One August day back in 1968, as I was packing to go England to live with my dad, I heard this song for the first time. It became a favorite of mine and it will always bring back memories of that long trip, my first time on an airplane, first time away from my mother, of being scared because I had just turned 14 and was traveling alone, also a first.
Mary Hopkins, Those Were The Days, 1968
After traveling for 2 days on 3 planes, a beat-up old government issue stationwagon with a bunch of GIs, and a bus, I finally arrived at Alconbury AFB where my father was stationed. I had to start school soon after my arrival and made a few friends. One of those friends was Neal, who lived in the same tiny village. We rode a bus to school together and I'm quite sure every time he hears Kenny Rogers and the First Edition, he thinks about that crazy girl who would listen to "Ruby" over and over and over again.
1969
In The Summertime, by Mango Jerry (1970), and reminds me of a trip to Dover that I made with some friends so I could see the coast of France across the English Channel.
And Venus, by Shocking Blue reminds me of soccer games on the square in Alconbury Village.
A song by Melanie brings back memories of when I left England to come home to the U.S. More adjustments, another new school, new friends.
Brand New Key (1971)
It was a trip.
11 comments:
Wow Brenda! My first thought was....that must have been terrifying...the long flight all alone to England! But then again, I guess you probably had many experiences you wouldn't have otherwise had!
Ruby - I love it! You were mighty young for a trip like that on an airplane so far away. I'm glad you made friends, and remember them to this day. :)
P.S. Long,long ago, my brother was jealous of Kenny Rogers; my sis-in-law had THE biggest crush! I told my bro it was because they sort of looked alike with the hair/beard thing going on. He didn't buy it. hahaha
Awesome vid's...I was mesmerized by Kenny though...loved his hair...my Hubby had that exact same hair when I met him...sigh.....
Amazing what songs will do to memories!!
How Neat!!! My favorite was Jolene. Over and over..LOL..England? Alone? Cool!!!
I remember all the songs - but I don't remember Kenny looking that young! Guess that was because I only heard the song and never saw him perform until he was gray. I was in France from Sept '60 until July '62 (Army) and remember many songs I heard for the first time over there. ec
Now that was a trip down Memory Lane! It's amazing how music can be a trigger for all those memories. I'll bet that was a really looong plane ride for a 14 year old.
Oh, what a good post Brenda! Mom mom LOVES Kenny Rogers too, I grew up listening to him and have to say that he can still make a good song after all these years. Thank you for sharing this with all of us;o) Have a good weekend!
PS: Do you ever keep in touch with any of those friends you made?
Isn't it amazing how music can take us back.
I lived in Scotland for a couple of years, and the Brit's music usually pulls out a memory or two for me.
Thanks for the memories!
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