Things Baby Boomers Hang On To

 

Here we go again with a post about Baby Boomers. Even though people criticize and blame us for some of the environmental issues and more, I remain proud to be born in the Baby Boomer generation. As a generation, we are known for our work ethics, our strong opinions, insight, and our ability to laugh at ourselves. We are such an important generation someone thought developing a list of the things we like to hang on to would be enjoyable reading. I hope you feel the same way.   

1. Conspiracy theories. As a generation we have witnessed deep distrust in government, this leads to boomers questioning official narratives. Baby Boomers love to launch into a political debate going way back to previous governments. Currently, political talk must be at its all-time high.

2. Corporal Punishment. Hands on approach to discipline was the way of the world back then. We are all familiar with the line, "kids are to be seen, not heard". I think the hardest thing that BB struggle with is the fact that respect just isn't the same.   

3. Golf. For a BB a round of golf was a way to unwind and share about the day. Now it is an opportunity to talk about the way it used to be when the courses weren't so busy.

4. Collecting knickknacks. BB have a knack for collecting. Every shelf is a museum of memories. From the china cabinet to behind the toilet. I am noticing that many BB are embracing "their stuff" and deciding it must be dealt with before it is in the hands of their children. In the hands of children means a dumpster. 

5. Reading the newspaper. Just feels right to hold a newspaper. I think you could say that for books as well.

6. Typing in all CAPS. ADDS EMPHASIS!

7. Paying for cable. Most BB enjoy flipping through a guide as opposed to other options.

8. Tacky decorations. Tacky adds character it is not clutter. Some Boomers decorate their homes in theme and change the decor to match the season or holiday.

9. Politically correctness. Speaking your mind is a sign of honesty, it is never meant to be rude. 

10. Writing cheques. Many BB lack the trust in online banking and bill paying. Not to mention the distrust in sending cash by mail. 

11. Fine China. Back in the day, it was just a given that a new bride would pick out a china pattern. It was important to have a set of at least 8 of that chosen pattern. Putting said china in a china cabinet was important. To have a set of china meant you had beautiful dishes, but they are of no interest to the next generation.

12. Landlines. Some view a mobile phone as a backup. BB will leave their phones at home because that is where a landline stayed, and we managed. "I'm leaving my phone at home" or "I don't need my phone", will only come out of a BB mouth.

13. The Mall. BB love to meet at the mall, they enjoy walking from store to store. Some are skeptical about online shopping, others love it. 

14. Cursive writing. This is what adults do. It seems inconceivable that being taught to write is now optional. 

15. Toilet seat covers. Need I say more!!!

16. Iron everything. There is nothing like a crisp crease in the front of pants. Wrinkles are the enemy, and every outfit needs the ironed look. At least we have moved past ironing the sheets and pillowcases.  

17. Phone book. That is the best and possibly the only way to get a number and address. You simply have to have a phone book. 

18. Bar soap. Liquid soap is a new modern gimmick

19. Avon. Baby Boomers have a soft spot for Avon. The Avon Lady brought the beauty products right to the door. I loved the freebies that were included. The little lipsticks brought such joy to me. Not to mention the excitement when a new book came out and the old, tattered one could be thrown away.  

20. Gendered everything. Pink is for girls and blue is for boys. Why mess with that.

21. Diamonds. Ultimate symbol of luxury and commitment.

22. Volunteering. This is a meaningful way to fill time and contribute to causes. Sitting still and doing nothing is not in the Baby Boomers DNA.

23. Spiritual experience. Many BB still attend traditional religious services. Having a formal funeral is important.

24. Brand loyalty. Same BB have eaten the same cereal every morning for decades. They have driven the same model of car or truck. On a farm, usually there is only one color of farm implements, never a mixture.  

25. Traditional Etiquette. Being polite builds trust and strengthens relationship and maintains respect. It is important to say thanks beyond a verbal thank you at the time. 

26. Keeping paper receipts for files. BB hold on tight to their paper. Having a well-organized file cabinet is a must. Baby Boomers love paper. 

27. Use a physical planner. Crossing off a task is more rewarding than pushing the delete button.

28. Putting photos in an album. In spite of digital photos, BB make photo albums. They enjoy flipping through the pages and organizing the photos. 

29. Complaining about new-fangled gadgets. Often technology is a mystery to BB and they push every button but the right one. Some manage amazingly; others are described as hopeless. 

30. Writing handwritten letters. Sending cards and letters is certainly something that BB do. There is nothing like getting mail and especially personal mail like a card.  

31. Using paper maps and atlas. BB use maps like a treasure hunt as opposed to Siri or google maps. 

32. Complain about kids today and their technology. 

I am hopeful that you enjoyed this little list of 32. I have to admit in my lifetime I was all of those things. But I am not now. I am not sure why we, as in Baby Boomers, keep getting lists made about us. We may have handed out criticism and our valued opinion, but in all fairness, we have taken our share.  

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