Political Cartoons 11-30-2025

 Will You Die Before You Own Your Home Outright?

According to Realtor.com calculations, a buyer purchasing a $400,000 home with 10% down at the current 30-year rate of 6.25% would pay about $250 less per month under a 50-year mortgage.

But the trade-off is steep. Over the life of the 50-year loan, total interest payments would reach $816,396, compared to $438,156 for the 30-year loan—a difference of $378,240, or 86% more interest overall.

Meanwhile, the 30-year borrower would have $42,308 more equity, equal to 10.6% of the home’s value.

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Warning Content Advisory

From Last week with continuation: 

If The Shoe Fits...

 

Black Friday '25

 

Let's Shop The Day

Happy Thanksgiving 2025

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If there is estrangements this is a good day to make contact and reestablish love. Life is short.  Let there be no regrets. 

InStyle Magazine: Jane Fonda (88) Reveals the One Thing About Dying She's Afraid of:

Jane Fonda at 88

I'm afraid of dying with a lot of regrets. That was an important realization for me, because if you don't want to die with regrets, then you have to live the last part of your life in such a way that there won't be any regrets."

Jane Fonda's own words on forgiveness. Maybe it is time? 

Men's Clothes Somewhere...

 

Feminine Differential - Espadrilles (updated)

Are espadrilles still a step too far for America’s men?

Vascata Bacalao says No! 

Amazon: Lauren Ralph Lauren
Women's Luize Striped Canvas
Ballet Espadrille Flats

My Note: I purchased the "Woman's" Lauren Ballet  espadrilles to see how they might look with Jeans and shorts in the Florida's endless summer. These are definitely feminine in style. However, could Men's espadrilles also have an unintentional feminine differential. This is one shoe that is basically the same, male/female. I have always had a fit issue with espadrilles because of a high instep so do not have any at this time. With many attempts, the Female/Male "Tom's" espadrilles I have neve been able to wear. 

Delivery Note:  The Lauren Ballet Espadrilles just arrived from Amazon. The fit is good, comfortable, and cute. I have been looking for ages for an Espadrille that clicks off the feminine differential box and yet can be worn out anytime. Not sure why I had not seen these before. A sure keeper. 

How about you - Are Espadrilles a crossover shoe or exclusively female?  Got a photo? Let us know if Espadrilles work for you?

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Vascata Bacalao:  Espadrilles are all the rage right now From Beyonce to the Duchess of Cambridge and David Beckham to the King of Spain, they have captured the imagination of some of the world’s most powerful and influential women. Part of the reason for their appeal is based on their traditional Spanish roots. But women also love them for their flexibility, comfort, and casual style. For women, it’s an easy choice.

Vascata: How to Style
 Men’s Espadrilles
 Five Modern Looks For 2025

But it’s difficult for American men, who still perceive espadrilles as “women’s shoes”. Part of this is driven by the classic view of dainty, pretty summer espadrilles with laces tied around the ankles and lower leg.

This is a long way from the traditional image of American men gathering around the BBQ in their shorts, t-shirts, and flip-flops. But now, there is another way. We think it’s time for American men to “ditch the flip flop” and trade up for a pair of stunning, comfortable, and hard-wearing Viscata men's espadrilles. 

We believe that there is a shoe for everyone. Our customers come in all shapes and sizes and our shoes are perfect for anybody looking to ditch the flip flop. And with the largest selection of espadrilles in the world available on our website, just pick your favorite style this summer. Maybe it’s time you got your man to ditch the flip-flop once and for all and step out in style in our timeless shoes.

Political Cartoons 11-23-2025 (4)

 

Politico: Trump cuts more tariffs with eye toward grocery prices - The White House already slashed tariffs on other global food imports last week as it works to lower grocery prices.

A Reminder

 

Panty Hose Are Dead - Long Live...

 

Google AI: No, pantyhose are not dead, but their role has changed significantly due to factors like more casual workplaces and the popularity of leggings. While once considered a professional necessity, pantyhose are now often worn for a specific fashion looks, formal occasions, or to achieve a smooth, finished appearance. Fashion trends have also brought a resurgence of interest, with designers showcasing various types of hosiery, from sheer black to lace, in recent collections. [For a formal LBD is can see me wearing sheer black hose again.]

In my opinion leggings are a more versatile and stylish item for casual and even chic looks when styled correctly. The new pantyhose? The current trend leans toward higher-quality, thicker leggings and styles like slim leggings, often paired with elevated or unexpected pieces like heels or sexy tops. A dress code question came up at our store all employee meting; "Are leggings OK?"  Our store manage said, yes, just make sure your "girl-bits" are covered. That may have been meant for me.  

I love the above outfit and found the perfect flats by accident at Macys. They are Easy-Spirit "Glitz Walking Shoes". The most comfortable flats in my collection. I believe I could walk a day in these. And my mission shopping that day was to get flats to wear with the shown leggings and off-shoulder sweater.  Success.   

Gray is my color...  

