 Tammy Bleck, for her outstanding performance at fending life’s perils, jabs and obstacles. (applause – the crowd goes wild!). Accepting her award, Tammy is wearing a lovely pink fuzzy robe made by Charter Club complimented by her sleek leopard print slippers by Danskin. Her outfit is nicely complimented by stylish curlers and a minimum amount […]  I’d be filthy rich. Okay. Not really. But I would have saved myself a lot of grief, angst and tears. Growing up is hard. I’m still working on it. Needless to say, I would have used sunscreen (duh!), I wouldn’t be self-conscious of my body (it was fabulous), I wouldn’t be impressed with money (even […] 
Oh Tammy – knowing you, I would never have guessed you had such a hard hard experience. You really do not show it in any way. I am told I am cynical, but I respond – no, I am realistic. Can you even trust your guardian angel? I don’t know. Life is a throw of the dice. Luck is the prize of life. As the Irishman said…”I would rather be born lucky than smart…” I am off to buy a Lotto ticket. Joan 
Hi Joan, life isn’t easy for any of us, that’s for damn sure. I think I would trust my guardian angel….if he/she came with credentials. Haaa! Guess that makes me the cynical one. Life is a bit of a throw with the dice, but so much of the outcome depends heavily on our own participation. As to whether being born lucky or smart….I choose rich! Then luck wouldn’t matter a wit and I could buy knowledge. That’s my story, and I’m sticking to it! 
If I knew then what I know now, I’d tell my younger me, “ALWAYS!!!! listen to your Little Voice. It’s NEVER wrong.” Though I was a little late in learning that lesson, I was in time to impart it to my daughter. The difference in our approach to life speaks well of this practice. So, when in doubt my friend, listen to your Little Voice!
Tana, good one! I learned early on that the little voice is the actual voice of reason and survival. When I think back, most of my life struggles, problems and miseries were caused because I ignored that voice. Not any more! Age has it’s perks! Thanks for being here! 
You inspire me, Tammy. You’ve taken some hits but have come away stronger for the experience. I applaud you for your courage and determination. And yeah, passing on a The Cheesecake Factory is a major bummer.
Hi Helene, I think we’ve all taken some hard knocks. It happens when you live long enough. I’ve got to tell ‘ya, every time I have a slice of cheesecake, I cringe just a little bit at my stupidity. Aaaargh! So happy you stopped by for a read! Thanks for that and the kind words! 
Your heartache is palpable in this post. But so, too, is your relief at finding you can and do (and surely will continue to) comfort yourself. What a wonderful realization, courtesy an angel? Your subconscious? Whatever. It worked and that’s what matters. We will always retain those things that sting, those mistakes made and chances missed. But how awesome it is that we can keep on trying, keep on hoping for the best… and that we know where to turn when we fail miserably. I loved this post. Thank you for sharing. 
Dear Tammy, 
I’ve had those kind of dreams – and whether angel or demon (that would be my other self) I trust those visitations like nothing else. I love the vividness and the comfort I’ve felt, & it’s exactly as you describe. God does work in mysterious ways!
Mel, it all felt real. But I can’t deny, it was and still is, very weird. But a good kind of weird. Pulling one up by the bootstraps is sometimes not an option. My back was up against the wall big time. I’m not at all sure I am at the “top”, nor do I think it matters. Because I simply love where I am, and I’m grateful for the journey. And you!
Hi Lisa, thanks so much for the visit and the kind review! Appreciate both. You’re right, of course, we all have those moments in our lives where we would do it differently given the chance. I think it’s called learning. Haaa! Some lessons cost more than others. Still, I’m grateful for all of them! 
Hi Tammy! I’ve had dreams like that as well. Extremely clear, vivid, and with a powerfully calming message that everything will be ok. The key is to trust and listen to those messages. We often have the answer and don’t trust it because it seems to simple, easy, or it doesn’t seem possible. I believe in those dreams and I thank you for sharing yours! And while passing up on that little investment in Woodland Hills may sting, think about what you have and love in your life right now that would be missing had you made a different choice!
