Episode One

Ep. 1: It’s a Miracle We’re Still Alive, Part 1

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Welcome to the very first episode of Hey Parco! “It’s a Miracle We’re Still Alive” (Part One). We originally recorded this to be a single episode, pondering our lives’ journeys through the perils of being Gen-Xers – but one episode just couldn’t contain it all. Here are the links to the audio-only podcasts:

And here is the video version of the first episode on YouTube:

This first half represents the slightly lighter memories from our younger years, involving toys that were actively trying to kill us and the unfettered naughtiness to be found in being Latchkey Kids.

A good article on the subject of Latchkey Kids

We (Ann & Samantha) were raised in the San Fernando Valley area of Los Angeles, and just so happened to reach puberty around the same time as Moon Unit Zappa, who would create a youth culture sea change with her one-hit wonder song “Valley Girl”.

Experience Moon Unit Zappa on that other 80’s juggernaut Solid Gold

Being of more modest means, neither of us grew up South of Ventura Blvd, which technically defines the Valley Girl whom Zappa was mocking. However, we did go to school with, were friends with, and were completely surrounded by Vals (and their male counterparts, Dudes), and it definitely rubbed off on us. And though we are both now in our mid-50’s and live far away from The Valley, we still struggle to lose that distinctive drawl, ESPECIALLY when we’re talking to each other! As you will, no doubt, hear.

Detailed description of ValSpeak

We hope you’ll have fun reminiscing with us, and will choose to subscribe, follow, like and all the other stuff, so we can make this a regular thing!

Behold, the original glass click clacks (illegal and banned) that may or may not be in Ann’s possession.

The hazardous click clacks that blinded children and caused political unrest in Egypt

How the heck were Lawn Darts ever a thing?

Death or Treat?

The Tylenol Incident

Child Safety Caps

Ann’s original fear of hallway when home alone at 8 years old
Ann’s fear of shower that began at 10 years old

Mark Spitz before the mustache. Olympian as pin-up.

A slightly more serious article about Mark Spitz, the athlete

Part Two of “It’s a Miracle We’re Still Alive” – where we discuss more mature and life-endangering aspects of our Gen-X experience – drops next week. Make sure you’re all subscribed up so you don’t miss it!

If you have some stories about your kidhood as a Gen-Xer or Latchkey Kid — we want to hear from you! Go to our Contact Form on this website and send us a message! See you next time!

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