Val, you are incredible. Even a wrap-up like this makes me laugh out loud. Thank you for a great way to approach the new year, concluding with: even post-menopausal women need to earn a living. You said it, girl! Happy new year in anticipo! (I keep thinking about lowering my hairline--to what end? I pride myself on being a highbrow.)
Bangs also great for those of us who can’t/ won’t or refuse neurotoxins. I had Botox once and it was like venom in my forehead, whereas a snip inspires no pain...except for the psychic longing to look like Jane Birkin. Which I don’t. 💔
Your excellent post validated why I try not to go near Tik Tok. As for being “out of touch,” I have no desire to be “in touch” with silly and often potentially harmful misinformation, all designed to attract eyeballs rather than invigorate brain cells. But thanks to your POV, my brain cells are firing away nicely.
Also, The Cut should give you a commission, because I (and most likely others) finally subscribed so that I can read your thoughtful and well-informed pieces.
Finally, Fay Weldon’s quote in today’s NY Times (“Artists We Lost, in Their Words”) reminds me of you: “Writing is about generosity, passing on to other people what you’ve had the misfortune (in your case, good fortune too) “of having to find out for yourself.” Happy New Year, Val!
I know one woman whose forehead keeps receding backwards and she seems not to mine, although it does look a little strange. For men, receding foreheads--male pattern baldness--is the norm, pretty much inescapable. So at 87 I look like my father who died at 75. I have a friend, still in his 50s, who simply shaves his head on a regular basis. But I don't have the courage for that. Afraid of what I'll find up there.
No wonder women are tired. Here's to a more relaxed (except in my jowl area, for the love of gawd) year in 2024. Wishing you and yours all the best, Valerie. xo
Valerie, Mr Darwin asked me to send this missive to you.
G xo
Monkeyshines: The uproarious and utterly nonsensical antics performed exclusively by monkeys, often involving an impressive display of acrobatics, banana juggling, and the occasional attempt at stand-up comedy. These mischievous simians are known to engage in outrageous tomfoolery, leaving humans in stitches and scratching their heads in equal measure. Monkeyshines can range from the absurd to the downright ludicrous, with monkeys effortlessly transforming into amateur magicians, breakdancing gurus, and even expert hairstylists for unsuspecting jungle dwellers. So, buckle up, because when it comes to monkeyshines, you're in for a wild ride where laughter reigns supreme and logic takes a well-deserved vacation.
Val, you are incredible. Even a wrap-up like this makes me laugh out loud. Thank you for a great way to approach the new year, concluding with: even post-menopausal women need to earn a living. You said it, girl! Happy new year in anticipo! (I keep thinking about lowering my hairline--to what end? I pride myself on being a highbrow.)
The title alone deserves this heart!! ❤️😃
Smaller forehead? Why does anybody want a smaller forehead (or a bigger one, for that matter)? What's the point?
Other than that, hope you had a Merry Christmas, Val. I always love your witty, informative posts!
Angry girl makeup = my 2024. Thanks for the inspiration, Val!
Bangs also great for those of us who can’t/ won’t or refuse neurotoxins. I had Botox once and it was like venom in my forehead, whereas a snip inspires no pain...except for the psychic longing to look like Jane Birkin. Which I don’t. 💔
Since when does having a low hairline feel cool? I’ve always admired my friends with big, gorgeous foreheads. Thanks for the attitude adjustment!
Your excellent post validated why I try not to go near Tik Tok. As for being “out of touch,” I have no desire to be “in touch” with silly and often potentially harmful misinformation, all designed to attract eyeballs rather than invigorate brain cells. But thanks to your POV, my brain cells are firing away nicely.
Also, The Cut should give you a commission, because I (and most likely others) finally subscribed so that I can read your thoughtful and well-informed pieces.
Finally, Fay Weldon’s quote in today’s NY Times (“Artists We Lost, in Their Words”) reminds me of you: “Writing is about generosity, passing on to other people what you’ve had the misfortune (in your case, good fortune too) “of having to find out for yourself.” Happy New Year, Val!
Bangs it is!! Happy New Year, Val! xox
One of your best, Val!!!
-- Lovely essay, Val. You added a glistening touch to the matters. Also, a late Merry Christmas! Xo.
And just want to say in answer to the question "have I saved you at least $40 in skincare? " - you probably saved me $40/month in skincare?!!!! XOXO
I know one woman whose forehead keeps receding backwards and she seems not to mine, although it does look a little strange. For men, receding foreheads--male pattern baldness--is the norm, pretty much inescapable. So at 87 I look like my father who died at 75. I have a friend, still in his 50s, who simply shaves his head on a regular basis. But I don't have the courage for that. Afraid of what I'll find up there.
I'm a new subscriber, but will pay anything if you can tell me a way to get rid of the
suitcases I carry under my eyes that doesn't include someone taking a knife to my face. It's so very depressing.
Thank you in advance.
No wonder women are tired. Here's to a more relaxed (except in my jowl area, for the love of gawd) year in 2024. Wishing you and yours all the best, Valerie. xo
i'd like to hear you explain "monkey-shines" to "m" but even more hear her response!!! happy new day (year)
Valerie, Mr Darwin asked me to send this missive to you.
G xo
Monkeyshines: The uproarious and utterly nonsensical antics performed exclusively by monkeys, often involving an impressive display of acrobatics, banana juggling, and the occasional attempt at stand-up comedy. These mischievous simians are known to engage in outrageous tomfoolery, leaving humans in stitches and scratching their heads in equal measure. Monkeyshines can range from the absurd to the downright ludicrous, with monkeys effortlessly transforming into amateur magicians, breakdancing gurus, and even expert hairstylists for unsuspecting jungle dwellers. So, buckle up, because when it comes to monkeyshines, you're in for a wild ride where laughter reigns supreme and logic takes a well-deserved vacation.