Remembering...

* * * * * *

...we here highly resolve that these
dead shall not have died in vain...

* * * * * *

In remembrance of all those who lost their lives
during the attack on Pearl Harbor & the Philippines.

Terrific Trio...

Lovely Lauren Bacall, Jimmy Durante,
& Humphrey Bogart


"My wife has a slight impediment in her speech.
Every now and then she stops to breathe."

Jimmy Durante

A Blog Award...

The lovely Ashley Nicole has given me the From Me to You blog award. Thank you so much, dear!

The rules are as follows:

1. Thank the person who gave you the award.

2. Copy the award.
3. Post it on your blog.
4. Tell your readers 7 things they didn't know about you.
5. Link 7 bloggers as recipients.
6. Notify winners of award with a comment on their blog.
7. Keep being awesome.

* * * * * *

1. I almost met one of my favorite classic actresses.

She has starred with such notables as Cary Grant, Montgomery Clift, & Paul Newman, but remains a relatively unappreciated actress today. She stars as the leading lady in my very favorite film, 1954's On the Waterfront. Yes, I once almost met my beloved Eva Marie Saint!

Eva Marie Saint & Marlon Brando
in On the Waterfront.

2. I love wearing bright pink nail polish.

It's cheerful & makes me happy.

3. I was homeschooled from the fourth grade through high school.

I'm not saying that it would work for everyone, but it was definitely one of the best decisions my parents could have ever made for me. I learned & experienced more in those years than I ever could have in a conventional school.

3. Growing up, one of my feet was quite a bit longer than the other.

They caught up to each other soon enough, but while it lasted I thought it was the neatest thing ever!

4. I am too much of a perfectionist.

I don't mean to be, but somehow without realizing it, I always find myself striving to attain perfection when I know, as a human being, I can never reach it. It pushes me to be the very best that I can be...but when I fail to touch the stars...you'll only know the depths of that keen sense of disappointment if you struggle with this, too.

5. I stalk World War II veterans.

I have a problem that way. I am so awed by their courage, their heroism, their stories. More than most anything else, I hope to take part in saving their history, helping their stories live on. We need young men and women with their values and hard-working attitudes today.

6. Ice cream is my favorite dessert.

Especially Breyer's. Heaven, simply heaven.

7. I have an outdoor kitty cat called McQueen.

Named after...who else? The King of Cool himself:

Steve McQueen in The Great Escape

* * * * * *

I'd like to award:

A Banner of Crimson
Actually Laura
A Little Kingdom I Possess
Blessed Femina
Classic Forever
In My Own Little Corner
Ribbons of Light

Gregory...

"Tough times don't last, tough people do, remember?"

Gregory Peck

Monty & Elizabeth...

I've always loved this series of photos showcasing Elizabeth Taylor & Montgomery Clift. Snapped during a break in the filming of the classic, A Place in the Sun, they are light-hearted and full of fun, showing us a different side than is usually shown of these iconic film stars.

What's not to love?

* * * * * *

Happiness.

Elizabeth on Montgomery Clift:

"I thought he was the most gorgeous thing
in the world,
and easily one of the best actors."

Perfectly paired.

Montgomery on Elizabeth Taylor:

"She feels like the other half of me."

Beauty.

Laughter.

Friendship.


* * * * * *

Wednesday-ish Plotting...

I always wake up feeling sluggish and exhausted on the "in-between" days of my work schedule. I long to crawl back into my warm bed and pretend that nothing else matters but a few more precious hours of sleep. But somehow, sleeping the entire day away just doesn't seem to work for me, no matter how late in the morning I'm finally able to lay my tired head down.

I've resolved to tidy up my bedroom the moment I am able to tomorrow, sluggish or not. Somehow, it has become suspiciously messy. Who crept into my room and left clothes, and dishes, and books, and books, and books lying around while I've been gone? Have any cyclones swooped through one tiny part of Michigan--specifically one tiny room--that I haven't heard about?

I still have several boxes that I haven't unpacked yet from our move. I just really haven't had the time, but the most frustrating part is where to put the things that are in the boxes. The closet in my new room doesn't have any shelves, just a bar to hang clothes. And the only "extra" piece of furniture I have besides my bookshelf, bed, and beloved WWII army cot is a smallish dresser I use for my clothes. I never realized how much I depended on and was blessed by my rather large closet just filled with shelves. So...I am going to have to figure out some storage ideas for all of my craft projects, supplies, and miscellaneous "junk."

I can't wait until my room is neat and welcoming again. I have a beautiful new throw and squishy pillows to make my little WWII army cot cozy and a soft paper lantern to throw a deliciously warm beam of light on my new little reading nook.

So for now, I am counting down the hours until I can be home with my beloved ones again; home making a messy room peaceful; home where my heart belongs.

