As a kid, I loved watching I Love Lucy reruns. My favorite segments of the show were of Desi Arnaz performing in his nightclub The Tropicana. I was always enthralled with the skill and passion that Desi Arnaz oozed while singing and playing his percussion instruments.
I've never been an aspiring musician, but have always had the inkling to take up a musical instrument. I've messed around with a few musical instruments in my time, but those from the percussion family have always been my favorites. I did recently buy a modest pair of bongos, and really dig playing around with them. Playing them feels so natural, and whenever I lay into them, beats come to mind out of nowhere. Arranging them into rhythmic time with my hands, feels almost as easy as breathing. I'm not entirely sure why I didn't get into trying my hand at them years ago, but better late than never.
A Ukelele
I'd love to own a ukulele, and learn how to play it. To me, the ukuleles has always been an endearing instrument synonymous with Polynesian and tiki culture. How cool would it be to pluck away at one of these at a tiki party, pool party, BBQ, camp fire, while relaxing on the beach, or lounging around in the backyard? They're so small and compact, you could literally take them anywhere. My daughter actually wanted one, so we got one for her as a gift. She's taught herself how to play it, and can compose little ditty's very quickly.
Do I smoke? No. Am I an aspiring playboy? Heck no.
I've just always thought smoking jackets were ultra swank! As a young boy, I used to see celebrities like Jackie Gleason, Sinatra, Dean Martin, Desi Arnaz, Sherman Hemsley aka George Jefferson, and Cary Grant donning flashy smoking jackets whilst relaxing and unwinding.
The purpose of the smoking jacket was quite simple. A quality smoking jacket was/is an extremely comfortable garment, made for the express purpose of protecting underclothing from ashes and the smell of cigarette, cigar, or pipe smoke. However, they also became widely accepted as a men's garment worn for domestic leisure. Ah yes, I can imagine sitting back in my easy chair on a cold winter night in a soft silk smoking jacket, matching slippers, heck.. maybe even a fez. No stogies or cigarette's.. just a good book and maybe a nice glass of cognac. Now that's the good life!
Schwinn Phantom BicycleMy bike features the same frame and similar styling to a classic Phantom, minus several bells and whistles. I've spent the last couple of summers modifying and customizing the bike to my liking, and it brings me great joy to ride it.
A Pinky Ring
That's it for now. Trust me.. I've got a huge retro want list. These were just the first five things that came to mind, so I may have to continue this topic at a later date. Are there any retro items that you've always wanted, but just haven't got around to buying yet?