A couple of things...

So - I've been delinquent.  Not just to myself - but to my readers.  I share my thoughts, opinions, ideas here.  I have been both prolific and silent from time to time.  I've noticed in many areas of my life that I've been coasting lately.  That's just not okay.

I am going to try to re-commit to this creative outlet with more regularity.  I have a nearly complete feature about a recent day trip to the unexpected agricultural city of Bakersfield.  Look for "Bako Bits" soon.

In addition - this will mark a new passion point for me.  I have recently become increasingly aware and weary of some notable trends and growing behaviors.

I am the first to dig new and fancy and fun things.  I am right there with food trends and unusual looks.  But - it feels like, with alarming rapidity, that all of this is getting wrapped up in [here's the word that will drive my crusade] pretense.

PRETENSE:
pre·tense  

/ˈprēˌtens/

Noun An attempt to make something that is not the case appear true. A false display of feelings, attitudes, or intentions.

Synonyms pretence - pretension - pretext - sham - excuse

The underlined really hits the nail on the head.

It's this gross display of pretentious behavior that's been gnawing at me...

PRETENTIOUS:
pre·ten·tious 
/priˈtenCHəs/

Adjective Attempting to impress by affecting greater importance, talent, culture, etc., than is actually possessed.

Synonyms showy SO - I am going to call out patterns and examples that we all encounter in every day life.  Behaviors and attitudes not necessarily based on fact or reality - but designed, sometimes, to make "others" feel like less.  Not okay.  Not going to go unnoticed. Stay tuned!