Phantom Sounds Experienced by Hard-of-Hearing Individuals

 (please excuse errors in spelling and grammar - author is visually challenged.)   


Many Hard-of-Hearing (HOH) Individuals secretly experience phantom sounds most frequently in the form of voices, ethereal music, and others.  The most common of phantom sounds is what we have come to know as tinnitus (to most,  it translates to ringing in the ears).

      Hearing experts often describe this phenomena as non-psychiatric auditory hallucinations however and in keeping with the rather intimidating terminology, many HOH individuals live a life of "secrecy" for fear of disclosing the presence of this condition only to be  being labeled as "crazy". 

     This "secrecy" has been well-described in an article by Neil Bauman, PhD (article Tinnitus and Other Phantom Sounds") who shares the statement of a client saying "I was afraid I was going nuts.  I never said one word to anyone about the strange music I was hearing because I did not want them to think I was crazy."  Indeed, it is not uncommon for HOH individuals to be so intimidated by this condition they are fail to find the courage to admit they are hearing non-psychiatric auditory hallucinations.  This is a reflection my own personal history.

     Personally, after reading Dr. Neil Bauman's article "Tinnitus and other Phantom Sounds", I breathed a great sigh of relief that my phantom sound experiences did not reflect an onset of some type of dementia.  Actually the symptoms I sense as inward sounds to be kind and actually comforting.  I hear groups of people in conversation and this always has a soft, comfort energy energy and with a quite pleasant tone.....unfortunately,  no matter how hard I try, I cannot decipher the words that are spoken.  Additionally, sounds of classical music are not strange to these "phantom sounds" of my preference.

     Initially, convincing myself that these sounds were not a reality was a hard sell.

     To dampen the harshness of the term of these "non-psychiatric auditory hallucinations" HOH persons are more comfortable with describing their sound issues in various terms that eliminate the word hallucination.  The fact that the vast majority of people who experience auditory hallucinations hear some sort of phantom music or singing have caught the attention of  Dr. Neil Bauman who has dubbed the condition as "Musical Ear Syndrome, (MES)".   Others frequently refer to it as "musical tinnitus".

  Phantom Sounds are Not New

     Phantom sounds been around for a long time.  Only the name is currently challenged. As a sampling of the age of awareness is demonstrated by composer Robert Schumann experiencing phantom sounds towards the end of his life.  At night, he heard musical notes and believed that he heard an angelic choir singing to him.  He also heard the music of Beethoven and Schubert.  He jotted down the music in 1854 and called it the Theme.  He said he was taking dictations from Schubert's ghost.

Tinnitus vs. Phantom Sounds

     Once we throw out the idea psychiatric auditory hallucinations, we are still left with two basic kinds of phantoms sounds - tinnitus and MES sounds.

     Tinnitus sounds are single, simple (un-modulated) sounds such as ringing, buzzing, hissing, roaring, clicking, humming, rushing and kindred sounds.  In contrast the MES sounds include multiple and complex (modulated) sounds such as singing, music and voices.

Some Characteristics of People with Musical Ear Syndrome

     Not everyone hears phantom sounds however some of the characteristics common to those that do are as follows:

1.  Often the Person is Older.  I recall an incident when my aged Grandmother was admitted to hospital, she would share her phantom sounds with the nursing staff.  They reported this to my Mother that my Grandmother was showing signs of early dementia when in fact the manner in which she described these sounds were without doubt phantom, non-psychiatric hallucinations.

2.  This condition is more commonly reported in women than in men

3. Commonly the HOH individual is anxious, worried, stressed and/or depressed

4.  Most often the HOH person has a history of tinnitus

5.  Phantom sounds seem to come from a certain direction.
6.  Phantom sounds in combination with later life may cause individuals to act irrationally due to
     a self-need to hide or deny their condition.  O|n occasion one's minds make up totally
    illogical explanations and/or actions to try to fit what is heard into one's reality

Six Common Triggers of Phantom Sounds
1.  Anxiety/Stress and/or Worry
2.  Depression
3.  Constant Background Noise
4.  Brain Abnormalities such as seizures (as in temporal epilepsy), un-ruptured intracranial
     aneurysms, encephalitis etc.
5.  Medications - adverse effects
6.  Sensory deprivation, i.e. when one no longer hears music the brain creates this sound
    element

Eight Steps to Consider when Experiencing this Phenomena
1.  Seek Competent medical attention to rule out a brain disorder
2.  Learn about Phantom Sounds - knowledge is the path to peace and understanding and
      foresight
3.  Maintain an awareness of triggers
4.  Reduce anxiety levels
5.  Rule out medication side effects
6.  Enrich your Environment with Real Sounds
7.  Discover what works for you:  Become aware of anything you do that makes our phantom music and sounds fade away, or at least not be be so noticeable and intrusive.  Personally meditation is the key to my reduction of anxiety in the presence of phantom sounds.

Comment:  Thank you Dr. Neil Bauman for your writings on this subject....indeed, they have enhanced my personal comforts.

Nightingale

(please excuse spelling and grammar errors - author is visually compromised)


 

    

More Windows to Faulkenham History

Images have been painted with watercolour pigments (all with the exception of number 2).  Artist - Melanie Elliott
Author - Melanie Elliott
(please excuse spelling and grammar errors - artist is visually compromised)

1.

Right margin:   This image is that of the home of Albert Faulkenham and his wife Frances Jane Hannam (circa 1882).  Albert was the son of William James and Nora (nee McGraw/McGrathe/McGrath of Limerick, Ireland) Faulkenham of Chelsea, Queen's County, Nova Scotia.

The location of this home is on the West Dalhousie Road, Annapolis County, Nova Scotia

2.

