of course I mean if *the* user names are not unique. If the other Betsy had it first, (which I doubt), she can have it. But Betsy is my RL name and I am rather attached to it. ;-)

INCREDIBLE! You are a mind reader. I was just thinking tonight how everyone came up with their interesing names. Mine isn't so interesting me thinks. So let me share how I came up with mine.
1. Wanted to be able to have my not so nimble fingers remember to type the letters.
2. The T.V. (of course) was on and the pundits were talking about how the Clintons kept our first child "Chelsea" so grounded.
3. On another channel that kooky Chelsea Lately show lady was being her crazy self..
4. Therefore my inspiration was set. More likely the letters would easy to type from now on and plus I would like to travel to England...

So how did you other folks come up with your monikers? I like Drink and Smoke, Polar Bear, Visan, Poker in the Rear, Auburn Annie, Nana Benz, Pinkpen, Trudy is Annoying (no you're not), SC Fan (Sterling Cooper right?) and you others....

Come on do tell!!

Oh and what about Silverminx? That was is also way cool.

Ok..... I'll confess.......I just feel like one! I sure as hell don't feel old........still active, still spry and still....sexy......my old man says I'm still good looking and I still get good responses with the other old male animals in the supermarket that give me little compliments and smiles.......yup, silverminx just fits me fine!

Lol

Most of the other names are very original and unique and easily remembered. Too many numbers throw me off......and I just thought Chelsea was English someway.....like an old family name.....it's nice! I'm somewhat skeptical about "Poker in the Rear" though.......

In the late 70's there was a Clairol commercial on TV which featured a youngish woman, dressed in a boxy Chanel suit, great aligator pumps and chasing a loose ballon down a winding pathway at the zoo... The gal was way too young to be worrying about grey in her hair, she looked youthful and stylish and full of fun... I determined that when it was my turn to be concerned about grey in my hair, that gal would be the model for the kind of nana I wanted to be... I assumed I'd be driving a Town Car by then, the MB being a secret desire...
About the time the silver started making a statement in my coif, a 450sl the same color seemed more my style but it's not safe for grandchildren so they kinda play in it in the garage and when we go to the zoo they ride in an older volvo wagon...they think the Benz is their toy... . Truth be told, it is..

Good for you NanaBenz...........having a silver 450sl in the garage........it's nice to have a secret desire.......anything....in the garage. Hope you get to feel the wind in your hair in that beauty.......??? That wouldn't be the Bronx zoo by chance???

Chelsea, Yep, my "SC" does indeed stand for "Sterling Cooper"...when these forums were new (last year) someone thought it stood for Southern Cal! I considered changing it after that, but figured most of my fellow Maddicts would know what it stood for.

Nothing wrong with folks who are fans of Southern Cal, I just don't happen to be one is all.

Nahh Silverminx, I'm a midwestern gal who only travels to the Left coast...
While my husband was in miitary service, we lived in Germany for a few years.. Most folks drove economy cars and the only ones I recognized was the VW Beetle..On a Sunday drive I saw my 1st MB sportster and what drew me to it was that the wheel covers were painted the same color as the car... I was mezmerized and thot because it was small it must also be economincal to drive and suggested that we get one of those..... My husband lol and thot no more about it... I, on the other hand, began my secret plan to have one of my own...It took nearly 25 yrs but when sumthin's meant to be, you just can't fight it...

San Francisco native, so my blood is a little thicker to cope with the fog & wind. When my heart rate is up, I produce more heat than I lose. I have swum from Alcatraz to Aquatic Park five times. It is the only race I know where you are handed a bratwurst and a beer once you cross the finish line. A bunch of us then walk a half block to the Buena Vista for an Irish coffee afterwards.

Either that, or I am looking down at the ice melting below my feet, wondering if I'm doomed for extinction. Given my profession, a very real possibility.

Peace

my childhood nicname is Pi...because I would always repeat myself...

MM office memo -2- Polar Bear!

Yo! Ease up on the heroics, Fuzzy Wuzzy, you're on the endangered species list now; gotta relax....chill out...have a coke!
Hate the Brats........gimme a City street vendor's dirty- water hotdog any day..........

(ditto from pi168)

(Nana Benz - happy wheeling)

(SCfan: you've been on this forum for one whole year?......a true MM charter member...any others...Chelsea.....Betsy?)

Chelsea, I love Pink, I love to write and forgot to capitalize the P. So it was born, pinkpen. I just came on board a few weeks ago. I just couldn't take another week without it and then I found all of you, MADDICTS! Now, I don't have to wing it alone. I was beginning to feel like DUCK!

Nana Benz, I have been looking for a 450sl for about 2 years and almost had one this past March, so I thought it turned out to be a 5 series. So, I settled for another classic instead. Cute name.

@silver, clearly, you are not in the world of commercial real estate finance. We all feel like we are staring at the dark cloud just after the meteor hit. I guess it could be worse - I could be in the automotive industry or a supply-side, anti-regulation economist.

PS I actually prefer sockeye salmon.

2 my fav animal - Polar Bear: buddy, I sense your pain and sympathize. Good neighbor of mine in NYC commercial real estate. He's been very quiet lately....very sad indeed. Things couldn't look bleaker.........it's going to be a sucky black hole for a while. Hope you have senority or a big 401k. Oh wait, the "new, change" government is now looking to take this away from us too. Now I'm reading online that Matt Weiner may NOT return to MM if he can't work out contract negotiations with powers-that-be.........now that's really hitting bottom!

