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The Ring, The Dance, and David Archuleta
Posted by skydancer1x on Friday, November 1, 2013
My Dad and his older sister Madeline shared the same birthday, October 25th. I always thought that was really special. She would always say he was “the best birthday present ever!” Madeline was the protector of her youngest sibling, but as they aged, it was my father who became protective of his oldest sister.
Several years after her husband’s passing and the loss of her two beloved companion dogs, my father worried about his sister living alone. Convincing her to move, she sold her home and her belongings in Massachusetts and moved to a lovely retirement community in Florida, very close to where we lived. She had a furnished apartment with all the comforts of home.
Madeline quickly made friends in her new surroundings and before long, she and several of her new friends signed up for ballroom dancing lessons. They eventually began traveling all over the state for competitions.
My Dad became concerned and skeptical about the outflow of money and the time his sister was spending with dance, and felt that she might be part of a giant scam to separate widows and lonely ladies from their life savings. He felt she was being foolish, a woman her age being “paraded” around the dance floor often with a much younger dance instructor/partner. But Madeline was having a wonderful time anyway and continued dancing, knowing that her brother wasn’t going to come around to her way of thinking.
I loved hearing about Auntie Madeline’s little adventures and road trips as much as she loved talking about them. Her eyes lit up when she spoke of her new-found passion. But my Dad remained concerned, and others in the family continued to relentlessly tease her.
Less than a decade after she had come to enjoy her life in Florida, Madeline’s life came to an end. I recall going with my mother to the apartment where she lived to pack up her personal belongings. In her closet hung her many beautiful dresses, including several incredible ballroom gowns, many pairs of lovely shoes, and boxes of sparkling jewelry.
In a corner of her living room, a special glass étagère held her dance trophies, pictures of family, photos of Madeline and her friends at the dance studio and dance competitions, and group pictures of them sharing a meal at restaurants in different cities.They looked like they were having the time of their lives. In every single picture, Auntie Madeline was laughing or smiling. I commented to my mother how beautiful and happy she looked in those pictures with her friends.
I left the next morning on an early flight to return home. On saying goodbye, my mother handed me a small black ring box. As I opened it, she said “Auntie Madeline wanted you to have this.” Inside the box was a lovely ring. Once back home, I put the ring into my jewelry box, and there it remained a memory, untouched for many years.
Enter David Archuleta, and the eventual, inevitable, state of ODD.
Friends didn’t understand me; my family didn’t either. “Why are you ALWAYS talking about that David Archuleta kid? What is wrong with you? Aren’t you a little bit too old to be listening to a teenage pop singer? You drove to another state alone? You flew halfway across the country for a concert, that’s just crazy! You shared a hotel room with someone you had never met? “
Their comments were hurtful. I started to wonder what was happening to me. I had found something I was so excited about, and yet no one close to me could relate. I came to have enough of the endless teasing and hurtful comments I encountered when I tried to share what I had come to know about David, the person, David, the singer and performer, and his beautiful voice that had stolen my heart. I kept wishing they would see what I saw, could hear what I heard, the absolute level of joy I received listening to the Voice and seeing the smile of this most incredibly talented and special young man. Those closest to me didn’t understand that David Archuleta was becoming a permanent resident of my heart.
I decided to just not bring up the subject of David anymore, to family, or the people I worked with, or friends, but the teasing continued, unabated. I actually eventually became somewhat disengaged with the people who seemed to belittle me, more than tease, and remain more engaged with those who were just happy for me, that I always seemed to wear an inner smile on my face.
One random, rainy, Saturday, I decided to weed out my jewelry box and organize its contents. I opened the long neglected box that contained the lovely ring that Auntie Madeline had given me. I removed it, and slipped it onto my finger. To my surprise, it fit perfectly, years after I had put it away. I smiled and felt my aunt’s presence as I looked at the ring, admiringly. Then the tears came as memories flooded back. I understood now. Madeline too had ODD but not for a person. She, too, had endured the looks, the endless teasing about something that gave her much joy.
But she didn’t let it stop her. She didn’t sit on the sidelines. She danced until she no longer was able. She plunged in, full steam ahead, and did what gave her so much joy, despite being ridiculed by some because of her “age.” She followed her heart, and her passion, abandoning worry about those who thought she was wasting her time and her money. She didn’t let others opinions of her matter. She wasn’t hurting anyone. Her age didn’t stop her. She was young at heart. She would have loved David Archuleta, and he would have loved her “go for it” attitude. I believe David sees our hearts, not our wrinkles, and that he loves his fans of all ages.
Since that rainy day, I wear the ring often on my finger, as my Auntie’s reminder to me, to embrace the people, and the moments, that bring you happiness. Be the age inside your heart. From Madeline to me, and me to you, “I HOPE YOU DANCE.”
Skydancer is a staff writer for The Voice.
The Voice David Archuleta 
Madeline Alvarez said
Hi Everyone, I too am young at heart at 76…….I do understand and its wonderful. I also Love David for who he is and what he does. Enjoy your life. Sincerely, Madeline
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bleubird19 said
I love love love this post. I totally relate to it and admire Madeline and her “Go Getter” attitude and all of our ODD attitudes too. If it makes you feel good and hurts no one else, then, as David would say, “Go for it!” Thanks for the post, Skydancer and enjoy your ODD along with the rest of us. 🙂
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Abrra said
Bringing these comments over from the end of last post:
jans11 said
Thursday, October 31, 2013 at 9:48 PM e
Well, I shut the door, turned off the front porch light and the laughing pumpkin and called it a night! 🙂 Had tons of little goblins, spidermen and princesses. All so cute. My last visitors were my almost 1 yr old ggrandson that was a turtle and his cousin that just turned 1 week Wednesday. She had on her little pumpkin onesie and socks and sleeping through it all! 🙂 It’s good to know that David will be back next yr!
Never in my life I would think that I would refer to David as “the big ape” haha 🙂 Love the side pic, Abrra!
Bebe, good story! David has left us all with some very good memories. I was thinking of that today, that it’s been almost 2 yrs that I went to the MKOC concert in Utah and heard the big announcement. Not that that was a “very good memory”, but in the long run it was, just being there to see him sing live for the last time in 2 yrs! And here it is almost time for him to come back! Yea!!!!!
That little “stick” baby sure was cute. Never seen anything like it before. They are always coming out with something new.
Now to get ready for Thanksgiving….then Christmas and New Years….then Valentine’s Day and St Pat’s…….THEN DAVID WILL BE HOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 🙂
#DA2014
Gayle122890 said
Friday, November 1, 2013 at 2:56 AM e
A late Halloween greeting! Hope everyone had a really fun one 🙂
#27 dja, I wouldn’t want to run into him in a dark alley…or would I?? Lol
I think that Mr. Hallow video affected my brain. In a good way, though. Last night I dreamed it was my birthday and my co-workers decorated this cubbie-like thing for me. There was confetti, lace and many David Archuleta birthday cards in it because they knew how much I love David. I picked up one of the cards. The texture and illustration in it caught my eye because it was really pretty. The front showed a very handsome David walking up the sidewalk looking up at a pretty house with ivy and flowers around it. Then I noticed David was actually moving towards the door! “Hey, it’s changing!” I said. I opened the card and as if I had answered the door, there he was. His beautiful face began to talk to me. Somewhere among what he was saying in his velvety husky voice, I heard “happy birthday”. I woke up and I could still hear his sweet talking voice. My birthday is not till July but hey, I’ll take this kind of strange wonderful greeting from David any time! 😉 . It gave me such a warm feeling throughout the day. Thought I’d share that with you all. ❤
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Marylee_NCGirl said
“Be the age inside your heart~ I. Hope you dance” ~ so beautifully written Skydancer. Thank you! 😊
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bluesky4home said
I love your article, Skydancer! Now I will never forget your name! Follow your heart, it can never lead you astray. And when you are in joy, you give joy to others. They may not understand now, but you are offering them a light to grasp when their “normal life” gets a serious (was that a pun?) cloud cover.