Hi Terri, I believe in them too. That was the only dream of it’s kind, that years later repeated itself in real life. Spooky, crazy good! I never forgot it and likely never will. You’re right, of course, a change in our past can gravely affect what our future folds out to be. Still, I wouldn’t mind a piece of the cheesecake empire in my back pocket. Next time! 
Here’s the crazy thing: I would’ve done it all exactly the same. Then again, no one presented me with the business opportunity of a lifetime!!!
Hi Carol, I think I’m with you there. I would have changed the duration of a given relationship, but not the relationship itself. While it ended in a boatload of hurt, it was a wonderful ride and we were given a beautiful daughter out of the deal. Win-win. Truth is….I WOULD have altered all those goofy things I didn’t do from sunscreen to the Cheesecake Factory, but, what the hell. It all turned out just fine and its not over yet (hoping). So appreciate the read and the comment, thanks for that.
Wonderful, Tammy! Thanks so much for sharing. Of course the key is taking action. Nothing comes magically to us if we simply sit in wait. I’m so glad we are gifted with perspective and these reassuring moments in life. I’ve had a couple myself. 
I found myself nodding with every word you wrote, my friend. Though I have never had a divorce or foreclosure, I’ve lost loved ones at very early times in life. I still remember being in the front seat of the ambulance as we drove my brother to the ER. I was terrified, heart practically pounding out of my chest, shaking a little, and never feeling so alone or scared… yet somehow, I, too felt that comforting presence. We lost him, but somehow, I knew we were going to get through. It’s funny, because as I write this, I also remember getting to that ER (I was only 14), 2 Latino gang bangers (and I mean that literally, the hospital was not in a good neighborhood, but it was a Trauma 1 center) tried to approach me…but a large, black gentleman (pretty sure he was involved in gangs somehow, too, though not theirs) got in their way and told them to leave me alone. He watched over me from a distance. Kept me safe while I waited for my mom to get there from work. As I look back, I see places were people one wouldn’t expect to care or lend a hand, have been put in my path to support or protect my way. I sort of think it was God…looking out for one of his many children. Thanks for sharing!
Kitt, your comment gave me chills. I have no doubt, NO DOUBT, that angels come in many forms. And that we, ourselves, take on the task, albeit unknown to us. To be comforted, kept safe, left to feel that we are not alone, is such a gift. I, myself do not know where it comes from but remain forever grateful for the gift of it all. I am always so compelled when I read your comments. Grateful for that too! 
Just beautiful. What you may not know is that guardian angel sits on your shoulder when you are addressing a group of people. The angel is a gift from your last life. Your post took a lot of courage to share – and that’s what I see when I look at you…You are beautiful – just like your story.
I related to this post big time. I was there, like you, sobbing while looking out the window, with two toddlers and a husband who had just walked out. I didn’t know how I’d make it. Suddenly, I felt a wave of ‘comfort’ (best way to describe it?) and joy surround me, envelope me, and suddenly, I knew I’d not only be fine, I’d be more than fine. And guess what? I was, and I am! Happily married with six grandbabies under age of 5, two independently published books and a blog that’s introduced me to many special people. Like you!
Oh, Linda, what kind words! Thank you. I would love to think that we all have angels on our shoulders. Lord knows, I always seem to be in need at some point or another. However hard we try, things don’t always go according to our plans. Courage is found in the trying, don’t you think? You, my friend, are a blessing. I just wanted to say that out loud!
Just found this post – it gave me goosebumps. and yes, I believe.  Nothing says happy valentines day like a battery operated squealing pig head or a dozen pairs of tube socks. Yes, I’m serious. 
I’m not expecting any Valentines from anyone (other than my dad maybe… he gets me a candy bar) but I DID get Valentine’s Day treats for my dogs and for my brother’s dog!
I’m pretty lucky. I’m married to to love of my like and we don’t do anything special for Valentine’s Day. Everyday is Valentine’s Day to me! 
I’m always hoping for something!! But it is true we celebrate our love everyday, not to be too mushy. I must confess I do love flowers!!
Really one of your best and funniest columns. I laughed out loud, even though this gender comes out second best. Even though it is a “manufactured” holiday designed to line the pockets of Hallmark, I enjoy because I take it semi-seriously.
