Dear Baby Boomers of America, get ready for a dose of reality. Some of the things you cherished and believed were the height of coolness were, in fact, not that cool at all.
Diamonds


So, you’re into diamonds, huh? Well, let me tell you, they’re more like that high-maintenance friend who always demands the best. Diamonds are just shiny rocks that can cost a fortune, often dug up in less-than-ideal conditions. And by ‘less-than-ideal’, I mean some poor folks in Africa are breaking their backs so you can have a sparkly rock on your finger.
Now, you might be considering cubic zirconia instead. They’re cheaper, come in various colors, and no one has to suffer for them. But don’t think you’re off the hook just yet! Cubic zirconia may not have the same ‘prestige’ as diamonds, and you might get some raised eyebrows from diamond purists. But hey, at least your conscience (and your bank account) will be clear!
24-Hours News Networks
Having news channels that run 24/7 can be overwhelming. There simply isn’t enough big news happening all the time to fill every hour. So, what do they do? They fill the time with fluff pieces and stories that aren’t exactly groundbreaking.
Then there are the scare tactics. To keep viewers engaged, these channels often exaggerate stories to make them seem scarier or more dramatic than they really are. It’s all about grabbing your attention and keeping you hooked. So, take everything you hear with a grain of salt and don’t let the constant news cycle stress you out too much.


Cursive
While cursive writing may have its aesthetic appeal, its practicality in the modern world is questionable. The rise of technology, especially digital communication tools, has reduced the need for handwriting, let alone cursive. Many argue that the time spent teaching cursive in classrooms could be better used for teaching more relevant skills.
In today’s digital age, skills like typing, digital literacy, coding, and graphic design hold more value and applicability. These are skills that can better prepare students for the future job market. Therefore, it’s important to reconsider the value of spending significant time on cursive, which is arguably outdated, when there are more beneficial and contemporary skills to learn.


Patterned Wallpaper
Patterned wallpaper, the enemy of interior design. It’s like a challenging magic eye puzzle that’s escaped the page and landed on your walls. No room is spared from the dizzying swirls, the clashing colors, and let’s not even mention the floral prints that resemble a botanist’s wild dream. Too busy, too loud, and often just plain tacky! It’s as if your walls are begging for attention – and not in a good way.
And if the visual chaos wasn’t enough, just try installing it. It’s like wrestling an octopus! Smooth out all those bubbles and wrinkles? Only the brave or foolhardy attempt such a feat. And heaven forbid you don’t align it perfectly, or you’ll be stuck with your mistakes for years. Do yourself a favor and opt for a solid paint color. It’s simple, elegant, and, most importantly, won’t give you a headache every time you walk into the room!


Unpaid Internships
“I’m paying you in experience!” Ah, the classic line used by those who want the benefits of your hard work without actually paying for it. It’s about as welcome as a skunk at a garden party. Sure, experience is valuable, but my landlord won’t accept ‘experience’ as rent payment. Unless ‘experience’ can turn into cash, it won’t pay the bills or put food on the table.
And to all the big supporters of unpaid internships, how about walking in our shoes? If you think they’re such a fantastic opportunity, sign up for one yourself. It’s time you experienced it firsthand. Just remember, when the bills pile up and you’re living off ramen noodles, don’t forget all the ‘experience’ you’re gaining!


Crocs
Ah, Crocs. The infamous rubber clogs that debuted in 2002 as boating shoes. Yes, they were initially designed for those navigating through water, not for everyday fashion. But somehow, these hideous foot-swallowers found their way onto the feet of more than just boaters.
Sure, they’re easy to slip on and comfortable, like walking on a cloud made of brightly colored rubber. But let’s be real: they’re like strapping Swiss cheese to your feet and calling it fashion.


Blaming Millennials
Ah, yes, the classic scapegoats – the “snowflakes” and the millennials. Always so “sensitive” and “can’t take a joke,” right? Heaven forbid they have opinions different from yours. It’s almost like they’re individuals with their own thoughts and feelings. Shocking concept, I know.
And let’s not forget the ultimate scapegoat – the millennials. Blame it all on the avocado toast-loving, latte-sipping generation. Because it couldn’t possibly be about introspection or considering that not everyone shares your viewpoint. No, no, it must be those darned millennials and their audacity to question the status quo. Keep pointing that finger outward, it’s definitely helping your case.


