charleswiedenmann

[charleswiedenmann]

Triumph

What If My Lifelong Anxiety and Depression Were Never Real Disorders? For as long as I can remember, anxiety and depression were constants in my life. They were like unwelcome guests that lingered in every corner of my mind, whispering fears and doubts, casting shadows over even the brightest moments. I tried everything to manage them—therapy, alcohol, toxic relationships, meditation, and…

[charleswiedenmann]

Lawndale's Timeless Delights: Our Favorite Toys from the 60s and 70s

In the bygone era of the 1960s and 1970s, children found joy in the simplest yet most iconic toys that have become legendary through the lens of nostalgia. Let’s take a delightful journey down memory lane and revisit the timeless favorites that captured the imaginations of kids during these two groovy decades. Barbie Dolls: A World of Imagination Introduced in the 1960s, Barbie dolls became an…

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What If the Reason I Wrote Lawndale and Down The Shore Wasn’t Just to Share My Past?

What if the reason I wrote Lawndale, a book about growing up in Northeast Philadelphia in the 60s and 70s, and Down The Shore, a collection of stories about my summers in Wildwood in the 70s, wasn’t really about sharing nostalgic tales with others who could relate? Sure, on the surface, that’s what it looks like—a glimpse into the past, an ode to a simpler time. But what if there’s more to it?…

[charleswiedenmann]

Gliding Through History: The Birthplace of the Flexible Flyer Sled

In the snowy landscapes of the 19th century, a simple yet ingenious invention took shape, forever changing the way people experienced winter fun. The Flexible Flyer sled, an iconic piece of Americana, has its roots in the inventive spirit of one man and the scenic backdrop of the eastern United States. The story begins with Samuel Leeds Allen, a man with a passion for creating innovative…

[charleswiedenmann]

From Happy Hours to Happy Solitude: Embracing the Bliss of Alone Time

Before COVID, my life looked pretty different. I worked in advertising and marketing, along with a few other odd jobs, and had a bustling social life. In my 50s, I was out and about, heading to happy hours, enjoying snacks and drinks with friends, colleagues, and acquaintances. Socializing was part of my routine, and I moved in circles where bars and gatherings were just part of the deal. It felt…

[charleswiedenmann]

Reflecting on a Successful Author Event at the Philadelphia City Institute

As much as I love sharing my work with others and am deeply honored to be invited to speak about my book Lawndale: Stories from My Youth: Growing up in Northeast Philadelphia in the 60s and 70s, I’d be lying if I said this event hasn’t been weighing heavy on my mind. The planning and preparation have been relentless. Ordering extra business cards. Making sure I had enough copies of my books on…

[charleswiedenmann]

Flyers Soar to Glory: Back-to-Back Stanley Cup Triumphs in 1974 and 1975

In the annals of Philadelphia sports history, the years 1974 and 1975 stand as a golden era for hockey enthusiasts as the Philadelphia Flyers etched their name in the prestigious annals of the NHL by winning the Stanley Cup in consecutive years. Let’s relive the exhilarating moments that defined the Flyers’ back-to-back championship triumphs and ignited a blaze of hockey passion in the City of…

[charleswiedenmann]

Embracing Liberation: The Art of Cutting Toxic Ties

In the intricate tapestry of life, sometimes threads become toxic, weaving negativity and pain into our history. Cutting ties with toxic people is not just an act of self-preservation; it’s a profound liberation that allows us to rewrite our narrative in vibrant, positive hues. As you sever those toxic connections, it’s akin to wielding a pair of scissors through the dark, heavy fabric of your…

[charleswiedenmann]

The Slinky's Philly Origin Story: A Staircase Descent into Fun

Few toys have captured the imagination of generations quite like the Slinky. The humble coil of metal that gracefully travels downstairs and seems to defy gravity has a fascinating origin story. Let’s unravel the tale of Slinky’s invention and the unexpected journey it took to become a timeless classic. A Tumble into Creativity The Slinky’s journey began in the early 1940s in Philadelphia,…

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Man-Made Selection vs. Natural Selection: The Subtle Miracle of the Heike Crab

In the intricate dance of evolution, life continually adapts and transforms to suit its environment. The story of the Heike Crab (Heikegani) is a remarkable testament to the interplay between man-made selection and natural selection—a story that unfolds in the depths of the sea and reveals the subtle miracles of nature. The Heike Crab’s Mysterious Appearance The Heike Crab is a species of crab…

[charleswiedenmann]

Gridiron Glory: Frankford High School's Triumphant Journey to City Champs in 1978

In the annals of Philadelphia’s high school football history, the year 1978 stands as a defining chapter marked by the remarkable triumph of Frankford High School’s football team. With passion, determination, and unwavering teamwork, the Pioneers etched their names into the city’s sports lore, culminating in a championship victory that would be celebrated for years.  A Season of Grit and…

[charleswiedenmann]

How ya Doin'?

People often ask me how I’m doing. It’s a common enough question, but I’ve started to notice the weight behind it when people direct it toward me. They’re not just asking in passing—they want to know. The assumption is that after everything I’ve been through, after all these years of ups and downs, of losses and rebuilding, I must be happier than I’ve ever been. And so, I tell them I’m happier…

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Center City Soft Pretzel Company: Philadelphia’s Best Soft Pretzels

On my days off, I love taking long walks around the city, exploring different neighborhoods, and enjoying the sights and sounds of Philadelphia. But there’s one thing I absolutely have to do if my route takes me along Washington Avenue: stop at Center City Pretzel Co. and treat myself to a fresh, hot pretzel for only 85 cents! Center City Pretzel Co. makes the best-tasting soft pretzels in the…

[charleswiedenmann]

Embracing the Call of Creativity: A Journey to My Next Book

As a writer, I often find myself pondering the question: What should I write next? Over the years, I’ve explored various ideas and concepts, from fictional tales to futuristic narratives, but none seemed to ignite the spark of inspiration within me. Recently, however, I had a moment of clarity that shifted my perspective and reignited my passion for storytelling. In this blog post, I’ll share my…

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Lawndale Treasures: The Greatest TV Shows of the 60s and 70s

The 1960s and 1970s were a golden age of television, bringing forth an array of iconic shows that have stood the test of time. From groundbreaking dramas to heartwarming sitcoms, this era gifted audiences with unforgettable characters, gripping storylines, and cultural phenomena. Let’s revisit some of the greatest TV shows that continue to hold a special place in the hearts of viewers. The…

[charleswiedenmann]

A Scary Halloween Story

My name is Veronica. This is a story from my babysitting days, around five years ago when I was fifteen and desperate to save up for a car, despite not even having a learner’s permit yet. I would babysit for family, and then family friends, and pretty soon word of mouth was getting me calls from people I had never met before. People want to hire a babysitter they know won’t just sip from the…

[charleswiedenmann]

Nostalgic Reminiscence: The Gallery Mall in Center City Philadelphia

Philadelphia, a city rich in history and culture, has undergone numerous transformations over the years. For many locals, the mention of The Gallery Mall in Center City evokes a wave of nostalgia. Let’s take a stroll down memory lane and revisit the charm of this once-beloved shopping destination. A Hub of Urban Culture Situated at the bustling intersection of Market Street and 9th Street, The…