I have been an ardent fan for 44 years, since age 12 when my mother gave me "My Name Is Barbra" for an Easter present. Recently my partner of 27 years has been quite ill in the hospital and one evening last week, upon returning from the hospital, this new CD was in my mailbox. Having shared many evenings with Barbra, and having the forebearance to indulge my taste for her (he is a musician and admires her enormously but isn't "crazy" about her the way that I am) I started to put the disc in the player but decided to wait until I wasn't so tired. The wait was worth it. As soon as the combo started up on the first cut, "Here's To Life" a number from one of Shirley Horn's finest recordings, I was enthralled and so delighted to hear Barbra sound as she never has - immediate. The number not only imparted Ms. Streisand's optimism but mine as well. In her vocals was an intimacy that she has rarely ever shared and I felt as if, after these many years, she was saying - "Yes, I love you guys, too." All of the songs, all of the arrangements, even the occasional tiny break in that otherwise remarkable voice that shows no age, were a miracle and restored my good humour and brought some welcome tears. My partner is improving and I am anxious for him to be home, so that I can play this new recording for him. Congratulations, Barbra, on your sales but more on your artistry and beauty as a woman and a performer, and on your remarkable taste and truth to your own soul. Thank you for this and many years past and yet to come of enjoying your voice and your presence in my life. PS: I don't want an autograph.