As a young student, my days were filled with learning Math, Science, Geography, History, Penmanship, Spelling and English.
The obligatory essentials of every young student!
I loved English, mostly because we were able to read many different books and write creative stories. We also had grammar and sentence structure and all the technical stuff that fell under the “English” studies, but my absolute favorites were reading and writing.
What better place to escape than in the pages of a book?
Reading was great because I separate myself from everyone and enter the world of stories. I was fascinated by how words could make up a grand story, a simple story, a funny story, a biographical story and even a scary story.
My favorite author was Beverly Cleary. I real all her books.
Forget Yeezus! MY inspiration was Beezus! Beverly Cleary created such a great character–one of the reasons I love to write is because of Cleary’s books!
From childhood into my early teen years, I enjoyed Cleary’s writing so much!
Beezus was my imaginary bestie! Henry Huggins was that annoying boy next door!
Cleary’s books about the frustrating life of Beezus and her pesty little sister, Ramona, made me want to get a pen, paper and never stop writing!
When I entered this world, I never wanted to leave. And when I DID leave, I knew I could write an epic report about it!
I looked forward to writing reports about the books I read. It was my chance to give an opinion. My opinion and nobody else’s!
Whenever we had to write a “Composition” or “Essay” or a “Theme”, my heart beat just a bit faster because I knew I would shine. That “A” would be mine!
Like Jean Shepherd’s “Ralphie”, I could not wait to write a “Theme”, or essay or composition!
Throughout my school days, my imagination and creativity came into view by writing.
My writing skills were still alive during my days working on Wall Street. I was lucky enough to work for a Vice President who trusted my skills enough to compose his letters and memos. Perhaps the writing wasn’t creative, but it still offered me a chance to get my thoughts across with the written word.
Later on, as a stay-at-home mom, I kept at my writing skills by offering my opinions to local newspapers and magazines. I was happy to see quite a few of my opinions and thoughts in print!
My letter in the Wall Street Journal…..
…my opinion in The Trenton Times….and..
….my thoughts in Allure magazine.
My most recent writing endeavors consist of being a contributing writer to FrenchEntree. It’s always fun to write about my adventures and misadventures during my travels to France—and it offers me a way to allow others to see those trips through my eyes.
I was thrilled to learn that my article would make the jump from the online FrenchEntree to the actual magazine!
It really is a thrill to see an article in print!
My other endeavor, my blog, came about when I became unemployed on the last day of the last year.
I always thought about starting a blog, but didn’t exactly know how to approach it. Being unemployed created all sorts of anxiety for me. Would I ever work again? How can I keep up with my skills? The longer I’m unemployed means the less my chances are of becoming re-employed. Nobody wants to hire someone who isn’t in their twenties……
My blog became my form of emotional rescue. When I’m feeling stressed, I write. When I’m upset, I write. When I’m happy, I write. When I’m sad. I write. When I have something to say, I write and I try to do so with a touch of humor!
I write because I like it. I write because I want to make people laugh. I write because there is a lot of wrong in this world—and if I can give someone—even one person, to escape that wrong for a few moments, I’ve done my job—through words.
Write on…and read on!
Song for today. Emotional Rescue by the Stones. Just because writing is.
Yes. It’s another Duggar post. I just cannot help myself! This family has been getting media coverage larger than Kim Kardashian’s ass for cryin’ out loud!
Anyway, I had a conference call with Hipster Jesus and Satan last night! I thanked both men for their help with my last Duggar post. My Interview With The Devil
If it weren’t for Hipster Jesus, I would have never had been able to visit Satan for that interview and make the return back home!
The Three Amigos! Hipster Jesus, Me, and Satan! We’ve been having serious discussions lately!
We got to talking and, well, one thing led to another and before you knew it both Jesus and Satan and I agreed on something. Hipster Jesus and Satan are so busy during back to school time–what with the teachers’ pets and the juvies—they have their hands full of good and naughty students!
What we agreed on is that Momma Michelle Duggar needs to shut down her home school and send the remainder of her school-aged litter, god’s gifts, result of Satan’s sinful lust, children to a regular school!
Michelle Duggar just isn’t cut out to be an educator. Come to think of it, she’s not cut out to be a mother either! (photo from Betty Bowers.com)
I thought good and hard about that. They were right. Since I’m a giver, I’m going to write about how the Duggar children could have been saved from the hypocritical extremist “Christian” Fundamentalist lifestyle and how they could have been saved from Michelle’s horrific version of home schooling.
But—it isn’t too late!
Josh, especially, had his pathetic parents taught him the difference between wrong and right, would have learned that you don’t practice sex education on your sisters and it is wrong to cheat on your wife!
Word on the street is that Joshie is in “fake” rehab! He’s so creepy! He was cheating on his wife. That wasn’t nice but she’s not that nice either. She writes hateful things about the gay community on her social media. One creep deserves another, I suppose!
Since Jim Bob and Michelle Duggashian are such great believers in Jesus and love to put the blame on Satan for sins of all kinds rather than their own conscience, their kids would have benefitted not just from a regular school education, but from a Catholic Schooleducation.
Gotta love Betty Bowers–she sees right through these phonies! It’s so true. They despise EVERYONE–and they USE godliness as an excuse!
I’m going to tell you why!
First of all, Michelle has no sense of style. Look at the way the children were dressed before they became the “Duggashians”.
I’m sorry, but these skirts are just wrong on so many levels. They need REAL uniforms!
I know, they still dress modestly, but if they wore parochial school uniforms, the kids would be so much more fashionable.
Look how cute and adorable these students look in their uniforms! The Duggar kids would look precious dressed like this!
Only caveat—it may make the teenaged girls more enticing to Jim Bob, Josh, and the rest of those slimy extremist Fundamentalist and Gothard-following men. Ewwwwww.
Look how cute and truly modest these uniforms are! The shoes on the boy are so trendy too!
Fear not, though. Nuns are extremely protective of girls. Especially if those girls want to run around and do “sinful” things like jump rope in front of boys.
The nuns will make the girls wear shorts under their skirt! THIS way the boys (and creepy men like Jim Bob) cannot be tempted. AND the girls can wear skirts that are cute and shorter and timelessly trendy!
Something tells me the Duggar girls would NOT be wearing shorts with “Mensa” displayed on the rear. Mommy Michelle would think it means something dirty about men!
The nuns would also make sure the girls never, ever, wear patent leather shoes. Don’t forget! Boys can look up a dress by looking down at a girl’s patent leather shoes. When those Catholic boys say they are “reflecting”, they ain’t talking about the spiritual kind!
No. No. No!! These shoes are forbidden in Catholic School. “Forbidden” is a word the Duggar parents LOVE–they really should consider a parochial education for their children!
But it’s all good because the good Sisters have that under control by making the girls wear dull oxford saddle shoes!
Well–perhaps Bass Weejuns would be a better alternative than these!
The point is, nuns—especially the Sisters that taught me, weren’t morons. They were well-aware of what boys and girls do. Rather than make girls stop having fun doing stuff that girls do, they just found a solution by making us girls wear the shorts under our uniforms. This way, the boys didn’t stand around trying to catch a glimpse of what kind of panties we were wearing, and the girls didn’t have to be embarrassed by the boys trying to look. Very simple.
Speaking of “Sisters”. Michelle is such an overwhelmed home educator that she has to force the older girls into mothering the younger children—”Sister Moms”.
Poor JanaSisterMom. She has her hands full now that Jill and Jessa are out of the prison house and married to a couple of self-righteous losers! But now Jana’s fate is sealed. She is the main Sister Mom!
If she places the younger children in Catholic School—she really will have sister moms!
I was lucky. I had a REAL Sister Mom. Actually it was my Sister Aunt, Sr. Thomas aka Aunt Eleanor! My mom and my aunts who had children were fortunate enough that there were TWO Sister Aunts in the family! They were loving and nurturing! And YES, that baby is ME!
Nuns may love to punish older kids, but they just love the “little ones”. Give a nun a small child and they melt! The nuns love to teach children the difference between real godliness and real sin; they can achieve this from the earliest age possible. AND—the nuns will do this without the Fundie “blanket training” method. Nuns wait till the kids are older to start with the capital punishment! Blanket Training in a nutshell. From Wiki
Did I mention punishment? When you go to Catholic school, you learn discipline and learn it quickly. Don’t worry about having to answer to God. Those socially inept and badly behaved Duggar children will have to answer to an even higher power than God. They will have to answer to a Catholic School Principal!
Sr. Mary Isabel, MY school principal. I get scared just looking at this picture. She was more strict than Hipster Jesus would ever be! (Thanks to Anne Neagle O’Sullivan, a classmate of mine at St. Pat’s for supplying this pic!)
The added benefit is that Catholic School students actually get marked for Conduct and Effort!!! Can you put A+ Effort into D- Conduct? I’ll never know because I would get the shit kicked outta me for asking a nun that question! That kick in the pants is still better than the blanket training the Duggar children must endure!
Now tell me, what other school would grade on Conduct and Effort?????
Michelle’s homeschooling doesn’t include “Skiense”. Oops. I’m getting all Duggar. I mean “Science”!