Following, left margin:  Photograph of Debra Elizabeth Elliott and her Mother,

Francis Evelyn (nee Bent, Faulkenham) Elliott.  They stand at the  very occasion in which Frances's Grandparents, Albert and Frances Jane (nee Hannam), chose to build their new home...this was thelocation where Frances's Father, Forrester Hector Faulkenham would spend his childhood years.

3.

Right margin (above):  The home of Forrester Hector Faulkenham, son of Albert and Frances Jane Faulkenham.  This home was built in Bellisle, Annapolis County approximately 1915.  This was the home in which Frances Evelyn spent her childhood with her older sister, Dorothy,  younger brother, Charles and Mother Evelyn (nee nightingale) Faulkenham.

4.

Left margin (below):  47 Churchill Street, Bridgewater, Lunenburg County,  Nova Scotia, (circa 1945).  This image has been painted by memory, namely not a visual, on site art piece.

Norman Arthur Elliott, husband of Frances Evelyn Elliott built this home for their family of four children: Gerald Forrester Elliott, Melanie Patricia Elliott, Melodie Lynn Elliott and Debra Eliabeth Elliott.  The home remains a quaint 1940's design and its outstanding feature was that of a backyard of exception, a sun room and its out-of-doors landscape design focusing on the activities of the family and neighbourhood children. 

     This was the first home for Norman and Frances and an offer for the purchase of the home motivated Fran and Norm to build another home in a near-bye neighbourhood

 

   

5.

Right margin (below): 

circa mid 1950's.  The location of this home which was also built by Norman Arthur Elliott and wife Frances Evelyn (nee Faulkenham, Bent) Elliott was that of 121 Hillcrest Street, Bridgewater (approximately five blocks from their first home).  This home was sold after the passing of Frances in 2012.

Reflecting on the Lessons of Gouzenko Spy Trials - 1946

A crowd gathers at Ottawa courthouse - November 1946 - a hearing of activities of spy ring and the sentencing of participants including Squadron Leader F. W. Pound and RCAF officer Matt Simmins Nightingale.

On a routine day in 1946, Frances Evelyn Elliott (nee Faulkenham, Bent) retrieved the daily newspaper from the front step of the family home and in doing so immediately recognized the photo on the front cover as a gentleman who occupied an office next to her's while serving during WWII with the Department of Intelligence, RCAF in London..  The image was that of Squadron Leader F.W. Pound and the newspaper article clearly identified him as a wartime spy.  She recalled him as a quiet man who went about his assignments in a very reserved fashion.  The only words shared each day were a "Good Morning".  Considering the location, time and circumstance, Fran thought this not to be too unusual.

     The spy ring was disclosed in 1946 and those involved were detained while they (eight in number) waited sentencing.

In addition to Squadron Leader F. W. Pound was a Matt Simmins Nightingale (see photo).  After officials became aware of his activities, he and a (first name, unknown) Gerson, another co-conspirator,  were called to give evidence in similar cases deriving from alleged conspiracy but they refused to be sworn fearing that they would incriminate themselves even though the Canada Evidence Act required they answer.  Both were found to be in contempt of court and sentenced to three months in jail pursuant to common law.  An appeal was dismissed.

     In the process of gathering information pertaining to this individual, I have reason to wonder if this Matt Nightingale was indeed in the Nightingale lineage into which my Grandmother, Evelyn Nightingale was born.  I have discovered her brother Charles, had four children and one being a Matthew S. Nightingale.  The age range coincides with his activities.   In my research I have managed to ascertain that he was of British descent and an engineer.  He took residence in the US and acquired citizenship.  A few years later he entered Canada, took up Canadian citizenship and recruited into the Canadian Royal Canadian Air Force.

Keep posted for future findings:

Nightingale

Memories of CBC "MAN ALIVE" documentary Participation / a collection of letters

Image:  "The glory of God is living man" by St. Irenaeus of Lyons and depicted by Leonardo da Vinci

(please excuse spelling and grammar errors - author is visually challenged)

Behind the scenes of CBC, the daily Hotsheet for Thursday March 21, 1996 included the following:

"8.  MAN ALIVE - TWIN MYSTERY

     Tonight on Man Alive....the mystery of twins.  We know that they share physical characteristics but is there a psychic link between them as well?  Michael McIvor speaks with Melanie and Melodie Elliott, twins who live at opposite ends of the country but two share an emotional and spiritual bond that transcends both space and time.  Explore the mystery of twins tonight on Man Alive at 7:30 pm. on CBC." {Producer - Halya Kuchmij}

HOW DID THIS COME ABOUT?

     In 1991,  I wrote a story of a prophecy that our Grandmother shared with me -- one in which well-described the fact that my twin Melodie and I would be leading extraordinary lives.  I sent the article to the producer of the show "On the Road Again" and after several weeks I had reason to think it did not catch any one's attention and moved on to other stories as a regular contributor to a national newspaper that focused on the coping strategies and entrepreneurship of persons with disabilities.

     In late September 1995,  I received a phone call from personnel engaged in the production of the CBC Current Affair show "Man Alive".  The individual informed me that my article in which I had described a prophecy  had reached their department as it was deemed appropriate with their "Man Alive" weekly documentary.  I was asked if I would consider participating in a show on the topic of twins and gave confirmation that I would participate.  This was followed with a question of how the production crew could get in touch with my twin, Melodie for the purpose of asking for her participation.

     Reaching Melodie and Geoff was a feat in itself as they had left Nova Scotia a week before the call from CBC and were driving to Kingston, Ontario where Geoff would attend a reunion of Royal Military College peers.  They were traveling by a motor-home so it was any one's guess as to where they were as the last day of the reunion was scheduled for the day before an attempt to reach them.  Family in Nova Scotia were aware of their plans to visit with relatives in Branford, Ontario and after a scramble to find a phone number a message was left for Melodie and Geoff to call home.

