A time of endings transforming into beginnings is upon all of us and I will be getting this published just under the wire, as they say.
How do you navigate so much change amidst a backdrop of chaos and destabilization? Why, paint your nails blue! This picture above is of my hand, sporting a gorgeous midnight sky blue nail color. I believe this was my first professional manicure ever. One could call this a lively Senior moment! I was about to turn age 65, something I am still trying to wrap my head around. It seemed appropriate to do something our of character. The idea popped into my awareness that it would be fun to adorn myself in a novel way. It turns out this will be the color of my new car that I test drove yesterday. Pics will follow when I take her home. 12/31 Update: I got her home and named her Margot. Pictures still to follow!
I did not know at the time that blue was even a color option. This Lapis – like energy is connected to the throat chakra and I need to strengthen my voice. While I can be assertive and direct, there are instances where I falter. This happened again while texting my mother. This relationship is broken and declining fast. She discounts most of what I say and is living in denial is her coping strategy of choice. I reached out to let her know how I felt about her refusal to take some past incidents in my childhood seriously. While I did a good job asserting myself, I could have said more and been more vulnerable. I would grade myself a C+. However, I continually see how well I have done considering the lack of love and care I received. Still hurts, even at my age!
Speaking of transitions and age, I would like to end the year acknowledging some of those we lost. There has been an onslaught of amazing celebrities , local and distant, that took stage left this year. I am featuring some that have made a lasting impact.
Pierre Robert
I will start with a local legend, Pierre Robert. Pierre was a famous Philadelphia DJ that I discovered on FM radio in high school You would hear about him popping up everywhere. He was special. He was kind, fun – loving and part of the local scene in a big way. I saw him a few times in person. Once was at a sports event many moons ago. He more recently was spotted by my sister when we were at a place downtown celebrating her 50th birthday. I saw him at the bar. He looked older than I remembered, but still his spirit shined. His passion for music was everything. I figured he would be here forever.
Pierre Robert: 10 things you should know about Philly’s iconic DJ
Robert Redford
As an Aquarius Rising, I notice the Leo lads. Robert Redford along with Aquarius Paul Newman were the blue eyed heart throbs of the 60s and 70s. I was introduced to his films as a child , My family took me to see this one. a true classic. Bob was more than a cute celebrity. He was a philanthropist and activist. Paul Newman, who has been gone a while, interestingly enough, was also very much into charity.
To quote Paula Cole, Where have all the cowboys gone?
Diane Keaton
Her death seems mysterious to me, but her life seemed oddly familiar. Not because our lives have much in common on the surface. More so, because she was a true role model for how to be an independent, eccentric woman who made her own way. She never married, but had romances with some charismatic leading men. I first saw her in Woody Allen movies ( before his star was tarnished ). She was known for her fashion sense, humor, and authenticity. She’s like the older sister I never had if I could have a sister who was an Oscar winner from Hollywood. She lived on her own terms and became an icon.
Donna Godchaux
Donna was the only female singer in the Grateful Dead. When I became a fan in 1977. she and her husband Keith were onboard. I wish she would have stayed longer because the Dead were better with female energy. Her voice was hauntingly beautiful. She was graceful and confident and part of me wanted to be her for a time. She is not as well known as Jerry Garcia or Bob Weir, but her contributions were bountiful.
Rob Reiner and Anthony Geary
Rob Reiner and Anthony Geary died on the same day at the same age. They also knew each other. They both had secrets. Rob Reiner had a difficult time with his son who struggled with addiction and mental illness. Anthony Geary hid his sexuality from the public. They both were influential and ground breaking in their own way. I spent most of my life watching Rob as an actor and director/producer. When Harry Met Sally is one of my enduring favorites. Anthony came into view in my tweens. He was the magical Luke Spencer. Geary was a gifted actor, combining intensity with wit. He was immensely talented. I was among many in my generation to watch Luke and Laura’s wedding on General Hospital while on campus. I still recall where I sat. Every Sunday my family watched tv together on Sunday evenings. It was All in the Family followed by a Henry the 8th miniseries. The Mike character reminds me of my role in the family I was born into. Rob Reiner, just like Redford, was a major activist. He and his wife were tragically murdered. His light continues to shine upon us.
Like I said earlier, just under the wire. I wish all my WP tribe a joyous 2026! I am eager to see 2025 end. Sometimes it felt like it would never end. I accomplished many things but sadness, disgust, and pain prevailed. Yet I remain grateful for my life and what I am able to make of it, especially all that leads to beauty, magic, healing and love. It is a privilege that I get to share my stories and musings here, where my voice is strong and vibrant. Thank you for being here and being you!
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