Contrary to what others may believe, Science is alive and well in Catholic school! So is technology!
Today’s Catholic Schools supply the students with Laptops! The Duggar kids would be right at home. After all, being a TLC celebrity has allowed the godly Duggars many seasons of life in which they can afford laptops and smartphones! But they STILL don’t watch TV!!!!
It’s all about the “Science Fairs”!The added benefit of having a project displayed at the Science Fair means that you get out of the classroom for a few hours during the fair! What child doesn’t love that?
This young man certainly deserves his award. He wants to save the fish, but what about the loaves?
Here’s another incredible science project. The Duggars can definitely learn from this because they drink a TON of soda!
Had it not been for Catholic School science fairs I would have never known about “Inertia”! Frank Cerebino’s award-winning project taught me so!
Frank used balls just like this to explain inertia! 50 years later and I still remember this project!
Who says Catholic school kids are repressed? Not me! Sex education starts in Catholic school at around 7th grade. Children just entering into their pre-teen and teenaged years need to be able to tell the difference between sinful behavior and acting with grace. What better way to experiment with “dirty feelings” than at a make out party!
This group looks like they’ve been taught the fine art of making out a long time ago!
Boys learn to cop a feel over a tissue-filled padded bra that doesn’t belong to their sister! Girls can sit on a boy’s lap and learn the difference between a wooden Number 2 pencil and a “woodie”! Joshie could have explored the forbidden forest on his female schoolmates rather than on his sisters if he was sent to Catholic school. Josh’s sins are Mortal!
Speaking of “mortal” sin. Catholic school explains sin in such a fun and entertaining way.
We Catholics don’t need a Bible to bang! We have the Baltimore Catechism instead!
You learn through fun illustrations in the Baltimore Catechism!
Uh oh! Looks like Josh Duggar’s milk bottle soul is filled with dark chocolate milk! So are Jim Bob’s and Michelle’s!
We know how to sacrifice too! I think I’ll have canned hash for dinner tonight as a sacrifice. Yuck!
Catholic School students are so well-aware of truly sinful behavior! What could be a worse sin than thinking about a TV show during Mass?
Catholics keep it simple too—with questions and answers:
Question: Why did God Make You?
Answer: God made me to know him, and love him, and serve him in this world!
Question: Why did Jesus perform his first miracle?
Answer: Because his mother asked him to.
That’s just as easy as “Why did Christian Louboutin make shoes?” (Shhhh—the answer is: Loubs made shoes to know him, and love him, and wear his shoes while serving him in this world!)
These Christian Louboutin shoes are just so sinful and they are what every Catholic School girl covets!
Missionary Workings:
Michelle and Jim Bob think being a *cough* “Missionary”, means not only Michelle on the bottom, but means going to a “third” world country and converting the Catholics to the extreme Fundamentalist lifestyle! Ouch!
Jill and Derrick “Duggashian” Dillard are missionaries.
Wow! Jill and Derrick Duggar/Dillard look like they are having a real struggle in El Salvador…….
…I’ll bet they are on a mission to find a FundieMom to take care of their baby. I’ll bet they bring this nice lady back home and let God pay her with good graces instead of money!
They are now trying to bribe the people in El Salvador over to the Fundie life by handing out photographs of the Duggar family.
Look! That lady in the middle is holding a photo of the Duggars that Derrick and Jill handed out. She doesn’t appear to be to thrilled about it either. Those missionaries!!!
Derrick and Jill’s Fundie missionary life style means playing at the beach and staying in a nice house!
Just WHO is Derrick converting–the fish?
REAL missionaries live in shacks…just sayin’!
A Catholic School education will teach the Duggar children about real missionaries.
They will receive a “Mite box”—which is a little cardboard box that Catholic students place their spare change and pennies into. They sacrifice buying candy bars to save the little pagan babies from Satan (sorry Satan, but it’s true. Besides YOU get the fake missionaries like the Duggars so it’s an even draw).
These little boxes can collect tons of change–and relieve dental bills!
Catholic Students read “Maryknoll” magazine. This is a must because it allows the student to read and look at photographs of what the Catholic missionaries actually do….
This group of Maryknoll Sisters is happy knowing they will actually be EDUCATING the poor people!
The real missionaries build schools and educate the children so that they can grow up and attend a real college and make a better life for themselves!!! I’m sure the Maryknoll missionaries don’t give candy to the poor people either. Instead, they find dentists to fix the teeth that were ruined by the sugary candies that fake missionaries like Jill and Derrick hand out!
This is a sampling of the kinds of photos we saw in Maryknoll Magazine! You can bet the Maryknoll missionaries built the school that the pictured classroom was in!
Looks like the missionaries also taught Math too!
The only sad thing about reading Maryknoll is that some of the missionaries were murdered because they placed their lives in danger. The only thing the Dillard/Duggar missionaries place themselves in is “People” magazine!
Anna and Josh Duggar are REALLY smiling because they knocked the THREE AMERICAN HEROS off from being the major cover photo on newsstands! I don’t like the way Josh is looking at me! I feel so….violated!
That’s right. Take one nun with a talent and who knows where it’ll take you! WE had Sr. Kathleen Marie and her baton twirling expertise!
Your’s truly! I was at the start of my “akward unibrow stage” but if anyone gave me trouble–I had my baton!
The Duggar girls sure could have learned to twirl a baton from Sr. Kathleen Marie—those batons could multitask as weapons of protections against the incestuous actions of Brother Josh!
Sr. Kathleen Marie surrounded by the St. Patrick School Twirlers! Those Duggar girls need to learn to use a baton too. For protection against Brother Josh!
St. Patrick’s School also had a marching band. Participating in a school band would be a tremendous asset to any Duggar child because they could march sinful thoughts out of their bodies with hours and hours of practice!
Catholic Schools also have clubs too. Clubs are the Catholic version of the after-school program. Art Club, Science Club, and the mother of ALL Catholic School Clubs. The Rosary Club.
No! It isn’t Michelle with Josie. It’s Mary the most divine mother of all time!
The Rosary Club would be such a beneficial club for the Duggar children to join. Instead of memorizing all those Psalms and their matching numbers, all they would need to know are The Glory Be, The Our Father, The Hail Mary—and for numbers sake— the FIVE mysteries of the Rosary.
I have my Rosaries hanging off my rear-view mirror in my car. I cannot begin to count the amount of Holy Rosaries I’ve recited to myself while stuck on the Belt Parkway or Route 422!
Catholics are the basic mathematicians of prayer!!
Catholic Schools are also diverse. You don’t have to be Catholic to attend Catholic school. When my sons attended St. Ignatius Loyola School in Manhattan, there were quite a few non-Catholics. There were even two Jewish students! It just means higher tuition rates—which the Duggars can afford since they have tons of money from both their TV adventures and their constant requests for donations begging of money!
These two love the money that their *ahem* Z-list celebrity status has brought them. They should use some of the money for tuition to give their children a better education than the one Michelle is giving them!
But the best thing that kids get out of Catholic School is that great sense of humor! Learn to laugh at yourself. Don’t take yourself too seriously. Yup! Ask almost any adult who attended Catholic school and they will laugh about the rituals, the punishments, the pranks, the nuns, and the weird shit like being “fined” for touching snow in the playground!
Catholic school may not be for everybody, but in the case of the Duggar children—it may be the best solution to get them away from the teachings of Jim Bob and Michelle!
Hmmph! I was IN this class but the school had the NERVE to take the photo on the one day that I was sick! Mrs. Michaelis was one very strict lay teacher!
Today’s song and oldie by the Knickerbockers (who sound a lot like the Beatles). “Lies”! Dedicated to Michelle and Jim Bob’s teachings!
Yesterday was my dad’s birthday. The One! The Only! The Ever-memorable Tommy Wynne—the man we lovingly referred to as…………….drumroll please………”El-Cheapo”!
Actually, my dad was quite proud of this nickname!
He was great—and he is surely missed not only by my family, but by all those who knew and loved him. He was a good kind of special.
He passed away when he was 64 because his heart simply stopped beating.
A New Yawk Cop with a heart of gold and a great sense of humor who never had to pull out his gun!
..and you wonder where I get my “spectacular” looks from!!! Seriously–weren’t my parents adorable? My dad was so handsome AND proud of his NYPD uniform!
But instead of waxing all sorts of sentimental and being all weepy, I’m just going to honor him with a listing of cool and fun stuff I remember about my dad. So here goes….
He really was “el cheapo” and we used to kid him about it all the time. He honestly didn’t give two shits what anyone thought of his cheapness either. After my dad retired from the NYPD, he and my mom moved to the West Coast of Florida; the Tampa area.
Anyway, on one of my visits, we all decided to make a day trip at Disney World. Granted, my dad would only go to Disney when they were having the “Florida Resident” fee, but what he pulled that day was classic “El Cheapo”. Lunch. We all sat down at a table waiting to be served and we couldn’t find my dad. He ended up at a hot dog stand because he refused to spend “idiotic” amounts of money for lunch! He just wasn’t a Disney fan either. All he could say whenever he reached the entrance was this:
“Oh for crissakes–to think a MOUSE started all this garbage”…and he would shake his head. We just eye rolled and laughed at his remarks! It was funny–and he had a point!
