My Observations and Fret

I recently returned from about a month vacation in Florida.  I definitely had to escape the cold weather coming down from the north to Texas. Anything below 50s is too cold for me! Two weeks of that time my wife and I spent with my best childhood friend, Ron and his wife who vacationing in Florida from Ohio. Loads of fun as we relived old times and shared the laughter of the shenanigans and situations we got ourselves in while we were in elementary and high school.  He hasn't changed much except less hair and more wrinkles. The sense of humor was still there and the smile and laughter I remember remained.

While just he and I  were hanging around together shooting pool or something we not only talked about politics, but how different growing up in the 50s and 60s was as compared to today. As we  looked around the resort where we were staying, most folks were not really socializing with one another but had their phones in their hands, surfing the net, texting and doing whatever you do on today's cell phones. The same thing in the restaurants we visited. Couples together having dinner each engaged on the phone instead in of one another.  I was a little shocked. The cellphone is now taking place of social conversation.

The same goes with today's teens and young adults. Numerous studies found that our young people are not developing the social skills necessary to adequately compete in today's world and that scores on aptitude tests have fallen over the past 5 years. Many psychologists have concluded it is the result of the technology age we live in.  The technology has made our lives better for the most part but it is now taking charge of us instead of vice versa and that is why I am dismayed.

Just yesterday while my daughter and my granddaughter were visiting I tried to engage a conversation with my granddaughter and she had her head buried in her I-Phone so it is on my home front as well.  These are  kids that are not engaged in what is going on around them but the social media the cellphone brings and that concerns me because they will lead our nation sometime in the future.

Of course our parents and grandparents had the same concern with we baby boomers that we would be upcoming leaders so am I fretting over nothing?

I am Carl Hoffman of The 60s Official Site.  Please visit the largest and most visited 60s site on the web.

"50 Years On: The Albums Of 1963 That You Should Have In Your Collection" by Lisa Plumtree

1963 was a simply great year for music lovers. Automatically, our thoughts might turn towards some of the more well known records of the time – particularly the Fab Four’s album “Please Please Me” (more on that later), but alongside this release, as important as it was, it was a musical year of great contrasts and interests. You may be someone who was brought up in the era, who knows and loves the sounds, but equally you may be someone who is coming to the music as a youngster, with a keen ear and willingness to learn. Here are just a few of the wonderful albums released during that year and why you should have them in your collection.

Dave Brubeck Quartet – Live At The Carnegie Hall

Undoubtedly the live setting suited Brubeck and his musicians more than a studio one. This album showcases the best of their sound and is unusual in that it is a full and complete recording of an entire concert, in one take, with hardly any edits applied afterwards. The band were worried that no-one would turn out to see them play. There had been a newspaper strike in New York so advertising for the concert was few and far between. The fears never came to fruition as the hall was packed and this performance rewards the listener with a taste of pure jazz that’s hard to beat.

Davy Graham – The Guitar Player

This virtuoso guitarist and folk hero is someone that everyone who loves to tinker on the guitar or play more seriously should add to their collection. This album is a prime example of a shining talent. Worth it just for the glorious sound of “Anji” alone, Graham’s technique is something that many musos aspire to and his mastery of the folk guitar is rarely equalled or bettered.

Lee Hazelwood – Trouble Is A Lonesome Town

This is included due to the recent reworking of the songs for an album entitled “Thriftstore Masterpiece Presents Lee Hazelwood’s Trouble Is A Lonesome Town” which includes many new acts recreating his original country masterpiece (albeit in a more modern style) from 1963. The original record though was Hazelwood’s first solo effort and came to fruition after a partnership with Duane Eddy and work with Nancy Sinatra was completed. It’s a record of stories and tales rich in folk history, containing many meandering ambles through dark subject matter, but one that should be a great collectible intro to country music for anyone that is not sure or doesn't know where to start. A worthy peer of Johnny Cash, but a musician who rarely gets mentioned.

The Beatles – Please Please Me

An album that still sounds as fresh today as it ever did; this is an astonishing work, full of energy and vibrancy. The original works show how the Fab Four took simple ideas and made them sound complex, whilst the cover versions inject a raw rockiness to the proceedings. Coincidentally, this album is now proving to be a hugely coveted collectible item, particularly in vinyl. For any lover of the band it would make a great collectible gift or present, though be prepared to stump up as much as $4,000 for a copy in stereo sound, whilst a mono copy of the album will still be worth $1,200! Copies of the record with a gold and black label on them are also sought after by fanatics. This is because they were pressed shortly before Parlophone records changed their branding to different colors. After these initial pressings, the labels were changed to yellow and black, therefore earlier ones are always going to be worth much more.

