasted 30 min. I just can't fathom that.We'll hear the straight dope when Jeanine Ann gets back. I'll bet she is catching up on her rest right now, that is if she can.
   
   1. June 22, 2010 Shirley wrote:
      I just went to Andre's guestbook to read any comments about the concert that Chris mentioned, he,or she, must have left before the concert was over because someone mentioned that the concert was 2-1/2 hrs. Now that's more like it. One other comment I thought was amusing, someone called Andre a "joy dispenser". That fits doesn't it?
      
      1. June 22, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         Hi Shirley, please read my comment from a few hours ago regarding Chris's post. It concerns me - NOT!!!!
         I can't say that I like the term 'joy dispenser' - but yep, it's very true!
         
         XXXX
         
         1. June 22, 2010 Shirley wrote:
            Yes, I knew something was not right. I went back to read Chris's comment. what was said was that Andre played from 6-7, then a 25 min. intermission, then 30 min. more, that would be only an hour & 30 min. this person must not have stayed for the whole concert. Like to know what happened there.Maybe they didn't stay for the encores or something.
            
            1. June 22, 2010 Jill B wrote:
               Shirley, I think this is the most likely explanation of what happened, because the encores usually take at least half an hour as we all know.
               Perhaps Chris could come back on and tell us if he thought the concert was over when Andre first said goodbye?
               His comment that Andre just came back on and played for another half hour and that was it sounded so flat and not the words of someone who'd experienced one of Andre's fabulous encores.
               I think you've hit the nail on the head.
               
               1. June 22, 2010 Shirley wrote:
                  Hi Jill, well i guess we'll know more when Jeanine Ann gets back, I think it was the same concert she went to. But I have seen people get up to leave when the balloons come down, like they want to beat the traffic rush out. Same things happen at ball games, people will get up & leave because they think the game is about over & they have missed some of the great last minute plays. Like one ball player said, "it ain't over til it's over".I'll be the last man(woman) standing because I don't want to miss a thing.Andre loves an enthusiastic crowd & the encores are great. It's like a whole new party.
                  
            2. June 22, 2010 Jill from Geelong wrote:
               Hi Shirley,
               Yes, now you've refreshed my memory of last year's concert. Some people actually left before the concert had totally finished. There was one point where you could have been mistaken that it was over, however it went on for quite a bit longer. That just might have been what happened for that person. It certainly seems to fit in with what I saw last year.
               Cheers Jill
               

1. June 24, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Josephine, I'm with you there! The difference is that 'his gorgeousness' is happily married.....good for him and I'm happy for that - (but - hmmmm...c'est la vie....and keep on dreaming)! XXX
   

1. June 24, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Oh boy Fay, do I know how to waffle, ramble or repeat myself? Must be the Irish in me, my Profession or a combination of both - ha,ha!
   Yes, Andre does always alter something in his Concerts or add something new. I see various reports that everything is the same or repetitive. This is not the case. If he were to change everything for every Concert he would lose his own 'identity'. You either love the Man and the Music of his choice and enjoy the add-ons as much as you love him & his talent & Genre & tradition, or you don't! One just can't 'change' a Strauss and/or Classical style concert without doing injustice to the Greats of the past! Andre honours & does great justice to those, and I see that Andre goes to great lengths to include other Musicians/Artists/Entertainers with 'appropriateness' to the Country in which he is giving any Concert - to me that is the absolute acknowledgement that Andre is in no way selfish, staid or 'unchangeale' in his performances and gives as much as he can to any 'specific' audience. Some comments & opinions I see or hear (mostly press, not here) bewilder me.
   (I still don't like that word 'dispenser' - just doesn't seem appropriate...let's think of something better!).
   Have a wonderful Andre day! XXXX
   
   1. June 24, 2010 Shirley wrote:
      You were on a roll with that one Jan. BTW,I read the lady's comment again, & she actually says "dispenser of joy". does that suit you better? I thought it was pretty clever myself, just like someone who once said "oh I just pop an Andre pill & then I feel much better".Most everyone usually says about the same thing but every once in awhile someone puts a new slant on. I love it myself.
      
      1. June 24, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         Hi Shirley, ha-haaa!!! I can see how some see this as a compliment. I just 'do not like' the word DISPENSER....it has a very automated and cold feeling for me, a bit like 'soap on tap' .....then again, THAT'S JUST ME!
         If you like it, go with it....I think I have to choose something else. HUGS!
         
         1. June 24, 2010 Shirley wrote:
            OK.
            

1. June 23, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
   Hi Debbie,  we are fine.  Thanks for your concern.  Several families had trees on their roof but they will be fixed up soon I am sure.  Cotton is coming along.  She seems a little better.  We take her back on Monday the 28th so we will see then if the infection is gone.  Poor thing is so stressed from the pills and ear drops.  We wrap her up like a burrito and that way she cannot move so I can get the drops in.
   Big hugs to you
   
   

1. June 23, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   Judith, I was just watching a report on that.I have to laugh at your comment about "if you were going out so was Andre". Wonder if he felt it too, isn't he still on the East coast? If it had been any stronger you might have both gone out!
   