@silver, thank you for the words of encouragement. I have to think Weiner v. AMC is typical negotiation posturing. I think HBO, Showtime, et. al., will pick up the series if talks with AMC fall through. There is such dearth of content on TV that someone will pay what ever it takes to get this show back on the air.

My concern is that shows like Mad Men are bigger than the sum of its parts but the parts still matter. Cast members, crew, writers, and support staff may decide to work on other projects/series - hey, we all have to pay the bills. Best for all if this issue is decided quickly.

Fav animal: Polar, I hope you're right that it's just a push-pull work in progress for Matt to continue with MM into season three. I think Lionsgate is involved too. You're right also, in that our girl Peggy, quickly jumped to Broadway if only for a limited run. You're right on the mark again re: if negotiations don't start fast, and contracts solid for season three, we may lose one of our (now expensive) illustrious stars to a movie or another show. We can only hope they have some loyalty to Matt to stick with him.

And buddy, I'm right with you thru thick and thin. I'm thinking now that you weren't kidding about those five swims...........was that you or the great white bear?

@silver, are you and I the only ones corresponding on this blog? A lot of the regulars have left (perhaps to bigger & better things).

I worry most about the writers of this show. Since it all starts with the words on the page, my hope is that all this nonsense will be worked out before the end of the year. If not, this winnning formula will change, perhaps for the worse.

Thank you for the kind thoughts. Even if we are the only ones left posting, I still enjoy your correspondence. Keep up the good thoughts.

And yes, that was me winkin' at ya from the Golden Gate. Have a Happy Thanksgiving.

P-Bear

PS We have to get you a picture for your handle. Do you need some help with this?

Just you and me Bear.......it's so easy to snuggle up to you, you being so big and soft....and even though I miss the regulars too, as long as you keep winkin' at me I'll be checking in.

Yes, sure, I'd like to know how to add a photo.......that would be a fun thing to do.

Happy Thanksgiving to you too and to everyone you care about......I see SC had a good Thanksgiving meal or two on another blog........guess we're getting a little far from the main course.

The weather here on the East Coast is right up your alley Bear.........brrrrr!.........but nice for snuggling.

silver, as promised, here is how you add you image:

If you already have a picture or image that you have saved on your PC, then:

1. Scroll to the top of this forum; on the top, right side you will see "Your Profile".
2. Double click "Edit Profile".
3. Scroll down to "Image" and you will see a tab "Browse"; double click.
4. Windows Vista will open up and you should see a file/subdirectory called "Owner"; double click.
5. If you are like me, there is a subdirectory called "Pictures" and simply double click the file you want as your image.
6. Be sure to double click "Save Changes" after you have selected your image.

Voila, you're done.

If you don't have a picture or image that suits you, I suggest you go to google.com. In the upper right hand corner, there is a category "Images". You can look up any image on the web by name (e.g. "minx"). Being the classy dame you are, may I suggest you look up "Gil Elvgren" and/or "Varga Girl". Elvgren and Vargas were the original pin up artists for Esquire but you probably already knew that. When you find an image you like, double click it and google will take to the web site that has the image. Put the cursor on the image, double RIGHT click it and save/rename the file (e.g. "Minxpix") to your hard drive. It will be saved under c:owner\pictures\minxpix.jpeg then follow the directions above.

Let me know if you have any problemas.

Hey Silver I'm gonna tell your husband!! Just Kidding. Thanks for asking about how to add a picture. I was wondering myself. Now I just have to think of a cool actress or something.

Hope you all have a happy Thanksgiving.

Thanks for the info Bear, it's a busy week though but I'll give it a try. Those two guys were unique alright.....first Betty Grable......and then came along another little minx: Marilyn. In my collection I have a copy of the nude calendar photo that put her in the spotlight....remember that? ....betcha Dick Whitman does.....I could scan it and add it but I don't think the Mr. Neuman would like it. Wouldn't that be a wake up call on this forum!

Chelsea, my old guy thinks I'm still the minx-cat's meow.......says I'm fun to be with........keeps him on his toes......well, when he can....

Happy Thanksgiving to youse guys too!

Chelsea, I encourage you to put up an image. It reveals a lot about your personality. Also, I am amazed you checked back in on this thread - thought it was dead. And please, no tattle-tales. :-)

silver, you don't have to convince me, I know that you're fun. I dig the spunk and keep up the attitude. Your guy should count his blessings and honor the Madmen sponsors (yep, that's me winkin' again).

Happy Thansgiving - Polar Bear

PS If you need a Minx image, I could e-mail it to you.

Added picture and now I'm checking out how it looks..........if I don't like it I'll change it........
Thanks Bear for advise on how to do it (cough) but it wasn't easy to get size of scanned photo right...took up too much time!!!!!

updating and improving picture..wasn't easy........but I'll stick to this one.

Polar, hope you like the new personality.....scanning a letter size photo down to almost zero wasn't easy and I'm still not satisfied with the results..........I'll have to forever wonder what you wanted to email me.....maybe a little of your own 'personality'....? BTW, those two guys you mentioned above sure like their ladies on the domestic side......sweetums, I'm anything but domestic. Chelsea's a delightful addition to our little inner sanctum down here.........she's a little naughty too...

