10 Comments
Sep 27, 2023Liked by Debra Fried

Weaving together so many themes beautifully. You brought a tear to my eye reading what you said about our dear mother.

XOXO and a big kiss,

Karen

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And you brought one to mine with this sweet comment. Big kiss right back at you!

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If you haven't already seen it, you may enjoy this discussion - https://open.substack.com/pub/oldster/p/what-are-the-parameters-of-middle?r=j2fm&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web. I dropped your essay in the comments because it's perfect!

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Hi Lisa - I have seen it - wow - to say that this topic sparks discussion is an understatement. So many people with so many feelings about this undefined, yet hugely potent stage of life. Your newsletter is aptly named - it IS a long middle, or as my friend who can't seem to not add "ass" to adjectives would say, a long-ass middle. Thanks for mentioning me. I love The Oldster!

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I loved this! As I read, I kept thinking that you had some great friends to experience all of this. Friends who get it and get you. That's gotta help with the tweens which, as you have pointed out, is a difficult age. Definitely not for sissies.

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Ha - no, definitely not for sissies! Thank you for your comment and for your observation - yes, I would be sitting in a puddle with untied shoelaces if not for my friends. Wouldn't we all?

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Sep 27, 2023Liked by Debra Fried

As always, that tween Fried nailed it. So much fun to relive that weekend, with all its disappointments and laughter. Thank you!

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Honestly, Tween Roman, if I nailed it, it's because YOU nailed it - as a friend and as a fellow Tween. xx

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Sep 27, 2023Liked by Debra Fried

My solution is show up in a wheelchair.

Halfway through the concert, get up and scream, I CAN WALK.

Takes the sting off of ageing.

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And I'm sure the kids think it's really cool!

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