Newman...

"I would like it if people would think that beyond Newman,
there's a spirit that takes action, a heart,
and a talent that doesn't come from my blue eyes."

Paul Newman

November...

I can hardly believe that November has crept upon us again. Where does Time take herself to?

These first crisp, autumnal days have been overwhelmingly busy ones for me. Beyond the extraordinary changes that have taken place in my life these past few months relating to my father, new challenges--difficult and bittersweet in turn--continually remind me that I can never take any aspect of my life for granted.

Sarah--my sweet, darling older sister--is getting married! As happy as I am for her, I can't help but long for the days when the most serious thing we had to worry about was whether or not we could convince our parents to let us stay up for just a leetle bit longer. I am so glad that she has found someone she wishes to spend the rest of her life with...but my heart is breaking over the fact that she will be moving so far away. What will I ever do without her??

Our days have been spent scrambling to finalize wedding plans & create the perfect menu for the bridal shower Elizabeth, my cousins and I have been planning for her. Melanie, Laura (aforementioned cousins) and I couldn't help but continually sigh as we traipsed after Sarah in the store as she was deciding on items to put on her registry. We all agree that this wedding business is too unbelievable. Who can believe that one of us is getting married...and picking out dinnerware? Though we are supposedly "all grown up," I can't help but feel that it's all pretend; just another one of our "dress-up" games.

Beyond the beautiful-but-crazy wedding planning, we all have been accustoming ourselves to the new job we started after our move a few months ago to a home closer to the rest of our family. The opportunity worked out for us quite well. A close family friend has an aunt with Alzheimer's disease who needs 24-hour care and as we have had experience dealing with this particular disease in the past--this sort of occupation for the three of us seemed a perfect fit for this time in our lives. The only real difficulty is the crazy hours. Right now I am working forty hours a week, but those hours are spread out over only two and a half "days." I work Tuesdays & Thursdays from 4pm until 8am the next morning & Sundays from 4pm until midnight. The most difficult aspect regarding this job is a definite lack of sleep. Beyond work, I hardly accomplish anything I want to these days as I am always so tired!

Once again, I am spending an evening at work when all I really long to do is curl up in a warm corner of our house, lighted against the creeping gloom of the outdoors, to watch a lovely classic film...something I haven't done in much too long a time.

Hmm...that isn't a bad idea. If I can only stay awake long enough...

Love,
Emily

Bogie and Bacall...

* * * *

Humphrey Bogart speaking of Lauren Bacall:

"She's a real Joe. You'll fall in love with her like everybody else."

* * * *

Lauren Bacall speaking of Humphrey Bogart:

"Was he tough? In a word, no. Bogie was truly a gentle soul."

Whisper...

Just today, in one of my old, worn out notebooks, I found a scrap of a story that I had written long ago. Truthfully, I had forgotten all about it. And though the writing is rough & unfinished, and you can sense a liberal stroke of the melodramatic style my younger self favored, there was something about this short piece that touched my heart. Something that, without my realizing it when I first scribbled it down, would touch my story, my life, all these years later.

I can only desire that someday the same note of hopeful expectancy that weaves throughout this short piece will be rooted truthfully in my own heart. For now, I cling to all that is familiar; I cling to the love I hold in my heart for my family; I cling to the hope that somehow we will make it through another moment....if only for the fact that we are together.

* * * * * *

"I still love him. I always will.
But I know now that I don't
have to be afraid to move on,
for I can never lose what we shared.

I can never forget.

There are still moments when I struggle,
when the world seems to spin around me
and I feel as if I can hardly breathe.

I desperately try to hold on to
everything that is familiar.

And in that moment I am lost all over again.
But I know that if I can hold on just a little bit longer,
I'll be alright...I'll be able to make it through."

Bogie...

"I came out here with one suit and everybody said I looked

like a bum. Twenty years later Marlon Brando came out

with only a sweatshirt and the town drooled over him.

That shows how much Hollywood has progressed."

Humphrey Bogart

Gene...

"Everyone should see Hollywood once, I think,

through the eyes of a teenage girl who

has just passed a screen test."

Gene Tierney

Fashion Vintage: Sleepwear...

At the end of a long day, there isn't anything else I look forward to quite so much as shedding the day's worries along with that pair of pinching shoes or restricting garment. Slipping into my most comfortable set of pajamas to relax with my favorite classic film or newest good read seems to naturally make the world seem just a bit brighter.

And if there is one thing that I could point to that I believe showcases vintage designer's superiority, I would have to say that they really knew how to create sleepwear.

So, whether you are a glamorous nightgown-wearing sort of girl or prefer that classic set of pj's, hopefully you'll find some vintage inspiration here!

Enjoy!

* * * * * *

I love this photo!

