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Saturday, December 12, 2009

Cheesy Christmas Sweaters


You've all seen the Christmas sweaters and sweatshirts many people proudly wear to show their holiday spirit. Some folks even own several holiday sweaters. Recently, however, I've heard comments from folks, as well as noticed posted photos online, declaring these sweaters as "cheesy," "ugly," and "grandma" sweaters.

What gives anyone the right to declare these sweaters as cheesy or what old folks wear? Are these people the fashion police? Do they have degrees in fashion design? Who says that a sweater must be only green or red and contain no seasonal snowman or reindeer or Christmas tree to represent the season?

Everyone has personal preferences in matters of clothing and style. As a matter of fact, I applaud folks who have the confidence to wear a style that reflects their personalities (as long as it doesn't infringe on common decency, of course). However, don't tell me I'm cheesy, ugly, or old if I choose to proudly wear a Christmas tree emblazoned on my chest. I love my family and the season.

I could turn the tables on these narrow-minded folks by commenting how drab, lackluster, and boring these critics' wardrobes are, and how that's probably indicative of their personalities, but I wouldn't do that. No one should do that or dictate what others should wear, nor should they treat offenders as outcasts with poor taste. I believe, instead, we are all individuals and we should celebrate that in itself.

So, to all you folks with turned up noses at cheesy holiday sweaters -- why not step it up a pace this year? Give it a try and wear a sweater designed to celebrate the season? Perhaps you'll feel more merry, more loving, and more giving, and the holiday spirit will wrap itself around your soul?

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

The Age Factor


While driving to rehearsal tonight, I had a brief moment of clarity when I noticed a motorcycle rider coming from the opposite direction, plus a car and driver, turning in front of me much farther down the road, and I realized both those guys were young. Not only were they so young I wasn't interested, but they were so young they would never give someone my age a second glance. My age? Then it hit me that biologically I'm 57. I don't really feel 57. The most I could possibly be is 43, or maybe 47, but 57? How did that happen? That's almost 60!

I'm sure I don't look 57, or do I? What does 57 look like anyway? I can't believe I'm almost 60. Sure, my body is starting to fall apart, but I'm not ready to be some tottering, little old white-haired lady that needs a Boy Scout to help her safely cross the street. What happened? It must be a mistake? 57??? Egads!

I figure I'm supposed to age gracefully, but I'm going to continue living life as fully as I can. When I do reach dinosaur status, do you think I could have a pretty pink cane, or at least one decorated with OSU decals?