Hi Angel, candy bars are ALWAYS good! Clearly you and I are not alone … America spends 9 million dollars on their pets for Valentines Day. Power in numbers. I enjoyed your blog and relayed your message to Mel. I will private message you with his email address should you wish to correspond with him directly. Happy to have you here Angel The Alien!
Hi Marilyn, SO lovely to hear from you. Good to know you are still out there! I’m with you…flowers are always wonderful. But in our house, every day is Valentine’s Day, mushy be damned. We are lucky, lucky ducks to be so loved and to love so much in return. Have a happy, my dear friend!
Hi Mel, you are a romantic at heart. Love that about you. Bet your beautiful wife does too. No, I did NOT know that people in Verona answer mail to Juliet. Somehow, that makes it worse. Bah! So happy to have given you a chuckle today. Have a wonderful day of love, you two crazy kids!
Well, I guess I’m not the average guy. I don’t dread VDay, I actually enjoy it. I don’t spend anywhere near $156, and yes, love definitely sells. I got Anne a little red box with four chocolates for $12 (yikes), which she will appreciate a whole lot more than your run-of-the-mill red roses.
Hi Tammy! Yes VD can be a confusing time for us all..even those of us who’ve been married forever. My husband tends to think VD (and most holidays) are promotional marketing days for companies like Hallmark. In some ways he’s right…but he married someone (me) who will celebrate just about anything anytime anywhere. So what I do is take my beloved to a long happy lunch and then come home to for our in-house massages–and yeah, that’s a pretty good day! Kathy @ SMART Living 365.com
You know, I’ve been one of those girls that was spoiled on Valentine’s Day…for the most part. Worst Valentine’s day to my recollection? A couple of years ago hubby got me a card, some Edible Arrangements and chocolate covered strawberries while I got him a card and made him a special Filipino meal…only to have him wind up in the ER for an emergency appendectomy. Yeah, it wasn’t the gifts…it was the following event. As for break ups? Not surprised. Sometimes I think it’s the stress of having to figure out the gifts (or not wanting to bother/the other party getting their feelings hurt). I also knew guys who would deliberately break up with their girlfriends on gift giving holidays simply to get out of having to purchase a gift. Others…yeah, I think you’re right. Expectations have a lot to do with it.
Hi Kitt, eeeek, that sounds like a horrible Valentine’s Day! A story you can laugh at now (hopefully). Damn good for you that you have always been spoiled on VD! That’s as it should be. I’m a big low key girl. Less is ore in my book. Probably why I don’t do Thanksgiving dinners with a lot of grace. I’d so much prefer to just keep it all simple, sweet and meaningful. I agree with you…. the breakup stat is not as surprising as it may seem. The second biggest break up day of the year is New Years ever. Go figure! So happy to have you here, Kitt. Thanks for that!
My VD card is sitting in my husband’s truck, unsigned, sealed, and undelivered. But you know what? Who cares? I bought him $1 package of Lindt chocolates and left it near his coffee cup this morning. NO card. The big smile on his face was priceless. Big whoop over nothing in my opinion. He only got the chocolates because I ended up not going to a networking meeting – it was my raffle giveaway! Joke’s on him! 
I did “marinate” kitty toys in catnip. I put their toys in a zip baggie and shake, let them sit for a few days. Meows of “please can I have it NOW” bring smiles any day of the year. This Valentines Day I just loved listening to my sweeties heart. It is beating so strong and he is doing great! My daughter and I did venture down the aisle with heart cards, red boxes of candy, and a whole bunch of flowers in bouquets ready to be purchased. I was specifically looking for gummi bears, actually for her, but she didn’t know it at the time. I enjoyed watching her watching all the guys frantically looking for a card. This was 2/13 at 5pm. She said, “They clearly have to know that this day is coming for sometime, right?” Ah, youth, she is 22 and life is just
Hi Jenny, Hope it was grand! It doesn’t get much better than listening to the healthy heart of the one you love. So happy to hear it. As far as the naiveté of youth, it is a wondrous thing. I sometimes wish I still lived in that world. Life has a way of teaching us the obvious…whether we want to know or not. Happy to see you here, grateful for that! Love to those catnip sniffing kitties!  I’m pretty sick and tired of being referred to as a Boomer, senior citizen, or a person of age, and I sure as hell do not want to be referred to as “over the hill”. I haven’t a clue what hill you’re referring to, but I’m betting I can beat you to the top of it. 