Nothing bothered my dad–not even the whinging and whining of his grandchildren. I look like Hell. Pregnant with Oona, Roman not happy–but my dad–he seems to be enjoying this scene!
Oh..did I mention? My dad was NEVER a slave to fashion. My mother would be mortified at his “going out in public” with a sleeveless t. shirt. He would laugh and tell her that the money saved was for her wardrobe! Here he is, once again, with a smile on his face because he saved money at Disney by eating a cheap lunch!
When I worked in the World Trade Center, he met me for lunch one day. My Aunt Terry also worked in the WTC and joined us. Now—this was back in the 1970’s, and when he saw the menu he refused to pay $6.00 for a sandwich. He sat there while my aunt and I ate—he refused to order—and we offered to pay but he wouldn’t have it. It was the “principal”.
As kids we were often times invited to the local Country Club as guests of our friends. One of the members had approached my dad and suggested our family become members—there would be no problem being accepted. My dad’s answer was “Why should I pay when my kids can go as guests!”.
My dad’s motto was “Southward Ho No–I’m not paying!”
True dat—and I laugh as I write this.
His favorite snack in the entire world was “Mallomars”—this confection being only sold during certain months of the year. Made of a graham cracker bottom layer and a fluffy rounded dome of marshmallow, topped with a chocolate shell, these tasty bits were his nirvana. We literally had to ask his permission if we wanted one. He kept them in the freezer and took to counting how many were in the box.
If he ever came home to an empty box of these, we would be answering to a much higher power than my dad! He LIVED for these things!
Luckily, none of us kids were crazy about Mallomars—if we were, I have no idea of what would have transpired.
He also had words and sayings that we referred to as “Tommyisms”
If we screwed up he would call us (and be patient because I’m spelling this phonetically—I don’t know Gaelic) “Omadons“. This is basically a Gaelic word for “moronic dopey person who made a huge mistake”.
If something didn’t make sense—like when he got a bad hand playing cards, he would announce it’s “Asshole to Breakfast time.” Years later I still cannot process the true meaning.
I’m guessing this is “asshole to breakfast time”! What a quote!
“Speak to me again, sweet lips, so I know where to find youuuuu“ was another of his favored sayings. This announcement always followed his passing of gas. Usually in the family room while we were all gathered around watching TV. My mother would always get really disgusted and leave the room, while we kids howled laughing! What kid doesn’t enjoy a dad who farts with glee?????
I know. I know. I know full well that my dad’s sense of humor could be crude. But it was funny as hell. Especially for kids–and he aimed to make us laugh! At EVERYTHING!
He always said “zed” instead of the letter “z”. I think that was the influence of my Irish grandparents. The nuns had quite the job explaining to me that “zed” just wasn’t used in the USA!
“Naught” for “zero” or “nothing”.
We all had nicknames. I swear to you, if anyone heard him call us, you would think we were a pack of wild wolves—Catherine, Theresa, Tommy, Germaine, and Peter were replaced with “Katie”, “Sissy”, “Skithers”, “Mainzie” and “Munzie”. That’s right. My dad never called me by my given name. It was always “Katie”—I’m guessing he liked me best because I had the most normal nickname!
The beginning of the pack of dogs nicknames. My and Sissy. My mom was pregnant with my brother Tommy, aka “Skithers” in this pic! ( I am NOT even going to go about explaining how THAT nickname was acquired!).
All kidding aside, he was the most incredibly doting dad!
Look at how my dad is so happy to see me! Probably because I couldn’t talk back!
His grandkids were everything to him!
My dad with Jake, Oona and Roman right before his heart stopped beating!
He’s the reason Oona took Irish Dance lessons–I only wish he had lived to see her dance and compete. He would have been so proud! But–he would have gone ballistic at the price I paid for her dresses. El Cheapo would resurface!
His voice was loud. He spoke with the “tickest” of Brooklyn accents.
On his “off” tours from work, he would come down to the schoolyard at St. Patrick’s and organize ball games for the boys. In fact, when we had a bomb scare at school (yes, lunatics were around in the mid-1960’s as well as now—only now there are more), my dad was the first one on the scene!
My brothers were excellent baseball players (both received baseball scholarships to college). Because my dad was such a baseball helicopter dad, there were times when his enthusiasm and criticism of the coaches became too much. As such my brother Pete’s coach had to place a tarp over the fence at home place so that my dad couldn’t see what was going on.
My mother came from an incredibly large family. Some of her brothers and brothers-in-law liked to partake of certain beverages. There were quite a few late weekend phone calls in which my dad would have to drive to various police stations throughout Long Island to ensure that my uncles got home safe. He never minded those calls.
I don’t think my dad knew what he was in for when he married into such a large family!
Who also knew this well-dressed groom would end up with a penchant for sleeveless t-shirts and (ugh) polyester baseball caps!!!
In fact, he always reminded us that if we were at a party and felt uncomfortable to CALL him at home. No matter what time and he would come and pick us up without any questions. He was true to his word.
After his first heart attack, he was told to quit smoking (he had a two-pack-a-day habit). He did, and replaced cigarettes with toothpicks. He always had a toothpick in his mouth!
He played poker every Friday night that he wasn’t working. We always knew when he won because the next day my mother would take a trip to the beauty parlor. When he lost, we would find him sleeping on the sofa in the family room the following morning.
This portrait pretty much sums it up–his love for poker and toothpicks! Oh..and note another clue to his el-cheapo-ness. Sunglass clip-on lenses in the wrong size. I’m sure he paid less than a buck for those beauties! I miss those nuances of his!
Being the only son in his family, he was treated like royalty. So much so, that when we went to visit my grandparents, we kids were NOT allowed to be served tea and biscuits or pound cake until my father was served first.
My grandmother, Margaret. Nobody got served before my dad!
Mmmmm. Mmmmmm! Leave some for us Da!!!
On any given Sunday during those cold winter months, when my dad was also in between police tours, you could find him seated in the living room. Not watching football, but waiting for us to come to him and recite whatever memorization homework we were given.
God forbid we missed a word—he would make us march back into our rooms to keep studying…and memorizing.
Actually, one Christmas we surprised him with a Baltimore Catechism—we were all laughing so hard at the sight of my dad being excited over this dogmatic gift that we were almost choking. My dad called us over and started asking us questions from that old-school book. I’ll be a sonovabitch if we all weren’t able to answer every question just as perfectly as we did many years ago! He beamed!
You have NO idea how many times we were quizzed on everything from why God made us to the Apostle’s Creed. At that time the only creed I wanted was Creedence Clearwater!
My mother, who despised Western movies, refused to accompany him to his favorite cinematic genre. Instead, I was the chosen one who got to sit next to him watching the iconic films like “Sons of Katie Elder” and “A Man Called Horse”.
Luckily for me, having a dad who was a cop meant that I could accompany him to the movies on a school night if he had weekend duty!
I had no words to even come close to describing THIS movie–but even as a young teenager, I still managed to see movies with my dad!
I was the winner in this because he would always get me the oversized box of malted milk balls.
..and the BEST part was coming home with an almost empty box and finishing it in front of my younger brothers and sisters. Yeah–I was THAT sister!
When I attended a school reunion about twenty years ago, many of the guys I went to school approached me and asked how my dad was. What about me????? He had passed away but it was so touching that these guys all remembered my dad so fondly.
He may have been a disciplinarian, but he was also our great defender. I remember once I was slapped clear across the face by Sr. Mary Josephita—the mere mention of her name gives me Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. This nun, who was most likely the most satanic sister in the history of St. Patrick’s grammar school, thought I gave her cheeky answer to a question. I was both humiliated and in extreme pain, but I would not give her the satisfaction of shedding one tear.
Anyway, when I arrived home, my dad noticed the welts in the shape of fingers. I told him what happened.
He took me in the car and we drove to the convent. Now—remember, my dad was very good friends with the nuns—he organized games and would buy beer for the nuns’ beer and pretzel parties. He spoke to the principal, Sr. Mary Isabel, and told her that if anything like this ever happened again, all of his kids (four at the time) would be taken out of the school and placed into PUBLIC SCHOOL! Mention something like that to a nun and boy—things turn around quickly!!
I was so proud and happy of my dad that day! I knew from then on, he would always have my back!
I’m sure that when this picture was taken during my parent’s dating time, my dad NEVER imagined he would threaten a nun with sending his children to public school!
Not a day goes by that I don’t think of you dad. Some days I cry when things suck and I can’t have you here to talk me through it. Some days I laugh just thinking about the fun we had! I miss you and love you!
I just miss hanging out with him. And I KNOW he and Bonaparte would have spent hours upon hours discussing WWII–one of his favorite subjects!
Tom’s heart may have stopped beating, but we all hold his memories close to our own hearts.
My parents were reunited three years ago. I’m sure they are having a grand time dancing and laughing together and swinging on stars…..
..speaking of swinging on stars….I’m posting one of my dad’s favorite songs. He sang it to us when we were younger–“Swinging on a Star!” Bing Crosby sings!