Early that evening Mother received a call came from Branford, Ontario and informed Melodie of the opportunity of being a guest on the Man Alive show....a documentary with the focus of our rather extraordinary twin ties.

 In Mother's fax to myself, it was most evident that she shared the excitement of the moment.  She wrote, "I am so excited and pleased to hear your article came to light again after a few years!  We enjoyed reading it again.  Strange how things work out.  I hope we can contact Melodie before they leave Neil's -- we are sure they were planning to have a visit with them."

The image above is that of Melodie and Geoff visiting with Melodie's relatives in Branford.  Back row (from left to right) are cousin Gail, cousin Cheryl, Geoff, cousin Janet and her brother, cousin Neil.  Front row (right to left) - Melodie sits beside her Aunt Beryl {wife of our Mother's late brother Charles Faulkenham}.

(As I compose this blog, I am saddened by the recent news that cousin Cheryl has passed away due to chronic lung disease.  She is very much missed.)

Moving Forward:  After reaching Melodie we all had time to try and digest what was ahead of us, namely - a lot of research of the past and passing on thoughts and details we have never sat down to share.  I began putting together family photos and had several conversations with the individual in Toronto who was assigned the job of editor.

Mother was asked if she could give some thought to incidents that would blend into the focus of the documentary.  I was amazed at the significant stories and events she was able to pass on.  In one fax dated 12 October 1995, Mother wrote me with the following information:

"Dear Melanie:  A thought passed through my mind! 

 Do you realize that you and Melodie are responsible for your Dad being alive to this day?  The first time he was rescued was when he had his first heart attack and you both had come home upon hearing the news.  Melodie saw Father in hospital here in Bridgewater and insisted he be transferred to Halifax (a one-hour drive) and went with him in the ambulance.

The second time was just a few years ago and your Dad had an aneurysm repaired.  He was in the Intensive Care Unit and not doing well - when you saw him you recognized he was  having seizures and the nurses acted immediately.  We were asked to leave the room and you immediately (on your scooter) left the ward to seek out an Epilepsy Specialist  who you had treated you......your my purpose was to find him and ask if he would see Dad as fast as possible.   You found him in his office getting ready to go home for the day.....he immediately put aside his coat and went directly to see your Father.  Your Father would not have survived without his care.

Love Mum"

*******************

While Melodie and Geoff made their way across Canada in their motor-home, I was busy providing the show's Editor, Roma, with facts, personal history, family history, twin-related events, relationships, and much more.  The process became a daily activity in the provision of material for the show.

*******************

On 5 October 1995 - I responded to Roma on thoughts of "coping".

"Dear Roma: 

The effects of a brain injury left me with severe physical and cognitive disabilities.  The severity of difficulties necessitated my living in a personal-care setting.  In the words of a health care provider:  "with a great deal of perseverance, determination and quality professional guidance I now enjoy an independent lifestyle in her community .  I had  broken through barriers many deemed impossible. 

In my words: "It is my testimony that my past has given me the tools required to "cope"

- I am a product of a well-balanced childhood

- I was blessed with a good IQ which added to my ability to create alternative ways and means to achieve,

- I have been privileged to numerous quality life experiences,

- I have always been an individual who cannot accept "no" for an answer,

- I have seldom been intimidated by change,

- the characteristics of being stubborn, obsessive and having a lot of pride has served me well

- through the teachings of a health care provider in the field of neurorehabilitation, I have learned to turn a negative outcome around and find a positive experience,

- I have always been fortunate to have wonderful support persons in the wings,

- In more recent years, my memory deficit has on occasion been responsible for my forgetting some of the worst and more difficult times that have arisen from personal losses and disabilities, and

- I have learned by witnessing Melodie's journey - a journey in which coping has been her key.

     In the past it seems to hold true that once I have passed the grieving period of a loss I am able to put it aside and celebrate pre-accident memories.  Following that stage I experience a sense of challenge at taking stock of my abilities and set a goal that requires me to develop or re-develop a skill within my boundary of ability.

Melanie"

*********************

On October 1995 - I wrote Melodie and Geoff for the purpose of bringing them up to date upon their arrival home in Chilliwack:

"Hi, Melodie and Geoff:

     Before I go into this I am sure you are wanting to take a deep breath and just enjoy the presence and space of being home again.  This MAN ALIVE matter can wait until you are good and ready to take it on - if in fact that is what you want to do.  Whatever you do - don't feel pressured into this especially from this end as I am of two minds with it.  First it is good to get the publicity and other things such as awareness of toxic substances would come of it and on the other hand this filming will be exhausting and one hell of a lot of work and worry.

     I dropped Shirley Young (Dr. Peter's mother) and asked her for some words of wisdom.  She wrote back:

      "How exciting that the CBC MAN ALIVE show will be doing a story on the lives of the two amazing Elliott girls.  It will be an inspiration for everyone to see.  Peter and I talked about the fact that there was a great story to be told about the human spirit and I am covered in goose bumps just thinking about it.  I talked to David Paperny today.  David was the CBC producer that did Peter's shows and David said that he knows of Roma Andrusiak and that she is wonderful.  Although he hasn't met her personally he seemed to know a lot about her.

     You mentioned some concerns about the physical challenges that the filming might present but needn't worry.  I cannot say enough good things about the CBC here in Vancouver were for Peter, you need not worry.  I cannot say enough good things about the CBC and their handling of Peter's story and the consideration that they showed our family when Peter passed away.  Never once did they invade our grief with the usual TV sensationalistic approach that you see on the paid networks.  It reinforces how special it is for our country to have CBC.

     Melanie, you asked for some words of wisdom - all I can say is that working on the TV diaries and bringing his message to the viewers gave Peter's last few years so much meaning.

     You and Melodie have been remarkable examples and it thrills me to no end to know that others will become acquainted with you as I have been fortunate enough to be, etc...

