BRANDED

Cloning was a term used in science fiction movies.  In reality, several gestation cycles occurred before cattle were produced of sufficient quality to even be considered "graded".  Branding was not always necessary, since cattle sometimes had very identifiable markings.

SHARING THE BAYOU

 The smooth bayou waters afforded opportunities for fancy water-skiing.  One needed to be careful though, since what often appeared to be floating logs, were watchful alligators.

A SCHWINN FOR CHRISTMAS

All I wanted one Christmas was a red Schwinn bicycle.  My wish was granted, but it was found under the tree with a price tag attached.  I didn't understand how that could possibly be...

ANOTHER SOUTHERN STAPLE

Coffee - who can perform without coffee - especially a dark Southern brew?  Chicory is a noted ingredient, and in New Orleans, cafe au lait is served with beignets.  Community Coffee, the brand most people drink, is a free offering when one stops at visitor centers upon entering Louisiana. 

NEW ORLEANS JAZZ

"Basin Street Blues" is a song that characterizes feelings Southerners had during the Fifties.  Racial problems existed but were less defined when jazz was played; especially in New Orleans "where the white folk and the darkies meet".  People came together listening to and playing that outstanding music.

LOOKING FOR A CHRISTMAS TREE

One year was especially memorable because my family became disoriened in the woods while looking for the perfect Christmas tree.  Darkness fell, followed by rain, and we were lost.  We eventually encountered a farmhouse where the friendly and helpful family who lived there lent dry clothes and helped locate our car.  The next morning, after a return trip to the woods, a less-than-perfect tree was strapped to the top of our car to decorate at home.

POPSICLE MAN

It was a very exciting day when one heard music from the popsicle man's truck.  Neighborhood children would run indoors to get five cents before he arrived.  It was a very upsetting when he did not come or didn't have one's favorite flavor.

I WANT YOU!

One young man was promised the position Director of Army Bands if he would enlist rather than wait to be drafted, although it didn't happen.  He enlisted and spent his entire non-musical Army career peeling potatoes for mess.  WWII was soon over and his safe return home was welcomed by family.