Inspiration for a weekly blog can show up in the most unexpected places. Yesterday I found a 2014 Facebook message from a childhood friend I hadn’t seen in fifty-five years. What followed surprised even me!
Carolyn and I were best friends, attached at the hip so to speak. We had sleepovers and ate at each other’s houses. Her family gave me perspective on life. They were different from us, more relaxed. We were a large Catholic family with lots of rules, restrictions and guilt. They were not.
The day I received Holy Communion.
I remember Carolyn’s family had an in-ground swimming pool. There was a sign that said, Don’t Pee in the Pool. I felt very uncomfortable looking at that sign. We did not say the word pee in our house.
Two of my siblings and myself in front of our childhood home.
Just this past week I had told a story that included a memory of Carolyn’s home. When the original version of King Kong (Fay Wray 1933) came on television, my father decreed it too scary and not for young children, at least not his children.
Anything forbidden is all the more desirable. I remember surreptitiously watching King Kong in Carolyn’s living room, sure that I would go to hell and willing to take the risk.
I had to do some digging to find these old photos. None of Carolyn.
Last night, we messaged each other, back and forth, fingers flying, updates on our lives, pictures of the grandchildren, and forgotten memories. It truly was a blast from the past.
I love how life can surprise. It makes us get out of bed in anticipation of what is in store today. A lovely way to live. DOS TORTAS
“Life has had its share of ups and downs, some BIG, some small, but I can say I have never even been happier than I am now.” Carolyn
the adventures of dos tortas 
Sweet photos . . . enjoyed the blog.
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Thanks Karen. Life is such a sweet surprise.
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I have photos of myself that look remarkably similar to the ones you have here! Same era, similar parenting. I remember going to a friend’s house for lunch where we were allowed to have a sugar sandwich. That NEVER would have happened in my house! I loved going there for lunch!
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Haha 😂 things like “what’s said in this house stays in this house”. I once asked my dad how much money he made. OMG, almost got my head handed to me.
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Me too. Steam coming out of his ears!
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I loved a mustard and sugar sandwich on white bread. zippy kid for sure.
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You were a true beauty, even as a child! Thanks for the share.
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You are too kind.
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OMG that is awesome. After all these years, you can still make an incredible impact on my life. It’s very interesting to read your observations regarding the difference in our households. You are spot on in your recollection of the vibe that surrounded each of us. My parents continued on the path of peace, love and happiness raising each of us to have an incredibly strong sense of self and independence. As a teenager I didn’t necessarily recognize how lucky I was to have their support and trust.
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You and your family clearly impacted my life as well. Isn’t life amazing?!
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Such a sweet post – love the photos. I’m inspired to find some olds ones now…:) How about another afternoon swim this week? Bob leaves today…
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Love it.
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amen sister! yes indeedy!
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You’re funny Garth. Hallelujah.
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