The other items above are:  

Amazon: LifeStride Women's, Sevyn Pump 2.5 heel

Amazon: EVALESS Sexy Off One Shoulder Tops for Women 3/4 Length Sleeve

Amazon: THE GYM PEOPLE Women's High Waisted Jeggings / Leggings

Do You Notice what I Am Seeing?

 

Chanel show 2025
Spring Collection - Courtesy Chanel

What do you see? I see three feminine differentials. More?

CNN Style: From the runway to the wild: Celebrities are already stepping out in clothes designers want you to wear next spring

Feminine Image 2

It is 100% Confidence 
Good hair helps too. 

 

A Good Day Shopping...

Shopping has always been one of my favorite activities. On trips to "town" with my mother we had a routine of stores to stop and shop. They all knew my mother well (small town) and the shopping bug landed squarely on me to continue the tradition.  

My first excursions into the ladies section alone was filled with trepidation. Several times I even visited small boutiques, not dressed and ask if I could come back later. The response was always "of course". As my fear subsided, even at big department stores, I made an effort to get to know the sales associates. There was one high-end shoes store in Palm Beach, Charles Jourdan, where "Carol" would call me when my favorite heels were on sale.  I still have several pairs of those beloved beautiful heels.   

2002 Shopping In Palm Beach
Wearing My CJ Pumps 

Now working retail I see the fear from the other side and make sure all customers are welcome.  We see all customer as potential sales; the goal. Several time I have waited on men cross-dressed or men shopping for themselves. I introduce myself and explain they are welcome and will always be treated with respect.  

Got any shopping experiences / stories you are willing to share?  

Charles Jourdan Pumps 

  

 

Season Opener - The Historical Society Of Palm Beach

 

Did you know that Florida was an epicenter for filmmaking long before Hollywood?

In the early 20th century, Jacksonville thrived as a silent film hub, drawing directors and studios from across the country. Since then, Florida’s diverse geography has continued to attract filmmakers. From Palm Beach County’s starring roles in Donnie Brasco, Empire of the Ants, Caddyshack, and Baywatch to statewide productions like Jaws II, [Body Heat], Scarface, and Apollo 13,  Florida has long shaped and been shaped by movie magic.

Last week I attended the grand opening of an exhibition featuring original artifacts, interactive displays, and rare archival footage that highlighted Florida’s unique role as both a setting and a character in film history.  Many Burt Reynolds memorabilia items ere especially interesting.   

Stepping into the spotlight I celebrated the glamor of Florida in film! It was a red carpet premiere of the Historical Society of Palm Beach County’s grand exhibition, "Sunshine Cinema: Florida in Film".  The exhibition will be open to the public until May at The Historical Society Of Palm Beach building. 

It was a dress up affair that marks the unofficial Palm Beach season opening. This was my third year attending and it is a must be "seen" at event.  Lots of glamor, champaign and photos. 

Anyone remember one of my favorite Palm Beach and South Florida movies - "Body Heat (1981)".  Kathleen Turner, William Hurt, Richard Crenna, Ted Dancon, and Mickey Rourke. The South Florida summer heat was a much a part of the movie as the actors.

 

Political Cartoons 11-16-2025

 

This is not a joke:

• Location: The proposed arch would be built in Memorial Circle, the roundabout at the Virginia end of the Arlington Memorial Bridge, a spot between Arlington National Cemetery and the Lincoln Memorial. Some critics have raised concerns that the arch would be a spectacle that disrupts the solemnity and symbolic connection between the Lincoln Memorial, the Arlington House, and the cemetery. 
  
  
  

 "No MAGA left behind."

And when Trump pardoned Santos, the president said on social media that Santos had "the Courage, Conviction, and Intelligence to ALWAYS VOTE REPUBLICAN!".

NPR: Bernadette Meyler, a professor of constitutional law at Stanford University, said:

Trump, who has characterized his own recent prosecutions as politically motivated, may view the cases of political corruption against other politicians as similarly unjust. [Even when they have pled guilty.] Trump may feel that he was prosecuted for similar kinds of offenses and then is kind of looking out at the landscape of political figures who have been prosecuted and potentially identifies with the plight of some of them. 

Strong Women...

 

That Was So Cool...

Yes, I did attend my HS reunion as Rhonda. In fact three now. Two were reunions and one was a 75th Birthday Reunion / Celebration.  For the first I was nervous and made a pack with an x-girlfriend to push me through the door it I hesitated.  She did not need to. That was our 50th reunion, nine years ago.  

75th Birthday / Class Reunion 

I was well known (many clubs) and was the the JV football co-captain. That was my last year of football realizing that everyone has now bigger; much bigger.  Although that did not keep a group of us at the reunion from reliving our football glory days. "Remember that game where you broke your collar bone - Oh yes, I remember it well".  In full display was the the adage "The older I get the better I WAS". Something never change although I had.

Although I did not get the most grandkids award, or came for the furthest away, without doubt, I was the most changed. 

If the opportunity arises do go. A great outreach opportunity and helps put a face / person to what the transgender experience entails. Everyone left in my Class of '66, now knows a transgender person.   