I am always amazed at how you can expand on what is to me just a one sentence comment. Ancient civilizations revered their elderly. Of course they were not bothered by TV, constant media, stay young forever products, good looks (I think wrinkles were what Joan Rivers calls ‘Life Stripes’). True that there really is no substitute for experience. I congratulate you on making the ‘machine’ work for you. I just do not have that knack. I am terrified of Facebook etc. Am I lost in the world I live in? Joan Cooper
Good morning Joan! Yeah, my grandfather would always tell me that I have the gift of gab. I wish we lived in a culture where age was valued. I see it in the Japanese and Italian cultures, but seldom in ours. Sad. But it’s okay. Aging is hard enough without having to deal with all the preconceived nonsense people throw in your wake. I feel like people our age are completely misunderstood and often thought less of. Good grief, enough! WE can hold our own and probably help with your load too! Thanks for the read, Joan. Always lovely to hear from you!
You know, no one played the stock market and day trading from home with the help of his laptop quite like my grandpa. He did it till he was 94. His learning curve? He was already in his 50’s when stuff like this started coming out. I used to teach smart phone and tablet classes. The “older set” were always so much more willing to jump in and learn, yet I’d meet folks my own age that would say “I’m too old to learn all of that!” As the saying goes, “Whether you are or you aren’t, you’re right.”
I read an article recently about a women’s lingerie brand that is no longer going to photoshop their models. I don’t know whether to kiss their feet or send cupcakes!
Call me “babe,” that’s what I say. Yes, our 16 year old rescue dog is engaged in the business of life. He also believes in the restorative and curative powers of sleep, which he does liberally and especially if he’s feeling punk.
Good on you, Tammy! You’re showing the new face of midlife and giving us 60+ year-olds some credibility. Rock on!
I am whoofing with you! Well said!
Dear Tammy.
Okay, I’m sharing this…because THIS, my friends, is a good post!
Well I see that so far, I am the only man so far, to make a comment here, and that seems interesting to me in itself. But as an “old dog” this applies to me as well. Yes I am an old dog over sixty years, however, I have always been on top of my game. I love technology and build my own high end PCs, have the latest smart phone, and tablet, run a blog and 19 websites. My kids come to me for advice! Ha. I have been told by numerous employers that I am “overqualified” which seems to say to me “too old”. A label I detest. I bring experience, knowledge, and most important, wisdom, into the work place. I can be taught new tricks and am willing to learn as my resume’ demonstrates. Yet, in this day in age if you aren’t in your 20s or 30s and geek smart, well you know. But I don’t care as I have found my calling and accepted that I am an “old fart that CAN” as well. Thank you Tammy for this article, but I must correct you on one statement. You aren’t a broad! You are a Lady Extraordinaire’ with the insight to see what many of us just take for granted and ignore. I’ve placed you as #1 in my book, which might not count for some, but says a whole lot to me. Please don’t ever stop! 
It’s true, Tammy, we all get boxed in somehow. When I was younger, I looked very young and I always wanted to look older so people would start taking me more seriously. Because of course, a young woman couldn’t possibly know what she’s doing. So, of course, now I’d like to look younger, since I am older and I don’t want to be boxed in once again. You can’t win for losing, I guess. I’ll never forget the first time I was called ma’am, and I didn’t like that so much. Sadly, that was a long time ago! Great post!
Sure love this post Tammy. I find that in my practice, people have started asking me when I’m going to retire…..RETIRE? I can’t be that old, can I? The thought truly hadn’t crossed my mind until they mentioned it and to be honest, I haven’t given it another thought since. XO 
Here, here for the mature professionals who have more than a clue what we are doing and can run circles around the twenty-somethings who think just because they took a class (whoooo) in social media, they know more than us. It’s called life experience, and nothing can replace that. Get over it, young ones. Be patient, soon you will be as sharp an focused as we are!
