Some of you may remember a couple of weeks back I posted that my husband got a job after being unemployed for 3-1/2 years:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/10022374119

Well, a couple of years ago I filled out an application and took a test for the Census Bureau (I worked for them in 2009 and 2010). Since it had been so long ago I had pretty much forgotten about it then, yesterday, I get a call and had an online interview. Today they called me to tell me I was hired! Yay! But it's a federal job and tomorrow starts the sequester! Boo!



No idea if this will affect the job or not but it just goes to show that the cosmos can have a sick sense of humor.

Oh. My. God. I'm in tears right now. One of the companies my husband has been doing occasional contracts for called him in to tell him they're hiring him as of March 1. I'm in shock and blissful disbelief! We've struggled for so long I can't remember how it feels to just be able to have a good night's sleep. Anyway, I just wanted to share our good news with DU. What a GREAT V-Day!

Update: And I've been given a whole mess of Valentines by several DUers??? I'm literally speechless and we all know what a rarity that is. LOL! OMG. Thank you!

Times are tough economically and I know there are probably lots of DUers out there who would give hearts if they could but simply can't afford to. I thought a "Virtual Heart" thread might be in order.

I'm giving out hundreds of Virtual Hearts this year because there are SO many posters on this board whose writing and activism I appreciate beyond measure. You give me insights, you challenge me and make me constantly re-evaluate my positions. You provide articles and links to stories I probably would not have found on my own. I'm constantly amazed at the knowledge that congregates on this one board. And not just political. I love checking the Cooking and Baking Group, the DIY & Home Improvement Group, Gardening Group, Frugal and Energy Efficient Living Group and others for first-hand information and insights.

So, to all of you whose threads I've read and commented on, whose threads I've recommended and whose PM correspondence I so enjoy, please accept these Virtual Hearts and know that you have my admiration and deep appreciation.

Anyone wishing to tag on a few Virtual Hearts, please feel free to use this thread to do so if you like.

Hugs and Kisses,

LTH

This is the wonderful K.D. Lang singing Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah":



Everyone knows about the great Aretha Franklin's unmatched ability at R & B but did you know she subbed for Pavarotti at the 1998 Grammies and didn't change the song? Here she sings "Nessun Dorma" from "Turendot" as only Aretha can. Later, Pavarotti praised her performance.



This (very) brief list would not be complete without the incomparable Renee Fleming. Not the best recording but remember, she's singing with full orchestra and no microphone (it's what you learn to do when you actually study your art).



And finally, one woman, one guitar, original song.



So, when us "old farts" complain about substance/talent being replaced by cheer-leading dance moves and pyrotechnics, this is what we're referring to.