Home Shopping Channels
Home shopping networks, the late-night lullaby of insomniacs and the siren song for clutter lovers. They’re like pushy salespeople, selling you things you don’t need. Everything is “limited edition” and going fast, so call now!
But who needs them? With online shopping, you can get cheap goods directly from China, no cheerful presenter needed. Cut out the middleman, avoid the spiel, and save space for something you really want.


China Plates
The tradition of owning expensive, rarely-used dinnerware like fine china is puzzling. These items often take up prime cabinet space but are seldom used, rooted more in tradition and ‘keeping up appearances’ than practicality. Their perceived value as too precious for everyday use leads to neglect until accidents happen.
Additionally, the aesthetic appeal of fine china is subjective. While some find them elegant, others may prefer more contemporary and durable dinnerware. Perhaps it’s time to rethink the value of these expensive, seldom-used items and invest in things that bring us joy and practicality.


High-Waisted Jeans


Writing Checks
Oh, check writers. There you are, holding up the line at the grocery store, rummaging through your purse or wallet for that elusive checkbook. All while the rest of us clutch our cards, waiting as you painstakingly write out each word. It’s like a slow-motion train wreck. The convenience of a slim plastic card? Nah, let’s stick with a method that went out of style with shoulder pads and mullets.
And those personalized checks? Nothing screams “I’m an adult” quite like handing over a check adorned with frolicking puppies and kittens to pay for serious adult things. Got a colonoscopy bill? Here, let this adorable tabby cat soften the blow. It’s a small, passive-aggressive rebellion against the mundanity of adulthood. Keep it classy, check writers.


Landlines


Fossil Fuels
Absolutely, let’s keep guzzling down fossil fuels! Who needs the ozone layer, right? And wars over oil? Fun times!
Then there’s wind energy. Sure, it’s renewable and clean, but what about the birds? Apparently, those turbines are death traps.
So, let’s stick with our dirty fuels. Sustainable energy? Not so sensible.


The Mall
Ah, the mall. Why venture into a crowded building full of noise and sales pitches when online shopping exists? Scroll through endless options in your pajamas, avoiding crowds and stress.
And spare the reluctant spouses. Skip the mall-induced anxiety and stick to online shopping. It’s easier, more peaceful, and no grumpy tag-a-longs.


Khaki Capri Pants
Oh, capris. Not quite pants, not quite shorts, just kind of… there. They’re the lukewarm coffee of fashion. But hey, if you want to make a questionable fashion choice, who am I to stop you?
But khaki capris? Now that’s where I draw the line! Who woke up one day and thought, “You know what the world needs? A combination of the least flattering pant length and the most boring color known to mankind.” Khaki capris are a double whammy of style misdemeanors. Please, for the love of all that is stylish, let this trend die a quick and painless death.


Denim Everything


Jell-O Everything
Jell-O, oh Jell-O. It brings joy to kids and nostalgia to adults, but there’s a dark side: the ’70s trend of putting anything in gelatin. It’s like someone thought, “Let’s encase this in a quivering mass of fruity gelatin!”
It’s a culinary abomination. The ’70s seemed to compete in ruining ingredients by trapping them in Jell-O. Let’s agree to bury this in culinary history and stick to Jell-O for dessert where it belongs.


Encyclopedias
Ah, encyclopedias. Remember when flipping through pages was the only way to find information? And those door-to-door salespeople? Good times.
But in the age of Google, encyclopedias are as useful as a chocolate teapot. They’re just dust collectors now, relics of a bygone era taking up valuable space. Unless you’re going for a retro vibe, it’s time to bid adieu to those bulky books.