     

Love Shirley

***********************

On 19 November 1995 - Melodie faxes myself with the following:
"Dear Melanie:
You have done your homework on the article copies you have faxed me while we were making our way home.
When you see Mum ask her who was the most premature and spent the most time in an incubator.....I think it was you - interesting.
As to when the show will materialize,  I don't get excited until I see the green light and Halya (producer) feels Friday may be the day it will be decided.
My hair color is blond and as for you -- it looked the same as mine.  As for clothes worn in the show - lets see how psychic we are.

Love Melodie"

*******************

Near daily requests for information came from Roma (Editor) -- requests for our thoughts on everything from marriage to basic principles.  November was quick to pass, December reflected a less hectic schedule and the speed of the documentary structuring picked up in January and February 1996.  The show was scheduled for 21 March 1996 and last minute matters were attended to, i.e. recommendations of elders in Bridgewater to share their experience with the Elliott twins, requests for interviews with medical personnel as well as recreation individuals in the community.  Mother was busy rounding up Bridgewater persons as well as providing maps etc. for the filming crew who wanted to capture photos of the town's landscape.

Mother is a reserved individual and any shyness she might have had was certainly not visible.  Indeed, a short segment in which she answered questions on the show were met with grace, poignant  details, and all with a very open heart.  Dad sat by her side and obviously in complete admiration and pride of Mother's delivery.  Dad offered his support of Mother's information and extended his opinion on a character difference between "our" twins.   She and Dad opened their arms to welcome CBC personnel.

As Mother faxed (date unknown):  "Having CBC come down on Saturday is fine with us.  We will be pleased to see them and look forward to it!!  I am so delighted to help out - what next in our lives is going to happen?  I think the whole idea is terrific and you both deserve the recognition of a complete turn around in your lives after touching bottom and coming back again.  Two amazing young women!  I will look around for pictures etc. and and answer all questions gladly.  We are happy to do everything we can with great pleasure.

Love you

Mum and Dad

P.S.  I will come down to earth after awhile.  I am so excited !!"

                                                           MAN ALIVE CBC Crew filming Twin Mystery in Halifax.  Melanie sits in her wheelchair and chats with her care-provider.  Michael and John attend to sound and film while Halya (Producer) guides the exercise.  The landscape is that of Halifax's Public Garden on a cold fall day (3 November 1995)

*******************

.On 1 November 1995, the CBC film crew arrived in Halifax from Toronto and began filming my portion of the documentary.  I was comfortable that they had well-covered the scope of my twinship as well as capturing a great view of our childhood and warmth and exception of loving parents.  Their images of the town and regional area in which we grew up promised to be excellent.  With a promise that I would not contact Melodie until after they finished their filming her on the westcoast, they headed for Chilliwack, British Columbia - the home of Melodie.

*********************

After all the filming was done and the crew back to Toronto, Melodie and I reached out to one another and agreed that there was no need to discuss what was said and what was not as we had confidence that the crew and interviewer did their duty in a caring, respectful and professional manner.

***********************

Date?  within a day or so from Melodie and Geoff's return home to Chilliwack
I explained to Melodie what progress had been made with respect to building the story and an introduction to Roma the Editor and Researcher.  I had established a daily communication with Roma and questions from her became the driver of each fax.
I summarized some of the topics that had been presented by Roma i.e.
*art therapy
*coping with memory loss
*attendant care
*disabled issues
*dance
*fund-raising
*accessibility
*sports
*health care
*computer use
*marriage
*gardening
*spirituality
*coping with multi limitations
In my concern with respect to pressures etc. potentially affecting Melodie, I stated "please don't feel pressured in any way to participate in this documentary.  I am of two minds - a)  it would be fun, and b)  don't now where I will find the endurance but will manage if it materializes. (Mary has said she would help me get through it without being drained of every fiber).  It will not disappoint me if you don't care to carry through with it - honest! 
Love Melanie"

 *********************

On 20 March 1996

I wrote parents, namely:

"I suspect your house is as busy as mine - I have been in a spin for days now and the finally I can see the end is in sight.  I just have to make sure that the tablecloth is ironed and the table set.

Melodie called and certainly put my mind at ease.  She tells me that this individual, Halya (a female producer) is good fun and very casual.  I get a sense she is not unlike Linda Mason.

Thank you so much Mom for supporting me in your letter re the interview process.  I thought I would have to do a lot of explaining to a lot of people on that one - it seems that Melodie, too, is of the same mindset.  Oh I had such a bad feeling that my thoughts were unsuitable and inappropriate - thank you again!  Memories of being referred to as "the village idiot" has come to the forefront once again.

Now that I have spoken with Melodie and hear of the interviewer I am much more relaxed.  I was so tempted yesterday to pull out of this thing as I felt that I would look stupid.  The thought came to me as I prepared photo albums and had to ask for help to identify people I should know and recognize.  It occurred to me that on one hand I would be preparing for a Canada-wide audience and on the other could not even put my life together in sequence.  Melodie has assured me that I have no need to worry about looking anything less than dignified.  Dick stopped by this morning and also confirmed that !!

Melodie mentioned that CBC personnel were so very appreciative of my giving them an idea of my limitations.  Early in the scheme of things I realized I had to let it be known that I have fatigue problems and this would have to be addressed during the tapping.  Again on one hand I so much wanted to do it but it was hard for me to not deny that I am not the person I used to be.  Well there is no hiding in the weeds as tomorrow the producer is about to see and hear my barriers.

I hope it will all go well for you too -- I suspect you have many of the same concerns as I do.  Mom, don't be concerned about not remembering anything - there is no one expecting you to remember all that has gone on over many years.  After all, so much has gone on in your lifetime that it is humanly impossible to even conceive that one individual could have done as you have.  And that goes for Dad !!

I hope some of my notes will help put a few of the pieces together.

I have had a lot of special moments trying to think back to the past and hope you have as well.