^_^
I really appreciate you, and your love of life. You are so welcome here, and in my heart.
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TXNancy said
Oh my, sky, so many tears were falling halfway thru the wonderful description of your dear aunt’s life and the beautiful way it’s intertwined with your ODD, that I had to get up & grab a tissue, so I could continue to read! I think we all have been unsuccessful in trying to explain to family & friends how & why David is now ‘a permanent resident of our hearts’. I hope we all remember your last paragraph and never forget to ‘dance’…………..
Since that rainy day, I wear the ring often on my finger, as my Auntie’s reminder to me, to embrace the people, and the moments, that bring you happiness. Be the age inside your heart. From Madeline to me, and me to you, “I HOPE YOU DANCE.”
Madeline: I, too, am ‘young at heart’—turned one yr younger 2 days ago.
Gayle: Why didn’t I have your dream? LOL!
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mlpb3 said
Thank you for sharing this part of your life with us. So many can relate to this. I too lost my husband and my 2 companion dogs in one year. I did not move to Florida but even though I have a job, a wonderful daughter & family, and outside activities, I was drawn to this wonderful young man. Even though I was a fan before I was alone, I really became more so as my new life as a widow began. My daughter, a fan also, understands my interest, but I just don’t share it with co-workers and other family. I don’t think they would understand.
It’s wonderful to have someone put in words what you are feeling. Thank you, skydancer. You said it all beautifully. Martha ♥
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violet4ever said
That’s a beautiful and thoughtful article. I have plenty around me who don’t understand my obsession with David. One lovely older woman I worked with let me turn her on to D and she loved his music. I bought her his CDs and she blasted them in her red Volkswagon beetle convertable. When she died, I not only lost a good friend, I lost the one person in my offline life who truly understood and shared my obsession.
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Jeffrey Cadungog said
What a nice article. I love it.
I do act ODD sometimes and I’m aware of it but I can’t think why. I do hope it doesn’t hurt others especially those who are close to me.
Even though I’m not a hardcore fan of him, I know David’s voice is the best and it inspires me to sing. I do want
to know more about singing a lot. THANKS Mr. David!!!
Do what you want to do unless you don’t hurt others huh.. What a nice thought Bleubird19. THANKS.. ^_^.
Anyway, Oct 26 is my birthday, a day after Madeline’s birthday.. hahaha.
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Abrra said
Jeffery
A belated Happy Birthday to you 🙂
It’s so refreshing to have a male fan comment. We have a few but, not nearly enough.
Abrra
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Jeffrey Cadungog said
Thanks Abrra. 🙂 Not a great fan I think. I just like his music and voice. I can relate to it and it really lessens my stress especially from school.. hehe.
Could you introduce me to them. LoL hahaha.
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TOfan said
Beautiful story, skydancer (and love your screen name btw!), thank you! Sounds like your aunt Madeline was a very special lady… and that maybe she wanted you to have that ring for a reason. 🙂
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judie miller (@sgjudie) said
Loved your article skydancer. Your Aunt was a sweetheart. She followed her heart. In relation to David, I’m so happy I have other fans to share our love for David. Not many understand our ODD or love for him. Going miles and miles to attend his concerts and sometimes seeing the same one days apart can only be explained as a desire to be with this wonderful human being who sets our hearts free and brings us into a magnificent place of joy and peace. Thanks for your touching story. ❤
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Abrra said
Judie
Abrra
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rooster said
jeffrey,welcome to the voice,stop buy more offten,just remember i am the king rooster of this hen house LOL.realy ned more roosters here getting old ,i am lol
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Heidijoy (@Heidijoy5) said
Skydancer, I can so Identify with you and your Aunt Madeline. I love David and dancing 🙂 My most recent experience and my Nursing Class Reunion came to mind. A classmate who happens to be a Facebook friend and sees my postings and other friends postings asked me “What’s the deal with you and David Archuleta. Is he a relative of yours ? I laughed and said no he’s not a relative and proceeded to talk about being a Fan and travels to see him sing etc etc. ” She still seemed puzzled as did others that heard me attempt to explain my Fandom and travels. Family doesn’t always understand, especially on my first trip to Reno without knowing a soul. I no longer worry about what others think and like you and your Aunt, I like doing what makes me Happy. Life is Short and yes I would love to Dance. I even took some Arthur Murray dance classes and loved dancing with those young Dance Instructors. If I go on another Cruise, it will be one with available Dance escorts 🙂 Dancing and David Archuleta’s singing and Fellow Fans are among my favorite things 🙂
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Kristin Rivers (@wordsfrommysoul) said
Oh skydancer this was such a beautiful post and I really enjoyed reading it. I admire your late aunt’s courage and how she followed her heart as she did 🙂 I bet the many dresses she had were so beautiful and colorful, I confess I pictured some of them in my head hehe. it’s so inspiring and I’m so glad you wear that ring she gave you. Someone was definitely watching over you during that time 🙂 I agree that she would’ve loved David as well.
I’m glad I read this because it helped put things in perspective for me in regards to some of David’s older fans. I am friends with some but by others, I feel misunderstood and looked down upon 😦 I dealt with that a lot recently, and even though I’m only 20 and may be on one side of the spectrum here compared to others I too dealt with judgment in my own life over the past few years with now former friends in regards to how I felt about David. One friend I knew for years I had a falling out with and we had a few spats and like you I for a time kept how I felt about him to myself, especially with the teenager stereotype of liking some “teen idol” and then moving on from it as you get older. I even felt ashamed of him at one point because he wasn’t considered “popular” or “part of the trend” which really frustrated me. Some people even told me to get over him.
But thankfully that’s changed and I don’t feel that shame anymore. Why should I feel shame or even guilt for something so wonderful that makes you so happy and makes you feel good about life again? You know? This line stuck out to me: “I believe David sees our hearts, not our wrinkles, and that he loves his fans of all ages.” and even for a young woman like myself I believe David sees our hearts more than our scars but also sees the inner strength we all have deep down whether in our hearts or in our faith or wherever else that could be. David does love all of us, not just because we have a story to tell him, but because he’s seen and knows he has made an impact, because people young and old are happier and feel better about themselves and their lives thanks to him 🙂 and that’s something we can only hope and pray others may understand someday too.
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marlie7 said
Sky – I love the story of your aunt and how she took life by the hand and went with her heart. And, of course, your experiences with ODD and your offline friends and family rings to true to many of us. I know I still bug the heck out of my Facebook “friends” when I get on a roll of posting David videos – but who cares, I expect them to be tolerant because I tolerate all those dang cat photos they always post. LOL
It can be lonely being a fan of David’s when people laugh and make fun of an old married woman who adores this young man, his voice and the way he lives his life. But i have learned to laugh right back and tell them, “You should have something in your life that makes you have this kind of joy, you might live longer!”
Hugs – see you Saturday night!
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skydancer1x said
Thank you all, for your beautiful comments, you have truly touched my heart today♥but then..you always do.:)
1.Madeline♥, seeing your lovely comment, and your name( !) gave me chills, Very happy to meet you, Madeline.
abbra thanks for bring over those great comments from the last post
Jan, you make me smile :)”Never in my life I would think that I would refer to David as “the big ape” LOL( and he still looks good) haha Gayle, such a nice dream haha lucky you!
Bluebird♥, ” If it makes you feel good and hurts no one else, then, as David would say, “Go for it!” Yes indeed:) and it sure is fun! 🙂
Bluesky♥ “Follow your heart, it can never lead you astray” 🙂 bluesky {{{hugs}}}
Martha♥ I think you are so special.I hope to meet you one day!
Violet, you are such an amazing “go Getter” for David. I am sorry about the loss of your friend.She sounded like a ‘go getter’ too!
Jeffrey, thank you for commenting and sharing♥ Have you ever seen David perform live? Welcome to The Voice!
