I imagine that these two are sisters, visiting Paris, or more likely dreaming of the day when they could visit Paris after the end of WWII. The ad is for Coty’s Paris fragrance.
Lately I’ve noticed that there is a bit of criticism of bloggers in regards to how much of their lives are shared on-line. I’m not talking about too much sharing, but rather, not enough. There are critics who says that most blogs are not “authentic” because bloggers edit out the negative aspects of their lives. I really don’t agree with this. I know I do not give the whole picture of my life, but this blog is not about me; it is about the fashion that I encounter and what I can learn from it. It would be nice if my life were nothing but a constant round of antiques shopping and such.
Earlier this week I stated that I was dealing with some pressing matters. I don’t like cryptic messages, so I’m going to share another side of my life.
This week, The Vintage Traveler lost one of its earliest readers and most dedicated followers. This follower was my sister, who lost a year-long battle with cancer. She loved this blog, frequently commenting, but more often calling me to tell me how she loved an entry or an item I’d posted about. She was also a fine traveling companion, and was always up for a museum or an antique mall or two. To say that I’ll miss her is the understatement of the century.
Dear, dear Lizzie. I am SO very sorry to hear about the loss of your sister. I offer my sincerest and heart felt condolences to you and your family. I cannot bear the thought of losing someone so close. Just know that I’m thinking about you at this sad time. You’re a wonderful person Lizzie. L xx
OH HON! I am so so sorry to hear about that. Being one of 3 girls myself, I know what the sisterly bond is like. My heart goes out to you.
My take on the whole “authenticity” thing is – share what you feel comfortable sharing. I actually get bored with too many blogs that are navel-gazing, me-me-my-mine so while I like a little personality interjected, I don’t need to know what everyone had for breakfast or that you’re feeing pudgy today. That’s just me, and perhaps I’d be taken to task about not revealing enough about us on Retro Roadmap! I’ve actually gotten a bit more generous about sharing photos of myself on the blog, but even that was a serious thought and a stretch for me.
Hang in there and take as much time for yourself during this awful time. We’ll be thinking of you and ready to welcome you back with open arms when it feels right for you. XO Mod Betty / “Real Name Beth Lennon”
I’m so sorry to hear about your sister. I think your blog is wonderful!
(((((Lizzie)))))) I am so very sorry~Andrea(panda)
Lizzie, I am so sorry to hear about your sister. Warmest thoughts to you and your family!
Your blog is, in my opinion, perfect as it is,
I am also so sorry to hear about the loss of your sister. I also think your blog is perfect. There will always be scoffers and nay sayers… I like the focus of your writing!
I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of your sister, I’m sending my thoughts and prayers to you and your family.
I too love your blog and look forward to reading it each day to see what fun items you have to share with us. I applaud your honesty and your persistence in looking for information that’s interesting and intriguing, for example your research on the zipper’s introduction into clothing. What a fun hunt we got to follow you on vicariously through the blog!
Keep up the fun research and thank you again for sharing what you’ve found.
And most of all, I’m sending hugs to you and your family. Peace be with you all at this time.
Jill
It is sad news to find out here that you lost your sister. I wish you strength in the days to come. Take comfort in knowing that while we are not your family, you do have some very special friends here online.
thinking of you, Jen
Dear Lizzie…I know how you feel loosing a sister. I lost mine about a year ago….we loved each other, in spite of all the arguing, squabbles, fusses and what have you. The good times and laughs outnumbered the bad (and some times visa versa)… but I sure do miss her. I would love for her to be here…squabbles and all.
Sorry for your loss.
And now for your blog. I am not a follower of Blogs, but yours is not chit chat….or one liners. Yours is full of fashion information, which is news to me. I first started reading your blog a couple of weeks ago…when you asked us to guess the type of fabric in a vintage magazine ad. I did guess.
SINCE THEN, I have been guessing the fabrics on many of the gowns worn in the old movies of the 1930′s on TBS. Many fashions are being repeated in the gowns of today. It seems I am no longer paying attention to the plots of these movies….just analazing the fashions and fabrics used.
For me? your blog has given me this new dimension to watching old movies. What they could have done if they had Polyester. smile.
I love your blog….thanks for sharing. Marge
Very sorry to hear about your sister. Hope she is in a painfree and peacefull place. Thank you for all the great work you do.
Dear Lizzie, I’m also very sorry to hear about your sister. I’m sending hugs and positive healing thoughts your way. You inspired me to send my sister (and traveling pal) a “I Love You” message just for the heck of it. And I’m also a fan of your site, as you know. I love the images and historical tidbits. Perfect meshing and balance. Take care, Theadora
Condolences to you Lizzie at this sad time. The lovely Coty advert, perfectly chosen, not only epitomises the way you present your outstanding blog but also reflects the importance of valued friendships.
