Anastasia

Eurovision Song Contest 2013 - Malmö, Sweden - The Grand Final

2013-05-19T14:44:24+03:00

The 58th Grand Final of the Eurovision Song Contest was held last night at the Malmö, Arena Sweden and was broadcast live. More than 125 million people from all over the world watched the planet's biggest song contest. Beautiful 20-year-old Emmelie de Forest from Denmark won the contest with her song "Only Teardrops" scoring 281 points. That was one of my favourite songs. Emmelie, singing barefoot and sitting on the floor sang her heart out on stage and deeply touched Europe. She definitely deserved the first prize.

Although I had predicted that Greece would be in the top ten, I was pleasantly surprised to see that Agathonas and Koza Mostra scored 152 points and came sixth!

On the other hand, I was very disappointed to see that Bonnie Tyler came 19th although she did better than Engelbert Humperdinck last year. She gave a brilliant performance and her song "Believe in Me" was a magical rock ballad. I wonder...what went wrong? The final result was decided by a fifty-fifty split between professional juries and televoting from all 39 participants regardless of whether they had qualified for the Grand Final or not.

Bonnie Tyler sings Believe in Me for the UK

Photo Credit

Emmelie de Forest - The Winner

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The Malmo Arena

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The Greek Entry - Agathonas and Koza Mostra

Photo Credit

Here's how Europe voted:

Denmark: Emmelie de Forest, Only Teardrops - 281 points
Azerbaijan: Farid Mammadov, Hold Me - 234 points
Ukraine: Zlata Ognevich, Gravity - 214 points
Norway: Margaret Berger, I Feed You My Love - 191 points
Russia: Dina Garipova, What If - 174 points
Greece: Koza Mostra feat. Agathon Iakovidis, Alcohol Is Free - 152 points
Italy: Marco Mengoni, L'Essenziale - 126 points
Malta: Gianluca, Tomorrow - 120 points
Netherlands: Anouk, Birds - 114 points
Hungary: ByeAlex, Kedvesem - 84 points
Moldova: Aliona Moon, O mie - 71 points
Belgium: Roberto Bellarosa, Love Kills - 71 points
Romania: Cezar, It's My Life - 65 points
Sweden: Robin Stjernberg, You - 62 points
Georgia: Nodi Tatishvili and Sophie Gelovani, Waterfall - 50 points
Belarus: Alyona Lanskaya, Solayoh - 48 points
Iceland: Eythor Ingi, Eg a lif - 47 points
Armenia: Dorians, Lonely Planet - 41 points
UK: Bonnie Tyler, Believe In Me - 23 points
Estonia: Birgit, Et uus saaks alguse - 19 points
Germany: Cascada, Glorious - 18 points
Lithuania: Andrius Pojavis, Something - 17 points
France: Amandine Bourgeois, L'enfer et moi - 14 points
Finland: Krista Siegfrids, Marry Me - 13 points
Spain: ESDM, Contigo hasta el final - 8 points
Ireland: Ryan Dolan, Only Love Survives - 5 points

The host country, Sweden, went out of their way to offer the world a glamorous show and great entertainment. I would like to congratulate Sweden and the city of Malmö on this impeccable evening which started with an Olympic style flag march where the artists entered the Arena to the anthem We Write The Story, written by ABBA's Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus.The latest IT technology was used to give the show that ultimate touch of perfection.

Eurovision Song Contest 2013 - Malmö, Sweden - The Second Semi-Final

2013-05-17T21:01:20+03:00

The second semi-final of the Eurovision Song Contest 2013 took place last night and was aired live from Malmö, Sweden. The last 10 countries to go through to tomorrow's Grand Final are:

The Butterfly of the Swedish TV for Eurovision 2013 summarises the Eurovision spirit nicely. We are one in Europe.

- Hungary

- Azerbaijan

- Georgia

- Romania

- Norway

- Armenia

- Iceland

- Finland

- Malta

- Greece

Oh yes! I am so glad Greece made it through. It's an amazing song which I loved so much and deep down I knew it would qualify for the Final. Albania, Bulgaria, FYR Macedonia, Israel, San Marino and Switzerland all failed to make it through to the Final. Just like yesterday, my vote will go to Greece tomorrow but I also liked some other songs like the songs from Denmark, UK and Bonnie Tyler, Estonia and Malta. UK along with Germany, Italy, France, Spain and host nation Sweden automatically qualify for the Grand Final on Saturday, May 18 2013. And may the best be the winner.