Scroll on down and meet our resident Rooster!:)
Hi Ray♥ nice to have company?:)
Tx Nancy♥ TY, and good to see you, Happy belated Birthday to you!
TOfan, …”maybe she wanted you to have that ring for a reason.” ♥♥♥ 🙂
Judie,♥
love what you wrote,
Going miles and miles to attend his concerts and sometimes seeing the same one days apart can only be explained as a desire to be with this wonderful human being who sets our hearts free and brings us into a magnificent place of joy and peace.”
Heidijoy♥
“Dancing and David Archuleta’s singing and Fellow Fans are among my favorite things :)”
Me too! Sounds like fun, a cruise,dancing. Now we just need David on board to make that perfect! haha
♥Kristen
“David does love all of us, not just because we have a story to tell him, but because he’s seen and knows he has made an impact, because people young and old are happier and feel better about themselves and their lives thanks to him 🙂
I think you are a very sweet,and smart young lady 😉
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skydancer1x said
19 Marlie, haha I love you♥
“You should have something in your life that makes you have this kind of joy, you might live longer!”
That is so true.see you soon {{hugs}}
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ronaleem said
Aww, Sky, that was great! I love anything that makes me feel not so alone in my admiration for David. I annoy everybody in my life (except myself) with my comments about him. I’m glad to be reminded I’m not the only one who feels this way.
“Friends didn’t understand me; my family didn’t either.. . . I started to wonder what was happening to me. I had found something I was so excited about, and yet no one close to me could relate.” Sky, I could have said these exact words myself. Heck, I probably have. It seems that David is able to reach a place in each of us that responds to his unique and exceptional vibe. Maybe we were born with David Archuleta receptors, and the other people in our lives weren’t?
Thanks for the inspiring story of your Aunt Madeline—a woman to emulate.
found on Pinterest
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donna said
This is lovely, Sky. Thanks for sharing your aunt’s story. I know we can all relate to following our joy; it’s what brought us here.
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fandaforeverti48 said
Skydancer – your article is inspiring and makes me thankful that ODD is still an important part of my life. It would have been easier to leave David’s fandom but I never did – never could, actually. You reminded me “…to embrace the people, and the moments, that bring you happiness. Be the age inside your heart.” Beautifully said.
Also love all the comments. Regardless of age or gender we all “get it”.
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betsy said
Sky, I’m so glad you wrote this. What a beautiful story, it made me cry. So glad Madeline was in this world and we got to hear about
her lovely spirit. ♥
I may not be overly forthcoming anymore about my David stuff (at work) BUT.
I’ll be playing David’s Christmas music again in the store, beginning next week. We are fully setting up our Christmas aisles on Sunday,
so it’s very appropriate. I had to buy ANOTHER cd as for 2 years in a row, someone has stolen them out of the cd player I hide behind the
Russel Stover. I hope they enjoyed the music. 🙂
The only complaint I’ve had was that they wished he had Little Drummer Boy. Now I need to make a cd compilation with the Dapo version
added.
I remember one year I was taking care of a customer and she said “WHO IS SINGING THAT?” I told her and she remembered him from Idol and
had no clue he had a Christmas cd out, but was going to buy it. I told her the whole thing was just beautiful and she said she already knew
that as she remembered him and his voice from Idol.
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tawna21 said
“… embrace the people, and the moments, that bring you happiness.” Sky, you have no idea how important that type of thinking has been to me in the recent past weeks. Life has been filling my basket with a plethora of stressful situations and people recently. At the end of the day, I’ve realized, that it truly is those people and moments that spark a happiness flame, whether it’s a flicker or a full on flame, that really do make the happy moments and memories that are remembered. David does that for me. He has taught me, by example thru his actions and songs, that I am in charge of who I am. Am I happy or resentful, haughty or humble, kind or unkind, caring or negligent? I have those that surround me that know of my ‘love’ for David and they wonder about my sanity. I just let them wonder. I avoid ‘David’ conversation with them. If asked about him, I reply. It doesn’t, and never will, change how I feel about, and my respect for, David Archuleta the singer/songwriter/author/actor and friend to all. He makes me happy.
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jans11 said
Sky…”I Hope You Dance” is so awesome. Glad your Aunt Madeline followed her heart and filled her last years with something that she truly loved. That’s what my ODD is to me, whether anybody else likes it or not! Most everyone around me has accepted me and my ODD now and leaves me alone! But if I get to talking to a “new” person, they sure get an earful and I get some more “looks”! 🙂 But que sera, sera! I’m not changing for anyone! 🙂 “be the age inside your heart” is so perfect!
3…Gayle, great dream. I’ve had 3 dreams of David, but only remember 2. I know, it’s another ODD thing! 🙂
Happy Birthday to Nancy and Jeff!
Jeff..Welcome! It’s good that you like his music and his voice…to me that’s being a great fan! So true, Sky, if Jeff ever seen David in person, I’m sure he would be an even greater fan! Nothing like David live!
Welcome Judie!
17..Heidijoy…a cruise with David would be the ultimate “favorite” thing! 🙂
18…Kristin, I think you younger fans have so much peer pressure and us older fans know what we like and nothings going to change our minds. We kind of get “set” in our ways! 🙂 haha That’s rather neat with David being young but having an “old” soul because he knows what he likes and wants and nothing will change his mind either! 🙂
22…old woman pic…LOL
I have one more “to do” thing on the list…set our clocks back tomorrow night. And next year when we “spring forward”, David will be home! ♥
#DA2014
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gladys1961 said
When I come home from my trips to Chile, nobody is interested in hearing my adventure. The first time I try to tell my sister and my mother the happiness I felt. I had seen David, but they were not interested.
It was a very painful feeling, but now I do not feel lonely because David taught me something very important.
A person has to find their place in the world and I here, with you I found my place.
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skydancer1x said
(I am wide awake and it’s 4am (ish).My upstairs neighbors,the Bigfoots, have awakened me,as they do every Saturday morning, right on schedule.) so,Good Morning!
Marylee ,please forgive me,thank you for your comment.♥
and Asphil,♥
” It always goes back to something about him that unexpectedly strikes then calmly comforts me in times when I feel so low and alone.”
I love that, it’s so true.The man certainly brings out a myriad of emotions. Miss him.
Ronaleem♥ “It seems that David is able to reach a place in each of us that responds to his unique and exceptional vibe” love that and that picture! I have got to stop smoking those cigars..hahaha
.Donna,♥ yes! it is what brought us here 🙂
Fandaforever “Regardless of age or gender we all “get it”. ♥ and we all got it , thats for sure 🙂
Betsy,♥ can you send out a memo to all the stores? 🙂
Tawna♥
He has taught me, by example thru his actions and songs, that I am in charge of who I am.
Tawna,most definitely!
Jan♥ I just love you,and your spunky self ! You have a great energy,so positive,and you always make me smile 🙂
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skydancer1x said
28. “A person has to find their place in the world and I here, with you I found my place” so lovely Gladys♥ Love you!
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skydancer1x said
Asphil♥ I loved your comment! I accidently skipped over you,and Marylee in my response yesterday,scrolling back up
and I am very sorry!!
I noticed that right away this morning,and in #29 I wrote to you and Marylee.Please know it was not intentional♥ just a “doofus” mistake on my part. Love you!
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Jeffrey Cadungog said
rooster what do you mean? hen house huh. LoL.. It seems I met a male fan and yes i’m not alone. LoL.
Guys just follow me at twitter @jeffury0_0 if you want.. 🙂
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Jeffrey Cadungog said
Not yet and I really want to meet him and see him perform LIVE.. Hi roosters and hens. LoL :))
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Jeffrey Cadungog said
Nice to meet you all guys. I want to know more of you all and David.. I think you guys can help me out. 🙂 hehehe.
Just follow me on twitter @jeffury0_0 and i’ll follow you back. 🙂
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cq#DA2014 said
Wonderful post Skydancer.