Christina
I am so sorry for your loss. I have a sister and she has been my constant companion since her birth 52 years ago. I know there are no words to express my great sorrow for you.
Your reader, PeggyRose Webster http://www.dressrichlivericher.com
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
Dear Lizzie, Please accept our heartfelt condolences on the passing of your sister. I almost said, her “loss”, but of course, no one we love is really lost — they are always with us in our hearts, our thoughts, and every action we do that is influenced by them. My dearest friend, my “almost-sister,” died five years ago, but sometimes I still hear her voice giving me good advice — usually in the form of humorous comments. My your sister continue to travel with you in this way. –Susan
Oh, Lizzie, I am so saddened to hear about the loss of your sister. Thank you for letting us know so that we can mourn with you. For those of us lucky enough to have sisters, we know there is nothing quite like them, especially when they share our interests and parts of our lives. I imagine she felt so fortunate to have you for her sister and cherished your relationship. I hope that knowledge gives you some comfort during this sad time.
I’m so sorry about your loss! {{{{{{HUG}}}}}} Such a sweet ad you posted above.
I agree that many blogs are a little TMI when it comes to personal info. My favorites are those that give me glimpses about the author amid interesting information – yours is in that list. And as much as I would like to use mine to vent about the negatives of working in the film world at times, I know I have to tread carefully to keep my professional career (gossip spreads fast in Hollywood circles).
Know that we appreciate all you share with us readers, and I hope that in sharing, you get comfort knowing we are out here and thinking about you. You and your family will be in my prayers.
Dear Lizzie, what a great sorrow for you and your sister’s loved ones. I don’t have a sister myself, but I look at my two girls and hope that they will remain close as they grow up into adulthood. It seems such a wonderful bond to share. Heartfelt thoughts. Nathalie
My sincere sympathy on the passing of your sister.
Oh, Lizzie, I’m so sorry for your loss. Sending thoughts and hugs your way.
I am so sorry to hear of your sad news. Sisters have such a special closeness, and you and your family have my sincere sympathy.
Lizzie,
My heart goes out to you. I am so very sorry for your loss.
Juliet
Oh Lizzie, I am so sorry for your loss! Please know you and your family are in my prayers!
April
Lizzie – I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your sister. I lost my boyfriend to brain cancer in August. I know it’s very early for you and obviously don’t know your beliefs but here are some thoughts that have helped me: They know the truth about everything now. Nothing can bother them because they are beyond that now. We don’t ever have to worry about them feeling pain, loneliness or fear ever again. They can now do anything that they’ve ever wanted and have things back that the cancer took away from them.
I’m praying for peace for you and your family and really, really hope that you are ok.
Erika
I am so, so sorry to hear about your sister.
A sweeping statement that all bloggers should share the intimate details of their lives is ridiculous. Blogs exist for all kinds of reasons, just as books do. An autobiographical book without intimate detail about the author is ridiculous, but so is a purely research-based book WITH intimate detail about the author! People do seem to lack perspective when it comes to making pronouncements about the internet.
I am sure you will continue to cut your coat according to your cloth.
Lizzie, My deepest condolences to you!!!
I’m just overwhelmed by all the kind remarks. All of your comments have really touched me.
My sister was an extraordinary person who impacted the world in many positive ways. All who knew her were touched by her kindness.
I’m so very sorry to hear about your sister.
Even living on the other side of the world in New Zealand I thoroughly enjoy your wonderfully informative blog.
That Coty ad with travelling sisters is so poignant now!
I’m sorry to hear your sad news.
I’m so sorry to hear about your sister. I think your blog is wonderful!
Lizzie, thank you for letting us know about your sister. I can only imagine how hard it has been (and will continue to be) for you in the forthcoming months and years. I’m so very sorry for your loss. I have a cousin who is as close as a sister and I know how devastated I’d be to lose her.
I think some of us who follow a particular blog do so because of the content; also because that person speaks to us in some way. I feel honored when they share a bit of their personal lives with us. No, I don’t care about the mundane details of a self-absorbed blogger’s life; it’s boring. That you chose to share something so personal is touching and draws me closer with a certain connection that goes beyond that of blogger and the reader of that blog. Thank you. Yes, your sister will always be with you in spirit, and you will find she will speak to you in subtle ways; know it when it happens. You’ll stop and think ‘hmmmm’, but, yes, it will be her. Cherish those times when they happen because they will be as ephemeral as a night-blooming flower.
Lizzie,
You have my sincerest condolences. While it will no doubt be awhile, I hope that one day your grief will be replaced by happy memories.
I find your blog hits the perfect balance between interesting research and images and enough about you to get a sense of who you are. I have chosen to not reveal as much as most of the vintage fashion bloggers i read do, but frankly, I don’t think anyone’s clamoring for info on my personal life.
Jo
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