Thanks to Becky of “We Are That Couple” for nominating me for The Sunshine Blogger Award.
Have a look. How can you NOT love a blog about a couple who travels and loves cawfee and beer? We Are That Couple
I’ve been asked a few questions that I’ve answered……………………
What types of books do you like to read?
I really enjoy fiction. I like a good story that makes me think and is gripping or a fun, light, humorous story that makes me laugh. Either way, they have to be well-written or my interest and focus are gone.
Who is/are your favorite author(s)? Why?
I love JoJo Moynes books. She is a great story teller in the most simple form. Her books tell stories with a lot of substance and not fluff.
I also love James Lee Burke—his writing is just so incredible. He feels his words and when you read his books, most take place in New Orleans and throughout Louisiana, you can practically feel the sweat dripping from the characters’ faces.
Why do you blog?
I started to blog because I needed something to keep my occupied during my unemployment. Actually, that was the push I needed because I thought about blogging long before I became unemployed. The more I blog, the more I like it-it’s fun to get your thoughts and words out there!
What are your favorite weekend activities/hobbies?
I’m pretty much a lazy person. In the summer, I like being at the shore or being in the comfort of an air-conditioned movie theater. During the cooler months I like to spend the weekends cooking and baking. But—all year round I enjoy driving into NYC to hang out with my kids or just to hang out with Bonaparte.
When you were little, what did you want to be? And did you?
I wanted to either be an actor or a fashion designer. Nope!
Where would you like to travel if time/money were not an issue?
If money weren’t an issue, I would go to India for a month or so. I love the Indian culture—it’s just so peaceful and spiritual. I love the colors of India and the food. I think I’d be pretty comfortable there. I would also love to spend time in Brittany and Corsica.
Where have you traveled? Favorite place?
Domestically—up and down the Eastern Seaboard; Texas and Louisiana. I LOVE New Orleans.
Internationally: Ireland, Northern Ireland, Australia, Italy, France. France is my favorite place. I’m extremely comfortable in Paris—it’s just like being in New York City—easy to blend in. I also love the Cote d’ Azur—I get sick when I have to leave. Burgundy is beautiful too. I would live there.
How do you feel about organized religion?
That’s a great question. I was born and raised Roman Catholic. In my years in Catholic school, I never once remember hearing any of the nuns or priests saying a bad word or nasty thing about other religions.
I have issues with people who try to push their religious ideology down other people’s throats and try to “convert” them. Respect my beliefs and I’ll respect yours.
I also have a big time issue with the fundamentalists and religious extremists—like the Quiverfull and Gothard people. They use and exploit Christianity to the nth degree.
In addition, religion has NO place at all in politics. NONE AT ALL! That’s the big issue in our country right now. The religious Christian extremists are trying to spew their hate and bigotry into politics. Nope! Church and State SHOULD be separate entities.
Do you think people are inherently good?
I think people are inherently naïve and innocent. As they grow the values they receive from their parents and the guidance from their parents of right v. wrong makes them either good people or not good.
Is love at first sight real?
For some yes. I think for others it can be more of a “chemistry” at first sight.
Is it the quantity or quality of friends that count in life?
Quality. I would rather have one or two amazing friends than many acquaintances.
While savoring my morning cup of cawfee, I heard many young voices coming from outside. When I looked out the window, I saw a familiar scene. Kids with backpacks. Moms walking beside them—some with strollers in tow; some with dogs in tow; and some with both. All happily on their way to the bus stop!
Today is the first day back to school!
Who doesn’t love going back to school?
….especially when THIS is the meet & greet team!
Oh the memories I have! Not only of my kids’ first days of school, but I have memories of all their school days. Years from Kindergarten all the way through college graduation have given me many fun and not-so-fun visuals.
Jake’s first day of kindergarten paved the way of what the future would hold. For me, it was a very sad day to take my then, 4-year old son on the subway to the Upper East Side and drop him off at St. Ignatius. I wanted him to be home with me all the time. When I saw him march off to his classroom with Mrs. Wescott I started to cry. Jake shot me a look that said “Stop it!” and he ignored me.
Jake’s first day of school–on the subway platform for the ride to St. Ignatius!
Ten minutes later I was seated in a restaurant having cawfee and breakfast with a group of new mom friends—friends that remained for a long time. That first day wasn’t so bad after all!
Roman’s first day was a bit different. He exited the school holding his stomach in pain. One of the nuns saw him and told me to follow her, Roman in between us, to the boy’s room. He had to go and was petrified of going down to the bowels (pun intended?) of the school by himself! After that incident—he was fine.
By the time Roman entered Kindergarten, I wised up and drove the boys to school!
Oona’s kindergarten experience was different. She was my only child to start school in the suburbs AND start in public school. The principal of Bear Tavern School made home visits to the incoming kindergarteners. Oona looked at him and told him very firmly “I’m NOT going to school”. “I’m staying home with my mommy!” (Secretly I loved that!). The principal pulled me to the side and told me just as firmly “You are NOT going to drive her to school on the first day.” “Oona will take the bus.”. He was so stern that I had no choice!
There’s Oona front and center. She may have attended Kindergarten in public school, but I dressed her like a Catholic school child–plaid skirt and white shirt!
An angry and scared little girl may have gotten on that bus, but when she came off the bus later in the afternoon, I could hear her say to the bus driver “Bye Grace!”
A great bus driver is so important–and we’ve had some great ones!
When she saw me, she ran up and told me that she couldn’t wait till the next day to go back to school!
“HELLO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”
And then there was the mad rush for supplies.
Me, being “bad mom”, was never in a hurry to carry this chore through during the end of summer vacation. It was far more important for me to sit and bake by the pool while the kids went swimming!
I was the mom who had to scramble to ten different stores to find the supplies that the previous stores ran out of! Needless to say, the boys weren’t that much phased by my lack of supply interest, but my tardiness with school supplies drove Oona up the wall!
It usually took me a trip to about ten stores to round up the needed supplies–and every year I vowed to do it early the next year! Never happened!
God forbid the stores run out of Lisa Frank- notebooks, folders and stickers-it was major meltdown for Oona!
Last year I found out that Oona was traumatized because the one thing she ever wanted was a monogrammed L.L. Bean backpack. She hated the fact I only bought Jansports. One year, I apparently had a Jansport monogrammed in an effort to please her. It didn’t work.
Can you please tell me just what is WRONG with this sturdy backpack. The boys could care less! I was just trying to teach Oona the worth of a classic, and not trendy backpack. (Oh wait–L.L. Bean is pretty classic. Oops!)
I have absolutely NO recollection of this backpack issue. I’m pretty sure it has to be because whenever she asked me for the L.L. Bean backpack, I must have been on my bed, pillow resting between my legs and groaning with the worst menstrual cramps—it’s the only excuse I can think of!
But seriously—the other memories I have are just fun.
After we moved to New Jersey, our neighborhood tradition was a first-day-of-school pizza and cake party. This was such a success that the kids looked forward to this all through High School!
One of the many “first-day-of-school” pics of the Navesink Drive kids! I love this pic–it’s like the “Our Gang” of the 90’s!
Running around like a crazy-person to get the kids to their various sports activities—there was always a soccer, basketball or baseball game going on. Driving Oona up to North Jersey for Irish Dance classes sometimes three times a week.
Baseball games in Inwood Hill Park before the move to the ‘burbs!
The results of thrice-weekly dance classes and homework in the car! That’s my favorite dance dress of Oona’s–its the only one we saved and didn’t sell.
I think Oona stopped playing rec soccer due to her allergies! She suffered terribly as shown here. BTW, I still cannot find all the pics of the kids. I can’t find Roman’s baseball or soccer pics. I feel bad–more proof of bad mom!
My Town and Country minivan serving as a homework nook AND dining car—while driving more than three bodies around!
My beloved Town and Country Minivan was this color–and the fun and drama that went on in that car was priceless!
The misadventures of being both a room mom AND a P.T. O. queen!
My PTO Queen tiara that I wore so well!
Baking treats for the kids’ classes and being a part of various school events.
Halloween in public school was much different. You weren’t (and I’m pretty sure still are not) allowed to wear “scary” costumes….
Catholic school was more liberal–Roman’s my little Dracula…..
…and Jake was the Penguin. Scary! Ohhhhhhhhh.
I loved the way Jake was so methodical about his homework process during his middle and high school years. He would lay all his books on the floor of his room—opened to the needed pages. He would turn his TV or CD player on for background noise and assertively approach each subject. As each task was done, he would close the books-like an assembly line. He was incredibly disciplined.
Even in Kindergarten he would methodically attack each letter of the alphabet for that night’s homework. If he went over the line, he would start again.
Roman took a more devil-may-care way approach to homework. It didn’t matter if he went outside the lines because he just did it and was always happy to finish the project.
As he got older, sometimes he would just “forget” and would rely on his charm—which worked!
Oona was a blend of the two, serious less disciplined! But boy, could that girl attack a book. She loved to read!
Helicopter mom notwithstanding, I remember when Jake was in second grade and received a “B+” in one of his subjects. Jackass that I am, made a remark about his “low grade” to his teacher, the wonderful Sr. Genevieve. She told me that she was a teacher far longer than I was a mother and if she gave even the best students all “A’s” in the second grade, what did they have to strive for? That was some of the best advice I ever heard from a teacher—she basically told me to chill.