Never Grow Old – The Maytals

Ska was a genre that had found its roots in Jamaica during the 1950s and The Maytals capitalized on a US market’s increasing thirst for it during the 1960s. “Never Grow Old” is a worthy addition to your collection – with lyrics written by the legendary Toots Hibbert and back up from The Skatalites, this is worth it alone for the wonderful “I’m Gonna Sit Right Down And Cry (Over You)”. Many favour The Wailers over The Maytals, but they shouldn’t be forgotten.

The Beach Boys – Surfin’ USA

Surf-rock, a genre that intrinsically makes you think of The Beach Boys and this album, a collection of twelve all-American songs inspires nothing but thoughts of hot sunshine, good friends and wonderful times. It’s notable for it’s unique use of harmonies and the use of a technique called Double Tracking, which made the vocals sound all the more rich and varied. At the time of its release it spent seventy eight weeks in the Billboard chart and is still regarded by many music critics as one of the greatest albums of all time.

It truth, this is all about loving music of an era that produced so much rich and varied talents, genres and styles. Starting or adding to your collection is something that can give a great amount of joy, with treasured memories being rekindled and forgotten sounds remembered.

Inside the Songs of the Sixties

I just finished reading Brian Forsythe's book Inside the Songs of the Sixties.  Through thorough research and interviews,  Brian Forsythe has mastered  the art of removing the fallacies, myths, and contradictions concerning the artists and music of the 60s. I found it to be a book not easy to put down once you began reading. It is loaded with facts and trivia concerning the artists and their music,  some  which you  have read before but so many more that you have not.  This book is a great reference for connoisseurs of the 60s and its music. It is now a definite reference for The 60s Official Site.

After reading Inside the Songs of the Sixties  I discovered that I didn't know as much as I thought I did about 60s music.  If there is any downside to the book, which is very minor, would be a need for a quick reference index broken down by artists or songs but I definitely highly recommend you grab this one.

You can purchase this book by clicking here.

And Then It Is Winter

As heard on the Good Stuff with Jim Thompson

You know, time has a way of moving quickly and catching you unaware of the passing years. It seems just yesterday that I was young, just married and embarking on my new life with my mate. And yet in a way, it seems like eons ago, and I wonder where all the years went.

I know that I lived them all...

And I have glimpses of how it was back then and of all my hopes and dreams... But, here it is..the winter of my life and it catches me by surprise... How did I get here so fast? Where did the years go and where did my youth go? I remember well...seeing older people through the years and thinking that those older people were years away from me and that winter was so far off that I could not fathom it or imagine fully what it would be like... But, here it is...my friends are retired and getting gray...they move slower and I see an older person now. Some are in better and some worse shape than me... but, I see the great change... Not like the ones that I remember who were young and vibrant... but, like me, their age is beginning to show and we are now those older folks that we used to see and never thought we'd be. Each day now, I find that just getting a shower is a real target for the day! And taking a nap is not a treat anymore...it's mandatory! Cause if I don't on my own free will..I just fall asleep where I sit! And so, now I enter into this new season of my life unprepared for all the aches and pains and the loss of strength and ability to go and do things that I wish I had done but never did!! But, at least I know, that though the winter has come, and I'm not sure how long it will last...this I know, that when it's over...its over....Yes , I have regrets.

There are things I wish I hadn't done ,,,,,things I should have done, but indeed, there are many things I'm happy to have done. It's all in a lifetime....So, if you're not in your winter yet...let me remind you, that it will be here faster than you think. So, whatever you would like to accomplish in your life please do it quickly! Don't put things off too long!!Life goes by quickly. So, do what you can today, as you can never be sure whether this is your winter or not! You have no promise that you will see all the seasons of your life...so, live for good today and say all the things that you want your loved ones to remember...and hope that they appreciate and love you for all the things that you have done for them in all the years past!!'Life is a gift to you. The way you live your life is your gift to those who come after. Make it a fantastic one.

Looking Back at June 1967

On June 3, 1967, the number one hit was Aretha Franklin's Respect written by Otis Redding and first released by Otis Redding in 1965.  It became the signature song for R&B singer Aretha Franklin.  The day before, the Beatles released their LP Sergeant Peppers' Lonely Hearts Band.  Although at that time I did not quite understand the conflict, the Six Day War between Israel and Egypt, Syria and Jordan began on June 5 and ended on June 10.