Mine is unique!

@silver, love the picture - it was worth the wait; very bete noire (expecting Richard Widmark lurking in the shadows). So is this you back in your Ford modeling days? No wonder your old man thinks you're the minx' meow.

I understand your comment about Esquire's rather domestic view of women. These images were also very innocent, in comparison to the world we inhabit today where talentless celebrities purposefully exit their vehicles so that the paparazzi can capture them in their panty-less glory. As I wrote above, its the attitude I dig so keep us on our toes with your flirtatious banter.

Re: Chelsea - you're one of my faves too because you get my skewed view of the human condition. You're welcome to join the minx & me in our sand box. Just make sure you share your toys with the other kids.

I don't know how to get your e-mail minx w/o broadcasting it to the entire blogsphere. If you have any ideas, please advise. Maybe I'll use the image I had in mind for you and you can tell me if you want to use it (wink).

Talk to you soon, after the holiday (I'll be posting my own topic that I've be thinkin' about).

Thanks PB and Silver - I enjoy playing with you guys.
Silver I like your glammy photg. Is that Gene Tierney? I got to think of a picture. Anyone using Jean Harlow?

BTW,
Hi Pi Hi Pi. You made me laugh. Reminded me of the gangster movie, which my brain dead brain forgets the title, but there was a character in it that too repeats everything. Damn what was the name of that movie. What was the name of that move...

Polar Bear,
I trust me I can keep a secret ... but it's the people I tell that can't :-)

....oh, no, Big Fuzzy, you have to use a photo to express your personality........like the hunk that can swim five times to Alcatraz.......that's what we gals want to see.......

It's not hard to recognize "Laura", she's a classic and unforgettable.......back then when women were women and men were all over them.

This photo's from my collection and film noir is a big part of it. Richard Widmark at that time was too scary, especially for old ladies in a wheelchair. I'm thinking that great, big, handsome stud muffin, Robert Mitchum would be a better match for our sultry Laura.

He looked so good in classic hat and cigarette dangling from his manly lips......with that slight sexy scowl between his deep penetrating eyes...........reminds me of someone....hmm.......oh yes, our very own in-house heartthrob, Don Draper!

"Jean Harlow" Chelsea?........you are a naughty lady! What's not to like? Add some heat to the board......

As for keeping a secret, well, many a man has been brought down by an innocent slip of the lips between girl phone-buddies they thought they could trust, i.e., Rachel telling phonepal about Don's big secret. When the 'new' Don doesn't return to her warm sheets, this smart gal could feel a little used and turn bitter about the whole affair... Guys usually are tipsy and at a bar when they loosen up and confess....or brag is more like it.

Licknsomethingandnaughtyintherear......damn right buddy.........you are unique........and you make one damn fine old-fashioned!

That's all for now folks, see everyone after Holiday........

Cheers all.
Ya Silver can you imagine the muscles on that swimmer?

Chelsea/Jean! ...........you glow girl.....love the photo....! Can't wait for the big fuzzy to add ALL his delights to this great and unique forum.....in haste, still celebrating and trying to digest turkey leftovers! ;(
TTFN.......

silver, chelsea, fan-nan, producerbonnie, scfan, nanabenz, et. al., I have put up a topic
Past is Prologue:1964/2008. You'll find me there.

I have to warn you that I took the topic in a serious direction regarding the events of 1964 and 2008. Its something I have been thinking a lot about the similarities of these two very important years. Maybe we should set up a different blog for goofing off? What do you guys think?

This has been a very successful thread and I'd like to personally thank Betsy for the chance to seriously think about getting a 'personality' to my nametag....to be "unique".....and looking at all the other great faces, symbols and silhouettes above this comment - I'm certainly not alone. It was fun while it lasted and the terrific people who participated prove that..... As for 'goofing off', well, we're not alone in that department, are we? IMHO, it was a heck of a lot more fun than a history lesson..........

This whole forum seems pretty liberal what with all the different directions the threads have gone, but are we now pulling at straws just to keep things going? Have we lost our focus, which should be the MadMen shows? I've been on scads of forums over these many years and this is not atypical when things get slow.... and boring..........if I've offended anyone with my too too spicy comments, I sincerely apologize.....

Well, it's time to move on and take "Laura" to greener pastures....there's so much rich ground to cover in the net and eventually we all manage to find our niche......and I like this 'personality' so much you may just see it on another forum...........and to Chelsea: I hope you keep posting and keep the board active and lively as you've always done.........I'll be checking back now and then.........

Hey minx, where are you going? Are your comments directed at anyone in particular or the group in general? Your spice adds flavor to it all. There's always the hope that you'll come back.

XOXO - P Bear (that's me winkin' at ya)

Polar Bear, it's been a fun ride goofing off with you, and I certainly did not mean any derogatives toward anyone but, geez, guy, don't you think this whole blog is becoming redundant? Without any word forthcoming from anyone as to whether or not there will even be a season three why bother.......! We're grabbing at straws here........getting way off focus....looks like we've exhausted all ideas to humble moi......well, not so humble.... how long can we retain interest.

Political blogs are so lively and spirited and I do enjoy a good taffy pull...keeps the mind sharp.