This is such a soft, classic example of a nightgown.
I think any girl would love to have its swirling
skirt about her feet!

This model's cute, perky ponytail matches the
personality of her nightgown to a tee!

As cute as this look is, it's the pj's and robe
of the little boy in the background that have really
captured my attention. How cute can you get?

The shape and styling of this pair of pajamas
really seems oh-so classic America to me.

The interesting thing to note here, I think,
is how vintage designs so often pair comfort and style.

Isn't she cute?

I love the look of her much too big pajamas!

I think this darling set of pajamas (foreground)
is a perfect example for those who think that pajama
"pants" sets can only be "boyish."

Scallops, tiny bows, and a belted waist are only a
few of the many details that make this a feminine
and pretty look!

Girl next door personified.

More "apron" styling.

Look at all of the detailing!

This nightgown is so exquisite...

This sort of glamorous, dainty style
is a definite vintage specialty.

And look at those slippers!

Be still my heart.

Two vintage models...too cute sleepwear.

Ever so glamorous...

If you look closely at the sweetly-styled nightgown
in this photo, you will see why I think vintage
sleepwear can't be matched today.

Look at all of the detailing...

So many aspects of the skirt and bodice look like
something that could be worn out.

*giggle*

Doesn't this look like a still from some
ultra-glamorous Golden-Age era film?

Daddy...

"When you are sorrowful look again in your heart,

and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for

that which has been your delight."

Kahlil Gibran

Esther...

"The wisdom acquired with the passage

of time is a useless gift unless you share it."

Esther Williams

I've missed you...

It's been quite awhile since I've written--or felt like writing--anything new for my beloved songs I sing. And I must say, even in the midst of the constant turmoil my life has become; even when I have had hardly a moment to myself to pause and think; even when I have hurt so terribly that I can hardly see straight...I have missed my small blog. Even more, I have missed you.

Though I have only met two of my "followers" in "real life," I truly feel as if I know so many of you. It is some sort of unfathomable bond...an unusual sort of friendship, but a real friendship nonetheless. I can't tell you how much your encouraging and sympathetic words have meant to me. In these, the darkest days of my life, you have reached out and touched my heart. And for that, I will always be thankful.

I'm still not sure how often I will be able to post "current" items or thoughts about my life, rather than the previously written, self-publishing posts I have been doing. It still hurts too, too much. But I do know that I need some small space in my life that is constant when everything else around me has changed.

You can expect a few "new" posts and a few new ideas for songs I sing soon...

For now, know that I'm still here.

And yes, even though my life has irrevocably changed...I'm still me.

Rock...

“The most dangerous thing for an actor

is to refuse to listen to anyone else,

to feel you know more than anybody.”

Rock Hudson

Maureen...

"Above all else, deep in my soul, I'm a tough Irishwoman."

Maureen O'Hara

Duke...

"Courage is being scared to death...and saddling up anyway."

John Wayne

Sister of the Bride...

Sister of the Bride is one of the four "older girl" novels talented Beverly Cleary penned. While admittedly remaining my least favorite of the four, it is nonetheless deliciously delightful in its entirety; a warm, witty, and beloved read of mine since childhood.

Over the years, my only sorrow concerning this "series" has been regret that Ms. Cleary didn't write more of this type of story. Don't get me wrong. Ramona is fine in her own right...but she certainly can't compete with Shelley, Jane, Jean, or Barbara MacLane.

* * * * * * * * *

"Can you keep a secret? A big one?" asked Rosemary.
"Well . . . I can work at it," said Barbara. "You know how women are."

"This is no time to be funny," said Rosemary.
"Not on my twenty cents."

"I can keep a secret," promised Barbara.

"Barby, I'm going to get married!" Rosemary's voice was filled with joy and excitement.

Barbara was stunned into silence. Married? Her sister married? She knew Rosemary had become more sophisticated since she had gone away to college, but she had no idea . . . married. Why, she was only eighteen. She still had bands on her teeth.

"Are you still there?" asked Rosemary.

"Yes, I'm here," said Barbara.

"Then say something," pleaded Rosemary.

"But who are you going to marry?" asked Barbara, wondering if she should have known without asking.

-excerpt from Sister of the Bride
written by Beverly Cleary

Natalie...

"Stardom is only a by-product of acting.
I don't think being a movie star is a good

enough reason for existing."

Natalie Wood

Uncertainty...

One day melds into the next, separated only by the changing of faces nearby that I soon forget; the different meals that I barely remember eating; the number of times I become sick with the realization that my Daddy won't ever walk through our front door again. Each day I must ask the person nearest me a hundred times..."What day is today?"

But it really doesn't matter. I really don't care.

Someday I may be able to speak of the man we called "Daddy" and the deep love we held for him. Someday I may be able to share a little more about these times and the life we are now required to lead. I'm really not sure when that might be. In the meantime, know that the knowledge of having your thoughts and prayers has blessed me so much.