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MT said
Sky,
Love the “I Hope You Dance” article for so many reasons. I love that your aunt Madeline followed her bliss and that she left you a lovely reminder to do the same.
I think we only come across a few things in our lifetimes that truly bring us joy. (Other than family) I’m lucky that I’ve had a few. First, like your aunt, I’m a dancer and it brought me a great deal of joy and happiness for many years. Second, I love to write. Now, I’ve found David who, for some still unexplainable reason, also brings joy to my life. I won’t let those who “don’t get it” (people at work) ruin it for me. I’m very lucky that those closest to me know and understand (sort of) my ODD. LOL They found it a little strange at first but have now accepted it for what it is and are actually glad that I’ve found another thing in my life that makes me happy. My mom actually asks about David ocassionally and when I say, “oh, I gotta get on the computer, it’s chat night!” my hubby just grins and says “tell our other son I said Hi.”
As for David dreams, I only had one and he wasn’t in it. lol I was babysitting his little baby boy, (he was a real cutie, about 3 months old) with Abrra! haha Go figure!
#21 Rona, OMG that picture is hilarious. I love it!
#28 {{{Gladys}}}
To our new posters: Welcome!! Nice to see some new “faces.” 🙂
Marlie & Sky and everyone else, hope to see you in chat!
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Abrra said
MT
You mean you had your first Abrra dream? Scary! 😉
Abrra
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MT said
Abrra,
LOL Yep! You were there. 🙂
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skydancer1x said
haha MT and Abrra, you two!
MT I remember that dream you had!
“First, like your aunt, I’m a dancer and it brought me a great deal of joy and happiness for many years.”
♥ I love that you danced,, and I bet you are a great dancer! I would love to see David interact with people on that stage when he returns, like he did with the kids on the MKOC tour. So heres a new dream for you…
You are up front, right by the stage, and David reaches out to pull you up on the stage, for a few salsa moves,while he is singing a spanish song ,at your first live David concert! 🙂
(and if Abrra♥ shows up in your dream again, she can operate the video camera)haha
35.CQ, thank you!
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Abrra said
Click to go there http://www.livestream.com/thevoiceunplugged
Abrra
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bebereader said
Sky,
I just love your article and the message it sends! I had to read it many times until I was able to get through it without tears. You succeeded in connecting ODD to a lesson you learned from your Aunt Madeline. And in doing so, your Aunt’s story validated our ODD. Thank you!
I keep in touch with a neighbor/friend from where I used to live in NYC. One day on the phone, she said that another neighbor asked her “Is Bebe still a fan of that Archuleta kid? *Sigh* Sometimes I don’t think the non-fans have anything against David. Instead, I think they are envious of the strong passion we have in our lives.
TX Nancy and Jeffrey, Happy Belated Birthday!
Welcome to the new posters and Welcome back to other familiar “faces”.
We are thrilled to have you onboard for the homestretch!
And just because…
credit LeeAnnWomackVevo
I hope you never lose your sense of wonder,
You get your fill to eat but always keep that hunger,
May you never take one single breath for granted,
God forbid love ever leave you empty handed,
I hope you still feel small when you stand beside the ocean,
Whenever one door closes I hope one more opens,
Promise me that you’ll give faith a fighting chance,
And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance.
I hope you dance… I hope you dance…
I hope you never fear those mountains in the distance,
Never settle for the path of least resistance,
Livin’ might mean takin’ chances, but they’re worth takin’,
Lovin’ might be a mistake, but it’s worth makin’,
Don’t let some Hell bent heart leave you bitter,
When you come close to sellin’ out reconsider,
Give the heavens above more than just a passing glance,
And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance.
I hope you dance… I hope you dance.
I hope you dance… I hope you dance.
(Time is a wheel in constant motion always rolling us along,
Tell me who wants to look back on their years
and wonder where those years have gone.)
I hope you still feel small when you stand beside the ocean,
Whenever one door closes I hope one more opens,
Promise me that you’ll give faith a fighting chance,
And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance.
Dance… I hope you dance.
I hope you dance… I hope you dance.
I hope you dance… I hope you dance.
(Time is a wheel in constant motion always rolling us along,
Tell me who wants to look back on their years
and wonder where those years have gone.)
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MT said
Sky,
You’re so funny. I am too chicken to dance with David, even in a dream. 🙂
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ascphil said
Hi, Sky! Thank you for this story and thanks for your comment at #29. I’m sorry that I requested to delete my earlier comment and am appreciative that you loved it. I just felt after posting it that the way I wrote it was not in keeping with the spirit of your inspiring article. I hope you don’t mind that I decided to re-write it lengthily this time:
I really appreciate everything you shared with us and I can totally relate with you. I have found immense joy in discovering who David is, but I have also experienced heartaches from being a middle-aged married female ODD fan, and it was particularly magnified when he was in Manila to do NA. We were beyond fortunate that he stayed here for several weeks. However, I had to restrain myself from accepting invites from fellow Archies to look for his location shoots after work. I thought that by confining my fan activities to the Saturday events (5 in all), I was tempering my ODD. Yet my family was weirded out that I attended too many DA events. The exhilaration of being where he was, seeing him and being near him was the highest point of those days, but there was only so much my family could take from my unusual fanship. It came to a point where I was treated like a kid being given an ultimatum for unacceptable behaviour. The last day I saw him was the most painful one for me, and the pain lingered throughout the weeks that NA was airing. You all won’t believe it, but I was not able to watch all the NA episodes. I resorted to watching them at the FOD site a day or days after they were shown. Some days during that time, I just didn’t turn on my laptop anymore. I had also turned off my ODD and slowly withdrew from being an Archie. I kept telling myself that ignorance is bliss, even if it wasn’t working. I felt so incomplete. But all those heartaches were erased the night before he left for his mission. It always goes back to something about him that unexpectedly strikes then calmly comforts me in times when I feel so low and alone. It happened as I belatedly watched his short haircut vlog — an unforgettable moment similar to previous significant ones, but it was so potent in convincing me not to give up on him. When the news came out that he finally left for his mission, I felt so much peace and was very happy for him. I have always felt that this mission was a break he really wanted and direly needed, and that it was the right time to do it.
In a way, I felt I also needed this break to recover and re-assess how to be a better fan without causing myself the same pain that I had just gone through. It helped that I involved my family in get-togethers with my Archie friends that weren’t just about David. We would have impromptu dinners, and watch movies and concerts together. We celebrated each other’s birthdays, and supported fund-raising and relief-giving activities for charities and recent disasters. I was able to do more sketches of David in the past year and even volunteered to join our company a capella choir for an inter-company competition last Christmas where we won first place! Yippee! I have also been having the time of my life watching concerts of other artists and musicals that have been coming to Manila. We’re enjoying great acts coming our way the past few years and I look forward to more of them in the next year or so. I have also been discovering amazing talents and enjoying their music immensely. Thanks to David’s spirit of appreciation and encouragement, it is a great time to live life to the fullest! Just like Kari tweeted, I am most ready for #DA2014! =D
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ascphil said
Hi, Jeffrey! You’re a Filipino! How great is that! Welcome, welcome to The Voice! Do you study in Manila? I would love to gift you David’s CDs. Please tell me how I can send them to you.
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Abrra said
Jeffery
If you will send your mailing address to me at thevoiceda@gmail.com I will make sure Ascphil gets it.
So very kind of your Anna 🙂
Abrra
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Jeffrey Cadungog said
really? then that would be nice. Thanks a lot. 🙂 are you also a Filipino?
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Jeffrey Cadungog said
Really? then that would be fine. Thanks a lot. Yes I do study there and fortunately, 1 semester to go and I’ll be graduating college… 🙂
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Suzy-Q said
Hugs to Gladys!!!! Yes, you belong here with us. We get David, we get each other, and we get you too. {: )
I have friends and relatives who know I am a big fan of David ask me. “How’s David”. I am not sure if they ask because they like to see my face light up or if they really want to know.