And you know, it's a shame too, because this is one of the most liberal, intelligent, and well run blogs I've ever been on, for one of the best series I've ever seen........and I do go back a long way.......don't ask. lol. Well, I'll keep you guys on my daily list of check-in's for a quick look-see, and to see if the show will be picked up for another season......but the ole american buck is so squeezed for networks right now.....it doesn't look too promising. Happy trails to you and all that good stuff........big ((((O)))) hug from "Laura"......ain't nutin' finer than that!

Silver, I hear you. Without the show, I did try to inject some different kind of dialog with the two discussions I recently posted but you can see the direction they went fairly quickly.

I'll miss the dialog w/ my favorite minx but I understand your desire to move onto more productive things. Lord knows, 2009 looks to be one of the bleakest years economically since 79/80 (oops, here I go into ancient history!) and I should focus on the career.

I'll check here periodically to see if you have anything you'd like to share. I'll take a big hug from you any day!

BTW, love the term "a good taffy pull". May I use it? Talk about a wickedly accurate statement - there are a couple of people/situations I know that call for such clarity.

Peace and if I don't hear from you, have a safe and happy holiday season.

XOXO - P-Bear

Bear!.... safe and happy holidays right back at ya big guy! And what are you talking about... I just perused your Talk topics and it looks to me like all the ladies just love you........must be those soft big brown eyes......or those big hands ............! You're a serious guy and maybe a little too erudite for most of us to keep up with.

Besides your wonderful self, what's bringing me back into the MM fold are the great cast interviews. The latest is "Mona", Ms. Talia Balsam. Her Daddy was the esteemed Martin Balsam, a wonderful actor who I saw many many times over the years. I guess I'm just an unrepentant synchophant for this kind of stuff.

Well, stay off any stray ice floes that drift out too far and I'll touch base with my favorite huggy bear often. Loads of "Laura" (((O))) hugs with the silverminx riding along.........

Minx, you will note that I only have eyes for the only feline on this blog.

Re: my other topics- well, don't let my interest in history fool you. My Dad was a longshoreman so I never forget my roots, even if I read the NY Times and the Sporting Green in the same sitting. I have a lot of interests and I can be as deadly serious as the next guy but did you read my Season Three Predictions or my version of the New Year's Resolutions? I grew up in a household where laughter was always present. Maybe because we didn't have money, we relied on each other for entertainment. Don't ever consider me above it all - everyone has something to offer, especially you (wink). I can hang with the Brothers, the Vatos and the Bluebloods.

Since you and I are the only ones left on this post, I will know how to find you. You can always hitch a ride with me.

P-Bear

PS I was surprised to find out Talia's ex is George Clooney. Maybe the audience hasn't given John Slattery enough credit for being a "Ladies Man".

PPS I use Polar Bear because of my build & tolerance for the cold. My coloring is nothing like my avatar.

And I use my real name and real picture. How boring!

Kudos to you Laurie B. using your real name/picture. Quite brave and not boring at all.

I found you again Polar Bear.... I'm stalking you lol. I agree I'm going to miss Silverminx/Laura she has great attitude and is fun. I hope she comes back. Maybe when the season starts up again. Also agree good pic LauraB. I always say it's not that blondes have more fun.... we are more fun!!!

Polar Bear! I knew it.......I knew it.......the minute the brunette's back is turned, in come the blonds with mucho TLC for the Bear. Is that a loopy grin on your mug, Fuzz? Oh well, and here I was gonna turn deep and dark by asking you how the career was going.......if you had a headhunter.......and about the big sinkhole the country's falling into....but instead I find you've been doing a little hunting on your own, or rather tha gals have.....I told you the ladies follow you around. You're an anomaly.....one of the few males on this forum.....and a big pawed one at that! That's a ratio of three broads to one big muscle....can you handle it Big Guy? I'm talking about the big muscle in your head........(I'll give you a little time on this one)

ITMT, how about joining me in a chorus of "Stop The World I Want To Get Off" when we see what's happening in our great country, or the world for that matter.....tell me, the 1960's were a cakewalk compared to this,right?

LaurieB, that pic is your real self? You're too beautiful.......too young........go away. (just kidding). Ms.Harlow is still glowing, full of fun and faithful to the forum...one of a kind. Every visit "Basket Of Kisses"?, lots of awards keep coming for MadMen........and still no definitive commitment for that elusive third season. Now, I'm reading that there's talk of an actor's strike; talk about bad timing! Oh, wait, howabout a bailout for them too! Another problem 'solved' by Uncle Sap, er, Sam.

BTW, anyone know if it was Mr. W. who mentioned somewhere about a MadMen 'marathon' coming up on AMC? Did youse guys see the new movie with Jon Hamm in it? Just wondering how he did. I hope he makes scads of dough and puts it away for that inevitable rainy-day......which is now. I'd stay away from the market right now as it's so volatile I wouldn't go within ten feet of it with an unlit match!

In haste.........wanted to touch base again to keep the MM dream alive........and Happy Everything to the three of you......and Bear, if I'm not being too nosey........what did attract your male self to the MadMen forum? I did notice you're pretty selective where you post. If I'm overstepping, just forget it.......still friends?