Remember, When!

Melodie burnt her foot with molasses candy!

Melodie won the Fire Prevention poster contest

Melodie - when Mrs. Mackenzie (school principal) came to the house to ask if Melodie could go to Camp Kadema?

Love Melanie"

************************

On the day before the showing, 20 March 1996,  Melodie wrote me:

"Dear Melanie:  Well, one day to go !!

     I have no idea what we're in for.  I can't remember a thing I said (in the taping).  If I didn't have an important meeting to go to, I'd lock my doors and wait to get dis-owned by somebody.  I will tape the show and see it at 9 o'clock B.C. time.  If there is an article in our paper I will fax it to you......

Love Melodie

SEE YOU ON THE BOOB TUBE

*********************

On 21 March 1996 - Melodie wrote

"Dear Melanie:  Saw a tape of the show form Toronto to our local newspaper.  You are going to like it !!!!   Love Melodie.  P.S.  Where did you get some of those pictures?"

On 21 March 1996 - Myrna (sister-in-law) wrote

"Melanie:  Congratulations!  Thought they did a very good job, didn't you?  Sue was watching.....she looked good too.  With all the taping that was done, were you disappointed with the segments that were shown?  They seem to have addressed just about everything as far as I could see.  Hope it was worth the effort!  Congratulations again.

Myrna"

************************

On 22 March 1996:  I wrote Melodie, namely:
" Hi, Melodie:

      "Thanks for your comments on MAN ALIVE - the comments from Barb Holland were so well written!!! Quite the fan !!!

      As far as liking the show --- please know that I am still just as delighted with it as I was the night it aired..... a few negative comments cannot take away the joy I have in seeing myself in a first class show.  I know I looked great, spoke amazingly well and would do it again without changing a thing.

     Thank you for passing on the comments from Liz, Audry etc.

     I got a letter from Hope Bustin in the mail --can you imagine, at 48 years old, hearing from a kindergarten teacher -- wonderful.  She feels the show was terrific and also refers to it as a "love story"

     Did I tell you my care-providers got together last week and showered me with house-warming gifts----among them was a lovely watercolor tablet with a binding.  I will use it to illustrate the book of poetry Aunt Dorothy wrote me several years ago.

Love Melanie"

***********************

On 22 March 1996: I wrote Melodie, namely:
"  Dear Melodie

     Great fax! and a great idea about sending me copies of the faxes you receive with praise etc.

     Thought you might enjoy the mag. clipping Spencer delivered it last night hot off the press!

     Everything is much too quiet here today.  In total I have had only one phone call (from Mary) and one fax (from Sylvia).....not including my conversation with you.  Mom and Dad's phone is very busy.  I spoke with Mom and Dad this morning as well as last night and they too speak of no time to really absorb all that is happening......

Love Melanie"

*************************

      

On 22 March 1966 - Melodie (intro. sentence - Great article on pets.....I must re-read it!)

"Dear Melanie:  What a day !!

Phone ringing, faxes going and coming, not a minute to really absorb too much.

All the feedback is positive - great job you and I being open and not worried about cameras, how pretty we are, intelligent, articulate and honest. 

Some say it was a tear jerker, romantic, moving, compelling and sensitive.  The list is endless.

Geoff asked if I had noticed that our sweatshirts were even the same colour.  The dance shots were great.

Susan looked great - Barbara and I thought that the word "sophisticated" would best describe her.

I will collect my faxes and send them at a later date.

Of course I am critical of my small things - Vanity --- the swim episode was a surprise (ugh)

On the whole - a great effort and outcome!!

I sent a fax to MAN ALIVE thanking them for such sensitive work - an issue dealing with aspects of the human condition.
Love Melodie"

******************

On 22 March 2014:  Melodie forwards a letter from "Hazel" to Halya Kuchmij (Producer) in an effort to demonstrate the positive energy that the show has created.  The letter reads:
"To Halya:

Congratulations "Man Alive" - on of the many faxes I've received is as follows:

"Dear Melodie and Geoff:

I am certain you have heard this many times before - but you must count me in as one who also says "What an inspiration for us and to all of those who, perhaps take this media as a role and example to follow."

We feel very privileged to have you as friends.

Your generosity in allowing the video taping of Man Alive will,  as you know, foster further strength to those who have less courage.  We found the program so compelling.

I think of my many twins on both sides of our families -- few of whom made it past infancy.  (That's times when this occurred in this old Broad's Day).

Say, what a movie for a story would make - even thought of selling the rights and vacationing forever!!
Our Love
Hazel"

**********************

On 24 March 2014 Melanie sends Melodie and Geoff a note re feedback

"Hi, Melodie and Geoff:

     How is your day going?

     A couple of friends dropped in today to remark on the show -- lovely and very positive feedback !!

     The adjective I hear most is "outstanding" articulation.

     I also hear that most perceive the show to portray a wonderful "love story" -- one of you and Geoff.

     One friend who is a professor in philosophy told me she watched the show with two of her co-workers and they all want to know where they can find a "Geoff" for themselves!  ha, ha

     The Director of the Nova Scotia Art Gallery called to say she had watched it and was wanting to know where she could get a copy of the 1981 film "Against All Odds".  I told her I had a copy and she could borrow it on Monday......should I lend it to her?  She did not say whey she wanted it.

     Mom sent me a wonderful fax telling me all about the comments from Bridgewater people....she will send you the same fax.

     I am sending along a fax from Peggy Currie (Guelph) which I received this  morning.  I LOVE the comment -  "GIRL YOU GOT IT ON".

   

Bye for now

Love, Melanie"

*********************

On 23 March 1996:  Melanie passes on feedback that she received from her Mother:

"Following is a two-page fax from Mother who outlined a few of the comments she heard immediately after the show aired:, namely:

"Dear Melanie:

I had so many calls that I have to type this FAX and pass on the news.  Please excuse the mistakes as I DO SO LITTLE TYPING THESE DAYS !