Musical Interlude - That's The Way I like It....

 

Mirror Mirror

The Price Is Right Game - Designer Sneakers

 

We have not played "The Price Is Right Game" in a while. This is a shocker. A brief follow-up to my sneaker discussion yesterday. When Sneakers have reached the expensive designer level, well, the true chic status has been achieved. As I was looking for sneaker ensembles I came upon the "Balenciaga Women's Triple S Sneaker in Beige | Balenciaga US".  Hold your breath - $1,150.00; and still made in China. However you do get an additional pair of laces.  A side question - When was the last time you broke a shoe lace? 

I must admit my model above does look cute and that is an outfit I would wear. Maybe with similar but not with Balenciagas. 

These make my sneaker shopping "after tariff" stick-shock all seem a bargain. Let us know how they fit.  

Feminine Differential - Sneaker Chic

 

The above New Balance are interesting.  Listed on Nordstrom's site as "Gender Inclusive 740 Sneaker".  Showing in seven colors with each shoe listed with the women's size as well the Men's; a nice touch.  I am not so sure the "Pink Taffy/Pink Granite" that I purchased, are the total definition of Gender Inclusive.

I love the Feminine Differential they offer and are so comfortable. A keeper that looks great with both slim and modern wide ankle jeans. 

Sneaker Chic
Pink cap optional 

Women's sneakers, aka running / workout shoes differ very little in gender style with the exception of color and trim. The UK versions are called trainers. Nike also offers pink trim version and are most certainly gendered female. I considered those but noticed the current pricing are nearly doubled previous sneaker purchases. The New Balance I purchased may have been pre-tariff priced at $114 still generally more than I typically pay. The nearly same Nike version was priced at a jaw dropping $180.00.  

One look no further than Pinterest to all the many "Chic" styles and way women are wearing sneakers.  Here is a link to 92 sneakers styles from Pinterest.  The New Your Post described it this way:

While you most certainly need a pair of good workout shoes in your closet, as well, fashionable sneakers are a must-have and are now trendier than ever to pair with basic jeans, shorts, skirts and even formal dresses for a laid-back but styled outfit... Paired with loungewear sets, they automatically elevate into a purposeful and practical look.

A Slave To Beauty...

Oh that "OH NO!" moment, when you knew this may be the first time, but not the last!

Mine, a first ever complete make-over at a beauty salon in a mall.  Full deal (under the ruse of Halloween soon) and I brought with me an outfit to complete the look. That night I spent a small fortune of cosmetics and had a face chart on where each tiny bottle was to be used. The woman at the salon was so please she went to get her boyfriend who also worked at the mall.  I believe she had something in mind for him.   

I had dinner at a mall restaurant after to celebrate and complete my evening. 

 What was your "Oh No!" moment. 

 

Political Cartoons 11-9-2025

 

Lingerie Is Not About...

 

Part-Time Woman (Updated)

 I have  a story to go with this:  Years ago I was driving by a local carwash. The sign out front read "Wanted - Part-time Girl".  Honestly, that is what it said!

This was before we all had cell-phone cameras and I headed home to get my camera.  By the time I got back, I guess the job had been filled.  A missed opportunity. 

I could do that.

Thanks Angelia (Facebook)

Concession - A Well Heeled Decision

 

As a woman in her 70s, I’ve heard it all—“Aren’t those heels uncomfortable?” “You still wear those?” "When are you going to give up those heels?" However, here’s an absolute truth: I am never giving up my heels. They make me feel confident, feminine, and put-together.  I know I am not alone. 

With that said, I am learning to compromise especially when it comes to heel height and safety. Whether you’re 30 or 70, your heel height should complement your lifestyle, comfort, and personal style. Most importantly - physical safety.

First, "well heeled" appears to be a misremembering of the idiom "well-heeled," which means wealthy or prosperous, referring to people who can afford good shoes that are not worn down. 

Let's note my illustration above. I consider the 2.75, 3 reasonable and 3.75 marginally reasonable for everyday heels. The other are for show or fantasy. These can be worn, but may convey the wrong message or even can be dangerous.  

  

The last time I wore 3.75 heels was at an University Awards Program in 2022. I, along with others were designated "Alumni Stars".  And yes, I did walk the riser stairs / platform with them. At my table, I believe more women commented about my grace in heels than my accomplishment; that was ok. I am not saying that will be my last wearing of those Lauren pumps, but likely. I am keeping them as a fond memory. 

Rhonda with VCU University President
and Engineering School Dean

I still have many 3" pumps that I do occasionally wear and depending on width and snugness, I can make then work. Always taking into account circumstances, I pre-plan any restaurant walk-in or event standing involved. My go to pumps seem to have become the 2.75 heel height for now. Maybe for safety reasons because my peripheral vision is not good. Overall conclusion - there are times where the risk seems to exceed my vanity, especially in low light.

After all, great shoes take you great places and are a great feminine differential. I have no plans of slowing down anytime soon.

How about you?  Are you making concessions?