Silver daaling how good of you to come back!!!
Actually I was thinking about you and missing your posts, they are most amusing. Yes isn't life unfair with regard to Polar Bear. Always more women than men. I too am curious about the Bear. Maybe we could start another post and interview him ... We could over analyse him. I bet he'd love it. :-)

Anyway these are great escapes from this truly crazy out of control world we are living in. I mean today Pres. Bush had a shoe thrown at him!! Crazy just crazy...

Chelsea, 2 2 sweets, you're right on about the crazy business with the shoe, but I do like the man's reflexes......he' duck'ed twice.......the minx loves a man with great reflexes.......!

BTW, is it me or do you get the feeling this forum's time is limited? I wonder how long it will go on what with the series outlook up in the air as it seems to be. I say this because I was given a "page not found" on one of the talk-topics when I tried to respond........!?!

But, then again, it was yet another question about willtherebeaseasonthree? Maybe the webmaster just got tired of the repetition....that would be really funny! Comcast has also removed the season two MM shows they offered.......I know they can be gotten online but silverminx doesn't have the time ........!

Our resident PHD, "CC" is full of answers on another Talk Topic which I will now check out.....see if "CC" answered my (not quite PHD level) questions........lol

Silver & Chelsea, unfortunately, I think you both may be on to something. I am usually as optimistic as the next guy but I, too, have a bad feeling about Season Three. Given the current economic envirornment and lets be realistic, the relatively small audience AMC draws, I do not know a contract will be signed any time soon. The actors, writers and crew may not be willing to bet that the two sides will come to an agreement. We have already lost one favorite (Maggie Siff/Rachel Menken) and I think others may be tempted to jump ship.

Re: shoe throwing - while funny, extremely stupid, especially for those of us who have serious concerns about the direction of this country. Better to let W go quietly into retirement and start the real work of rebuilding this country.

Re: PhD, I do enjoy the good Doctor's inside knowledge of the entertainment industry but I am a bit puzzled Minx - you bust my balls over my high falutin' historical forum but you engage Dr. Feelgood's topic like its no big deal. GRRR . . .

Lastly, I am flattered Chelsea that you want to do a profile of me. Well, if you look at some of the topics I have commented, there is plenty there to put together (good catch Minx). However, if there are specific things you'd like to ask, I may, depending on the subject matter. Lots of people know me out there as P-bear, some friendly, some who want to hunt me down. I'd like to explain but I have to be careful in such a public forum.

Hi Silver, P-Bear & Laurie B,
We seem to be the only ones still posting on this thread.

I also received a page not found Silver. And your answer is probably correct lol. Who is Dr. Feelgood and where can he be found?

Do you want me to post question & answer for you Polar Bear? Or do you just want to answer our noiseyness on this thread. I understand the need for carefulness.
Let's see my first question/s would be: What draws you to this blog? Do you blog on others?
Who's your favorite poster? Haha don't answer that I'll get my feelings hurt cause I know it's Ms. Silverminx...

Is that you growling, Polar?........love it.........you make this forum so bearable, Fuzz, that growl is giving me cool shivers....all over.... pick me up someone!

Now, as for Dr. "Feel good" (sez who) , there's no comparison to you Big Guy.....the resident PHD has said she/he's "in the movie business" out in CA and was talking on MM season 3 rumors, you on the other paw was talking on history.......heavy stuff like research......no comparison at all....you're still the shine in minx's green eyes!

The minx's instinct perked up isall when all this insider type knowledge hit the Talk page......figured maybe they've got some connections behind the scenes and either want to impress the forum....or scare the hell out of us!

Now down to the really juicy stuff......GlowGirl and the Minx just wanted you to tell us what attracted you to MadMen series.......that's all, ok? And the only reason I can think for anyone to hunt you down Bear, is to give your.....big.....dark....wet....nose....a...little....friendly....rubbin'........(sigh).

So, don't go all serious on us now by telling too much.........except that "build and tolerance"you mentioned above.......that's that what gets a minx's attention.........again, and again....and.....again.

Wow, just wandered by to check out the forum, and feel like I am seriously interrupting something hot and heavy going on. Well, I will be on my way - you kids just go back to whatever it is you are discussing - but in the future you might just post a "if this forum's a rockin', don't come a knockin'" sign! Have fun, and don't do anything I wouldn't do!

Ooop busted!! lol. You crack me up Ms. Silver (on the other paws) See that's why you were sooo missed. You're one of a kind....
Zerelda you're naughty.

Dear LadyZee......it's a story as old as time itself: the educated professor-type male hunk attracted to the beautiful slutty-type minx gal.

Wasn't Don's Dick, correction,...!!... Dick's Don 2-much attracted to the beatnik gal? With his big ....bon..us...warming his.... pocket he wanted her to fly on his wings-of-amour to gay Paree, right?

Now, if Big Fuzz starts flashing gang finger signs at the little minx......well, it will add either a little spice to the mix or.........a big mystery.

Minx also kinda like Marilyn Monroe and the write Arthur Miller? Did Polar fall of his ice cube? We haven't heard from him in awhile. Maybe I scared him away. Well if you hear from him tell him to play misty for me..... ha ha. I hope you get my humor.

Silverminx & Chelsea: You both ask the relevant question “why am I on this blog?” Simply put, to understand a person’s motivation is to understand the person, sometimes better than the person him(her) self. BTW, this is why “The Emperor’s Handbook” is on my list of favorite books.

