Most kids Haddie’s age have an affinity towards at least some pop culture cartoon characters such as Sponge Bob, Dora, Sesame Street, Teletubbies etc. But Haddie has shown no interest in television. Until now.
Jamie was watching the Today show this morning and suddenly, Haddie became entranced. She started singing, dancing and mooooving to the music. Puzzled, I asked Jamie who was performing. Imagine my shock to discover it was none other than the Jazz Singer himself, Neil Diamond. (Note: Rapper 50 Cent was on just prior to Neil and nothin’, he did nothin’ for her). Haddie could possibly be Neil’s youngest fan ever; aren’t most of them over 80? (Note: I’m sure I’m setting myself up for some hateful comments over that one. OK, let’s knock that age down to 70.)
I’ve never been a great fan of what I deem the “Elevator Music Genre” but my good friend Jason tried to convert me in college. We used to take lots of road trips, during which time he’d pop in John Denver and Barry Manilow. One particular day, I decided to make a concerted effort to listen to the lyrics. And when I did, I was shocked. Completely and utterly shocked at the perverse subject that Barry was droning on about. Even worse was the zippy music that was accompanying it. Finally, completely offended, I turned to Jason and snapped, “Is he singing about date rape?”
His reaction was even more shocked, and then he turned angry. In the very controlled voice of one whose idol has been desecrated, he seethed. “No, AMBER, he’s singing about daybreak. Thanks for ruining this song for me forever.”
Oh. Suffice it to say, that was the last time he ever made me listen to his music again.
I'm a Canadian-born mom of two, former Denver Post columnist, family travel writer, editor of MileHighMamas.com and 9News contributor. Expert on all things Utah, Denver, family and travel. Lover of laughter and life. Happily married to a man obsessed with growing The Great Pumpkin. 