Sr. Genevieve–here she is with Roman at his Communion! One snowy days she would have the kids turn their desks toward the window to watch the snow. At the end of the school year she would give awesome homework assigmnents such as “go outside and play in this wonderful weather God has given us”–I’m not kidding–THAT is the best homework assignment any lazy mother could wish her kids to have!
Another teacher, Sr. Christine also put me in my “obnoxious mommy” place. I asked her why she wasn’t giving the first grade students study guides for their mid-term exams.
She reminded me that my child was in first grade. She also reiterated that if she wasn’t getting through to their six-year old minds, then she wasn’t being a very good teacher!
Gotta love those nuns! Gotta love any great teacher and my children, for the most part, were lucky!
School years are not without drama though. There’s always the mom and dad whose kids will always be better, brighter, smarter, more advanced than your child. I avoided those moms like the plague!
What about school photos? Those photos are absolutely, THE best time capsule for tracking your child’s school years. Come. Take a look at my collection (or at least the ones I actually found!)
Here’s an oldie but goodie. Nothing says “Thanksgiving” celebration better than raisins, popcorn and a lollipop!
Jake–I think maybe 4th grade. I could never figure out why the kids didn’t have to wear uniforms on picture day–it was more work for ME!
Second grade Jake?
Into the ‘burbs and Junior High Jake!
Jake at University of Texas. His job during his college years was filming Friday night high school football. A real-life Friday Night Lights!
My UT Grad!
Roman–First grade or Kindergarten–am I the only mom who doesn’t date the back of these school pics?
This looks like Third Grade Roman…..
I can tell you this was Sophomore High School Roman. We were at a baseball awards dinner and I protested to have it held somewhere else besides the place we had it. There was NO A/C and my hair was a frizzy mess! Roman looks adorable though!
High School Graduation Roman! He looks so pensive–maybe he was afraid I would embarrass him!
Oona, Roman and Me–Jake stayed in Austin during his college summers! Wow-I had premature turkey neck!
Graduation-City College of New York! I call this Roman’s “Boris Badenov” look!
My favorite school pic of Oona. Her allergies were bad, but I just loved this haircut on her! Third grade!
Getting on the bus in first grade. Check out the glasses and denim jacket! What a little fashionista!
I dunno–maybe fourth or fifth grade…
This is crazy! In the first place, I have NO idea what those stains on Oona’s shirt are from? Maybe it’s water! But–I give Oona a shitload of credit for actually allowing me to go into school the day before school started and snap this pic in front of her classroom. Mrs. Brindle, her teacher was so awesome. I’m feeling extra bad because I cannot believe I would let my daughter leave the house with a stained shirt!!!
Either I surprised Oona or she was just stunned from spending so much time in the car going back and forth to dance classes! Team awards at the Oireachtas. Irish Dance was her sport!
Graduation. My little Delta Gamma girl graduated from U. of MD!
Before you know it, Kindergarten is a fleeting moment and you will be looking at colleges—then you’ll turn around and your child will be an adult venturing out with a career and a new life—one that excludes you!
So enjoy every moment. Enjoy the tears and the fears and the excitement and the crushes and the activities and great moments and the awful moments because they just go too fast!
My babies’ high school senior portraits!
Here’s to you Jake, Roman, and Oona. I thank you for allowing me to be a part of your school days. Thank you for never being embarrassed when I showed up as room mom or as a chaperone for a field trip. Thank you for dealing with my screetching and squealing during your games and other activities. Thank you for allowing me to be a proponent of yours! Thank you for giving me the best memories a mom could ever want!!!
Today– I HAVE to give you The Beach Boys “Be True To Your School!” Rah Rah!
“WTF has happened to music with a social message? Where are the anti-war songs today? We need the hippie era back. We need bands like Country Joe!”
He mentioned that it’s too bad today’s young people don’t have a “Hippie Mentality”. It got me to thinking…..
We need some Strawberry Fields back in our minds!
We need a new, modern day, Hippie Movement. Justin Timberlake brought “Sexy” back—so why not bring “Hippie” back?
Timberlake may have brought “sexy” back–but I’m gonna bring…..
Hippie back–and Irving Penn’s beautiful photo captures the essence!
Think about it. Why aren’t young people holding gentle protests, sit-ins, love-ins, and concerts for social issues?
They may not look it, but these youths of 1960 had the original Hippie mentality with one of the very first “sit-ins” for racial equality–only they called it a squat-in! NOTE: I wanted to leave the photo as I found it–verbiage included. We need to know that we did make strides–although it seems like we are regressing these days….
Why aren’t young people today holding peaceful marches and protests?
Woodstock. The greatest concert of all time!
What about protesting against the ridiculously large amount of interest that banks are charging for student loans? Most college graduates are paying a small fortune in interest rates to these legal thieves? Don’t these kids care? Are they THAT out of touch with reality? Do these kids realize that the end result of defaulting on their student loans is a bad credit rating? It’ll take YEARS to regain good credit—it’s a vicious cycle. They will pay higher interest rates on automobile loans, homes, credit cards—all because they defaulted on their college loans-and the banks will be collecting even MORE money. They are loan sharks in white collars!
Let me tell you, if I were a college student or college graduate today, I would be marching in front of the nearest bank with THIS sign!!!! It’s disgraceful and the kids do nothing about it!
Speaking of thieves—what about the insurance companies? Yeah—I’m talking Healthcare! NOTE TO HIPPIES OF YEARS GONE BY: Get your love beads back on and come out and protest! The only winners in the health care debacle are the insurance companies. We have to pay higher rates by the year. Corporations, who used to pay a large chunk of employee’s medical benefits, can no longer afford to do so. Insurance companies are running the well dry! Obama care just isn’t working the way it should have (politics—I’m not going there today…) and those who don’t have healthcare will be fined. WTF is this? Mention Healthcare in Europe and people go nuts. It WORKS over there! And don’t give me the excuse you will have to wait forever for a doctor’s appointment. I just made an appointment for my annual lady parts exam and have to wait over two months. Forget my skin check—that’s a six-month wait! I’m getting my Hippie on big time over this cause!
I’ve said it before and will KEEP saying it–the only winners in Healthcare are the insurance companies and they WILL be the next financial ruin of our country! We need more posters like this!
What about inequality? Racism is running rampant these days-why, it’s a total throwback to the 1950’s and 1960’s!!! We’re regressing as a country—so why not regress and go back in time to the Hippie era? Everyone accepted each other—remember the play and movie “Hair”? Here’s a little refresher course of what fun it can be when black and white get along and can sing about it!
Check out a young Nell Carter!
Let’s move forward on the racial issues. And don’t forget, the media and press only feeds into the issues–they don’t help–they are sensationalists! Let’s get back to Hippie Mentality on this!
We don’t need violent protests—violence only hurts…
A peaceful demonstration may have included police, but this gentle hippie just placed a flower into the gun!!
…and speaking of violence? What about gun laws? We need some HIPPIE logic on more stringent gun control!! Guns DO kill—in the wrong hands. Honestly, many folks believe we should have the right to “bear arms”. I say exercise more— then you’ll be able to “bare arms”—it’s far more important—and much more attractive. We need a sit-in to protest the lenient gun laws in this country. The second amendment should be amended. After all, Daniel Boone, Davey Crockett and Annie Oakley lived in a time when our country was in the toddler state—our world is full of angry, resentful and emotionally disturbed (which, don’t even get me started on mental health issues….) folks who should NOT be playing with any gun stronger than a water pistol!
I really don’t care what the NRA or the gun totin’ population says. GUN CONTROL NEEDS TO BE STRICTER!!!!!!
Remember the protests over the Vietnam War? Why were there not protests about the recent turn of events with our troops fighting in Iraq, Iran, this “stan”, that “stan” everywhere a “stan, stan”? We don’t need to babysit every country—not when we have gun wars, racial wars, inequality wars, housing wars and the war on Donald Trump’s horrific comb over…all in our backyard.
Obama promised to bring ALL troops home–he’s just like the REST of the politicians. ALL troops are NOT home–where they belong!
Our young people need to get on the ball and go back a few generations…..
Why have our young adults gone soft? Do they protest by “Tweeting” rather than gathering in groups in parks and other public areas to voice their opinions? Do they silently protest whilst enjoying hookups? Are they too busy enjoying the scent of a luxe brand aftershave or perfume rather than the essence of a freshly lit joint? A true hippie would never wear a Chanel scent–they would go with patchouli or other natural oils.
Although I don’t partake in the weed–I’m glad it’s becoming close to being federally legalized as other than for medicinal use. Hard liquor is worse, IMHO.
Get rid of the tablet, laptop and Smartphone for a month, week, day, couple of hours, hour, moment!
Other than a social conscience, you also need to look the part and I’m going to help!
Guys–first of all, take a semi-note from your “hipster” peers. It’s ok to have a beard and moustache and grow your hair. Actually, longer hair on guys looks better—and when it gets in the way, you can tie it up in a “mun”.
