Welcome to an extra edition of the mailbag where you will find some of the comments, questions and ideas sent recently by subscribers of this newsletter or our publications. They are edited for space and clarity.

“Shane, your article on snow boots reminded me of a carefree childhood filled with the enjoyment of fun in the snow, just like you described (Snow boots, Nov. 28, 2023). As I've gotten older, I've discovered that my enjoyment of snow has decreased proportionally with my increased need to drive in it. You might have mentioned that an industrious kid with a shovel could make a few bucks clearing sidewalks. When I was in grade school, the girls' dress code was strictly dresses. No pants. But the girls would bring a pair of blue jeans to school to wear at recess during the winter months, and remove them when they came back inside to class. We boys were sternly warned that, if we came inside from recess and our pants were wet from the snow, we would have to wear a pair of girl's jeans while ours dried out. We were usually pretty careful — it would have been the ultimate humiliation to wear a girl's jeans.” - Bob

In my efforts to avoid this sort of sexual discrimination, I often encourage my wife and daughters to shovel snow. - Shane

“In the late 1950s, our snow boots were zipped and had fake fur all around the top (Snow boots, Nov. 28, 2023). I don't remember what my boots were like when I was a little person, but I remember being covered head to toe in snow and my mother taking a floor broom all over me before she would let me in the house. Then I remember resting my wet socks, still being on me, on the top of the coal furnace's heat register. Oh, the smell of wet wool getting dried out, but it felt good.” - Margaret

Taking a floor broom all over you? Are you sure you weren’t on fire from being too close to the coal furnace? - Shane

“I say the rosary out loud (that helps me to focus by saying and hearing it) while doing stepping exercises (Habits, rituals and routines, Dec. 4, 2023). That takes me about 20 minutes, and I do it in my basement. I usually work up a sweat after about seven minutes. The reason for the basement is it is cooler most of the year.” - George

This I have to see. Send a video, please. - Shane

“For probably 25 years, I have had the same cold cereal for breakfast six days a week, but I will change given the opportunity (Habits, rituals and routines, Dec. 4, 2023). At supper time, I have a most frequent repeat snack food list but seldom eat at the same time and departing from the list or changing the time can happen almost without thought. Having shared my peculiarities, it is fair to say my wife (who does not read your column — nothing personal) is a huge creature of habit. Much of how she lives is by doing the same things, at the same time, on the same days. That said, she does not tolerate eating the same food items for meals twice in the same week. She requires variety of menu!” - Chuck

Sounds like you are venturing out a little, Chuck. Your wife needs to do the same, and she should start by reading the Daily Umbrella. - Shane

Have a thoughtful Thursday, and thanks for reading.

Shane Goodman 

President and Publisher
Big Green Umbrella Media
shane@dmcityview.com
515-953-4822, ext. 305
www.thedailyumbrella.com

View Shane Goodman's archived columns from past issues here.

The polls have closed and a record number of readers have cast their votes in the latest CITYVIEW'S Best Of Des Moines readers' poll — the metro's original and largest poll of its kind.

 

Winners will be announced in the February 2024 issue of CITYVIEW!

$350,000

1324 Loomis Ave.

Des Moines, IA 50315

 

Run don't walk to this timeless Mid-century modern masterpiece. A two story haven where sophistication meets simplicity. Nestled on a tranquil cul de sac, this architectural gem is a must see. You will notice the brand new 25 driveway, retaining wall and front door patio, perfect place for an evening cocktail.