So here goes: Mad Men is prism that I can look at characters, storyline and production and compare it to my own experience and our present situation as a country. I was born around this time so I was too young to remember the details. Yet, like the fragrance of a former lover’s perfume, this show triggers memories in me that have been dormant for a long time (how’s that for wannabe writer? I think I can give Jane a run for her money). Some memories are painful, others nostalgic and some just leave a smile on my face. I’ll give you one small example: when Glen ran away, he had a flight bag that was given as a promotional item for a major airline. I had the same bag because my Mom worked for the same airline before she had kids. I haven’t seen it in 40 years and I just sat in amazement at the dedication to detail this show embraces.

I contribute to the discussion because it allows me to practice my writing. In my profession, there is no need for historical perspective, insight or humor. This site allows me to indulge in my favorite past times – being a smart ass and a wannabe know-it-all.

Since copying my own work doesn’t not qualify as plagiarism, I have included previous posts below that answer the question you pose in far greater detail:

Greytone asked the audience if we could give her an explanation of Mad Men for someone who had never seen the show in her post “I have the hardest time . . .”

The past is prologue. Mad Man is a representation of the creators of the American Dream - Madison Avenue in the early 60's. The characters, their stories and the events of that time are both familiar and distant. We, as the audience, can examine, dissect, compare, and critique their lives and stories with our own. Half of the fun of the show is recognizing the familiar - someone like your mother or father, a television show, a china pattern, wall paper, parent's child raising techniques, a character's struggles with the confining expectations of society, the timeless pursuit of man's (and woman's) happiness, and the tragedy of human pride. The fundamental theme for me is: Can people learn from their mistakes (i.e. redeem themselves)? or are we condemned to repeating the same mistakes? The answers aren't given to you, you must make your own conclusions.
America in 2008 is facing a crossroad similar to the one in the early 1960's. Can America rebuild itself? Can it get past race for a presidential election? Can it regain its place as a beacon of hope for the rest of the world? Anyone interested in this country and their place in American society should watch this show to see how far we've come and how far we still have to go. Past is Prologue.

Note: I have a recurrent theme of Past is Prologue. I believe this is the key to my attraction to this show and hence my desire to expand on this idea on this blog.

An explanation of my interest in the show would be incomplete without commenting on our favorite lead character, Don Draper/Dick Whitman. I posted this in “Don/Dick’s Diagnosis”:

My primary interest is this show is based on your (another blogger named Thirteen) thesis that Don's/Dick's behavior is perfectly "sane" within the subculture he exists - upwardly mobile, WASP businessmen. As you correctly point out, the price for all of these men's shenanigans was paid by everyone else - their families, women, blacks, hispanics, asians, homosexuals, etc. The early 1960's represented to me the pendulum swinging to the end of one arc and building momentum in the opposite direction. The Free Speech Movement, I have a Dream, Kennedy's assassination, the British Invasion, the explosion of the Civil Rights Movement, Viet Nam build up, are all about to happen in the next 12 to 18 months and no one at Sterling Cooper sees the tsunami. Maybe Paul but he is too much of a poser to recognize that he is swimming in a rip tide.

I find Don Draper so fascinating because he could easily have everything taken away if he is ever found out. Dick Whitman, poor, white trash Dick Whitman, would never be invited to the world of Don Draper. And Don/Dick knows this - its a spectre that follows Don every minute of every day. He is a spy, inhabiting someone else's life so that he may enjoy a world that he was not born to. Is it mental illness or self interest? I look forward to the audience's response.

This post was also the inspiration for “Past is Prologue 1964/2008” topic which enamored the Minx.

Another theme that interests me is redemption. Some of the characters don’t realize they need to save themselves from the abyss. In “Bore Me”, I responded as follows:

Tangfl, for me, the driving force of this show is redemption. I want to see who will evolve and achieve some consciousness of who they truly are and risk showing that true self to the rest of the world. The most liberating feeling for anyone is when we accept who we are and we stop trying to live up to someone else's idea of who we should be. This means you don't give a sh*t if you have someone else's approval. Accept me for who I am, warts and all. I'm not saying that this gives us the right to be a jackass, but that it is the entirety of a person that makes them interesting/loveable.
There is only one way Dick Whitman can win Betsy's love - he must risk it all and tell her the truth about everything and give his heart to her unconditionally. Dick's failure to be completely honest with Betsy is an indictment of her and her capacity for love. He doesn't believe that she will stick around if she knew everything (he may be right, we don't know). She may completely reject his truth but at least he will know whether she loves him for who is, not who he projects himself to be. Dick's denial of his past is his prison and fear is the watch guard.

As you can see, Mad Men and this forum have given me a venue to pursue my dreams of being the next Ken Cosgrove (ok, the next Paul Kinsey). This is my first venture into the blogsphere and it serves the purpose of providing me with an outlet for my writing (I can hear it now, “enough already; please shut the f*ck up!). Ok, I showed you mine, your turn to show me yours. What draws you guys to the Mad Men Forum? Cammeraderie? Connection? Recognition?The safety of annonimity? Curiosity? Voyerism? Harmless flirtation? Acknowledgement? Reinvention? Entertainment? Did I leave anything out?

Polar Bear

PS Is that your husband with Pete Campbell's .22?
PPS It takes a lot more than your comments, Chelsea darling, to scare me off. I just wanted to put some serious thought to your questions and answer in complete, coherent sentences.