2. June 23, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
   Hi Judith, that sounds a bit scary but glad you are all right and no damage done. I hope that's all you get and there are no aftershocks. A day with Andre to take your mind off it????
   xxx
   

1. June 23, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
   Thanks Josephine and Fay for your concern.  Andre is still in the area - Boston tonight so that is why the earth is moving!! : )   I don't think the concert was short, it seemed the same as the one on Monday night and he even did an extra song during the encores and that was Marina!  I will put it on as soon as I put it through YouTube.  I was a little shaky that night so it is not as good as the first one.  Big Hugs to both of you.
   
   

1. June 24, 2010 Shirley wrote:
   Josephine, I wouldn't worry too much about the Brits. I've seen & heard how they are on the Proms last night.
   
2. June 24, 2010 Kay wrote:
   Hi Josephine, Yes we are usually a reserved race. I will probably sit all prim and proper - although i won't feel it. But if they all left that would leave just you, me and Andre.Mmmm. Suppose we could share him!!. Really though i think he will get a huge response here, sure there are many more people who think he and his music is wonderful.xx
   
3. June 24, 2010 Elizabeth wrote:
   Hi Josephine and ladies commenting on Andre's visit to our shores, I am going to see Andre and the JSO at Newcastle Arena, and I to hope us Brits don't let him down reserving our enthusiasm. I hope the Arena is full and everyone gives him the welcome he deserves, otherwise he may not think it worthwhile to return. That would be a disaster for the fans (like me ) who have waited so long to see this wonderful, wonderful man and his music.
   

1. June 24, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
   Hi Jan,
   
   I did have a fantastic time at the concerts.  I really needed my Andre fix so to speak.  Just seeing him again renewed everything that I truly feel for him.  Not that I needed to see him to remind myself of all the love and respect I have but just to see that face in front of you right at the stage without a crowd around me made me feel like he was playing just for me (he wasn't but I felt that way). 
   
   Jan I think you must have the wrong idea about my not including you in the comments.  I don't always mention everyone by name, I usually say "hey ladies" or something like that.  I do mention a name if they ask a question that should be answered or say something directly to me.  I and the other moderators plus Sally are viewing the blog from a different vantage point.  We are on the "manage blog" page and are constantly checking comments as they come in and approving them.  When I can I read all the comments in my email first so I know about what is coming in.  When we are not doing this, we are constantly hunting for more Andre- related articles to put on the blog.  When it is slow I will talk more.  At this moment I have a concert report to put on from a Lady who went to Baltimore plus another article and I have a concert report of my own plus I must go through every photo I took to get them ready for my report and then send the remainder to Sally so she can put up a web page if she wants to.  Then there is this pesky thing on the side called my life that I must deal with - some good and some bad.
   I love all the fans here and this certainly includes you.  I love to read your comments - comments keep the blog alive and as long as they don't mention certain private things regarding Andre, then the more the merrier.  I am guilty too of saying "playful" things but I try to respect the man and don't care what he wears or doesn't wear.  I think we were all joking about his shoes and it suddenly rose to "higher" areas.  These things we should not talk about.  We do want to have fun though and you and all the other ladies and gents are a lot of fun.  So keep on commenting and I will certainly answer when I can.  You may email me privately any time and I wish you would.  I will always answer because I love hearing from you.  Big hugs to you Jan
   
   
   1. June 24, 2010 Moderator Jeanine Ann wrote:
      PS:  the latecomer thing will be in my report and believe me he is not angry when they come late.  He is aware of traffic and things like that.  Hugs
      
      
      1. June 24, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
         That's what I would have thought/expected. Doesn't make sense to me that one could encourage laughter, photos, dancing in the Aisles etc., yet get 'cranky' over an odd 'quiet' late arrival!! XXX
         
   2. June 24, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Hi Jeanine Ann, sorry if i had the wrong impression as i love being here.
      I'm really glad that you had a fantastic 'Andre experience'. We all love to be 'playful' (including Andre) - yet again have absolute respect for our Andre, just the same as we would have respect for our 'very own' men/partners. If I wouldn't say it or share it with my own husband (not that I have one) I wouldn't share it with you girls. There is a difference between being 'playful' and maintaining 'absolute loyalty' to a Partner. BIG HUGS TO YOU!!!!!!!!!!
      
   3. June 24, 2010 Shirley wrote:
      yeah Jeanine Ann, I only started the "shoes" thing just to tease you because I knew you never got past the face anyway. Actually, neither do I, except maybe to see what brooch he is wearing, I swear I've seen different ones at times, but then that might just be the lighting. Whatever, I just think he looks really dashing at all times.
      
   4. June 24, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Aahh! We all know that he isn't looking at us specifically or intentionally..........but - ooohhh!!! when you just catch that moment in time and it seems as though it's only for you ... WOW!!!!!! At least, that's what makes a fantastic photo, and a magic experience!!! XXX
      
   5. June 27, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Hi Jeanine Ann, I totally respect the man - just a bit unfortunate that we all get very carried away at times (pheewwww!!). Sometimes this is 'cos of Andre's 'cheekiness' himself. No one means to go 'overboard' and I understand that Moderators need to keep things in line. Thanks for being here, and giving what you give! HUGS xxx
      
   6. June 27, 2010 Jan McG wrote:
      Hi Jeanine Ann, I do know what you mean. I have absolute respect for this wonderful man; yet sometimes get carried away by other comments - and because I can!!! I'm here cos I love the man, his music, his talent, what he gives to his fans and the World....I'm playful cos he entertains this himself..I'll try to behave 'modestly'...HUGS!!!