Turn the set on, it's time for my program

My earliest memories of television watching include the Lawrence Welk Show. Watching the show now, because I still tune in, I can see why it appealed to a kid.  I was probably drawn to the bubbles, the music and movement, the big smiles and once we got a color television set, the technicolored costumes.  Captain Kangaroo, Mr Rogers, Banana Splits, The Monkees...it was all music, movement and color.

While dining at Houston's a few weeks ago, I overheard someone about my age say, " Yeah, I went up to the desk to checkout the DVDs and the librarian lady asked me if I was checking these out for a grandparent. I said no, I  just love Lawrence Welk. They are out on DVD!"  When I watch the show I don't know where I go exactly but I'm gone, complete veg.  Perhaps I should look into thes DVDs. 

I really loved Anacani because my mother did. They were both from the same part of Mexico. I wanted to be Anacani one day. The Lennon sisters were part Mexican-American but I never knew that until much later. My mother loved Welk's accent. When they show the audience members dancing I always remember hearing my mom say, "How sad, all those people are dead now."  Well, I'm sure they are now.

Even in my teens I could still stomach the Champagne Lady and accordians. It contains much that is cringeworthy.  At the same time, maybe for some people, the show has the ability to placate on some level. For some reason.  At the same time, I understand how the Stepford streak, all that polyester and Gleem tainted smiles could creep a person out. I wish I had stopped that Houston's customer to ask  her if she just sort of goes blank while she watches the show. When it's over I wonder if she feels like she just time traveled. For me, it is like a good nap or something. I wonder when Lawrence Welk will cease to echo at nursing homes. I know of at least two people of my generation who will be watching the program.