Hi Kitt, Yup, I SO agree! I always preached top my kidlet “If you think you can, or if you think you can’t, you’ll be right”. So much is determined in that space called mindset. Crazy for people to think that because we are 50+ we are behind the curve and oblivious to the newest thing. Poppycock. Yikes, just dated myself there! So happy to have you here! Thanks for that.
Thanks, Helene, I’m rocking on right next to YOU! So appreciate the read and the comment!
Hi Mel, someone you didn’t know called you Grandpa? Why I never! You are a better man than I, as I would have done more than bristle. Geesh, that just smacks of disrespect and ignorance. I’m sure you are a grandpa of many, a father, a husband, a thinker, doer, writer, hobbyist, the list probably goes on forever. I just abhore the idea of anyone pigeonholing anyone else into one category. Crazy! To me, my friend, you are that ever so delightful gentleman that is well read, a loving father and husband and FABULOUS writer, among many things. One day, I’d like to meet you in person, perhaps when I’m skipping through NYC. You never know, stranger things have happened. Rock on, Sir Mel!
Hi Suerae, we are birds of a feather. I, too, will never forget when our local bag boy at Ralphs addressed me as ma’am. I was speechless, furious, confused and stunned. Such a tiny word with such a strong impact. That was many, many years ago, and it was just yesterday. I’m okay these days with being a ma’am. As long as I know that I’m a rocking one! Thanks for the read, Suerae, and the lovely comment!
Hi Laurie, I love the “woooo”! Too funny. Yup, there is nothing that can replace life experience and no way to get it but to grow older. Ironic, isn’t it?! Personally, I’m super happy to be where I am. I wouldn’t be 30 again for anything. Well, okay, maybe a few million. We all have our price! Lovely having your here! Thanks for that.
I wouldn’t think of a person in their sixties as being too old for any of that stuff at all! Age isn’t what it used to be. Most of the people I know in their sixties are definitely on top of all types of technology and are nowhere near ready to be put out to pasture!
Hey I just saw that Mel Glenn commented on your blog! I know him! We go way back (to 1997) but he knows me by a different name.
Our society! Tsk, tsk, tsk! However, when we think back… Remember the mantra, “Don’t trust anyone over 30?” Of course I was never the one saying it! 🙂 I like to remember the theory that time is created by humans. In reality, there is no such thing. It’s all happening in the now. Maybe that thought will keep the under 30 crowd busy thinking for some time and off the age subject for awhile!  I give up. Where is the sociability? As I sit here looking out the vast window of my local java joint, I’m feeling like a social animal. I look around, and it occurs to me that all of us here found our way to our local coffee house to meet up with a little bit […] 
Eerie. I was just thinking this the other day, out for a beer, realizing that if you’re not already there with someone you know, you’re not going to get into a conversation with anyone. At a bar, no less. Even there, greased by alcohol, we’ve lost the ability to talk to each other. Not good for a social pariah like myself who’d like humanity to reach out every now and again. Nice piece, as always, Tammy. 
Who was it that said – ‘Animals understand what humans don’t……life is to have fun’. How many humans do you know that make ‘fun’ a priority? I fear for what is called civilization and have for a long time now. Why don’t they teach it in school? The machine has certainly changed humanity and much of it for the good, but this machine communication thing is too too scary. Draw the line people. Some years ago, MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology), put ballroom dancing in their curriculum. Why? They said it is not enough to have a skill. That is a mouth full. As always provocative as you are, Tammy, I wish I had the lack of fear to acknowledge Facebook etc etc. Joan 
If you haven’t already, go see Spike Jonze’s movie, “Her” It beautifully conveys the sentiment of how society claims to be so social, but really in truth we are very isolated. It takes place in Los Angeles in our not so distant future. You will appreciate it.