I was working at Big Bear Supermarkets in Circleville, Ohio overly concerned about the draft and the growing conflict in Vietnam.  Little did I realized in less than a year I would be there. My boss tried to convince me to get into the Reserve or National Guard so I could remain home and continue to work.  I also was still contemplating on continuing my education but I guess my destiny was to serve my country which I have never had any regrets as I also continued my education while serving in the United States Army.



On June 13, President Johnson nominated Thurgood Marshall to become the first black Supreme Court Justice while the top 5 songs respectively were (1) Respect/Aretha Franklin (2) Groovin'/Young Rascals (3) I Got Rhythm/The Happenings (4) Release Me (and Let Me Love Again)/Engelbert Humperdinck (5) Him or Me - What's It Gonna Be?/Paul Revere & The Raiders.

With the Vietnam War  continuing to escalate I recall the verdict of Muhammad Ali  on June 20 who was convicted in Houston of violating Selective Service laws by refusing to be drafted but The U.S. Supreme Court later overturned the conviction.

June 29, as the month closed out, Jayne Mansfield, one of the most beautiful sex symbols during the 60s, perished with two others as their car they were traveling in slammed into the back of a tractor trailer rig.

The number one hit as the month closed was Groovin' by the Young Rascals.

You can visit me on my website The 60s Official Site, the largest and most visited 60s site on the web.  Also enjoy Neal Stevens exclusively on my site with his monthly show Soundtrack of the 60s as he plays the most popular songs from the current month of a 60s decade year.  This month June 67.

I Remember March 1965 - It Was Cold

Looking back at March 1965 I recall the entire month was cold in my town of Circleville, Ohio.  As I sit here on my computer, today is March 5 and the temperature in Carrollton TX will reach 74 but on March 5, 1965 the high temp was 55 and in Circleville, Ohio it was 33 with a low of 22.

I was a high school junior back then and most of us walked to school.  Buses did not bus as many students back then as they do today.  It was definitely a brisk and cold walk to Circleville High School during the month of March. 

The civil rights demonstrations were in full swing back then and I recall seeing on TV Some 200 Alabama State Troopers clash with 525 civil rights demonstrators in Selma, Alabama.  I probably didn't understand it so much back then but it still shocked me.  Also around the same time we sent our first combat troops to Vietnam while the radio was playing the number one song "My Girl" by The Temptations.  It was the beginning of uneasy times of the 60s decade.

Still my world was the small town of Circleville as it was with the majority of students in my high school.  Spring was coming and shenanigans were in the horizon as soon as the weather breaks.  It turns out that the entire month of March 1965 remained cold and the warm weather will not arrive until next month when jockey straps will once again be raised on the flag pole on the football field.

The number one songs for the month of March 1965 including "My Girl" were "Eight Days a Week" and "Stop in the Name of Love."   You can listen to the most popular songs on the radio at the time on Soundtrack of the 60s where Neal Stevens plays the most popular songs from that month and recalls the times of March 1965.

What Happened to Christmas as I Remember It?

Christmas time is my favorite time of the year.  As we age we look more back in time and instead of forward.  I think the reason for this is that our memories of  fun events are etched more vividly in our memory bank when we were young. I recall living in Ohio during the 50s & 60s how we hoped and prayed for a White Christmas. It just did not seem like Christmas unless it snowed.  Maybe it was Bing Crosby song and movie "White Christmas" that made us wish for it.  I also remember the TV shows that had a Santa Claus that read letters from young boys and girls and on Christmas Eve you would see him pack his bag and turn out the lights to end that year's show.  You knew he was on his way that night to your house to bring the goodies.  Do you remember special Christmas programs during the season.  Never were the shows called holiday shows.  These special presentations added so much more to the excitement of the season.  You see a few of these programs now but not many.  Why?  I know but you figure it out. 

I recall the Christmas season was truly a great time of charity and love and I believe it still is with one exception.  The assault from minority section of the population is something we never experienced during the 1960s.  Christmas Day  is a federal holiday and has been since 1870 when President Ulysses D. Grant made it a legal holiday.

I recall how the expression Merry Christmas was given with no hesitation not too long ago.  I also remember how we celebrated the season in our schools with musical assemblies. Christmas decorations  including the Nativity scene  were seen throughout the city without a complaint.  Today it is norm to try to remove a special meaning of the celebration when it offends just a few persons. that over 90% of the U.S. population recognizes.   I believe in freedom of religion not freedom from.  

