Plastic reminds one of days of paper

Recently, while slipping a drycleaner's bag over an evening dress before putting it among the others in an already overcrowded closet, I was reminded of those long ago days before plastic . . . back when all bags from the drycleaners were made of brown paper. That was back in my art school days.

Our instructor, grumpy Miss Park, kept our design class busy with various assignments. We were told to design a dress made of some material other than a standard dress fabric. Even better, there was a charm bracelet offered as the prize for the most imaginative design.

We all struggled with the task searching for clever ideas. At home, as I was putting away some clothing that had just come from the dry-cleaners, I was struck by the thought - why not make a dress from the bag?

It was a plain oblong paper bag which was long and wide enough to fit over me. I cut a hole in the closed end for my head, and put smaller cuts and darts on the sides for arm holes. An eight inch long slit up from the bottom of each side allowed me to walk with ease. Decorated with large red hearts and tricked out with a large red suede belt around the waist, it was ready to wear.

Well, I got the prize for the most original dress (if not the most durable) that year.

You know those plastic bags we use nowadays? They'd be great. They drape on the figure really well, and last forever in a landfill, too. Though I wonder how you could get the lettering off the bag first... and of course, the clear ones would be a nono!

Anyway, the best thing back then was that, in addition to the bracelet, I got a smile out of Miss Park, who rarely gave out one of those!

***********

Did you know that the United States spends a higher portion of our gross national product on medical costs than any other country in the world, and yet ranks only 37th out 191 countries in health coverage, according to the World Health Organization?

***********

In our generation, Old Age has become a much larger portion of one's lifetime. Now it is up to us to find ways that make us feel our lives have purpose and meaning.

This means not withdrawing or becoming self-absorbed, but rather emphasizing creativity and seizing opportunities to pass on your wisdom and expertise.

************

I remember how excited my oldest grandson was the first time he saw dolphins, up close and personal, from my son-inlaw's catamaran. I was happy to find out that Chase N Fins, a 50- foot charter boat, gives you this opportunity, with three daily 2- hour cruises. They leave Pensacola Beach from the Beach Marina at 10 a.m., 2 p.m., and 5 p.m. daily. This gives you a chance to observe and photograph sea life, and you can take along your own cooler for lunch. They can even accommodate persons with disabilities. Cost is $25 per adult, $15 for a child 12 and under. For info call 492- 6337.

***

From our Strange Facts file:

Men can read smaller print than women can; women can hear better.

Coca-Cola was originally green.

It is impossible to lick your elbow.

Betcha tried it, didn't you?? See you next week!