One thing history has proven, ad nauseam, is the pendulum is in perpetual motion. Right now the social skills of the one-on-one nature are ebbing counterpoint to the rise in “let’s hang together in our aloneness.” In a few years there will probably be a “movement” of some sort to get people talking to one another again. The movement will come with certain buzz words, protocol, maybe even logos and t-shirts. A few “movements” of today which come to mind (that were par for the course back when) include: *breast-feeding
Dear Tammy,
Hi Scott, Clearly we should be living close to one another. I’m totally tied into my social media and love it to death for what it does for me. No lie. BUT, it doesn’t negate my need for social contact. To make a new friend, share a joke, listen to a story, contemplate the worlds problems. It wasn’t that long ago that we could be assured of that with a quick pop in to our local watering hole. Scary stuff. The other day I saw a well dress woman walking the street, nose in her phone, as she slammed right into a large concrete trash can. My inside voice was screaming “that’s what you get when you’re not in the present”, my outside voice helped to pick her up and ask if she was okay. She didn’t even thank me. What the hell are we coming to?
Hi Joan, “draw the line, people” is the best quote of your post. That would solve so much. We need to draw the line and pull the plug. But few do. We are finding ourselves more lost in the fog of social media, never ending news broadcasts, updates, the list is endless. Best we all remember that our life isn’t. Skill is NOT enough. Heart and soul are required for the living of a purposeful life. Just ask my cats and dog. They live it every day. Facebook, etc. didn’t require bravery, just a resignation of it’s influence and power and the harnessing of it to move myself forward. But the real power comes from harnessing our real lives. Good luck with that!
Hi Frankie, I haven’t seen it yet and wasn’t planning on it, but you have peaked my interest! It is now on my list. Interesting concept … one that doesn’t seem all that far fetched to me. I have to wonder what that says about my outlook of things. Meet you back here once I’ve seen the flick! Very happy to have you here!
Tana, interesting outlook. Everything does come around and go around. Time will tell. But for this moment, I’ve got to share that I’m not a huge fan of where things have gone and are headed. Technology will never be more interesting than people. That, I’m afraid, would be a hard concept to sell these days. More the pity. So appreciate the read and the comment! Thanks for that.
Hi Mel, it would be interesting to note the scale of suicides these past few years compared to a decade ago when technology didn’t suck us dry. I remember a plane flight home not too long ago, where I sat next to a man with earplugs in his ears. I noticed that they were dangling loose, not plugged into his smart phone. I don’t think he realized it, as he held his phone as if he were listening to it the entire 3 hour flight. I concluded that he was simply putting out a “Do not disturb” sign. I respected it. Unplugged from everything is no way to go through life. My humble opinion. I do so love your take on it, and agree in every way. There is a lot of “lonely” out there.
So true! Thanks for this Tammy!
It’s occurred to me that Starbucks, for writers, is a place to get out into the “real world” and interact, maybe people watch. For everyone else? it’s either a place to see and be seen (strange to think of Starbucks as a status symbol place, but it is) or it’s a place for business folks to conduct interviews. Social media has actually hurt face to face human interaction. How often do you go to restaurants and watch two people sitting directly across from each other, but focused on their phones. Have you ever texted someone who was actually with you instead of opening your mouth? I have been guilty of both…and I’m pretty danged social!
Kitt, its weird about the whole Starbucks phenomenon. I do love their coffee, though. I often see people, entire families that are together but not really. I wonder if it will ever revert back to the personal conversation, the slight touch on the sleeve during a compliment? At this point, the jury is still out. It all happened so quickly. I, like Scott Morgan below, miss it something terrible. I still get plenty of chatter when I go after it, but, just like sex, it would be nice to not always have to be the “aggressor”. Does that make sense? My daughter always said that I could have a fab party all by myself, and at the end of the evening a dozen strangers will have joined in and we would be eternal friends, all of us. Probably true. I’d rather be that person that the one who never thinks to look up. Thanks for the read, Kitt…and the awesome comment!
I’m also one to talk to anyone who dares to meet my gaze! I think it’s a fun thing. I love hearing what people want to share. But I’m also a social media junkie. Both are great and also worry about how many people meet face to face and then spend all or most of their time texting or otherwise engaged in social media. Little bit crazy and disturbing. Also, a side note…the three flags on the left side of your page urging me to share block the first letter of each sentence, thereby leaving me about three sentences at a time I full view. A little tiring to constantly scroll while reading. Just FYI
I so agree! But it’s not just strangers that don’t talk to each other. What about those couples in restaurants each engaged with their own devices?