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ascphil said
Hi again, Jeffrey. Yes, I am. Thanks to Abrra, I got your contact info so fast. She told me you joined the chat earlier. So sorry to have missed it, but glad you were able to meet some of the posters here. They’re very special people. 🙂
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rooster said
jeffrey,tried to follow you on twitter,it was a no go, i have some david things i could gift you,if you don,t have them,abbra has a pic,if what ever ascphil doesn,t have maybe i do . welcome again ,rooster
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janhn said
Thank you for this story, Skydancer. It is written with so much heart! You honor Madeline, and now we all share her spirit and love of life!
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Abrra said
Janhn
Nice to see a new face 🙂
Abrra
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Angelica said
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Abrra said
#50 Ray
Try again. The follow button is there. https://twitter.com/jeffury0_0
Abrra
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bebereader said
Yes it’s working, Rooster. The Voice is now following Jeffrey on Twitter, too.
May I just add that Angelica’s artwork on this article is superb.
In fact, the top picture tell the story beautifully.
Welcome to The Voice, Janhn.
Happy to have you on board for the homestretch and beyond.
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bluesky said
“In a way, I felt I also needed this break to recover and re-assess how to be a better fan without causing myself the same pain that I had just gone through. It helped that I involved my family in get-togethers with my Archie friends that weren’t just about David. We would have impromptu dinners, and watch movies and concerts together. We celebrated each other’s birthdays, and supported fund-raising and relief-giving activities for charities and recent disasters. I was able to do more sketches of David in the past year and even volunteered to join our company a capella choir for an inter-company competition last Christmas where we won first place! Yippee! I have also been having the time of my life watching concerts of other artists and musicals that have been coming to Manila. We’re enjoying great acts coming our way the past few years and I look forward to more of them in the next year or so. I have also been discovering amazing talents and enjoying their music immensely. Thanks to David’s spirit of appreciation and encouragement, it is a great time to live life to the fullest!”
Dear Ascphil – I love everything about your comment. I could have copied the whole thing and reposted it.. but decided that the final paragraph was the most important. Why? Because it shows your courage, your resilience. You strove to build a new future instead of holding on to the past. You decided to make an extra effort with your family….. and succeeded! Maybe they do not appreciate DA any more than they did before, but I bet that they have a new appreciation for you. And you sound like you really enjoy life and people, so I am so very glad that you have found ways to experience and express that joy.
Big hug across the water. ((((((((hug)))))))
bluesky
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Jeffrey Cadungog said
#49 Yes they’re great. About the video chat yesterday, actually it’s my first time joining a video chat with persons I just met on the internet!! I never expected to welcome me that fast.
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skydancer1x said
I hope all of you had a wonderful day today!
aw Bebe♥ {{{hugs}}} love you, sis!
thank you for posting the video and lyrics to IHYD.(Now I am crying! )
Ascphil,so happy to see you back♥
thank you for sharing your story,with such beautiful,heartfelt honesty.{{{hugs}}}
And wow, all the wonderful things you have done in David’s absense! It must be so much fun to be in an acapella group..would love to hear more about that.:) you have filled your time in the most beautiful ways that I can think of, and I think you are.. amazing. (did you say more sketches of D? 🙂
Rooster:)
suzyQ
” I have friends and relatives who know I am a big fan of David ask me. “How’s David”. I am not sure if they ask because they like to see my face light up or if they really want to know.” haha I love that♥
Jeffrey,
It was so good to see you in chat! so happy that you jumped right in and joined the party!
51. Janhn♥ Welcome to The Voice!
thank you so much for your lovely comment.
Angelica, thank you for the beautiful artwork.
And thank you,Angelica,and Abrra,and Bebereader,and Djafan, for giving us all a place to share our love for David,and a place to share our hearts. Love you guys♥
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Jeffrey Cadungog said
yeah. Thanks to you. It was fun.! 🙂
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Angelica said
Sky, thank you so much for a beautiful read. When I first received this article, it gave me chills, especially when I began to recognize myself in Madeline. The magnificent Madeline within us all. The part of us that stubbornly refuses to let anyone steal our joy. Once you find it, if you’re lucky enough to find it, you hold onto it with a ferocity that amazes even yourself. So one day when a friend asked me why David Archuleta, I answered, “because he is pure joy.”
You always express yourself well (mostly hilariously) in comments here and in chat and in your previous two articles. So I was a little surprised to receive something so profoundly moving and personal from you. This is your best work and one of the best articles we have ever published for the site and as an essay, could hold its own in any publication online or off. I hope you keep writing and dancing.
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MT said
Sky,
haha After your “dream” scenario, I just had to go look for this. 😉
Enjoy!
credit: Sayu Jonas
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MT said
Have you guys seen the gif in the top right corner of Snowangelz page today? I wish I could bring it here. The.Perfect.Outfit.
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Angelica said
Thanks for the find MT! And thanks rhiminee!
Abrra we must steal this and put it on our sidebar also. Are you up for it?
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tawna21 said
#63!!!!!!! that..hip..swagger..is..killing..me!!!!! waist to hip — I should try it, it might create a loss of some inches around the waist— wouldn’t look as good as when David is doing it — nope! 🙂
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djafan said
Sky, I first want to apologize for being late to comment. Your beautifully written story brought me to tears. It has been a rough road to get to this point because those who don’t understand what we feel. Sometimes to the detriment of existing relationships that not only don’t understand but that ridicule us. For you to have had a role model that knew how to live with joy even if it meant to be misunderstood is a great blessing. And you have a beautiful ring to symbolize that having joy in ones life is worth it. Thank you for sharing with us.
Angelica, You’re beautiful artwork never fails to compliment the wonderful articles.
I want to welcome the new names I see as I scroll down the thread. Please continue to comment, it’s much appreciated.
And what a thread this is. So many beautiful comments. I sometimes wonder if David knows the depth of this devotion to him and how much he is missed. Like Edith said, “not only for your voice but also for his person.” It may sound strange to some but it makes perfect sense to me and I’m so happy I’m in the midst of like minded friends. Thank you all for your patience and for sticking around during this wait that has been tough at times. Four months left on the sidebar, we’re almost there!
Angelica, The gif of David’s walk back to us is on the right side bar below the “I’ll be back” sign 🙂 Thank you rhiminee.
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Gayle122890 said
Skydancer, I love your beautiful article. Madeline was some special lady. Thank you for the support and encouragement your writing provides for our unusual but wonderful obsession for one David Archuleta. It’s not a bad thing by any means. The essence of David is what attracts each one of us. It’s something that gets in you and with such a wonderful positive energy brings out good things in us. Some, we didn’t even knows we had. It’s who he is. There are different kinds of love. Love for God, love for spouse or sweetheart, love for children, love for family, love for friends. To all those I added a new kind of love I never imagined I could experience: Love for an endearing young man to whom although he doesn’t know me, there is an undeniable connection to somehow. All of us here have that connection, but others in our lives don’t. It’s not a bad thing. It is what it is. I am so thankful for The Voice and all the beautiful ladies that run it. Just as Gladys has, I have found a home here. ❤. It is awesome to see so many new names! Hello, and welcome! 🙂
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Archielety said
The reason I quit my last job because of my ODD. MY ex boss was talking behind my back, telling all kind of lies about me liking david..She also made fun of me to her friends and customers. I got tired of her mocking me behind my back. I decided its time for me to stand up for myself and not be afraid of her. I been working for her for 15yrs kissing her ass!!! I decided I don’t need this negative life and it’s time to move on, “ALL I CAN SAY I MUCH HAPPIER NOW AND DAVID HELP’S ME TO OPEN MY EYES. I’M NOW ABLE TO STAND UP FOR MYSELF AND DEFEND MYSELF!!” Being a fan of david is a blessing to me because I learn how to use the computer, I realize my family is important to me,I learn how to say NO if necessary, accept myself and my failures( I’m no longer afraid). I believe there is a reason why we became a fan.