So here goes ........

Eleanor Fraser:  She cried through the whole program.  It brought back so many memories.  She hasn't seen either of you for years.  She said it was so sad, very emotional but wonderful.  The way you both have coped is something to be so proud of - many people with such small disabilities think they are so badly off and  look at you two....you both spoke so well, so articulate and open - marvelous!  She wanted me to remind you of a birthday party for Harry (he was 5 years old) - a very stormy day and you and Melodie were the only ones who arrived for the party.....did you remember the grey icing on the cake?

Helen and Bill Giles:  delighted to hear both of your stories.....a beautiful love story for Melodie and Geoff.

Olive Hubley (a neighbour):  so sad, so wonderful - both of you helping despite your handicaps.  She remembered Melodie, dressed as a black cat with a tail to whirl around.  You, in your sweet way, asking "How are you, Mrs. Hubley?"  She said the tears were flowing all the time.  They were very impressed with Geoff.

Isabel Bush:  Couldn't wait to call to say how much they enjoyed the program.  Thought you looked wonderful.

Mary Ann Hiltz: (neighbour):  Their story - sad for you and her heart is light to think Melodie has Geoff.  she marveled at your positive attitude and you saying you are moving along with your life and trying not to look back.  She hopes that someday you will find your soul mate.

Marilyn Boliver:  Inspired and touched, the pictures were so great and as she said "To think I used to be their baby-sitter!"

You both spoke so well, supporting each other, every word was clearly spoken and Melanie, she said, you looked so beautiful.  Make-up perfect!

     She loved the swimming episode - precious.  And, every question she had ever wanted to ask - Melodie answered.  Both of you were so loving and caring.  Such an example in all that you are both doing and she is so proud of all of us and that she is proud to know us as well.  The greatest love story of the century for Melodie and Geoff and a family story that is fabulous.

Marge Beach - a friend from Magog, P.Q.....also from Florida days - you will remember her as one of the group that went to that picnic at the beach.  She called to tell me how much she enjoyed the story.  Much admiring the way you both were able to talk about the twin thing, so very understanding about how you both reached the bottom in your lives, the lowest point and struggled back up to become such compassionate and understanding people.  She said also  the story shows a lot about your background!

Polly Church:  So delighted about the story - the pictures brought back so many memories.  Thought both of you did so well in expressing your feelings, it was done so well.  Felt the story was so sad.  John called her -- he was most impressed.  You both were so positive and well-spoken.

Miriam Penny:  Just had to call and congratulate all of us - "girls are so well spoken and able to express themselves"

Jean Fielding:  Really impressed with the story and the way it flowed along so smoothly and everyone spoke with such clarity.  Both of you are so articulate - professional !!  Very proud of all of us.  She plans to make contact with you and would like to visit.  You will remember her daughter, Nancy Kelso -- Nancy passed away 2 years ago - about four months after her son !!  So, Jean lost a daughter and grandson within a 6 month period.

Bunny Hebb:  called to say she was delighted.  The program touched her - a "lovely story".  So well done.

************************

Date: ?? Communication from Melodie and Melanie's parents:

"Just wanted you to know what people thought and I will continue to make notes of more comments.  I am going to a luncheon at the Guide Cabin this morning and I know there will be many more comments.

Dad and I are so proud of our beautiful girls - beautiful in looks as well as thoughts, compassion, so caring, strong - offering inspiration to others, etc.  I loved the way both of you spoke of each other and neither of you knew what the other one was saying in her portion of the filming and interview.  The twin thing is certainly there for the both of you.  And, as others have said, you were so natural, so open - wow !!  I go over and over and it just gets better  - so naturally and clear.

I am going to send a Fax to Halya and the boys (camera and sound crew) on Monday to thank them for the way it was put together.

Now I want to send this to Melodie also ....changed a little and let her know what the  public thinks!!!  She has had a lot of phone conversations on her end.

I will continue to write down the comments and will bring them along when I come in to the city.

Much Love

Mum and Dad"

**********************

On 25 March 1996:  I wrote Roma - Editor and Researcher of MAN ALIVE

"Dear Roma:
Thank you so very much for your patience during the pre-filming period - a time when communication was for the most part delegated to fax technology.  I am without doubt that this aspect of the project added a lot of unexpected work and frustration.  Your going that extra mile is very much appreciated.
     The outcome of your ambitious research is most obvious throughout the film....thank you!
     I am grateful for the time and energy you have taken to directly communicate with the children's dance instructor in the planning stages.  Footage with the children dancing is indeed a precious segment and one  that will serve as inspiration for many in years to come.
     I was elated to see photos of Melodie's wedding - photos we had thought to be lost - a loss that has been a source of grief for sometime.
     Melodie and I are very pleased with that portion of the show that included a conversation with our patients.  Their participation in the documentary serves as public exposure to the incredible challenges our parents have so courageously and graciously endured.....

*********************

On 4 April 1996:  Letter received from Producer of MAN ALIVE, Halya Kuchmij
"To:  Melanie
From:  Halya Kuchmij CBC Producer, Man Alive

Thank you for your most gracious letter.....it is very rewarding when we hear from the people we have profiled on MAN ALIVE.
We really enjoyed working with you and your sister as well as your parents.  We admire your courage and strength;  it is not only an inspiration to our viewers but to us as well.
     You should know that TWIN MYSTERY received the highest audience of any MAN ALIVE show this season, and we are all very proud of this.  So, Congratulations!!!
     Thanks once again for allowing us into your home and into your life for a brief time.
Halya"

Heritage Homes of Halifax: Original Art

      Following are twelve Halifax, Nova Scotia heritage homes painted (watercolor) by myself with the intent of making a 2015 calendar. 