There are times when I don’t want to speak with a soul and other times when I would love to make the connection. Maybe you hit a day where all writers were eagerly finishing the final draft of their soon to be award winning novels, Tammy. I know being so engrossed in my computer has meant I miss important conversations, so sometimes I need to force myself to unplug.
I always notice the same thing. Although I have no interest in establishing a long interaction if I’m at a coffee house, it would be nice to exchange a few words of greeting.
Hi Carol, you just never know what may come of a conversation, however brief. I booked a primo gig once that came from a convo at a Party City store. Yup. Also, established a long term friendship from a visit on a plane ride. Never gave it any thought at the time. But, I think I appreciate what I affectionately call the drive-bys the most. Those quick interludes with random people. A glimpse of a life. Awesome!
I recently embarked on a project that led me to look through a lot of my town’s old newspapers from the 1930’s, 40’s and 50’s. They had a whole section back then on the little things going on around town, like who ate dinner at whose house and whose kids were sick and who was going on vacation. It made me feel sad to think how, back then, people used to rely on other humans for company, entertainment, and a sense of connection… and how we’ve lost that. It made me wish I lived back then! Except I’d probably miss my blog.
I sometimes ponder the thought that there are too many people in this world. It seems to be the cause of so many important issues. However, there are places you can live where people are more willing to come out of their shells. I live in Temecula and it happens! I’ve lived in large cities and small towns and there are advantages to both.
Hiii, I too think that people are getting connected on virtual world but are disconnected in real world and wrote a blog on it, kindly look at it and provide your valuable suggestions: https://vishagarwal.wordpress.com |
Laura Lee Carter - Beautifully written and all too true…
Helene Cohen Bludman - Got my bathrobe on as I’m reading this. Love it!
Tana Bevan - Tammy–I can totally see you standing on the podium, with the envelope, announcing my name. Tears streaming down my face I approach you as the crowd goes wild. I accept not only your hug, but more importantly acknowledgement for having stayed in the game (long after it looked like there was any chance of winning). Thank you.
PS: Will definitely need to revisit the bathrobe thing. (Not much of a bathrobe kinda gal.) *smiles*
mel - Dear Tammy,
I give you an Oscar for a very funny column. We all need to be acknowledged no matter how small we may be. You get my accolades
But there is a certain pull to worship celebrity. This morning I wrote a poem called, “I Love You, Michelle Dockery”. What we need in this century is a new Walt Whitman to glorify the common man or woman.
Tammy - Hi Tana! Love, love the acknowledgement of “staying in the game” long after it looked like there was any chance of winning! Yup, you get an award for damn sure! No bath robe? Really? No problem. Boxers and a T will do ever so nicely! THANK YOU!
Tammy - Mel, I agree about there being a strong pull to celebrity worship. But I still don’t understand it. Speaking of celebrity worship … when the whole Duck Dynasty thing exploded into massive fame and White House invitations, I was left scratching my head and wondering what the hell happened. I remember reading an in depth article about the phenomenon of “good old boys”. They were no boy bearded country boys that I was. I viewed a picture of them golfing, clean shaven and wearing their yuppie Polo shirts. People can be so gullible!
Terri - I love your comments! I’ve often wondered why those who pretend on screen to be real people (actors) get paid more and are valued more in our society than the real people who they are pretending to be. You’re right – there’s much more to be rewarded! It’s up to each of us to bestow awards and recognition to those around us because we each see deserving acts every day. Something as simple as finding something you like about someone and saying it out loud to that person will go a long way!
Tammy - YES! Exactly, Terri! And so, the award goes to Terri of Be The Healthy U!! (audience roars in approval) My advice: don’t wear a scraggly bath robe! Love knowing you are on the other side! Thanks for that.
Terri - Thanks Tammy! And I say the award goes to Tammy of Witty Woman Writing for her fun, interesting, and thought-provoking pieces and her generous heart!!! Dress as you like!
Tammy - *suitable blush* clutching the statue of fame, I graciously accept your kind offering and share it with …. my dog. Yup. She sits under my desk day in and day out. Just waiting for me to come up with something pithy. Any day now. What fun!!! Thanks, Terri!