Polar Bear, I truly hope you find what your looking for in this life and I commend your ability to write so much from your heart. It has been my avatar, Laura, behind all my previous postings to you, nothing else. I considered it harmless with no profound meaning whatsoever. If your "PS" above was meant for moi, I found it unkind at the very least....and a personal attack.....not directed at my avatar. You seem to have a deep personal anger inside which I can't match and I will not reveal anything beyond my avatar here.

And, as a student of history, you must do some research into the true story of used-car salesmen in this country. Dick Whitman came from that culture. It was without moral boundaries - the original flim-flam men. They took pride in cheating everyone, including their families even though they were known as the pillars of society in their hometowns. Even though their families were their 'victims', they lived their whole lives with it without conscience. Check out a recent book written by Steven M. Gelber. I liked to think Don Draper is slowly developing a sense of the truth in his life but only season three will answer that.

ITMT, I wish you well and success in your dream of becoming either Ken or Paul. We've all seen something unique in this MadMed series that relates to each and every one of us in a different way, and that makes the show so special. I also salute this forum for being so grand......I've been on, and am on, so many over the years and this one is the second best in all that time that I've had the pleasure to post on. But, the very first where I could choose an avatar for a personality......it was so damn much fun while it lasted.

You, Polar Bear, was the inspiration for that and I thank you for it. Initially, I posted with more of my personal experiences that drew me to the series and then evolved into "Laura".......I thought she was special....and harmless.......seems not so. No more 'goofing off' PB.......and we don't have a gun in the house. Hope you're not disappointed.

Dear Minx:

Here in lies the problem with e-mail/blogging - sarcasm and humor often get lost. I wasn't attacking you, just kidding around. Trying to tie in Zerelda's comments with Chelsea's and the Polar Bear's status as an endangered species. Guess it didn't work. The big bear is slow to anger and never with the fairer, feline set :-). You will have to excuse me because the Mad Men Forum is the first time I have ever blogged, posted, whatever you want to call it. During my day job, I have do not have an outlet for my views on history, let alone the relevance of Mad Men to me. I have found similar individuals who share the same interests as me and I enjoy the repartee, especially w/ you and Chelsea, and even Fancy Nancy.

Typically, I will respond to inquiries directed at me and I will continue the dialog as long as the discussion interests me and I feel I have something to contribute. Silver, do you remember my response to your first comment to me? I posted this in “European Temptations” after episode 11:

I do not think its practical that Don Draper will run away with the Nomads but there are a number of career possibilities I can see him pursuing as the reinvented Don in California. Here are a couple of ideas, for laughs & giggles:
1. Head of in-house marketing for Mattel. I see him developing the campaigns for Barbie, Major Matt Mason, Hot Wheels, etc.
2. Vice President, Government Relations, North American Aviation. Having become ill after the Polaris Missle slide show, he decides that the exploration of space more suitable to his mores. North American, based in Downey, CA, is the primary contractor for the Apollo Command Module, is ready to into full production and NASA will spend billions going to the moon.
3. TV-Movie Producer/Studio Head - after watching Don's presentation of "the Carousel", I thought he would be a natural if he pitched a TV series or a movie. The more I thought about it, his skills were better suited as the head of a studio, ala Bob Evans or a Richard Zanuck, representing the "new" Hollywood.
4. Director of Development, Disney Corporation. Secret plans for Disney World/Epcot Center are in the works. Walt Disney needs a right hand man to help him assemble the land parcels while not bringing attention to the identity of the buyer. Walt needs a visionary, someone who understands packaging and giving people what they want. The position requires salesmanship, charm, obfuscation, sophistication, vision and creativity.

The above was posted before the finale and I was quite pleased to hear Pete Campbell say he was “this close” to landing North American Aviation as a client in episode 13.

I also enjoy this site because it allows me to express my particular sense of humor. As you may recall Chelsea, my response (with slight revisions) to your post in Season Three Predictions:

@Chelsea, I like your idea (lol). I imagine the scene would go as follows:
In front of a burned out brownstone, the fire fighters and newly displaced residents congregate.
Battalion Chief: Ok folks, we think we found the source of the fire - this girdle with all the wires stickin' out of it (holds up the Relax-a-ciser).
Peggy: Actually, its the new and improved Relax-a-ciser II. (She goes into sales pitch mode) - With daily use and a sensible diet, the Relax-a-ciser II will help you lose weight, relieve stress, reduce frustration, prevent stretch marks and ease the heartbreak of psoriasis. Did I say it relieves stress?
Battalion Chief: Boy, this thing is heavy duty. It looks like you it uses 220. (volts)
Peggy: 220, 221, whatever it takes.
Father Gill shows up to comfort his flock: Peggy, may I borrow your Relax-a-ciser?
Peggy: Not now Father Gill, you're making me uncomfortable.
Father Gill: Peggy, you don't understand, this Priest gig is killin' me. If I don't do something fast, I'm gonna bust.
Peggy: Father, that's your job!
Just off set, Sally Draper has taken one of the extra Relax-a-cisers and is working with an electrician trying to hook it up to her saddle.
End of scene - all of the women of the burned out apartment are huddled around Peggy asking "where can we get one?"
Jon Hamm’s narration voice over: Sales of the Relax-a-ciser II go through the roof in 1964. Politicians, utility executives and public safety officials blame the product for the blackout of NYC in 1965 - something about the simultaneous use on Saturday night by millions of women (and one priest) and the resulting overload of the East Coast electrical grid. The product is banned and many historians and sociologists think that this ban was the spark that ignited the women's rights movement.