Men–grow that hair, and if it gets in the way pull an Orlando Bloom and put it up in a “mun”–man bun! Be a cross between a Hipster and Hippie!
The added benefit is that Hippies love all kinds of texture-throw away the condish. Let your hair frizz, go in every direction, wear in in waves, straight—get an afro pick and go natural.
Janis Joplin has THE best head of wavy Hippie Chick hair…….
CUBA – OCTOBER 01: Angela Davis In Cuba In 1972 (Photo by Keystone-France/Gamma-Keystone via Getty Images)
…and Angela Davis rocked the natural Afro!!!
Girls—I know the original Hippie movement’s beauty routine included NOT shaving your underarms or legs—but this is the now. Please—keep shaving the pits and the legs—it just looks prettier. However, in the desire to be a modern Hippie chick, forego the waxing of your “love shack”—you no longer will need that “landing strip” or “Brazilian”—you can go natural “there”!
Not to be nasty, but Grandpa Woodstock’s wife, Queen Esther, COULD have benefitted from Sally Hansen’s facial hair remover on her chin. I’m sure she didn’t shave ANY part of her body. Presently–it’s ok to shave!!!!!!
Clothing
Jeans and other bottoms: Jeans, especially faded jeans were a big part of the Hippie Movement. Although Bell Bottom jeans are just starting to make a comeback, any jean is pretty much ok for the “New Hippie”. Scratch that. NO acid washed jeans!
This is a perfect example of a beautifully faded pair of jeans!
Instructions for fading jeans: Get Clorox or any generic bleach. Fill the bathtub up with water. Maybe 1/3 the way. Pour the bleach into the water. Add the jeans and let them sit till desired fade sets in. Dry the jeans. Now—and this is a fun way to manage your anger, take the faded jeans into the back yard. Throw dirt and rocks on the jeans. Be aggressive! When the jeans are really messed up, take a scissor and cut the hems of the jeans—not too short, you want the jeans to be longer than shorter! Now go wash and dry the jeans. The bottoms will be nicely frayed.
An extra little fun jeans project is to sew fun patches on them and, if you are crafty, embroider cute flowers, or rainbows, or kittens onto your jeans!
A couple of patches with authenticate the look!
Khaki’s: You want them wrinkled and baggy—not the kind of baggy that hangs down “hip-hop” style and exhibits skid-marked underwear either. Just a hint of baggy—enough that it says “I don’t care about neatness”—in a kind of pretentious, yet fashionable/unfashionable way. It’s all about being refined in an unrefined way! The only two colors of Khaki pants permissible are natural and olive drab. NO NAVY Khakis!!!
Carpenter/Painter’s Pants and Overalls: It’s a little “Hee Haw” but trust me, back in the days of Woodstock, painters/carpenter pants were popular—and inexpensive as all get out! If you painted a house while wearing them it was even more important because of the stains on the pants! Overalls were popular due to the fact that the guys could use the bib as an excuse for a shirt and girls—well, they still had to wear a shirt underneath, but could always go braless and be more comfy!
Stiff at first, after about 20 washings, these got so soft and comfy. Note to self: Buy a pair!
Shirts: The epitome of the Hippie shirt is the tie-dyed Tee.
Caveat–as a modern day Hippie, I will wear a FITTED tie dyed shirt–I DO have my fashion priorities, you know!
Don’t forget, flannel shirts are just as classic to Hippie as lime green and bright pink are classic preppy! The tattered, cotton button down collared shirt is also acceptable, but needs to be completely wrinkled (I shudder at the thought of an unironed shirt—but hey, it’s for the cause, man).
OK–so the blue plaid shirt ISN’T flannel–I’m still at the hot-flash stage, but the red and black shirt IS flannel. This is a timeless and classic form of Hippie chic! AND–it’s unisex!
Denim shirts are also fine, but—don’t do the denim on denim. Wear the denim—or as it is known in the post-hippie era,”chambray”. Just wear shirts like this with khaki’s or carpenter pants.
This would be me and I’m rockin’ the chambray shirt. Mentally, I’m a Hippie….
……… Facebook told me so!
Halter shirts—I’m talking the DIY kind. Does anyone remember the halter shirts that were made with one of those cheapo gold neck rings and a bandana? I’m so pissed—I couldn’t find an online image, so I drew one. These are best worn for those women who are more on the Double A bra size for obvious reasons!
The only ones who CAN get away with wearing this kind of halter are those young twenty-somethings–and do it soon before your bodies change!
Peasant Shirts—Hold on! I’m having a moment here. I’m getting teary-eyed. OK! There is nothing that says “I’m a fashionable and ultra-girly Hippie chick” than a crisp, white, cotton peasant shirt adorned with colorful embroidery! I know. I had a bunch. And due to my penchant for white shirts, most likely from Catholic school, I’m still longing to wear these shirts. My mother also insisted on ironing them before I wore them. I could wear some Hippie clothing during my teen years, but the clothes had to be ironed!
The one and only iconic peasant shirt! OMG. I LOVED these shirts!!!!! I can still smell the fresh cotton scent!
The beautiful Mexican peasant shirts are still available in many colors—but the white ones just did it for me. So—to you young women who may strive to be a modern Hippie, get the peasant shirts!
Look at these beautiful shirts. I’m drooling! We seriously need to go back to Hippie fashions! And I’m NOT talkin’ “Boho”–boo hoo hoo. I’m talkin’ HIPPIE!
Indian Tunics—The great thing about these tunics is that they are another unisex clothing item! But guys be warned—they look better with jeans than with any other pants. Girls be warned—these tunics are multitaskers. Long enough and you can wear them as a dress. They make great beach coverups as well! The fabric is light and airy—perfect for summer! My love for these tunics when I was younger put India on my bucket list. India is still number one on that list—I hope someday to visit—it would be the dream trip of a lifetime!
Indian tunics are beautiful and comfy and are sex and gender friendly! Perfect for a new Hippie!
Footwear
Where do I begin? Birkenstocks perhaps? These awful-looking things have made a comeback. Today’s modern Hippie has such a selection to chose from! Berks are also available in rubber at a far lower cost of about $30. I know. I have a pair—but they are sitting unworn.
I have a pair of these in blue rubber. I just don’t feel the love–that isn’t very Hippie of me, but I’m honest!
Rondini Sandals—I’m sure if Jesus, the original Hippie AND Hipster dude, was not so hell-bent on being humble and living life like a poor person, he would have hightailed it to St. Tropez and purchased a few pair of these custom-made sandals. The Tropezienne model is THE perfect sandal for our more modern Hippie footwear. And—they’ll last forever!!
This pair of Rondini sandals just shout “New Hippie Movement”. They are also telling me I need a pedicure. NOW!
Flip-flops—this is footwear that’s been in style forever and will never go out of style. The simplicity and cheap price make this a popular choice for everyone—Hippie or not! And—they go with everything!
Other Leather Sandals—For those who cannot make it to St. Trop for the Rondini sandals, any leather sandal with straps will do. Remember, Veganism wasn’t as popular back in the original Hippie days as it is now. The original Hippies also wore suede vests and carried suede bags..something todays new Hippie movement would not be caught with. I’ll take leather—the price of those faux leather, vegan purses and shoes are atrocious. You need to be wealthy to purchase Vegan clothing and accessories!
Construction Boots—before the popularity of Doc Marten’s, Hippies in the know wore construction boots during the winter months. They looked rugged on the male Hippies and looked absolutely adorbs worn with dresses and skirts on the Hippies of the female persuasion!
Old school, inexpensive construction boots rock the Hippie look. Don’t you DARE try to slip by with anything else!
Bare feet—This is my favorite form of footwear and will always continue to be. Nothing like walking barefoot through grass (unless someone forgot to pick up after their dog.) or feeling the ocean at your tootsies. DRIVING barefoot is the only way to go. It is very organic!
Barefootin’–the most organic of footwear are the feet!
OK—all the funny stuff aside—my point is that we need to find our passion about social issues. What’s happened to us? We’ve become so damn compliant and just lazy.
We need love….
…and peace….
..we need to dance–just as Clyde Keller captured in this photo…
Most of the protests regarding social issues these days are carried out in the actions of Facebook posts. I’ll be the first to admit—I’m guilty!
I’m promising to get my Hippie back on!
All of us, young, old, and in between—black, white, yellow—all races, gay, straight, trans, pan—we need to start fighting for what we believe what’s right! We need to get together….
Take a clue from The Youngbloods “Get Together”! It can be done.
In response to The Daily Post’s writing prompt: “Forever Young.”
Bonaparte and I were walking through Nordstrom’s the other day when I spotted the most beautiful dress. I’m telling you, this dress spoke to me.
This dress also spoke to a couple of celebrities who are younger, thinner, and more leggier than me!
Yeah. Definitely younger!
It said:
“Hello Cathe!” “Come over.” “Feel me”. “Take me in your arms and caress me and walk to the fitting room and try me on”. “I shall be yours.” “I am the kind of little black dress that you adore”. “Simple with a rather subtle white lace collar and cuffs—the kind of dress that a woman who has worn uniforms for years loves….”
I was in a trance. Really. I was!