Controversy and criticism continues in the present-day, where some Christian and non-Christians have claimed that an affront to Christmas (dubbed a "war on Christmas" by some) is ongoing. In the United States there has been a tendency to replace the greeting Merry Christmas with Happy Holidays. Groups such as the American Civil Liberties Union have initiated court cases to bar the display of images and other material referring to Christmas from public property, including schools. Such groups argue that government-funded displays of Christmas imagery and traditions violate the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, which prohibits the establishment by Congress of a national religion. In 1984, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Lynch vs. Donnelly that a Christmas display (which included a Nativity scene) owned and displayed by the city of Pawtucket, Rhode Island did not violate the First Amendment but in November 2009, the Federal appeals court in Philadelphia endorsed a school district's ban on the singing of Christmas carols.  What a shame.  We sang them in our school as part of the Christmas program.  Today due to trying not to offend anybody, the Christmas vacation iss now called Winter Break in the public schools. 

In the private sphere also, it has been alleged that any specific mention of the term "Christmas" or its religious aspects was being increasingly censored, avoided, or discouraged by a number of advertisers and retailers. In response, the American Family Association and other groups have organized boycotts of individual retailers. In the United Kingdom there have been some minor controversies, one of the most famous being the temporary promotion of the Christmas period as Winterval by Birmingham City Council in 1998. There were also protests in November 2009 when the city of Dundee promoted its celebrations as the Winter Night Light festival, initially with no specific Christmas references.

 

The attack has also gone to cable TV on Comedy Central on the Daily Show with Jon Stewart who in most cases has no appeal to the baby boomers.  His appeal is for the younger generation who seem to admire him and look at his show as real news. It has become a pitiful situation when he sells what he shovels as news and comedy. 

 

I remember the smiles, the laughter, the wide eyes of amazement from the young children, beautiful decorations and more importantly  the real reason we celebrate Christmas,   My God help us never to forget what we are celebrating and help us defend the true meaning of Christmas and our right to celebrate it.  Merry Christmas to all even to non believers.

I Remember October 1968

Looking back to October 1968 the one event that remains etched in my mind is the Detroit Tigers defeating the St Louis Cardinals 4 games to 3 in the World Series. Also the Vietnam war waged on as I was there in Phu Bai, RVN  when  Armed Forces Radio carried the news that because of progress in the Paris peace talks, President Lyndon B. Johnson announced to the nation that he has ordered a complete cessation of "all air, naval, and artillery bombardment of North Vietnam" effective November 1. Perhaps the war's end was in sight and we could come home and now we know it lasted another 5 years.

The Olympics were being held in Mexico City and black American athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos raise their arms in a black power salute after winning, respectively, the gold and bronze medals in the Olympic men's 200 meters. 

It was a very trying time where violent protests of the Vietnam War were being waged as young men were dying in Vietnam but also there were positive happenings as well. Apollo program: NASA launches Apollo 7, the first manned Apollo mission (Wally Schirra, Donn Eisele, Walter Cunningham). Mission goals include the first live television broadcast from orbit and testing the lunar module docking maneuver.

The music of the era was beginning to change to a more heavy guitar influenced rock.  During October of 1968, the top songs of the month were:  Hey Jude by the Beatles, Fire by The Crazy World of Arthur Brown,  People Got to be Free by The Rascals, Hush by Deep Purple, Time Has Come Today by the Chamber Brothers and Midnight Confessions by The Grass Roots.  Hey Jude was to become the top hit for the entire 60s decade.  The song credit to Lennon-McCartney.  The song evolved what was suppose to be Hey Jules to comfort Lennon's son during his parents divorce.  This classic hit from the Beatles actually was released in August 1968 and remained at #1 for nine weeks.  It was the first single recorded on the Beatles' Apple Label. 

You can listen to the best of October 1968 by checking out Soundtrack of the 60s.  Each month Neal spins the best of the current month and a year from the 60s decade plus your requests and dedications.

Looking Back to March 1960

I have been delinquent posting to my blog.  I want to apologize.  It seems like there is so much on my plate lately.

In March 1960, I was 11 years old and all that mattered to me was playing sports and hanging out with my friends as the music on the radio, that sat on top of the fridge, played the great hits of March 1960 as I ate breakfast before treading off to school. 

On March 5, 1960 Elvis Presley was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army and on March 6th the United States increased its role in Vietnam by sending 3,500 troops.

On March 21 Elvis Presley made his first post Army recording with  one of his best, "Stuck on You."

Great music captured the month of March 1960.  "A Theme from a Summer Place" by Percy Faith remained number one throughout the month of March.  It reached #1 on February 22 and remained in the top slot for nine weeks and 17 weeks on the Top 40.  Music with the country flavor manged to make the big time as well.  Jim Reeves nailed a great song that was kept out of #1 by Percy Faith's hit.  Reeves' "He'll Have to Go" peaked at #2 on March 7.  Another country great that hit the charts in March was Jack Scott's "What in the World Came Over You."