      While discussing the framing of the originals with a framing firm, the owner asked if I was willing to sell the entire collection.....wow!.....  Doing so was something I had not considered and was completely taken back to think that these were of a quality someone would be interested in.  

     The calendar idea was limited to the thought of presenting friends with a unique Christmas gift.  I hesitated to respond to his offer as I was still feeling an attachment to these works of art.  Now, I will proceed a little further and have the collection appraised.

     The positive feedback from friends has been incredible and a few have compared my work with that of my late twin....eerie!

     I now sense that this project is one of my best achievements in life......a daunting successful task and with a gift of excellence and passion.

     In the process of painting these,  each image has been researched and I have so, so many persons to thank for the sharing of information.  In particular, the Nova Scotia Archives has been a tremendous resource and second to the Heritage Trust of Nova Scotia.

     The 9th image in this collection does not physically exist however I have included it in this collection of existing residences in honor of my Mother who spoke so fondly of this Goorsebrook home.  This home of Enos Collins was demolished in 1959.   It is this home in which she stayed as she awaited news that a troop ship was prepared for departure for the UK where Mother served in Churchill's war rooms.

     I was delighted to find success in the first image as it was a residence of my mentor, Mary Bourgeois.  This structure was one of the first apartment buildings to be constructed in the city.  It now is the property of Dalhousie University.

     The last home carries with it a history of being an icon of residence design by those who came to Nova Scotia in 1751 (German Protestant Loyalists) -- this is the era in which my family arrived in Canada and could well have been a duplicate of what the Falkenhayn family built as their home.

     I remain proud to display these works of art....enjoy

Melanie Elliott  (AKA Nightingale)

Not a Coincidence - art goes viral

Image:  Watercolor:  "Rhubarb is Up" - Melanie Elliott - artist

I am a firm believer that coincidences don't happen.  This interpretation to unexplained sync. events leads me to reflect upon a "happening" in which my art experience went "viral".....all because I had inadvertently pushed a button to "post" on my Facebook site.  Under the category of "photos" I had every intention to utilize this Facebook benefit as a space to store my artwork.  Never in a million years did I think that the word "post", in this exercise, would  engage the sharing of my work with many, many individuals.

     Well the cat is now out of the bag and my artwork is global.  The feedback I have received has been mind boggling and have touched the inner core of my heart.  I am elated !!!

      Messages upon messages from dear friends and absolute strangers have been received.  Several of the feedback messages have spoken to the fact that my artwork is very much like Melodie's (late twin).  Receiving messages of this nature have been well-received and indeed heartwarming in the truest of senses.

      With all this positive and energy filled messages, I now have every reason to believe that my work has now reached a level in which I can return to selling it on E-bay.  I gathered up several paintings and have listed them for sale.  Since Melodie's passing, I have not been selling on e-bay for fear that I would not be able to accurately post them......such a waste of energy as the format of E-bay has improved in leaps and bounds.....so much so,  that I am now very motivated to once again become a regular contributor of art to sell.

     To all of those who have been so generous with incredible feedback of my artwork, please know that you have contributed to my moving ahead within the scope of my gift to paint.

      I recall Mum telling me that her Mother - my precious Grandmother did not actively exercise her artistic gift until she was 70 years of age.....it would seem I am before her time only by a matter of 4 years. 

       Thank you Gram for being a grand role model.

Faulkenham History Moment

"A View of Halifax 1751 (sketch)This is the scene Carl C. Falkenhaym viewed as the ship entered the port of Halifax.....docking would end their hardships on the high seas on board "The Gale".

(excuse spelling and grammar - author visually limited)

The Falkenhayn name has 28 spellings
 in Nova Scotia and all are related to the same ancestor whose name was spelt "Falkenhayn".

Carl C. Falkenhayn is listed on the ships list as a pelty worker.  It is my experience that  other Falkenhayns, with a different spelling, are very reluctant to allow themselves ownership of their history.  There has been debate as to the meaning of the word "peltry".  My research enables me to speak to the word and explain that it described the activity of one who seeks and prepares pelts....a necessary and essential trade and product that would be required by all.    One who works with pelts is a peltier.

      In the 1750's immigrants were in need of bartering for pelts from native Indians and the fur trade in Canada began because man Europeans wanted these furs.
     Indeed, when the year of which this family arrived and settled in the province of Nova Scotia gave them the title of being "Founding Fathers".

Midst researching this family's journey, I felt myself in absolute awe when viewing the actual deed of land that the province offered in the Falkenhayn effort to increase population which, through, taxes would assist in the province debt.  Farm land in the county of Lunenburg was the location assigned to these Protestant Loyalists.

Falkenhayn propriety is now the location of the "Three Churches" in the town of Mahone Bay.  This is spectacular propriety and encourage you take a moment to have a gander....Google "Three churches, Mahone Bay".

These immigrants left their homeland to explore and participate in a journey to Nova Scotia where they would be "given" eleven acre plots of land for farming purposes.  With the failure of crops due to the fact that the area of the south shore is very sparse and growing on the top layers of granite.

Several families endured the restrictions and others settled in the Annapolis Valley where they could successfully farm (as did the Falkenhayns).  A minority of immigrants went to sea or moved to the northeast region of the United States (Maine, Mass.).

My activity and awareness of family stories dictated hours of research.  In one particular research, in the Nova Scotia Archives, I found the original deed of land offered to Carl Fakenhayn.  I do not recall ever being so moved by this discovery.

I encourage you to have a good look at your family as there is, without doubt, surprises ... if you embrace the opportunity you will be providing your family a gift of exception.