Fade to black, roll credits

Lastly, regarding the playful innuendo – I have to admit that I find it flattering. I do enjoy the give and take but I have to warn you that my bluntness may seem like anger but please rest assured I would not waste any negative energy with anyone here. Its all in good fun. It is highly unlikely that I will meet any of you (much to my chagrin) but if you enjoy it, I say please continue to post me. The problem with blogging is that we are anonymous. Much is lost without the intonation of one's voice or one's facial expressions. Much can be taken out of context in unintended ways. I am sure the person I am is nothing like the person you imagined. I could be some complete Paul Kinsey lame ass who couldn’t get laid in a Thai whore house with a fist full of hundreds. Or not. (I'm kidding).

Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, Buddha's enlightenment, Joyful Kwanza, Peppy Pagan Solstace, Feliz Kwanzidad or whatever holiday you observe,

Polar Bear

PS Did I answer your question?

Big Bear, what can I say other than.."it's not you, it's me".....! I got caught up behind my avatar and went too far.....hey, it happens.....my first time. (yeah, right...lol)

You have a great relation on the forum with everyone, don't bother your head about the minx, she's a big girl. All the personal stuff people reveal here is new to any forum I've been on and I have to say, with a few exceptions, I just can't get into it. I already regret some of the personal stuff I've talked about because I'm just a very private person.

Got carried away by the MadMen mystique I guess...and yours too! I leave you with a few lines (not in order) from one of the most moving songs ever....

Edith Piaf's "No Regrets"
No! No Regrets
It is gone
I've forgotten the past
And the memories I had
I no longer desire
Both the good and the bad
I have flung in the fire

Gives me a chill every time.......Bear, I can stay only so long in the past.....I'll leave that up to Mr. Weiner and his show which I will continue to enjoy and look forward to........but, my big friend....there is so much more for the minx out here right now and I have to live and enjoy it while I can. "Laura" was a wonderful new experience and I'll treasure the memory of her and of her marvelous big Fuzzy Wuzzy Bear.....!!

Via Con Dios.....

The correct expression is "vayo con Dios" - it means "walk with God" in Spanish.

Vaya con Dios........go with God. Hable usted Espanol? Yo no se nada myself so I'm excused.

Where is Ricky Ricardo when you need him?

Hola!
Isn't make-up sex great!
I was drawn to this site because I wanted to further discuss the details of the show with like minded people. The five minutes at the water cooler at work weren't enough for me. The insights that everyone brings to these postings is great and so interesting. Someone will say something to remind me of something and on and on it goes. Plus little by little people reveal a little of themselves and that's a plus too.

The nostalgia, the commaraderie it's all good and that's why I'm drawn to this website. We can discuss with each other minor things like the glasses the Sterling Cooper men drink booze out of with the silver rim. My Dad had some of these at home. I like that. Or sometimes we can get deeper and analyse motives in relation to today's world.

So Polar Bear have you published anything yet or are you just starting out with your writings?

@Minx do you have the title of the book by Steven Gelber. I need to read that as I am now looking for a new car. Yikes it's scary.

Y una mas cosa:
FLIZ NAVIDAD MI AMIGOS.

Bear, he lives next door but can't spell a lick......glad you're still here......forgive my erratic behavior.....trying to escape my avatar.....plus the market losses.......and some health concerns...and throw in that usual depression some of us suffer from at this time of the year......forgiven?

Chelsea, muchos gratias....ditto right back at ya!...that book is a history book on the transition from horse-trading to used car selling......and it's titled, "Horse Trading In The Age Of Cars", subtitled, "Men In The Marketplace", which, IMHO, seems to mirror Dick's easy transition to Don and his success in advertising....and he was raised on a farm so he also knew something about 'horse trading' too. It was amazing to read how they dressed up an old nag for selling.......and then did the same for used cars, cheating customers and family.........never looking back.

Congrats if you can afford a new car, but I doubt this book will help you....because over the years laws have addressed those early sleazy used-car selling practices....and it's relatively easy buying new cars today. Personally, I'd buy locally so it's easy to march back in with complaints...lol.

Tell Dad I still use those Libby gold leaf glasses I saw in Don and Betty's house. Bought them at Altman's Department store on Fifth Avenue, NYC.,......I worked as a private secretary near by.....Altman's is closed now......like Rachel's store it catered to an exclusive clientele........not me of cource, but it was a fun place to walk through and they had the cutest little postoffice. Those glasses were a gift.

Tell me GlowGirl, everything you said about posting here............could that the reason I have so much trouble leaving...........what the hell keeps drawing me back......who sprinkled all this magic dust on the MadMen show and this forum?

Silverminx, I think I owe you an apology - I just read my comment to you, and it sounds unbelievably snarky and superior, besides being incorrect in itself. I don't know what I was thinking when I sent it - obviously I wasn't thinking very hard. So I am sorry and please excuse me.

I enjoy reading your posts, and I would hate not to find you among the regulars who keep this forum as entertaining and fun as it always is. If this forum is magical, you are definitely one of the enchantresses casting the spells.