Overall March was a memorable month in music.  To listen to these great songs and others for the month of March go to Soundtrack of the 60s on The 60s Official Site as Neal Stevens plays the great music of the 60s plus your dedications and requests.

Looking Back to November 1965

The month is November 1965 as we look back to the events and music that shaped the decade.  I was in my senior year of high school.  Where has all the time gone?  The top TV shows were Bonanza, Gomer Pyle, USMC, The Lucy Show, The Red Skelton Hour and The Andy Griffith Show.  Great television during a great decade!

On November 6, 1965 the Freedom Flights program began which would allow 250,000 Cubans to come to the United States by 1971. On that day the Rolling Stones topped the charts with "Get Off My Cloud" where it remained for two weeks.  Behind it at #2 was the Toys big hit "A Lover's Concerto." 

A great icon of advertising appeared for the first time on TV on November 7 as the Pillsbury Dough Boy was first seen in TV commercials.   Do you remember that?

For you soap opera addicts, "Days of Our Lives" debuted on TV on NBC on November 8, 1965.

November 9, 1965 may be forever in the memory banks of those who lived in the Northeast as the great Northeast blackout occurred across several states and Canada.  Those parts of the country were hit with a series of power failures that lasted over 13 hours. 

The buildup and news coverage of the Vietnam War continues to grow as ABC radio begins weekly "Vietnam Update" report on November 19,  1965 as the Supremes hit "I Hear a Symphony charts at #1. Also on this date, Kellogg's Pop Tart Pastry is created.

On November 22 Muhammed Ali TKOs Floyd Patterson in 12 rounds to win the heavyweight boxing title.

The Vietnam War protests begin as 15,000 demonstrate against war in  Washington D.C. "I Hear a Symphony" was still #1 followed by the Byrds with "Turn, Turn, Turn" at #2.

Join me each month as I recap a month and year from the 60s decade.  Also be sure to visit The 60s Official Site  which has over 900 pages related to the 60s including jukebox music.

The music you were listening to on your favorite radio show played by your favorite DJ is now being played on Soundtrack of the 60s with Neal Stevens.  You can listen to the hits of November of 1965 by clicking here.  A great show with insight on the artist and music of that month and year.  Beginning this month in celebration of four years on the web, contests with prizes but you must listen to win.

Do You Need A Fix?

If you love the great music from the 50s and 60s decade, then there is nothing like starting your day off with a oldies fix or boost.  On my site The 60s Official Site, I have added a daily 5-song medley of songs from the 50s and 60s decade to start your day off right.  Each day a new 5-song medley is posted for your listening enjoyment.  This great music is posted NLT 7:00 AM Easter Time Zone USA.  Enjoy and get your feet a tappin' and put a smile on your face as we look back at a more simpler time.  Here is the link so you can check it our for yourself :   http://www.the60sofficialsite.com/dailyoldiesfix/Daily-Oldies-Fix.html

Also, be sure to check out Soundtrack of the 60s as DJ Neal Stevens plays the hits you were listening to the current month of a year from the 60s decade.  You can hear this only on The 60s Official Site.

The Top 40 Songs of the 60s Decade Has Been Tabulated

For the past two months I have requested visitors to both of my 60s nostalgia sites (The 60s Official Site and Soundtrack of the 60s)  to vote on their five favorite songs of the sixties decade.  A tall order because there were so many great hits from the 60s.  I received thousands on thousands of votes and to make it interesting, those who voted were automatically entered to win prizes to be given away during the broadcast as DJ Neal Stevens counts them down from number 40 to number 1.  The results were mixed to say the least.  Listening habits and love for different songs change as we get older, at least it has for me.  Some songs I truly loved while in my teens, I don't care to hear and those that were not so popular I love to listen to.  Don't get me wrong I love the 60s music sounds.  It is just the taste of certain songs change over time.

Listed below are the Top 40 Songs of the 60s decade according to Billboard Magazine.  Their results are based on amount of time staying on the charts which of course was based on record sales.  These songs do not come close to the list the visitors to the most popular 60s site on the web voted.  Some songs listed are on the final countdown but not many.  Of course this list is based on time on the charts but time on charts were also an indicator of popularity of a song.  Tastes do change as we get older.  You can listen to DJ Neal Stevens countdown the Top 40 hits of the sixties decade based on our visitors voting.  Go to The 60s Official Site/Top 40 Hits of the 60s decade or Soundtrack of the 60s/Top 40 Hits of the 60s decade.