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Archielety said
The most valuable lesson I learned from him is to accept myself( I need to be me) do what I feel is important to me and what makes me happy because no one does.
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mrJeff said
Thanks Ms. Djafan and Ms. Gayle. The guys here are great. I didn’t expect that they will welcome me that easy. Hoping to more about you all and of Mr. David. 🙂
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marlie7 said
Reading some of the comments above, my heart breaks for the pain and embarrassment some of you have felt from people around you regarding your ODD. I have developed a “who cares what you think?” attitude about it, although I, too, at first felt very hurt and struggled with that kind of treatment.
But I’ve found over time that the more I don’t care what they think, the less they seem to want to make it a big deal. It’s not satisfying to tease me when I don’t blush or respond with anything but laughter, and a “you bet – he’s amazing!”
Often I’ll counter with, “And is it the same for Nascar fans who go to every race, spend thousands traveling to different tracks and hang flags outside their houses for their favorite driver? Are they a little off?”
“Or how about people who craft their entire winter around football…some even going to extremes to paint their faces and bodies their team’s colors. Are they a little weird? And why would any of us care what makes people happy. Those fans have fun and so do I?”
As for my family, I’m lucky to have a husband who indulges me my ODD, with as much laughter as I do. Some of you may get to meet him for that first, big concert in 2014. 🙂
Regardless of how people are, just know you are in good company and that there are literally thousands of us who understand, who get you, who know what it feels like to have your heart soar out of your chest when David sings. We are here and at TDC and at FOD and Snowangels and many more sites, sharing the joy.
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Jeffrey Cadungog said
marlie>> It’s ok. I do that sometimes. You’re lucky. :))
I do listen through my earphones in our classroom and singing along with the song and some of my classmates just look at me strangely.. And when I’m with my friends, I can’t play it loudly because they will just say “What song is that?” and they will play another song more louder that is more “popular” or “trendy” so I just indulge DA’s music myself..
I think I don’t have to be in with the different fan clubs because I just love meeting friends, knowing more about them and David, and sharing the happiness I feel through David’s songs.. I think in that way, we’re all united.
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fenfan said
Sky – I love your article. Just half way through and I was sniffing and tearing. Your Aunt Madeline was one spunky woman. David would have loved her.
My friends and family know I am a big fan because of the “crazy” things I have done – jostling with thousands of screaming people at a shopping mall, flying to Manila, practically begging for an invitation to a showcase – just to see David. They just don’t know I have this thing called ODD. If they did they might get me committed! LOL
That gif at #63!!!!! OMG
#62 MT “The.Perfect.Outfit.” Spot on!
#64 Tawna – I gave it a go. I almost twisted my waist. hahaha!!
OK I need to go look at that again.
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Abrra said
Sky
Thanks for a heart warming story about your Aunt Madeline. She was fortunate to have found something she loved doing in her latter years.
” I opened the long neglected box that contained the lovely ring that Auntie Madeline had given me. I removed it, and slipped it onto my finger. To my surprise, it fit perfectly, years after I had put it away.”
Sometimes we don’t make decisions but they are made for us from another place. I am convinced that Aunt Madeline’s spirit was watching over you all this time, She knew how much you could relate to her ODD-type experience. The ring is now a positive reminder that it’s okay to hold something or someone special in your heart.
Abrra
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Jeffrey Cadungog said
Abbra>> I really like your comment at #73. :))
I think Aunt Madeline is very happy and satisfied for she lived and never gave up for her passion..
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ascphil said
#50. Rooster,
You’re so sweet to offer Jeffrey more David things. I hope I don’t disappoint him. I’d be so envious of him if he gets stuff from you that I don’t have, haha! Jk
#55. Bebe, I so agree with you! Angelica’s artwork is always so amazing! I wish I had her skills with digital artwork. I just love how she made David’s signature D wrap around the word ‘Dance’. ❤
#56. Bluesky,
Thank you for your lovely and oh so gracious comment. It means a lot to me coming from you. I have to tell you that you are a great influence on me. I am so grateful to you for introducing me to The Piano Guys. I absolutely love them! I felt so blessed that they came to perform in Manila last September 7th. I just had to bring my whole family to watch them. They all are incredibly talented, witty and possess a fantastic sense of humor. We gave them two long encores! I follow them on Twitter and sent them a shout out tweet after the show. A few days after, I got an email that they followed me back!!! Hoohaaa!!! I DM'ed them that I hope they collaborate with David when he gets back from his mission. I'm crossing my fingers that they seriously consider it. =D
And a much bigger hug to you with all my heart! {{{{{{HUG}}}}}}
#57. Jeffrey,
I'm so glad you came to The Voice and immediately joined the chat. The admins and all the posters here are always very warm and friendly, especially to new 'faces'. I love their tradition of immediately welcoming new commenters with a David pic greeting. It's as if it was David himself welcoming you to the Archufamily. =D
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ascphil said
#58. Sky,
{{{Hugs}}} to you, too! I’m very happy to be back. =D Your article made me pour out what I’ve been keeping inside for so long. It’s so cathartic to finally let it all out, especially to kindred spirits who understand. Thank you for your wonderfully well-written story and to your fabulous Aunt Madeline. She makes me want to rekindle my love for dance. 🙂
I have another confession: When I was a little girl, I wanted to be a ballerina, but my parents couldn’t afford to pay for ballet classes. Up to this day, I occasionally have dreams (in my sleep, of course) of running through wide open fields, dancing, whirling and prancing to my heart’s content. The closest I came to having dance class was in college for PE. An elective was Modern Dance but only for one semester. My teacher was already in her sixties but she was still very lithe and graceful. She asked us to say something about ourselves at the start of the class, and I told her that I was a frustrated ballerina. She gave me the best encouragement at the end of the term – a perfect 1.0 grade. But there was no opportunity for me to pursue dance at that time. I also went thru the rest of college hoping to join the university choir, but my classes were always in conflict with their rehearsals. Nonetheless, I enjoyed college because my classmates were very musical and managed to have impromptu jam sessions during times when our professors didn’t show up. We even managed to join a parish choir while working on a thesis! Ah, those were the good old days…
And that is why I joined our company choir last Christmas because A Capella was the theme for the annual competition. I realized that it is one of the joys of my youth that I had been sorely missing for such a long, long time. David reminded me so much of those blissful times. I would love to share my experience, especially because I was the oldest in a predominantly group of yuppies, but I have already exceeded my quota on the comments box space, haha! All I can say is that I wish I could do it all over again. Unfortunately, the company Christmas party theme for this year is Glam Rock. Shucks, not my genre!
And yes, I did mention that I managed to do a few more sketches of David last year. Drawing him was my therapy in trying to not miss him so much. It worked wonders for me! I tweeted one early this year and a couple of them were featured in FOD a few months ago. Do you wanna see them?
#73. Abrra,
What a great find! Where was that? Gosh that guy can steal so many hearts with just a simple peace sign and the biggest sheepish grin (I think that’s what it’s called, isn’t it?) 🙂
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MT said
Tawna,
LOL Love that walk. Head up, shoulders straight, long strides, smiling … Lots of confidence in that walk!
Who needs a swagger coach? He’s got that down already.
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MT said
PS He should wear that outfit every day …. forever.
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Angelica said
Ascphil, yes. We want to see them. Please send to me or The Voice.
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bluesky4home said
Ascphil:
Yes! I do believe that DA is going to find a whole new way to interface with the public when he comes back. Artists like The Piano Guys, Lindsey Sterling, and many others are using the new media to spread the word about who they are and what they do. These are young ways, new means, and he will (I believe) be willing to explore all the options. As part of all that, I would certainly not be opposed to a collaboration or two, or three! There are some great videographers now who are very good at the whole “you tube arena” and who are really good at pushing the boundaries that used to separate us from the artistic product.