Oh beautiful Ted Baker dress, you had me at the white lace collar!!!!!
Bonaparte knew what I was thinking—he saw that glazed look. He knew I was going to grab that dress. But before I could even reach out to grab the hanger, he tapped me on the shoulder and said to me:
“Cassie!” “Ou cannot try zhat dress on.” “Pu’ eet bek”. “Ou ahr too ol’ to wahr eet.” “Em sorry, Cassie—eez jus’ too short for a womahn of ewahr ahzh.”
Translation: Cathe. You cannot try that dress on. Put it back. You are too old to wear it. I’m sorry Cathe, it’s just too short for a woman of your age”.
His words hit me like a quick, sharp slap to the face. I had an emotional welt.
When we got into the car I teared up and told him that I wanted to be young forever.
The reality is, I can’t be young forever.
When I arrived home I took a good look at myself. My legs are not taut the way they were when I was young. My knees are growing crepey. My thighs are a bit flabby and the blue tint of lined veins are starting to surface.
I’ll tell you, the best fake tan cannot disguise the marks of age that my legs have acquired. The short, short dresses are a thing of the past for me. But WHY do designers not create more youthful looks for women over 50–or 60????
The dress was so short that even with black tights and over-the-knee boots, I would look like I was trying to recapture the days of my youth—and I have to admit, it wouldn’t really look that great. It would look like a costume.
That dress was so short if I bent over my “origin of the world” would be in full view! (Google Gustave Courbet’s painting “The Origin of the World” and you’ll know what I’m talking about!)
I realized two things after that little trip to Nordies.
The first is that I’m sad that designers only make cute dresses geared to youth. Had Ted Baker made the same dress in various lengths, I definitely would have purchased it if it just grazed the middle of my knees. I may be older, but I like my dresses at a shorter, not below-the-knee length.
The second realization is this—I may be older, but my spirit remains youthful. My spirit and my thoughts will always remain youthful. I never want to shut my mind and spirit off to anything new and exciting.
Would I drink from the Fountain of Youth if I had the opportunity?
I may partake in a little sip of the youth’s “eau de vivre”!
I wouldn’t drink—but I most definitely would take a sip or two–if only for my spirit!
Are you like me? Do you love documentaries the way I do? There’s nothing like a great documentary (Or as Bonaparte calls them “document-AIRzzz“) to give you a peek into the world of photography, food, other cultures—just about anything!
Documentaries bring out the nerd in me. They feed my appetite for curiosity downright nosiness!
So do you also love music the way I do? I need my daily dose of music—it’s my drug of choice! So many types of music—and so much history. Music is a pleasurable form of education!
Doctor Atypical60 says a daily dose of music makes you happy! I’m back to my dosage of Roots Music! This collection is great!
Yesterday I had the best of both worlds by watching a GREAT musical documentary “This Ain’t No Mouse Music”.
It’s on Netflix. Trust ME–if you get the chance you MUST watch this. If you love music you HAVE to watch this–it is EPIC greatness!
This Ain’t No Mouse Trailer –Check out Ry Cooder!
The film follows the search for the elusive Roots music and other indigenous music that add to the gumbo of our American music scene. This search is led by Chris Strachwitz, the founder of Arhoolie Records.
Chris Strachwitz with Mance Lipscomb in the early days. I got this photo from Texas Monthly. I love the look on Strachwitz’s face–he’s beaming with happiness. I would be too if I had met Mance Lipscomb!
If it weren’t for Chris Strachwitz, there is a good possibility much of this music would go unnoticed and fade away into oblivion except for those who still play these jewels within their own regional locales.
Watching Strachwitz literally resurrect our roots musicians is a musical miracle. Honestly, I don’t know if he discovered or “re” discovered many local musicians from the various regions of our country, but he sure did collect an awful lot of great ones.
James Brown may be the Godfather of Soul–but Chris Strachwitz is the “Godfather of American Roots” music! I snapped this picture while watching the film!
Among them, Mance Lipscomb, a local South Texas blues singer who was an important part of this film. He, along with a young sharecropper, Yank Thornton, wrote a song, “Tom Moore’s Farm”, which Lipscomb recorded for Strachwitz. Lipscomb’s request was that the song not be played until after Lipscomb died. He was afraid of what Tom Moore would do—Moore had a huge plantation and wasn’t very kind to his workers. Years later another blues singer, Lightnin’ Hopkins recorded the song changing the name “Tom” to “Tim”. These recordings are an amazing piece of history—you can hear how badly people were treated through both men’s voices and through the song’s lyrics. The singing is pure and stripped down. True soul—which makes it all the more beautiful.
Lightnin’ Hopkins and Clifton Chenier.What I wouldn’t give to have seen these two play some live music–I wouldn’t be able to sit down!
Forget the glitz and over produced country garbage that hits the top 40 charts these days. The old timey country music—the naked songs, stripped of the glamour, are the ones that can be very moving. These songs have feeling and heart. You can hear the pain and anguish and it goes directly through your skin and past your bones and rests in your soul. There is a sad and almost eerie quality to many of the songs—but they are just so wonderful to listen to that you are completely mesmerized and placed into a musical trance.
THIS is as glitzy as it gets! No lasers, no fireworks on stage–just musicians and their instruments!
The film also includes a plethora of information about Arhoolie records, the record company Strachwitz created. Arhoolie is a collection of incredible CD’s—many that you can purchase online. Trust me—I already ordered a few. If you love Roots music, you will adore this record company!
I felt like a kid in a candy store when I went onto Arhoolie’s site. Oh. My. Godfather of American Roots Music. I cannot wait to order more music! The link to their website is below. Go have a look-see–you’ll go nuts!
A bit of trivia here. Remember Woodstock? Remember Country Joe and The Fish’s song “I Feel Like I’m Fixin’ to Die Rag”? Strachwitz was the first to record the song. And—after he gained publishing rights to the song, he later paid Country Joe for the song’s royalties!
WTF has happened to music with a social message? Where are the anti-war songs today? We need the hippie era back. We need bands like Country Joe!
The film also focuses on the different types of regional music like Mexican, Bluegrass, and the great music of Louisiana.
Michael Doucet of BeauSoleil was a good part of this documentary as well.I could listen to him all day too!
And this is where the film got me! It’s been years since I have been in Louisiana. New Orleans in particular. I still cook up a mean Gumbo—it’s become a family staple. I can whip up a fantastic crawfish etouffee and for dessert the best bangin’ pralines this side of the Mason Dixon line. And while I used to cook all those delights on a regular basis, the Cajun music would be playing in the background. And I would grab the kids and we would start dancing around the house! The music DID that to us!
MEAT! The “Boucherie” in Cajun country is a perfect excuse for music, dance, drinking and eating. Why did I never have reason to move down to Louisiana? I’m coming back in my next life as La Jolie Brunette this way I can enjoy!
But—my Louisiana music had been “resting” on a shelf downstairs.
Seriously–who does not want to be a part of THIS? Get me a plane ticket and I’m gonna be a part of the band–I’ll sing my heart out!
It’s been a while since I dusted my Cajun cd’s off and played them. I’m listening Steve Riley and the Mamou Playboys “Deux Valses A Wayne Perry” as I write this. Luckily and fatefully, watching this movie made me take those cd’s out and listen to them again!
Cajun/Creole music is a part of American Roots music, but those musical roots come from France—in particular, Brittany. The music of Brittany, Breton, comes from the Irish…and the roots branch out to parts unknown.
Bagad Lann Bihoue–Totally French and yet Celtic at the same time–and may I add this guy looks an awful lot like Wilson Savoy of “Pine Leaf Boys”!……
…and the music of Brittany (Breton) stems from Irish Traditional Music, here John Wynne (Yes. He’s my cousin and a fine musician!) leads a master class!
Cajun runs the gamut—sad songs, happy songs, songs about heartbreak and love—it’s all there!
As painful as the blues are, Zydeco is happy and fun and carefree.
Boudin, a strong Hurricane drink and Buckwheat Zydeco is sure to make your spirits rise!!!
Regional Mexican Music—Tejano music. Simple and pure—and the Mexican accordion definitely has a different attitude than the Cajun accordion. This is music that influenced Tex-Mex musician Joe King Carasco and others. It’s great party music—but many of the songs were about being poor and were geared toward the laborers and working class!
The regional Mexican music is beautiful–and had a great influence on many singers!
Another great thing about “This Ain’t No Mouse Music” was finding new roots musicians. Seeing and listening is learning!
No Mouse Music–just pure, raw, stripped down Roots music is what we need to listen to!
Pine Leaf Boys: Wilson Savoy, a member of this band is son of the famous Cajun musician Marc Savoy. It’s Cajun music with a bit of a youthful edge!
Pine Leaf Boys. Tell me the guy with the accordion, Wilson Savoy, doesn’t look like the guy above in the French military band playing Breton music!
Big Momma Thornton: definitely an influence on Elvis Aaron Presley. Her version of “Hound Dog” is bluesy and hits the heart.
Bit Momma Thornton had an even bigger voice! Check it out below:
No Speed Limit: Modern Bluegrass band that’s a throwback to old bluegrass. Amber Collins has a voice that could break glass—and I mean that in the best way ever!