Bonnie Tyler represents the UK with the song "Believe in Me" Isn't she ageless and divine?

Eurovision Song Contest 2013 - Malmö, Sweden - The First Semi-Final

2013-05-16T21:55:29+03:00

Being a Eurovision fan, I watched the first semi-final on Tuesday night. I wasn't surprised Cyprus did not make it to the Grand Final on Saturday. I hated both the song and the singer's poor performance. Despina Olympiou was simply miserable despite her effort to ...sing! The countries that got the ticket to the Grand Final are:

Estonia

Denmark

Russia

Ukraine

The Netherlands

Belgium

Belarus

Moldova

Ireland

Lithuania

In less than half-hour tonight, there's the second semi-final and I hope that Greece gets through because the Greek song is a hit! I love it! Good luck Agathona and Koza Mostra!

My Mother

2013-05-12T13:58:51+03:00

My mother and I don't always get along very well. More often than not, it seems that one of us is saying the wrong thing, presses the wrong buttons and, as a result, our conversations tend to be quite explosive! Yet, in our heart of hearts, we know that we love each other dearly. I always felt, though, that my dad could understand me more than any other person in the world - this is probably why I'll never get over his sudden death 10 years ago.

With my mum - Nicosia, September 1958

I've often had a rather strained relationship with my mother. She'd criticise almost everything - my hair, my clothes, my friends, my behaviour or attitude, my opinion on various issues, the way I decorate my flat, my flat in general - the list is endless! I strongly felt being under scrutiny and, as a result, I avoided sharing my secrets or troubles with her. On the other hand, I admit to my flaws. I'm kind of blunt and always speak my mind because I'd rather say something to somebody's face than behind their back. In other words, I'm not diplomatic! Our relationship improved a lot when I decided to see things from her point of view.

My mum - Christmas Eve 2004

I felt I could understand her better and eventually realised how much she cared and how wrong I was to pick on her. By appreciating the positive side of her character, I was able to connect with her and communicate much better. For example, she never meddled in my life, never made any comments whatsoever. On the contrary, she was a pattern of discretion. My mum is the sweetest and kindest person I've ever known. Despite her occasional criticisms, she's always been there for me offering her support in times of hardship and sharing my happiness in times of joy. Now I know that she's done an excellent job and I'll be forever thankful for all the sacrifices she's made for me and my brother.

On a summer holiday with my mother - August 2005

At 76 , my mum is an independent person, who lives on her own and has many hobbies and interests in her life such as going on day trips, cooking, reading, writing, charity, decorating to mention only a few. She's also the kindest person I've ever known. She always has a good word for everyone and when she can she helps others very willingly. I feel I owe her a lot - most importantly I owe her my life.

Easter With The Family in Greece

2013-05-10T16:46:49+03:00

Spending Easter with Alkis' family in Greece has always been a wonderful holiday to look forward to and a great family get-together. On Thursday, May 2, we flew to Thessaloniki feeling excited about meeting family and friends who we hadn't seen for a year. Thanasis, Alkis' youngest brother, picked us up at Macedonia Airport and drove us to Serres, Alkis' hometown, which lies at about 83 km from Thessaloniki. In about an hour, we arrived in Serres and checked in at Philippos Xenia Hotel - our favourite hotel in Serres. Soon after check-in, which was amazingly fast and efficient, we realised that we were starving as we only had a snack on the plane. Late lunch at Ouzomagies was very rewarding! I fast during the Holy Week and was pleasantly surprised to see the variety of lenten dishes available at the tavern. There's one thing I regret, though. I was so hungry that I forgot to take photos of all the great food we had there. Later in the evening we had dinner at the hotel's splendid roof garden restaurant with Zoe - Thanasis' daughter - her husband Stratos and their beautiful daughters - six-year-old Maria who's already been to Primary School and can read very well and four-year-old Alkistis, our goddaughter.

The Tower in Thessaloniki

This is what we woke to the following morning.

Serres

At Philippos Xenia Hotel, we had a beautiful, spacious room overlooking the back yard. This was only a small part of the evergreen city of Serres. We rented a car and soon after breakfast we explored the surrounding countryside. Serres boasts the most beautiful countryside in Northern Greece, off the beaten track. The park at Eleftherias Square in the city centre matches the beauty of the country. We enjoyed coffee and bougatsa there and just before lunch an ouzomeze

Serres

Alkis in his hometown Serres

Serres - City Centre

The Archaeological Museum in Serres

Ai Yiannis - Serres

On Easter Day, May 5, we had the perfect traditional Greek Easter lunch at Gazoros - a small village at about 25 km from the city of Serres. Thanasis proved to be a master at making the traditional ovelias- lamb on the spit. Alkis was just a ...sous-chef (under-chef) and was only trying to help! The result was simply delicious!