Billboard's Top 40 songs of the Sixties Decade

1.  Hey Jude/The Beatles

2.  The Theme from A Summer Place/Percy Faith

3.  Tossin' and Turnin'/Bobby Lewis

4.  I Want to Hold Your Hand/The Beatles

5.  I'm A Believer/The Monkees

6.  I Heard It Through the Grapevine/Marvin Gaye

7.  Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In/The 5th Dimension

8.  Are You Lonesome Tonight/Elvis Presley

9.  In the Year 2525/Zaeger and Evans

10. It's Now or Never/Elvis Presley

11. I Can't Stop Loving You/Ray Charles

12. Love is Blue/Paul Mauriat

13. Big Girls Don't Cry/The 4 Seasons

14. Big Bad John/Jimmy Dean

15. Sugar Shack/Jimmy Gilmer & The Fireballs

16. Honey/Bobby Goldsboro

17. To Sir with Love/LuLu

18. Cathy's Clown/Everly Brothers

19. People Got To Be Free/The Rascals

20. Get Back/The Beatles

21. The Ballad of the Green Berets/Ssgt Barry Sadler

22. Sherry/The 4 Seasons

23. Can't Buy Me Love/The Beatles

24. Sugar, Sugar/The Archies

25. (Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay/Ottis Redding

26. Honky Tonk Women/The Rolling Stones

27. Stuck on You/Elvis Presley

28. Roses Are Red (My Love)/Bobby Vinton

29. Daydream Believer/The Monkees

30. Everyday People/Sly & The Family Stone

31. Dizzy/Tommy Roe

32. Windy/The Association

33. Runaway/Del Shannon

34. He's So Fine/The Chiffons

35. Ode to Billy Joe/Bobbie Gentry

36. (I Can't Get No) Satisfaction/The Rolling Stones

37. Dominique/The Singing Nun

38. There! I've Said it Again/Bobby Vinton

39. Somthin' Stupid/Nancy Sinatra & Frank Sinatra

40. Groovin'/The Young Rascals

Go to The 60s Official Site/Top 40 Hits of the 60s decade or Soundtrack of the 60s/Top 40 Hits of the 60s decade

Time Gets Better With Age

I wish I can say I wrote this but I did not, but after discovering this little antedote of  coming of age, it would fit perfectly on my blog.  I hope you enjoy it.

I've learned that I like my teacher because she cries when we sings "Silent Night".
Age 5

I've learned that our dog doesn't want to eat my broccoli either.
Age 7

I've learned that when I wave to people in the country, they stop what they are doing and wave back.
Age 9

I've learned that just when I get my room the way I like it, Mom makes me clean it up again.
Age 12

I've learned that if you want to cheer yourself up, you should try cheering someone else up.
Age 14

I've learned that although it's hard to admit it, I'm secretly glad my parents are strict with me.
Age 15

I've learned that silent company is often more healing than words of advice.
Age 24

I've learned that brushing my child's hair is one of life's great pleasures.
Age 26

I've learned that wherever I go, the world's worst drivers have followed me there.
Age 29

I've learned that if someone says something unkind about me, I must live so that no one will believe it.
Age 30

I've learned that there are people who love you dearly but just don't know how to show it.
Age 42

I've learned that you can make some one's day by simply sending them a little note.
Age 44

I've learned that the greater a person's sense of guilt, the greater his or her need to cast blame on others.
Age 46

I've learned that children and grandparents are natural allies.
Age 47

I've learned that no matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow.
Age 48
I've learned that singing "Amazing Grace" can lift my spirits for hours.
Age 49

I've learned that motel mattresses are better on the side away from the phone.
Age 50

I've learned that you can tell a lot about a man by the way he handles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights.
Age 51

I've learned that keeping a vegetable garden is worth a medicine cabinet full of pills.
Age 52
I've learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents, you miss them terribly after they die.
Age 53

I've learned that making a living is not the same thing as making a life.
Age 58

I've learned that if you want to do something positive for your children, work to improve your marriage.
Age 61

I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance.
Age 62
I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catchers mitt on both hands. You need to be able to throw something back.
Age 64

I've learned that if you pursue happiness, it will elude you. But if you focus on your family, the needs of others, your work, meeting new people, and doing the very best you can, happiness will find you.
Age 65

I've learned that whenever I decide something with kindness, I usually make the right decision.
Age 66
I've learned that everyone can use a prayer.
Age 72

I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one.
Age 82

I've learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone. People love that human touch-holding hands, a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back.
Age 90

I've learned that I still have a lot to learn.
Age 92

Soundtrack of the 60s Is A Hit!