A Pleasant House - I am often AMAZED at how many ‘Awards’ actors give themselves. Jesus- if only REAL LIFE was this rewarding. My award for AWESOMENESS goes to you Witty Women- with me right behind. Hahaaaaa
Jessica - Oh so true! I am so with you on this. Our society’s priorities are WAY out of whack. (And really, J-Lo? Cry me a river!)
Tammy - Hey Pleasant House, I KNOW, right!?! If ONLY life was that extravagantly rewarding! I graciously accept your kind nomination but push you ahead of me just before I get to the stage. Be sure you are wearing one of your fabulous hats! Oh, and two more tips, do not wear a sheer top and pick up your gown before you head up those stairs. No one wants to see a butt in the air. This fabulous advice comes from someone who knows. I might also add to make sure that a piece of toilet paper isn’t hanging from your waste band. It’s been known to happen. All I can say is, it’s exhausting being me. So happy to have you here!
Tammy - Haaaa! Jessica, that’s EXACTLY what I said! Only I said it with a distinct whine. The real disturbing part about it was how so very serious she was. What she didn’t know is clueless she is. Very, very sad. The lack of balance in our society is freakishly scary. I go around telling people I am a celebrity in the making. Some day. Soon. Maybe. It’s enough to make them pay attention. Thanks for the read and the comment. Awesome!
nancy@skinnykitchen.com - I loved this post Tammy. So funny and yes so true.
Terri - Tammy – here is a great, heartwarming example of exactly what your post is about. Enjoy! http://www.lifebuzz.com/tinney-waving/?utm_source=email
Tammy - Hi Nancy, So happy you dropped by for the read and it made you giggle. Thanks for that!
Tammy - Terri, Love the video clip. Thanks for sharing. Tinney is quite the bright star. Makes the world that much brighter. Wonderful how she received accolades. Don’t we with is was always like that?
Diane Holcomb - I heard a report on the radio about a kid who had done a good deed, and it made the news. Now, reporting good news on a television news program is a newsworthy event in itself. But this kid had done something humane to help someone else, and a critic snarled that we shouldn’t be making news out of good deeds. It makes kids do good just to be on television.
With that kind of logic, we should do away with awards shows. We can’t have actors becoming actors just so they can wear designer outfits, walk the red carpet, and make the cover of People Magazine.
Great post.
Mimmy Loftin - A Riot…and the Oscar goes to….wearing a pink fuzzy robe…with matching….yada yada She is a scream!
Can’t wait to meet her at the Blog lecture!
Tammy - Hi Diane, I know exactly what you’re talking about. I also heard some negative feedback about the incident where a city came together to support a young boy as a super hero. It’s disgusting. I refuse to get wrapped up in their negativity. But its pretty sad. I am a big fan of many actors and love much of their work. But are they worth millions for a 2 hours movie? I know its all tied in to the money they generate for the studios, etc. but don’t you think that at some point saner heads should prevail? So VERY happy to hear from you, thanks for that!
Christi - Isn’t she a vision in her floor length flowing Sarah Bently 100% polyester navy robe, lavishly emblazoned with plush teddy bears and red hearts. This vintage look has stood the test of time, and is every bit as smart today as it was first seen in 1998. The ensemble, not complete without a jewel encrusted tiara supporting the salon inspired hair style, and matching fur lined ballerina slippers. I can’t imagine she will need to stay awake to see the competition!
Tammy - Christi, Oooooh, I’m beaming. And blushing. And strutting. Not to mention giving the queen wave. So much fun, Christi! Love, loved it! Thanks so much for sharing. We are of like minds. That could be dangerous. *snicker*
Carol Cassara - Yes, sister, preach it! Loud and proud!
Cynthia Greene Jordan - Here! Here! Completely agree.
Maureen Musgrave Armentrout - Too true…and the bad behavior of some of them makes it even worse. Thank you Tammy!
Bonnie Robinson - Agreed! Also all the obscenely paid athletes who more often than not are an antihero rather than someone who should be looked up to. Our priorities are tragically skewed. Great blog Tammy.
Tammy - Carol, I did. And I’m SO GLAD you were listening and supporting! Happy you enjoyed the read. Thrilled to have you here!