Thanasis, my brother-in-law, cooking ovelias - lamb on the spit

Ovelias and Thanasis

Thanasis - Just Perfect..or not?

Some more ...cooking

what a feast!

The Lamb!

Alkis as a sous-chef was only trying to help!

The two brothers have finally agreed that the Easter Lamb is...just perfect!

Alkis and his nephew, Konstantinos

The Family

On Easter Monday, we left Serres for beautiful Thessaloniki - also known as the nymph of Thermaikos. We stayed at Macedonia Palace Hotel which we didn't really like and regretted not booking Electra Palace, but we got better prices at Macedonia Palace. We got a double room for €100 a day vs €170 at Electra but it wasn't good value for money, anyway. However, this did not spoil our holiday. We'll simply not go back again!

Macedonia Palace

Alkis and I walked along Nikis Avenue to Aristotelous Square and had a great dinner just the two of us at Roumeli Tavern by Athonos Square. Walking back to the hotel was an invigorating experience after all the great food we had there.

A Stroll in Thessaloniki

Dinner at Roumeli Tavern

Roumeli Taverna - Athonos- Thessaloniki

On Easter Tuesday, we were invited for lunch by our great friends Irini and Stelios at Scholari - situated at about 25km from Thessaloniki . This is where I met Aspa - a wonderful person who I consider to be a wonderful friend now, even though I've only known her for a few hours!

Stelios, Irini, Me, Aspa and Asterios

Stelios, Alkis, Asterios

We had such a great time there and enjoyed it so much. Irini proved to be a top chef but we also loved the men's cooking,... like the baby goat on the spit. I know Stelios contributed a lot but my congratulations go to Asterios! Believe it or not, we had a huge dinner at Anestis Tavern in Perea, Thessaloniki. We were invited by Antonis - Alkis' cousin - and his wife Irini. And we still had a lot to eat and drink.

Macedonia Palace

Wednesday morning was shopping day. Thessaloniki made me reconsider shopping in Athens! In the evening, we had another great dinner at Roumeli Tavern with Antonis and Irini.

Alkis in Thessaloniki

A few years ago, I was quite reluctant to spend Easter with Alkis's family in Greece. I thought I'd feel a stranger being from Cyprus. But his wonderful family made me feel I'm part of them. I would like to thank everyone for their wonderful hospitality and for making me feel at home.

Χριστός Ανέστη! - Christ is Risen from the Dead!

2013-05-05T07:54:00+03:00

Transliteration

Christos Anesti ek nekron, thanato thanaton patisas, kai tis en tis mnimasi zoin harisamenos.

English

Christ is risen from the dead, trampling down death by death, and to those in the tombs, granting life.

via Christianity

Holy Sarturday - The Resurrection Hymns

2013-05-04T23:59:00+03:00

On Saturday midnight, the life-giving Resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is celebrated. Before midnight, the Odes of Lamentation of the previous day are repeated. The Orthros of the Resurrection begins in complete darkness. The priest takes light from the vigil light and gives it to the faithful, who are holding candles. The priest sings: "Come ye and receive light from the unwaning life, and glorify Christ, who arose from the dead," and all the people join him in singing this hymn again and again. From this moment, every Christian holds the Easter candle as a symbol of his vivid, deep faith in the Resurrection of Jesus Christ as Savior. In many churches, the priest leads the people outside the church, where he reads the Gospel which refers to the Angel's statement: "He is Risen; He is not here." (Mark 16:1-8)

Then comes the breathless moment as the people wait for the priest to start the hymn of Resurrection, which they join him in singing, repeatedly: "Christ has Risen from the dead, by death trampling upon Death, and has bestowed life upon those in the tombs." From this moment, the entire service takes on a joyous Easter atmosphere. The hymns of the Odes and Praises of Resurrection which follow are of superb meaning and expression. The people confess, "It is the Day of Resurrection, let us be glorious, let us embrace one another and speak to those that hate us; let us forgive all things and so let us cry, Christ has arisen from the dead." By this hymn, they admit that love of one's fellowman is the solid foundation of the faith in the Resurrection of Christ.

The Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom is then officiated. At the end of the Liturgy, a part of the marvelous festival sermon of St. Chrysostom is read, which calls upon the people to "Take part in this fair and radiant festival. Let no one be fearful of death, for the death of the Savior has set us free...O Death, where is thy sting? O Hades, where is Thy victory? Christ is Risen and Thou art overthrown. To Him be glory and power from all ages to all ages."

via http://www.goarch.org/ourfaith/ourfaith8432

Holy Friday - The Passion - Epitaphios

2013-05-03T09:36:00+03:00

Holy Friday is a day of mourning, fasting and prayer. Friday morning services retell the story of Christ's passion with the addition of prophecies, psalms and hymns. These services or "Royal Hours" help us keep vigil at the side of the crucified Christ, and relate Jesus' suffering to our redemption. Friday morning service (The Apokathilosis) marks the beginning of Holy Saturday: During this service, the minister takes Christ's body from the Cross, wraps it in a white cloth and places it on the Altar as a sign of His burial by Joseph of Armiathea and Nikodimos. A cloth icon or shroud depicting Christ's sacred body, called the Epitaphios, is carried in procession and placed in a flowered bier that represents Christ's tomb. On Holy Friday evening, the Martins of Holy Saturday are chanted.

At this service we chant: The Hymns Of The Lamentations "Engomia"We lament Jesus' undeserved death for our salvation. With both sorrow and joy we chant the Lamentations (Praises) to Him who is symbolically buried, yet whom we already know is the risen Lord and Giver of Life. This service, the Epitaphios is taken in a candlelight procession around the church, "In a tomb they lay Thee O Christ the life. By Thy Death Thou has cast down the might of death and become the font of life for all the world"

This post was originally published on April 17, 2009

Holy Thursday - The Crucifixion

2013-05-02T09:16:00+03:00

To take away our sins, Christ willingly endured spitting, scourging, buffeting, scorn, mocking, and purple robe; the reed, sponge, vinegar, nails, spear, and above all, the Cross and Death. The confession from the cross of the penitent thief, crucified with Christ, is celebrated. This service is long, but its content is dramatic and deeply moving for the devout Christian. Participation in the prayers and the historical sequence of the events, as related in the Gospels and hymns, provides a vivid foundation for the great events yet to come. Following are the references of the "Twelve Gospel" readings of this service:

1. St. John 13:31 thru Ch. 18:1
2. St. John 18:1-29
3. St. Matthew 26:57-75
4. St. John 18:28 thru Ch. 19:16
5. St. Matthew 27:3-32
6. St. Mark 15:16-32
7. St. Matthew 27:33-54
8. St. Luke 23:32-49
9. St. John 19:38-42
10. St. Mark 15:43-47
11. St. John 19:38-42
12. St. Matthew 27:62-66

These readings relate the last instructions of Christ to His disciples, the prophecy of the drama of the Cross, the dramatic prayer of Christ and His new commandment. The day should be devoted to reading the "Gospel of the Testament" of Christ which He left for all men. The Church services during Holy Week re-enact the events of this Gospel.

After the reading of the fifth Gospel comes the procession with the Crucifix around the church, while the priest chants the 15th antiphon: "Today is hung upon the Tree, He Who did hang the land in the midst of the waters. A Crown of thorns crowns Him Who is King of Angels. He is wrapped about with the purple of mockery Who wrapped the Heavens with clouds. He received buffetings Who freed Adam in Jordan. He was transfixed with nails Who is the Bridegroom of the Church. He was pierced with a spear Who is the Son of the Virgin. We worship Thy Passion, O Christ. Show also unto us thy glorious Resurrection."

During the Procession, the faithful Christian kneels and prays for his spiritual welfare, imitating the thief on the Cross who confessed his faith and devotion to Christ. He then approaches and reverently kisses the Crucifix.

via http://www.goarch.org/ourfaith/ourfaith8432

Holy Wednesday - Holy Unction

2013-05-01T09:08:00+03:00

The sacred ceremony of the Mysterion of the Holy Unction takes place on this Wednesday evening, following an old custom. It is the evening of repentance, confession, and the remission of sins by the Lord, preparing the faithful to receive Holy Communion, usually the next day, Holy Thursday morning.

Holy Unction is the Mysterion for cleansing sins and renewing the body and the spirit of the faithful. Holy Unction is one of the seven Sacraments of the Church, and it has its origin in the practice of the early Church as recorded in the Epistle of James (5:14-15). At the end of the service, the priest anoints the people with Holy Oil, the visible carrier of the Grace of God.

via http://www.goarch.org/ourfaith/ourfaith8432