On December 1st Soundtrack of the 60s launched and was received very well.. The first day the site had over 9000 visitors which is not too bad for a retro site that is limited to probably to just we baby boomers.

Soundtrack of the 60s is an unique site since each month it will only feature the current month of a particular year during the 60s decade and then next month will offer a new year for the current month. As more ideas and all the tweaks are ironed out this site should be even bigger and better as each month moves on. You will find the popular music played by a DJ for that particular month and year, TV, headlines, the happenings, sights and events that shaped that month and that year.

Right now at Soundtrack of the 60s we are offering a special Valentine's Dedication requests for our visitors with an opportunity to win prizes. Just complete the form and dedicate a 50s or 60s song to somebody special and listen to the broadcast given by our guest DJ the week of Valentine's Day to hear your request and to see if you are a winner of one of our prizes. It doesn't get any easier than that. Here is the link for your Valentine's Dedication.

This site is expected to be hot.

Check out the Soundtrack of the 60s.

Soundtrack of the 60s Coming on December 1

The 60s Official Site proudly presents Soundtrack of the 60s. This special site will take you on a trip back to the sixties, remembering the times, the news, TV, old TV commercials, the sights and sounds of one of the greatest decades in modern history.

Each month we will look at the current month of a year of the 60s decade. Our guest DJ will play that month's most popular songs. On the first of each month we look at a different year of the current month. You don't want to miss being part of this adventure. This site will continue to grow over time as more and more sixties time capsules are added. Here is the link to bookmark us now. Click Here.


Revisit your youth at The 60s Official Site and Soundtrack of the 60s.

1969, The End of a Decade

Where have the 60s gone? 1969 ended one of the most remarkable decades in history. Many historians agree that the 60s were one of the most innovative, turbulent, and rebellious decade in modern history but a great era to have lived.

At The 60s Official Site we are looking back to the year 1969 all month. During the year 1969, the news headlines were loaded with Vietnam War details including the My Lai massacre. The big story of the year was man setting foot on the moon and of course Woodstock. Also plastered across the front page of most newspapers was the murder of Sharon Tate and six others by Charles Manson and his cult. Protests against the war were seen across the TV screen each and every night as the news anchors covered the war. Yes indeed the year 1969 ended as it started turbulent and rebellious.

The sixties decade produced some of the best music in rock history and the year 1969 was no exception. Artists such as Creedence Clearwater Revival, Blood, Sweat and Tears, Paul Revere and the Raiders, The Temptations, were all over the Billboard Charts.

Coming Friday August 21, 2009, a special presentation by DJ Larry Ravenswood who will countdown the top 100 hits of 1969. This countdown can only be heard on The 60s Official Site. Larry will take us from number 100 to number 1 based on the Billboard charts. In fact, you will feel the energy of the year 1969 by listening to this broadcast. DJ Larry Ravenswood will make you believe that 1969 just ended a day or so ago and he is counting down the biggest hits of the previous year. You don't want to miss this so book mark us and check out The 60s Official Site on Friday August 21, 2009 as we review the top 100 hits of 1969.

We bring the 60s back to life.

A Great Blog to Check Out

I want my readers of my blog and visitors of my site to check out Bethie's Blog. I just looked at it because she had made a comment concerning our recent countdown of the top 10 songs you the visitors voted on. I found her site to be refreshing and true to the 60s. Here is the link "A Delicious Decade of Music"

Revisit your youth once again.

What is Your All Time Favorite Song of the 60s?

If you had to choose your favorite all time song of the 60s could you pick just one song? Pretty tall order isn't it? There were so many great songs of the 60s and it makes it almost impossible to actually select only one. But that is what I asked my visitors to do. Select one song of the 60s decade that was their favorite and do it before 6:00 PM CDT May 24, 2009.

The results of this survey will be released in a different format. The top ten results will be played and counted down by a DJ, 60s style for 60s music. You don't want to miss this.

Click here to participate in the survey.

Revisit the 60s now.

Baby Boomer Guide to Living

I would never trade my amazing friends, my wonderful life, my loving family for less gray hair or a flatter belly. As I've aged, I've become kinder to myself, and less critical of myself. I've become my own friend. I don't chide myself for eating that extra cookie, or for not making my bed, or for buying that silly cement gecko that I didn't need, but looks so avante garde on my patio. I am entitled to a treat, to be messy, to be extravagant. I have seen too many dear friends leave this world too soon; before they understood the great freedom that comes with aging.Whose business is it if I choose to read or play on the computer until 4 AM and sleep until noon? I will dance with myself to those wonderful tunes of the 60s, and if I, at the same time, wish to weep over a lost love ... I will.