Keep posted
Melanie Elliott
carpe.diem@ns.sympatico.ca
(daughter of Frances Evelyn (nee Faulkenham) Elliott

Great Minds Think Alike

        Photos:  These photos are of one handmade "patio dress" and made from two lovely polyester crepe scarves. 
      Photo to the right is one that my twin
 Melodie,  picked out for me while vacationing in Martinique.
     The photo on the left is a very similar scarf received as a gift from a dear friend after he had visited the same area as Melodie.  My imagination soared as I held them up together ... the notion to convert them into one patio dress became an instant inspiration.  It would translate my having my twin and a best friend in my very space simultaneously.  Such fun and great energy.

These beautiful bold and lovely scarves were just to lovely to hang up in my closet by themselves and only to be pushed back and forth and with little imagination how to wear a scarf of it's nature.  When first seeing the two together, the idea of making a garment would give me the opportunity to make one  lovely and comfortable cover-up in the form of a "patio" dress .  They have been made so that the back and front's can be reversed.

Nightingale

An Apple a Day

As I take a moment out while an apple crisp finishes baking in the oven.....I turn to a the hand-written recipe which I acquired at the time of my Mother's passing - a recipe that was passed on to her.  On a second look, I was reminded how much the role of the "apple" played in our growing years as children.

The intensity of this picture  and a heightened sense of smell takes me back to what has become a dilapidated garage of silver-like shingles at the back of the old family property.  It was a building where Granddad parked his car and on its inside, far wall was an incredible collection of many car licence plates.

 Upon his return to home after a long day at work,  at the LaHave Creamery,  he would gather a few apples stored in a bin that sat in one dark corner.  In this bin was a winter and spring supply of eating apples.   There was always enough for all.

Each time I cook an apple crisp I am taken back in mind to moments shared with Grandparents in their routine of daily apply consumption, albeit in the form of apply crisp, a pie, apple sauce and a long list of delicious eatables.

My treat to you is the original recipe of the Faulkenham's best apple crisp.  I may be biased but have no hesitation to tell you it is the best you will ever experience.
     I attribute the excellence of this recipe to the fact that the topping includes flour rather than oats.  A part of my fondness on this subject are wonderful retro experiences as a child .

     Grandmother's  Apple Crisp (shared by "Nightingale")

ADDENDUM:

     I neglected to share a family mantra with you which ironically addresses the subject of apples......I am sure you are familiar with "An Apple a Day Keeps the Doctor Away".  Mother lived by this rule -- one, I expect, was her life practice and modelled by her parents.  

     Perhaps there is something in this phrase as she lived to the age of 88 years of age -- the longest of any family member.  I would be neglectful to say that daily exercise was included in her health profile.

A Feather for Your Thoughts

I turn once again to a poem by Edna St. Vincent Millary ---- the word feather drew my attention to her poem.  The poem reads:
"Time cannot break the bird's wing from the bird.
Bird and wing together
Go down, on feather.
No thing that ever flew,
Not the lark, not you
Can die as others do." - ESVM


A few months ago I found millinary work to be one of enjoyment and creativity.  As I progressed, I researched what was available online in terms of "fascinators" and other hat materials.
     I ordered a few packages of feathers and other items and was amazed at the beauty of the bird feathers.  After coming across Edna St. Vincent Milliary's poem, I now have reason to wonder if in fact there are feather farms and these feathers are from birds raised for this specific reason.  I willl continue on my research and see if I can find just where and how these feathers are obtained.  I have cancelled two orders until such time I can find an answer to the process that has extended to the marketplace..

Thoughts on the Concept of Time

Time -  my worse demon

 Time cannot break the bird's wing from the bird

Bird and wing together

Go down, on feather

Inspiration:

 Author Edna St. Vincent Millary

Time:   I have a few issues with time that I will share....no, my interst is not related to the fact that as a senior I am running out of "time".  I live well and consider each moment to be precious.

Initially, for the first several year after my brain injury I was unable to tell time.....I could interpret the numbers but not get beyond that concept.  To this day I am having to call upon a coping strategy to decipher the appropriateness of time, example:   When planning to go out and in need of calling a taxi I find myself in melt down mode.  I actually have a catalogue of coping mechanims of this cognitive skill....the big picture is taht of a lot of work compacted with anxiety and stress.  These elements that come with this time concept deficit presents huge and unexplainable and near dysfunction caused by accompanying frustration.
     This deficite actually  demands that I change social skills in order to remain active in the community.  I often have a fear that my time issues are seen by others as a lack of intelligence and common sense.

     If you should be a part of my social circle you would know taht my staying up to 5:00 am using the coputer and completely unaware of the fact that 5:00 am. was a time segment I should be in bed.  Five hours at the computer can seem as a 5 minute segment of time.....time and fatigue level go unrecognized.

********************

.

More than "Brain Gym"

This image is the result of a "brain gym" exercise and it has been proven to help maintain memory and other cognitive skills.  The requirements of this exercise is to pick up a pen - one in each hand and write one's name in a "mirror effect manner".

After a several tries during the session, I came to realize that my name written on the left side is the exact hand-writting style Melodie had.

I should not have been surprised as it is a fact that Melodie were "mirror image" twins.....thus facing each other in the womb...... her right would be my left etc.

For those who believe in "shared spirited energy" will know my delight with this venture.

Thank you Melodie
from the twin of Melodie - Melanie
AKA  Nightingale

My Book: so, so worth the wait !!

"Tommorow  and for years to come, as Heroes and Haloes:  These are Their Stories" reaches your audience, it will fill minds and nourish imaginations.  In writing, one's labour becomes fruit for generations".  author unknown

5 January 2014:  The New Year has begun with a bang....I viewed the first portion of the last editing and formatting efforts of my book "Heroes and Haloes" and it is well beyond my expectations.  To my incredible surprise, there is actually a sense of romance entwined within the text,  The formatter of the project has had to leave the province on business for a two-month period and the quality of his work is well worth the wait for his return and dedication to the project.  Meanwhile the editor will await her partner's return so they can once again share outstanding talents in publishing.