Are we sure this is the type subject we want to be discussing?

Yes Yes Yes. Stay involved.

Lots of really interesting speculations and observations in the 53 reader comments at this point. But no one has addressed the matter of her family. She does, after all, have a husband. And three children. The political scene places them immediately in peril … different types of peril. What about this factor?

Ha! I think I veered from the topic. Which was TaB, and soft drinks. Sorry about that!

Well. My contribution isn’t all Recommended. I’ve never been a fan of sodas or pop or soft drinks or whatever the term. (I’m fairly big on Scotch, however.) I, too, live alone, believe in nutrition—for me, anyway, it’s paying off. I’ll be 80 in ten days. Wear the same size (8P), forever. And some of my clothes are old enough they’re becoming boring. But back to the main topic, which I think is nutrition. I don’t grow my own herbs, but I do buy fresh produce, much emphasis on fruits and veggies; meats from a butcher, and am aware of the importance of preparation and not overcooking. Plus, I like my plate to contain balanced color. Eye appeal important. Part of this approach is taste; part is discipline.

… and, as Winery Lifestyle said—Jane, you have great hair!

Authenticity. What’s so hard about that? Why isn’t that one of our primary lessons to our children? Pretend lives only lead to pretend happiness. Totally empty.

Here comes my support for Erica Heller’s comments about the Unhappy Would-Be First Ladies. The fact that this is wOw at its best. Intelligent discourse, on track, pertinent posts. And why we came to this blog and why we stay.

Ha! I was in NYC in the 50s with a man I LOVED—until I became aware years later he was dishonest, how really sad—and he showed me around. For a long weekend. Nothing like being green to add glitter to all you see. Plus, this man had a sparkling dry sense of humor. Imagine that: youth; an adored man; and humor. What else is there? (Yeah, I know: honesty.)

Ha! I’m a few days away from 80—can’t believe it!—and I wouldn’t re-do any of it, either. I feel I’ve lived a number of lifetimes; and I have a God-given facility for thinking only on the happy stuff. Still, I wouldn’t repeat it. I’m happy for the balance I’ve learned—what to anguish over and what to shrug off—and I’m utterly thrilled to be as healthy as I am and to live in comfort and to have friends I truly enjoy. No, my first name is not Polyana. It’s just the way it is.

Eve Fulton, I love your Canadian flag. Spent my grade school and high school years there. It’s interesting to see how Americans behave when they’re tourists; many of them behave badly, arrogantly. I’m not speaking of those who live elsewhere; I’m talking of those who spend a few weeks feeling superior to those they’re visiting.

Ten years — that’s really promising. And it’s a real Accomplishment. Good for you, Lynda! God bless you!

Thank you, Frannie, for your sensible and positive thought. We need more of this. More reason, decency. Less snarkiness.

… and I mean YOU, Ma!

What a great handle, and what a great photo!