DAY 49: Sound of Music

As the week draws to an end, Sunday invites a tune of laziness into the home; the perfect time to unwind on the sofa, barring oneself from any physical or mental activity, and choosing to watch a Hollywood classic that conjures up all those wonderful childhood memories.

It was in 1965 when the world fell in love with The Sound of Music. The film, which starred Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer, captured the real life Von Trapp family's escape from Nazi-occupied Austria. Forty-seven years later, it remains one of the most popular movie musicals ever.

Julie Andrews portrayed Maria von Trapp, the nun-turned-governess who made clothes from curtains and won over her hard-to-please charges with music.

Five months before shooting began in Salzburg, The Sound of Music’s director Robert Wise set out to find seven perfect children to play the Von Trapp children. He interviewed more than 200 hopefuls, including a young Richard Dreyfuss, Kurt Russell and Mia Farrow.

In the hours before shooting, Robert cast the final members of the most popular family in cinematic history; forty-seven years later, some of the actors have families of their own and say they love watching the film with their children.

To be honest, I refrained from stepping out of the house today; work commitments have confined me to my desk while Julie Andrews and her onscreen family’s singing kept my motivation levels intact.  Admittedly, I escaped for a few minutes, but the disturbing sight of people trying to withdraw funds from cash points reminded me that Cyprus was on the verge of a suicidal bailout plan.

As developments continued following the Eurogroup’s decision to impose a haircut on deposits to agree to a bailout for the Cyprus economy, the House of Representatives plenary session that was due to convene today to vote on the relevant bill was postponed for Monday.

The atmosphere is choked up with a cloud of mixed emotion.  Most of the islanders are concerned that Cyprus’ bailout conditions will tarnish our reputation as an ideal investment destination.  Other Cypriots have decided to overlook this tidal wave, as the weekend’s carnival celebrations continue to dominate the street scene. 

There are, however, those concerned few who are anxious for the great loss of personal wealth; either way you look at it, Cyprus is on the verge of a financial war, and there’s nothing we can do about it.

Weight for me tomorrow. Paul

Paul Lambis is the author of “Where is Home?” – A journey of hilarious contrasts.  For more information on Paul Lambis, and to order his book online,
visit www.paul-lambis.com