No enthusiasm on my part….. (*sigh*) ……..as you can tell!!!!!!!! DA… get. your. camera. ready. We and the world are waiting.
(Please… to all the good fairies who made this temptable vehicle of sound in the first place: “Put a note under his pillow.”)
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Jeffrey Cadungog said
guys do you know gladys? I had a videochat with her yesterday in the livestream and she’s great because she tries her best to learn English and she even use Google Translator (what a great idea!!) She even taught me some Spanish..
ascphil>> hahaha. And they’re funny. 😀
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skydancer1x said
Yea! crazy day,but finally got here. That GIF, I likey! Boy, thats a really good one.
Ascphil♥ yes indeed,like Angelica said ,want to see those pics!
Love your confession about wanting to be a ballerina:) Thats so funny you mentioned the Modern Dance and P.E. I remember that being a part of our PE class curriculum, in high school here in the States, perhaps to introduce us to it. I loved it.
haha you are funny “frustrated ballerina” well, you sure did well,a 1.0! Dance is so good for the body.
Jeffrey, “I think Aunt Madeline is very happy and satisfied for she lived and never gave up for her passion..” ♥Jeffrey, I believe that with all my heart♥:)
Abrra♥ “Sometimes we don’t make decisions but they are made for us from another place. I am convinced that Aunt Madeline’s spirit was watching over you all this time, She knew how much you could relate to her ODD-type experience. The ring is now a positive reminder that it’s okay to hold something or someone special in your heart.”
ohhhh Abrra! when I pulled out that ring that day…I absolutely felt her spirit. I don’t think I have mentioned this, but Madeline was not only my Auntie, she was also my Godmother♥ ….love you.
Fen, haha!Thank you .she absolutely, was spunky.My Uncle never could keep up with her:)
I love spunky, and crazy, and all that you are,fen♥ hahaha that GIF!
you and MT and Tawna have me rolling on the floor here.
MT, I love that video of D and his mom
Bluesky, Please… to all the good fairies who made this temptable vehicle of sound in the first place: “Put a note under his pillow.”) YES! HAHAHA! Pleeeeeease!
67.Archielety, (love that name btw) hello,and welcome!
David, says so much,by just being David.
Marlie,you make a great point…..NASCAR just had a race here yesterday practically in my backyard! haha
your hubby sounds like a gem! Hey, if you can’t beat em, join em.smart guy♥
Dja♥
being together has sure made all the difference in the wait.I get butterflies NOW thinking about how close we are getting.
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Angelica said
“ALL I CAN SAY I MUCH HAPPIER NOW AND DAVID HELP’S ME TO OPEN MY EYES. I’M NOW ABLE TO STAND UP FOR MYSELF AND DEFEND MYSELF!!” Being a fan of david is a blessing to me because I learn how to use the computer, I realize my family is important to me,I learn how to say NO if necessary, accept myself and my failures( I’m no longer afraid). I believe there is a reason why we became a fan.”
I love your spunk!
Jeff, do we know Gladys? Yes we know her and love her a lot! Glad you found out how awesome she is too.
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angelofdja said
Regarding comment #44 Could admins PLEASE delete? Personal reasons. Thanks a lot!
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Archielety said
Angelica- Thank You:)
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skydancer1x said
♥♥♥Angelica♥♥♥,
, “especially when I began to recognize myself in Madeline The magnificent Madeline within us all. The part of us that stubbornly refuses to let anyone steal our joy. Once you find it, if you’re lucky enough to find it, you hold onto it with a ferocity that amazes even yourself.”
{{{hugs}}}
Finding it difficult to find the words ,to express what your lovely comment means to me, Just thank you, from the bottom of my heart.♥ Love you.
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bluesky4home said
Skydancer… I “ditto” what Angelica said. You have a great talent. Please keep doing what you love. It blesses us all.
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jans11 said
Love seeing all the excitement from the newcomers! ♥ Welcome to the Voice! ♥
#DA2014
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Jeffrey Cadungog said
Thanks Ma’am Jans. Actually, I’m excited for David to be back and hear him sing.!! I think 4 months is just too short.. 🙂
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jans11 said
You are so welcome, Jeff! For you to hear David sing live will be one of the best times of your life! Believe me, he is so awesome! We can’t wait! 🙂 I’ve seen him live 8 times and each time can’t wait til the next! 🙂 Yes, I have ODD! 🙂
#28 Sky, for some reason I missed this, “Jan ♥ I just love you,and your spunky self ! You have a great energy,so positive,and you always make me smile”. Thanks so much for your kind words. ♥ Hope to meet you next yr sometime. I have met some on here, but hope to meet the rest next yr!
#DA2014
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Jeffrey Cadungog said
:). I do hope he can come again to Philippines to have a concert. and I’ll try my best to be able to go there.. Hope school is not on the way. lol
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ascphil said
#78. Angelica,
Done as requested! You’ve got mail! =D
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ascphil said
#90. Jeffrey,
I hope so,too! I think you’d be a graduate by then. So have faith. You’ll find a way to see him if he comes back to Manila! 😀
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ascphil said
#79. Bluesky4home,
Nah, no enthusiasm, can’t tell at all… 😀
Oh, yes, YES to this! -> “Artists like The Piano Guys, Lindsey Sterling, and many others are using the new media to spread the word about who they are and what they do. These are young ways, new means, and he will (I believe) be willing to explore all the options. As part of all that, I would certainly not be opposed to a collaboration or two, or three! There are some great videographers now who are very good at the whole “you tube arena” and who are really good at pushing the boundaries that used to separate us from the artistic product.”
The Piano Guys and Lindsay Stirling, both from Utah, have collaborated and they get millions of views on their own and even more combined. They both have superb videographers as part of their team. I also recently discovered an amazing a capella quintet who won The Sing-Off in 2011 named Pentatonix who have YT vids of covers that have gone viral. They have also collaborated with Lindsay Stirling and exceeded 40 million views with their cover of “Radioactive” by Imagine Dragons, the band which David watched in a rooftop venue in Utah (I believe he has a friend or friends in the band) when they were not yet so famous but are now doing so great. Can you see the connections and imagine what collaborations with them can do for David? Oh, I’m so excited for what could be!!! 😀
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djafan said
Ascphil, I’m having trouble containing my excitement lol
Jeffrey, You have met Gladys 🙂
What is David doing here????
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bluesky4home said
93 Ascphil
Normally (ahem) I am a pretty laid-back person. But …. inside I am jumping up and down with excitement. Squeeee city. Pretty much.
That is all I have to say about that.
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Abrra said
Dja
It goes like this. He is leaning forward on one foot. The speaker is at his feet.
The pants might be by “Bemjamin-Moore” 😎
Abrra
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rooster said
love you guys
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Abrra said
Rooster
“Cluck” ” Cluck”
Abrra
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tawna21 said
#94 and #96…. He’s singing at the Stadium of Fire in Provo, Utah
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tawna21 said
Dang, I pushed post too soon… I just wanted to welcome all the new comers here….. you’ve found the place to be if you want to bathe in ODD!! 🙂 The water is warm and the feelings are good!!
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Jeffrey Cadungog said
How are you Mr. rooster?
I thought he slipped in the picture in #94..
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Jeffrey Cadungog said
Tawna>> Thanks..
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Jeffrey Cadungog said
Oh! I almost forgot. To the one whom I requested my caramel popcorn I’m very sorry I can’t attend because today’s start of our classes and I’m at school when you’re cooking. 😦 Just save some for me for next time. hahaha. LoL ^_^
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bebereader said
Join us tonight for Nandito Ako chat!
10PM Eastern
credit TV5
What a voice!!!
I will be late but Abrra has kindly offered to be your host until I get there. Thank you, Abs!
Jeffrey, Sorry you can’t make it. See you next time!
http://www.livestream.com/saragirl
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skydancer1x said
“oh wow,cool bug!”
