Saturday 19 January 2008

Sunday Scribblings - # 94 Fellow Travellers ...

Gradually they all left me, alone, to carry on the party. My fellow travellers, Lil, Flo, Rose, Doris, Ash, Jole … all gone. We'd wined and dined, opened and closed clubs and restaurants, socialised in style, did theatre, shows, Chain de Rotiseur dinners, rubbed shoulders with local and International ‘stars’.

They taught and encouraged me to mix Gordons Gin with Coke & a slice of Lemon and woe be tide anyone who tried to pass off cheap gin to me! The taught me about Vitamin B, before Berooca was invented, so I could drink them under the table again and again, to be outrageous, how to laugh and live like no other woman I knew. They taught me the benfits of a strong work ethic, to strive, succeed and survive, to be ambitious, if there was no drama to make some and how BS baffled brains.

They were all highly successful in their chosen careers, playing the straight game with me as the little woman when needed. They were all gorgeous and often looked more so in a pretty frock or a bejewelled gown. They all believed they were invincible. My girls thought it was normal to have fellas as Aunties.

They were better than any girlfriends I’d ever known. I had the best of both. Handsome male friends, who could see a woman’s point of view, plus good looking men to be spoilt by and be seen out with, how we chortled at that misinformed opinion of “what a waste!”

These Fellow Travellers supported me through the times, I didn’t know then, were full of despair, these Darlings saved my sanity, my life and planted the seeds of strength and knowledge to be who I am now!

I expect they’re gathered, keeping a seat warm for me, up in the big disco in the sky where every day is Fat Tuesday. Shame they don’t know they’ll be waiting a long time till I’m ready to travel that trip … I’ve retired. Sorry Darlings, I’m saving myself to clearly see decades more of this precious life, not through the bottom of a cool refreshing glass of happiness!!

16 Comments:

Robin said...

It sounds like you were both very lucky indeed to have had each other at the right time in your lives.

Keith's Ramblings said...

What lovely memories. You were clearly wonderful friends, but don't join them just yet!

Tumblewords: said...

Love these memories - can relate to many. Laughing and living strong is a wonderful freedom but there came a time for me when... Nice post!

Barbara said...

I love this post, and can relate to it in many ways.
Choosing a different path, choosing life, but acknowledging with joy and acceptance what came before.

Thanks!

Lucy said...

In my early days as a hairdresser, I too had many gay male friends. They were THE BEST! We've lost touch and due to how wild the life they led was, I often wonder if they are up there already waiting on me.
This was a wonderful 'fellow travelers' post. I really enjoyed reading about your past and remembering mine. thanks!

Chris said...

This really was a wonderful post. It reminded me of days gone by. I have few friends now as life has brought me on different paths, but oh how I miss the wonderful, earth shattering, warm life embracing, smile of a gay friend. Thanks for your memory and reminding me of mine.

Anonymous said...

In the path of life, we meet so many varied people who touch us in one way or the other..

great post..


leveller

rebecca said...

what a lovely tribute and wonderful post....thank you for sharing that part of your life with us.

Sherry said...

Memories shared with love and laughter -- mentors and heroes...and I love, love, love, the final paragraph!!!

Tammy Brierly said...

Wonderful friends and good times. I'm glad you retired and won't be joining them anytime soon.

January said...

Thanks for sharing your story. Your friends sound like they were a hoot! What a nice way to remember them.

myrtle beached whale said...

This was the best take on this prompt that I have seen. Glad you retired and are going to be with us for some time. The world is better with you in it.

susan said...

You've brought to mind friends I've lost. I miss them and I enjoy remembering. Thank you.

Anonymous said...

Hello you! This is a great post, I really have a feel for them now.

Forgetfulone said...

Fabulous post! The prompt this week didn't inspire me, but you, on the other hand, did.

sister AE said...

What good friends! You make me wish I had known them.

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