This Valentine’s Day, TC & trusty partner Peg got a whole lotta love to express. So without further ado… Enjoy! —the editor
TC here, I gave Peg a project today.
I seem to be ignoring Peg lately. It is not intentional, mind you. Just that I need to concentrate on my training for my new job and being protective of my other leg, which I am trying to heal and make better. While I named my late left foot Agnes, after my Mom having a bad day (Long story), my right foot has been officially named Babs! She is definitely a broad of a foot, putting up with my top-heavy self for so long. Babs needs to keep me balanced to assist Peg with my travels.
The Re-direct…
So during my training, I gave Peg direction to screen a TV show and a movie.
The TV show was kind of a “one off” but actually a marathon of The Brady Bunch. Seriously, THE Brady Bunch as in that show me and my sibs grew up with. That being said, I do have a point on this and hear me out.
For the uninitiated, The Brady Bunch is the first TV comedy that addressed a blended family. A man with 3 boys, a woman with 3 girls. Add a maid and you got it: The Brady Bunch.
Now in most families, the oldest child and the youngest child get the most attention, for very different reasons. The middles, so to say, seem to get lost in the shuffle in a sea of insecurity and solitude.
In this show, Peter, the middle son, was more “happy go lucky” than his female sibling Jan. Jan had braces, freckles and glasses, she had uber popular older sister, and an adorable curly haired baby sister. What I noticed through their adventures, the “middles” tended to be the glue to the family unit, a bridge of the siblings. I cannot imagine insecurities and all, this bunch would not be as much as a bunch without them.
The Middles Segue…
In our family of six children (similar to the aforementioned “Bunch” with a different mix), OUR middle siblings have been the glue to keeping our families together, in very different ways.
- Brother Paul was the point man when it came to my parents eldercare. I cannot imagine how much he did to support them and to address the legacy of our parents. He was there at the end, and he made sure their passage was as painless as possible.
- My editor has been a redwood tree of support during both my (youngest) and eldest brother Mr Pete, (Fellow Jedemi columnist) medical issues. She doesn’t have to be standing next to me since, really, she has never left my side. I am sure Mr Pete feels the same.
I am sure that they have had their bad days, but between brother Paul going to 5 different thrift shops in Florida to find a transportation chair when I visited last May, to the writing opportunities my editor sent my way when I was very ill with my infections, the middles in my family have been the foundation of my recovery and quality of life.
…the middles in my family have been the foundation of my recovery and quality of life!
My Valentine to the Editor…
A clip from the 1982 movie musical, Annie, sums my attitude towards her completely: “We Got Annie.” If only I could dance like Ann Reinking. I am sure “We Got Pablo” would work too.
[editor note: “makes you relax like a big tax rebate…” really? LOL!!]
Peg’s Other Assignment – And the Movie is…
Now Peg’s other assignment, was the movie Hidden Figures.
A modern classic (circa 2016) telling of the three black women who in 1960’s south crunched the numbers for our astronauts (playing a pivotal role in astronaut John Glenn’s launch into orbit).
These three gave their best in a segregated past to support these space flights, even with experiencing indignity of lack of restroom facilities and proper education. An all-star cast support, Taraji P Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Jonelle Monae in the telling of a true story not often mentioned until recently. It was a snapshot of what was then, and not now.
It was a snapshot of what was then, and not now…
Peg Just Tapped…
Peg
Hey, you… I just finished those screenings.
TC
Sweet what do you think?
Makes you want to appreciate the village that supports you.
Peg
Makes you want to appreciate the village that supports you.
TC
Peg, that IS deep. Even for me.
Peg
I have a good influence.
TC
I just want you to know that even though I do not say it every day, I appreciate those who support me, even if not seen.
Peg
But I am always there with you.
TC
True, but mostly you are covered by my left pant leg, sight unseen, except in the summer.
Peg
Oh I get it.
TC
I am big on appreciation and “Thank Yous” and… Plus, applause if free (!!!).
Peg
Sweet.. Awwww.
TC
Now… I need to get you to see your “Hidden Figure.”
Peg
Do you mean????
TC
Yes, we are overdue to see your buddy Uncle David at Evolve Prosthetics for a checkup.
Peg
Will there be treats after? I heart treats.
TC
You and me both sweetheart… in moderation of course.
That’s a Wrap…
With a strong “To Be Continued…” Why??
Stay tuned for details.
While Valentine’s Day is a great one to reflect on things you “heart”, Peg and I and our newest pal, Babs, will move forward grateful for EVERY day.
That being said, a shout out to all the middles, and Hidden Figures… Today’s column is dedicated to you! –LOVE TC & Peg
Bonus Video…
—30—
[…] to address the elephant in the room. Mostly this is based on the conversation I had with Peg about my previous essay. It could be an oversight, or my editor’s shyness when it comes to appreciation. Nevertheless, […]