Bwaahaha Abrra! “Benjamin Moore” pants
(look at the way he’s swinging that microphone back, hes in full action mode.)
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Jeffrey Cadungog said
Bebereader>>> i’m gonna start watching first.
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bebereader said
Jeffrey,
Although we gather together on Tuesdays, the room is open 24/7 so you can watch any time. 🙂
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Dayzee said
Sky, thank you for introducing us to your fabulous auntie. So nice that she found something to give her joy. So much joy that the criticism of others was ineffective. When I picture her in my mind she is wearing a tremendous smile.
Jeffrey, we do know Gladys. As a student you might be interested to know she is writing a thesis on David’s apparel. She studies the Benjamin Moore aspect of his wardrobe. Because the subject has so captivated her, she plans to study this topic for a long time, bringing us to believe the actual thesis may never be written. Just kidding of course. We all love Gladys!
So nice to see new folks joining in. Excitement is contagious.
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djafan said
People, I have so loved everyone’s comments, sharing your thoughts, feelings, and joy with us is so heartwarming. And we’re all here because of David Archuleta, wow. He seems to have purposely been placed in our lives, how else can we explain all this?! lol
“So nice to see new folks joining in. Excitement is contagious.”
If this is any indication of things to come upon David’s return boy hold on tight because the ride is going to intensify!!!!
Thanks, Abrra. Mckenzie had tweeted me but hadn’t had time to explain 🙂
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skydancer1x said
108. Dayzee♥,ROFL!! hahaha!
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Kaycee said
Sky…I am so late to the party, but better late than never! What a beautiful, heartwarming article! As evidenced by all the wonderful comments, it struck a note with so many of us. *Raises glass* To the Madeline in all of us!
I particularly loved the words in this paragraph: “She didn’t sit on the sidelines. She danced until she no longer was able. She plunged in, full steam ahead, and did what gave her so much joy, despite being ridiculed by some because of her “age.” She followed her heart, and her passion, abandoning worry about those who thought she was wasting her time and her money. She didn’t let others opinions of her matter.”
It struck me that those words could so perfectly fit David as well: “He didn’t sit on the sidelines. He sang until he no longer was able. He plunged in, full steam ahead, and did what gave him so much joy, despite being ridiculed by some because of his clean image/inexperience/shy nature/you name it! He followed his heart, and his passion, abandoning worry about those who thought he was wasting his time and his money. He didn’t let others opinions of him matter.”
And I especially loved: “I believe David sees our hearts, not our wrinkles.”
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Jeffrey Cadungog said
Yes Gladys is an amazing girl.
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fenfan said
#108 Dayzee ROFL!!!! I miss discussing Gladys’ thesis. I don’t suppose she has been able to make much progress since empirical evidence is sorely lacking at the moment.
About Benjamin Moore – I thought that was a brand of pants until I googled it. LOL
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Abrra said
Fenfan
I guess we are even now on cultural euphemisms. 😉
Abrra
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ascphil said
#94. Djafan
Me, too! 🙂
#95. Bluesky4home
Am known to be just like you, too (ahem).
(squeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!)
#111. Kaycee
I agree with you! That is my most fave part of Sky’s story. Clinched it for me big time!
#112. Jeffrey
Gladys is more than amazing. Love her to bits.
#113. Fenfan
(goes to google “Benjamin Moore”) Chuckle! 🙂
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skydancer1x said
The Fire Marshall’s (finally)just finished testing my building’s fire alarms.Such a piercing noise! Grabbed my iphone and headset and sat outside, and let David’s voice sooth my last nerve,Once again,David saves the day:)
111.Kaycee!! heyyyy! wow, I love that. ♥David♥
“He didn’t sit on the sidelines. He sang until he no longer was able. He plunged in, full steam ahead, and did what gave him so much joy, despite being ridiculed by some because of his clean image/inexperience/shy nature/you name it! He followed his heart, and his passion, abandoning worry about those who thought he was wasting his time and his money. He didn’t let others opinions of him matter.”
so true Kaycee,so true.
113. Fen, “oh no you d-in’t ! hahahaha!
Ascphil,, “Can you see the connections and imagine what collaborations with them can do for David? Oh, I’m so excited for what could be!!!”
oh wow,you,and Bluesky and Dja all have me sitting here squeeeeeing! So much happening ,I want him to hurry up and get back here!! It really is going to be an exciting year for D. I can just feel it!
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Jeffrey Cadungog said
#113 Fenfan I also thought the same way and I searched about it on Google and it made me think a lot of things. LoL
#116 hahaha. Every time I go to school, an earphone with my playlist of David songs in my cellphone saves my ears to the annoying noise of traffic and sometimes I also sing along with it.
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Jeffrey Cadungog said
I just received ascphil’s package! Unbelievable!! I really appreciated it. You Archies love me so much! LoL. :))
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fenfan said
#114 Abrra I guess we are! hahaha
#116 Sky Yes I did. Abrra made me. lol
#115 Ascphil #117 Jeffrey What would we do without google??? lol
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ascphil said
#118. Jeffrey,
You got them! Yippee!!! =D
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poof said
There is quite the storm going on outside my kitchen window; both wind and rain.
Had a thought in the night; I have never liked ODD (Obsessive David Disorder). Disorder, are you kidding? There is nothing out of order in my Devotion to this young man. From now on I have ODD (Obsessive David Devotion) LOL
Thanks for a lovely post and for everyone’s thoughts. A great way to sit out a storm.
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Abrra said
Poof
That’s a nice way to look at it. However, it is a disorder because-THERE IS NO CURE 😉
Abrra
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Suzy-Q said
93. Ascphil, I went to a “Piano Guys” concert last night in Atlanta. They were even more awesome than I expected and they are hilarious too. I agree with you about using Youtube to promote their music, along with Lindsey Stirling and Alex Boye’. They all have the best photographers and video makers. I hope that David uses one of the ones that they hire. It would do a lot for his career. They bring something new to the scene that is addictive to watch.
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bebereader said
Good Afternoon 🙂
Please leave a comment on David’s official site for the “Heaven” video from Singapore!
http://davidarchuleta.com/home/?p=5695
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skydancer1x said
Good evening!
Will do Bebe, with pleasure 🙂
Please all our friends in Manilla and the Philippines, know that we are thinking of you with the huge typhoon!
Please be safe and let us know as soon as you can you are okay. Keeping you all in our prayers.♥
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Abrra said
Mailing deadline for Christmas and Birthday items is November 25th. Send all mail to:
David Archuleta
P.O. Box 4297
Apopka, FL 32704
USA
credit FOD
Abrra
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Jeffrey Cadungog said
A while ago was the worst day yet amazing day ever.! At the bank, the line was long!! It took me hours in the line to pay for the entrance exam of my sister. All the people in the line are annoyed (including me) and just murmuring their concerns and it’s a pain in my head. Thank God I brought my cellphone and my earphone and listened to David’s songs and singing along with it ALOUD inside the bank and it made me forgot the time that I also forgotten my medication and my LUNCH!!. Then when I went out of the bank, the guard looked at me strangely and just laughed at myself when I rode jeepney going home.
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Jeffrey Cadungog said
I just watch the live stream and I almost cried when David talks about “starting over again” after his church mission..
At the back of my I was thinking “Yes, you have us!! Ever since, we loved every music you made and when you come back, we can’t wait for something greater than the songs you’ve written/sang before. I think your fans also “leveled up” (LoL) because even you without the industry right now, they still cling and believe that you are far more greater than the other artists they had ever met and I think it’s because of you and your music CHANGED THEM A LOT.”
David, don’t hesitate to call us when you come back. WE’RE here to listen to ALL of your thoughts and music.. :)))
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ascphil said
#123. Suzy-Q,
Aren’t they wonderful? So happy that you were able to experience their live performance. They share many similarities with David in using their music to uplift and inspire. This is why I hope they seek each other out and do great music together when David gets back into the thick of things. I’m so looking forward to #DA2014!!!
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