Last week, while poking around the Telluride Historical Museum, I happened upon a ladies etiquette book from the 1880s. It was chock full of rules and regulations on proper ladylike behavior. It didn’t take long for me to realize that I am NOT a proper lady. Some of these rules I had never even HEARD of!  My first thought: “I’m sure it’s my mother’s fault. Most things are.” My second thought: “Whoa! I break most of these rules on a daily basis.”  I’ve decided to share a few of these rules, because for some of you, it may not be too late…

Afflicted With Foul Breath? Fear Not… Parsley Makes it Fancy: Super good news for those of you who drink burnt coffee, eat onions with an odious taint or drink vinegar: chewing parsley makes your BREATH fancy. (Now you really can lick the details.)

pmif Are You A Proper Lady? Im Not.

Regulation #331: A Mortification Sparer: Mama was WAY off on this one.  She had the crazy notion that being able to laugh at oneself was a sign of good character.

pmif2 Are You A Proper Lady? Im Not.

Fear the Ruin: If she said it once, Mama said it 1,000 times: “Express yourself!  Your opinion matters!  Speak your mind, Christy Cat!”  What was she thinking? The book clearly states that speaking your mind is an extravagance that has ruined many a man (or woman.)

pmif4 Are You A Proper Lady? Im Not.

I exited the museum with a grin on my face and a song in my heart.  My Mama didn’t even try to raise a proper lady. Instead,  Mama focused on raising a happy girl who loves herself and loves others.  I think Mom got it right.  I’m glad she’s mine.

In what ways did your Mama get it right?  We want to know…