I will walk the beach in a swim suit that is stretched over a bulging body, and will dive into the waves with abandon if I choose to, despite the pitying glances from the jet set. They, too, will get old. I know I am sometimes forgetful. But there again, some of life is just as well forgotten. And I eventually remember the important things. Sure, over the years my heart has been broken. How can your heart not break when you lose a loved one, or when a child suffers, or even when somebody's beloved pet gets hit by a car? But broken hearts are what give us strength and understanding and compassion. A heart never broken is pristine and sterile and will never know the joy of being imperfect. I am so blessed to have lived long enough to have my hair turning gray, and to have my youthful laughs be forever etched into deep grooves on my face.So many have never laughed, and so many have died before their hair could turn silver. As you get older, it is easier to be positive. You care less about what other people think. I don't question myself anymore. I've even earned the right to be wrong. So, to answer your question, I like being old. It has set me free. I like the person I have become. I am not going to live forever,but while I am still here, I will not waste time lamenting what could have been, or worrying about what will be. And I shall eat dessert every single day(if I feel like it).

May God continue to grant all us baby boomers the ability to laugh at ourselves and live a
remaining full life.

Revisit your youth and dance once again to the 60s.

How Old Is Grandma?

Baby boomers are persons born between the years 1946-1964. More progress in our culture has occurred as a result of baby boomers than any time in world history. As we continue to grow older we will continue to look back and review all our accomplishments and the possibilities we missed. One thing for sure, we the baby boomer generation through hard work, faith and perseverance has made this country the most productive, wealthiest, and generous nation in the world. Although the economy is going through a troubling stage, I am confident we will rebound with more vitality than ever before. So before I start a little game of how old is grandma, I want to take this opportunity to wish all my readers a very Happy New Year.

One evening a grandson was talking to his grandmother about current events. The grandson asked his grandmother what she thought about the shootings at schools, the computer age, and just things in general. The Grandma replied, "Well, let me think a minute, I was born, before television, penicillin, polio shots, frozen foods, Xerox, contact lenses, Frisbees and the pill. There was no radar, credit cards, laser beams or ball-point pens. Man had not invented pantyhose, air conditioners, dishwashers, clothes dryers, and the clothes were hung out to dry in the fresh air and man hadn't yet walked on the moon. Your Grandfather and I got married first-and then lived together. Every family had a father and a mother.

Until I was 25, I called every man older than I, 'Sir'- and after I turned 25, I still called policemen and every man with a title, "Sir.' We were before gay-rights,computer-dating, dual careers, daycare centers, and group therapy. Our lives were governed by the Ten Commandments, good judgment, and common sense We were taught to know the difference between right and wrong and to stand up and take responsibility for our actions.

Serving your country was a privilege; living in this country was a bigger privilege. We thought fast food was what people ate during Lent. Having a meaningful relationship meant getting along with your cousins. Draft dodgers were people who closed their front doors when the evening breeze started. Time-sharing meant time the family spent together in the evenings and weekends-not purchasing condominiums. We never heard of FM radios, tape decks, CDs, electric typewriters, yogurt, or guys wearing earrings. We listened to the Big Bands, Jack Benny, and the President's speeches on our radios. And I don't ever remember any kid blowing his brains out listening to Tommy Dorsey.

If you saw anything with 'Made in Japan' on it, it was junk. The term "making out" referred to how you did on your school exam. Pizza Hut, McDonald's, and instant coffee were unheard of. We had 5 & 10-cent stores where you could actually buy things for 5 and 10 cents. Ice-cream cones, phone calls, rides on a streetcar, and a Pepsi were all a nickel. And if you didn't want to splurge, you could spend your nickel on enough stamps to mail 1 letter and 2 postcards. Gas was 11 cents a gallon. In my day, "grass" was mowed,"coke" was a cold drink, "pot" was something your mother cooked in, and"rock music" was your grandmother's lullaby. "Aids" were helpers in the Principal's office,"chip" meant a piece of wood, "hardware" was found in a hardware store, and "software" wasn't even a word. And we were the last generation to actually believe that a lady needed a husband to have a baby.

No wonder people call us "old and confused"and say there is a generation gap..... and how old do you think I am??? I bet you have this old lady in mind... you are in for a shock! Read on to see -- pretty scary if you think about it and pretty sad at the same time.

This woman would be only 58 years old!

Baby Boomers visit me at The 60s Official Site, the largest 60s site on the web.

Also, launch of 70s Official Site will be today. Check it out. Programmed to be the largest 70s site on the web.