This CD is on my list–I’m intrigued with Appalachian music thanks to “This Ain’t No Mouse Music”!
I also learned that the iconic Ry Cooder is alive and kickin’!!
Ry Cooder with Chris Strachwitz at the now defunct but wonderful Tower Records.
My point is this. You like music? Ever wonder where certain sounds and genre’s come from? Ever wonder what started it all in our country?
Here’s how strong the power of music is–Pine Leaf Boys in Uzebekistan! Man–music can create world peace!
Great clip of Pine Leaf Boys in Uzebekistan!
Take a step back. Focus on where it all began and where it all came about.
You’ll thank me for it!
Oh..and yes. I DO like mouse music too. I enjoy the happy-go-lucky poppiness of Abba, KC and his band of sunshine, Laurent Voulzy and many others. It’s just that I have a special fondness and love of the obscure roots music that adds to our diverse and wonderful America!
Today–I end this with Mance Lipscomb’s “Tom Moore’s Farm”. Listen–and feel the anguish and blues! It’ll move you! XOXOXOXO!! Seriously.
Hey. I know you will love today’s post! I’ve decided to make a regular posting about beauty from my alter ego “The Paupered Princess”. I’m gonna try to do this on a weekly basis. (TRY!)
While I realize that I am by far NO expert on the subject, I do have a few bits to add.
I’m 60 years old. This means that I do NOT possess the looks that I had 40, 30, 20, or even 10 years ago.
This is 60. I can’t hide anything–especially the scar below my mouth (the one where I literally bit through my lip from a bathtub accident)..but I work with what I have!
I have turkey neck.
Turkey neck, lines, spots, all the “character” that comes with age! I got it!
I have freckles and spots on my face.
I have wrinkles.
I have wrinkles…..and…
The only way I can get rid of them is to walk around like an overexposed selfie. I would look like a FREAK!!!!!! Really–I don’t want to lose face!!!
My mouth isn’t looking as “bee stung” as it was when I was younger—it’s looking more like fish lips.
This photo is by Richard Austin–but how did he know my lips now look like this??
I’ve even been mistaken for a “sir” when I left the house without makeup. Sad and humiliating but true!
Fear not. I know what my imperfections are and I know how to work around them.
I am wise enough to know that NO amount of beauty cream or skin products—including the new “Blur” products will turn back the clock and turn the skin on my face to that akin of a baby’s bottom. Ain’t gonna happen.
I was fortunate enough to try a sample of this. Fortunate enough in the fact I never had to waste the money. This is the biggest waste of money. It is nothing more than a renamed primer! It won’t make you look younger! It won’t erase the lines!
Botox and fillers are out of the question for me. I cannot afford them at this point in my unemployed life! Besides, if I could afford to have these injections, you had better believe I would find the BEST doctor to administer these drugs—I want to be subtle!
With all due respect to Jocelyn Wildenstein, I realize she is a great patron of the arts and animal rights, but this woman was absolutely beautiful before she reconfigured her facial features!
A surgical face lift would suffice—and there’s no way on the face (pun intended?) of this earth I can afford to do that right now!
So today, I’m going to focus on the most basic of my beauty products. The roots of what turn this old and decrepit (well, at least according to advertisers and cosmetics companies I’m decrepit!) woman into a half-way decent human being.
All these products are incredibly affordable too…so let’s play!
Albolene Moisturizing Cleanser: This is my “Holy Grail” of cleansers. I refuse to take my makeup off with anything else. A 12-ounce jar costs about $11.00 and is worth its weight in gold. A little bit is all you need. Makeup and dirt literally “MELT” away. Wipe off well with a damp wash cloth and your skin is makeup free with no residue.
This is the greatest makeup remover of all time! As soon as I hit the bottom third of the jar, I run out to by more. It can be difficult to track down, but I’ve had great luck purchasing this at Bed, Bath and Beyond! It is affordable and a little goes a long, long way!
Water—H2O: OK. We all have to pay a water bill—so this beauty bit is included in that fee! Seriously. After wiping my face clear of the Albolene, I splash water on my face. First, I splash warm water, and then dry with a towel. Then I splash cold water on my face to close the pores—AND it just feels good. Also—drinking plenty of water is just healthy for both the outside and inside of your body!
Don’t forget the importance of water. It IS an essential beauty product!
Moisturizing Cream: Presently, I’m using Olay Active Hydrating Lotion. The cost? Around $6.00 at Walmart. I’ll use the “Equate” brand dupe most of the time which costs about $3.50 at Walmart. I switch between the two when I can’t find one or the other. Either way, BOTH ARE THE SAME! Both creams make my skin soft and don’t make my face feel tight—and that’s the goal. You do NOT need to spend a fortune.
This is basically the old school “Oil of Olay” but repackaged. It works just as well as any high end moisturizer!
Chapstick: I’ve written this before and I’ll write it again. Chapstick, at about a buck a tube, works just the same way that a “Blur” product will. I’ll swipe the old Stick of Chap on crow’s feet and around my mouth and it helps to fill those little lines in. Is it a miracle worker? Hell no—but it assists in the smooth application of makeup!
I apply the “Stick of Chap” to my crows feet. They still remain, but Chapstick fills in those lines just a l’il bit–AND is far less pricey than any “blur” product!
Sally Hansen Crème Hair Remover Duo Kit: Ladies—this is all about that friggin’ moustache AND the halo of fuzz that we grow with age. Do NOT tell me that hasn’t happened to you because then I will be very jealous and/or not believe you! (Just kidding—if you are not privy to this, you are lucky!). This remover does have a little vial of skin conditioner but I don’t use it. The hair remover is more important to me. I paid five dollars and change for this due at Ulta. It works. It works just as well as the wax job I get at the nail place, but truth be told; sometimes I’m just too lazy to drive down the street to get my lip waxed. Five minutes after applying, the hair is gone. But—I wash my face and HANDS like crazy after this. God forbid any gets on the TOP of my head—the hair I DO have left is too near and dear to me!!! I can’t lose any more—LOL!
Two recent purchases at Ulta. The Crème Hair Remover Kit by Sally Hansen is a must to have on hand when you just don’t make it to have your face waxed!
My impersonation of Santa Claus? NOPE! It’s my Beauty Cause!!! Gotta look like a girl again!
Bye bye lady whiskers!
Toppik: Speaking of the hair on my head…….Toppik is another one of my “Holy Grails”. The price has gone up to $24.95 recently, but with that price jump comes more product. A jar of this lasts me about 8 weeks. That’s about 12.50 a month. Believe me; this is priceless in terms of confidence and self-esteem!
As you can see, the shaker went from .36 oz to .42 oz. More of the stuff I need. Reminds me–I have a blow out tomorrow. I have to put this in my purse!
Note-these are just the basic roots of my beauty products. From these products I build. Some days I don’t even bother to wear makeup at all—but I still use these products. Other days I’ll just put a bit of makeup on and others—well, I do the whole shebang—but those are for my future Beauty Bits!
Random Inexpensive Beauty Masks: You can find these in any beauty aisle of any drug store or in Ulta or Sephora. I usually pick one up when I feel my skin needs a bit of extra love! Take a half hour to just sit and Zen!
Hey. I scared my dog, Chippy, with this look–but a face mask is a fun and relaxing Zen moment for your visage!
My point is this: you do NOT have to spend a fortune on skin care! Save the money for a dinner at a great restaurant or put the money saved to your travels!
BTW, this is how I look today after using the cheapo skin products and some makeup. The lines are still there, but I work around everything–and I’ll always be cross-eyed, but I’ve learned it’s ok–that’s what makes my looks way different and unique! OH..and I did my hair myself—on Sunday. Dirty hair looks good!
I’m going off topic (or shall I say “Toppik”) today with my music. I’ve been listening to Cajun music and I LOVE BeauSoleil. It’s been a while since I’ve been to Louisiana. Here’s “Lil Darlin”—because all Atypical60’ers ARE Lil’ Darlin’s!! XOXOXOXOXOO! Get up and DANCE!!!!!
What actually prompted me to go for the challenge is simply this.
I equate street art with graffiti. I’m not a fan of graffiti. Yeah. I know, it’s urban (and at this point in time suburban) art. In most cases, I look at it as a form of vandalism. ( I’m old school. I like my art to hang on a wall)
I’m so tired of seeing old subway cars being sprayed. I’m exhausted of counting the amounts of graffiti displayed along my ride from CDG airport to Paris Centre. I’m disgusted with seeing beautiful buildings and the less-than-stellar graffiti that adorns and ruins them.
It’s ugly. No. It’s FUGLY!
Wanna draw? Get a paper and crayons.
But I digress!
There IS a form of graffiti, if you will, that I’m rather fond of!. And it adorns a building in Cannes!
And here it is!! I. Am. So. Hip!!!!!
Alain Delon!!! Who says I don’t appreciate street art????? I made Bonaparte drive past this at least once a day when we were on the Cote d’ Azur this summer! Me-owwwww!!
Even better. Dalida’s duet “Paroles Paroles” with Alain Delon. His voice. Yum!