I have decided to schedule a number of posts I had previously written to "self-publish" from time to time in an effort to continue my blog, in some sort of way or another, for now. With our future so uncertain, my plans for songs I sing remain shaky at best.

Emily

Shattered...

I don't know what to say...

It has taken me more than a week to work up enough courage to sit down at the computer and write this post. I've panicked every time I've contemplated it. My chest tightens and I can hardly bear to breathe, let alone type out the words that explain a fact that I wish--more than anything I've ever wished--wasn't true. Writing them here only seems to make a horrible, horrible thing more real to me.

My dearest Daddy was killed in a tragic accident last week. Even now, I can hardly believe that it is true. I find myself still waiting to hear his footstep at the door; still expecting to see his face or hear the low hum of his voice at any moment.

My heart is broken...I know that my life will never again be the same.

I hope that someday I may be able to speak of him--to remember him--without this sharp, stabbing pain searing through every inch of me. For now, it is much, much too hard. My only hope is to get away, and for a little while...try to forget.

I don't know how we will live without him. I don't think that I can, and I know that I don't want to. My family, my world is shattered. He was our hero, our comforter, our everything...

Grace...

" I don't want to dress up a picture with just my face."

Grace Kelly

Stretching My Legs...

I've been finished with school for exactly two days and I'm already enjoying this "new" sense of freedom to the utmost. I've been so very, very tired these past few weeks of just sitting. Sitting for classes, sitting to study, sitting to write those oh-so-important last papers. I haven't been able to help feeling as if I've been sitting my entire spring away. If I could have only figured out how to memorize the various geopolitical tensions of East Asia while clipping along at a brisk jog...I would have been happy. ☺ You can't imagine my delight at realizing that I finally have the time to walk, walk, walk to my heart's content.

Our dusty dirt road is a long slim ribbon stretching before me as I walk across this beautiful patch of God's blooming green earth. And each night, as I stumble hot and tired up our long stone drive, I am so thankful to be young and alive with two good feet...no matter how much they hurt at that moment.

I'm trying to keep up my four mile a day streak. I'm on the third day so far...a jump up from the two miles I had been walking. And for a girl that's been sitting all spring...I don't think that's half bad.

Hollywood Mommy...

In honor of Mother's Day & my own wonderful Mommy, I thought that I would share a few of my favorite photographs of Hollywood starlets with their real-life children. Instead of showcasing strictly glamorous poses, these photographs allow us a "behind-the-scenes" peek into the quiet moments & everyday lives these famous stars might have experienced.

Enjoy!

* * * * * *

Debbie Reynolds with son Todd Fisher & daughter Carrie Fisher

Audrey Hepburn with son Sean Ferrer

Barbara Stanwyck with son Dion Fay

Shirley Temple with daughter Linda Susan Agar

Shirley MacLaine with daughter Sachi Parker

Lucille Ball with children Desi Jr. & Lucie Arnaz

Elizabeth Taylor with children Michael Wilding Jr,

Christopher Wilding, & Liza Todd

Gene Tierney with daughter Daria Cassini

Lauren Bacall with son Stephen Bogart

A Wednesday Evening...

I'm ever so sorry for neglecting you, dear friends!

Life has been a whirlwind these past few weeks--or rather months--what with a crazy, hectic school schedule, the funeral of a dear, dear friend, & a million other small, time-consuming things besides. It's been oh-so-difficult trying to stay on top of everything while still managing to squeeze in those important moments for family, but I've managed to--just by the skin of my teeth!

Now that the semester is winding to a close, my days are slowly beginning to be filled with a freedom & peace that I can't help but relish. I've felt so terribly guilty these past few weeks for all of the letters and emails I have neglected to send to certain special people in my life, but I have truthfully been so very, very busy every moment with school. I've hardly been able to keep my eyes open at dinner & each night that Sarah convinces me to watch a movie with her, I...fall asleep on the couch. So, please do know that you have been in my thoughts & expect a letter shortly in the mail!!

I really must head to bed for now...

Love,
Emily

Easter...

* * * * * * *

Wishing you a blessed Easter...

Much love,

Emily

Debbie...

Debbie Reynolds

"Singin' in the Rain and childbirth were the

two hardest things I ever had to do in my life."

Fashion Vintage: Day Wear...

Even on the most ordinary of days, it doesn't hurt to put a little extra thought into your wardrobe. In fact, it's adding that little extra sparkle that can put a spring into your step & a song in your heart. So whether you'll be out and about lunching with good friends, or just spending the day in your own home, hopefully my collection of lovely vintage photos will serve as inspiration for you to create a classic, fabulous ensemble all your own...

* * * * * *

1949

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1946

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1946

1949

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