We’re conditioned from kindergarten to anticipate a significant break from industrious activity at the end of the calendar year. I’m sure you remember those halcyon days when playground conversations focused on what you were going to ask Santa to bring you for Christmas, the construction paper Christmas tree crafts, the classroom Christmas party, the church … Continue reading Holiday countdown-itis
This week the Lilburn Wallaces will gather around our dining room table for a feast of turkey, dressing and all the fixins. I have committed to enjoying this day fully because I don’t know if 2023 will be the last time we enjoy our Thanksgiving this way. Traditions have a way of ending unintentionally or … Continue reading When traditions end
On Monday, Nov. 13, 2023, Carla Barron Wallace turns 50. There, the secret is out. I’m just glad she has finally caught up with me because I’m tired of how eagerly she reveals my age (53) to people while insisting she’s “MUCH” younger. Now that we’re back in the same decade, that “MUCH” is much … Continue reading 50 years of special
Last weekend Carla and I saw the play “Fairycakes” at Oglethorpe University. There was one musical number and a reprise, but the show could not be classified as a musical. It was both poignant and funny, and the student performances were great. It was a delightful night at the theater. On the way home Carla … Continue reading Musicals on the brain
Next week is Halloween, and scary movie season is back. For some reason, everywhere I go this year I’m confronted with the question, “What’s the scariest movie you’ve ever seen?” Having recently indulged in a rewatch with the family, I have been saying, “Silence of the Lambs,” but the truth is a classic of the … Continue reading Watching ‘Psycho’
Several stories recently caught my eye about a new study from Georgia Tech and University of Georgia researchers about the death of the Southern accent. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution and The Wall Street Journal, which are part of my morning media consumption, broke this troubling development in late September. With all the bad news lately, these … Continue reading Southern accent is gone with the wind
It’s weird that it feels weird to have a full house again this weekend. Carlton’s two older brothers have returned home to celebrate his 15th birthday today (the actual day was Oct. 10). Just when I have adapted to the extra space and quiet, there are more people and more noise and no place to … Continue reading Another step closer to an empty nest
It may be hard for loyal readers of New South Essays to comprehend, but despite my weekly posts and myriad social media quips, my work remains largely unknown and unappreciated. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not complaining. I don’t do this for fame and fortune. I do it for you, the fans. No, seriously, I … Continue reading I’m going to Nateland
Scottish actor and musician David McCallum passed away Sept. 25 at the age of 90. Known for his television roles as Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard on NCIS and Illya Kuryakin on “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.”, he had numerous acting and musical credits and had a career spanning decades. My chance encounter with him on June … Continue reading The time I met the man from ‘The Man from U.N.C.L.E.”
Welcome to fall… I think. Or maybe it was three weeks ago. Who knows. For the past few years we’ve been hearing a lot about science and what it says or doesn’t say. If you follow science, it says that today, September 23, is the official start of the season known as “autumn” or “fall.” … Continue reading Fall confusion