Socks and Sandals
Ah, the classic Baby Boomer fashion faux pas: tall white socks and sandals. It’s like they collectively decided to throw all sense of style out the window. Sandals are for bare feet, not suffocating in cotton tubes.
If this trend is because of foot horror, may we suggest an alternative? Embrace the humble sneaker. It’s conservative, comfortable, and covers your feet completely. Say goodbye to the sock-sandal combo and hello to sensible footwear. Trust us, your style cred will thank you.


Phone Books
Ah, phone books. Once useful, now just cumbersome paper bricks. Who enjoys flipping through pages only to find the number isn’t there? It’s like someone preferred outdated and inconvenient information over the internet.
But let’s be realistic. In today’s digital age, finding a phone book is like searching for a unicorn. Why bother when you can instantly find info on Facebook or Google? Let’s bid farewell to the phone book, better suited for propping up tables than its intended purpose.


Shag Carpets
Oh, shag carpeting. It screams “I’m clinging to the ’60s.” It’s like someone wanted floors that looked and felt like the back of a mangy dog. And walking on it barefoot? It’s like strolling through overgrown, wiry grass, but less pleasant.
Cleaning it? Nightmare. You could lose small pets in there. Leave this trend in the past where it belongs. Your feet and future pets will thank you.


Visors
Visors – they’re like the headwear version of indecision. It’s as if someone took a cap and thought, “Yeah, let’s just cut off the top.” But newsflash – it’s not a great look. Hats exist for a reason: they shield your face from the sun and cover your entire head.
And let’s talk about balding. If you’re trying to hide a receding hairline, a visor is your worst enemy. It practically screams, “Look at my shiny head!” Invest in a proper hat instead. Your scalp and everyone else’s eyes will thank you.


Fuzzy Toilet Seat Covers
Ah, the fuzzy toilet seat cover. It’s the bathroom accessory equivalent of a petri dish. Who doesn’t love the idea of sitting on a plush haven for bacteria? It’s as if someone thought, “Let’s give germs more places to hide.” And the smell? Let’s just say air fresheners are a bathroom staple for a reason.
And what about the ‘luxury’ experience? Fuzzy toilet seat covers have leapt over the line between comfort and absurdity. It’s like having shag carpeting on your toilet seat. Newsflash: your tush does not need shag carpeting. So, do everyone a favor and ditch the fuzzy seat cover. Your guests will thank you. No one wants to feel like they’re using a neglected stuffed animal.


Records
Vinyl records and record players: the hipster’s time machine. Who needs convenience when you can flip a record every 20 minutes? They’re making a comeback, proudly displayed in Target and Walmart aisles, embraced by younger generations.
Credit where it’s due, baby boomers. There’s something cool about the crackle of a record player, the large album art, and the ritual of placing the needle just so. Sure, it’s old-fashioned compared to streaming music, but there’s satisfaction in listening the old-school way. Here’s to you, vinyl records and record players. You’re a pain, but we love you.


Not-So-Skinny Jeans
The Great Jean Debate: fashion’s Hatfields and McCoys. On one side, baby boomers clutch their flared and boot-cut jeans, convinced everything comes back into style. On the other, millennials and Gen Z roll their eyes at skinny jeans.
Here’s the thing, boomers: Skinny jeans aren’t new. By your logic, they’re vintage and cool. But no, you stick to your bell-bottomed guns, insisting your jeans need enough fabric to sail a ship.
And holey jeans? You act like we’re walking around in underwear. But who are we to argue with a generation that thought avocado-green appliances were stylish? Rock those flares, boomers. We’ll be in our skinny jeans, freely moving our legs.


Ironing
Ah, the dreaded iron. A relic from a time when people cared if their clothes looked wrinkled. But here’s a hot take: Ironing is as necessary as a DVD rewinder. Clothes get wrinkled, but do we need to waste time flattening every crease?
Not saying you should look like you crawled out of a laundry hamper. If it’s bad, hand it off to the pros. But if it’s just a few wrinkles? Embrace it. Nobody cares anymore. We’re all too busy with social media or Netflix to notice. So save time and ditch the iron. Your future self will thank you.


Bar Soap
Bar soap: the horror show of the bathroom. It’s a breeding ground for all sorts of surprises, from hairs to bugs. And its superpower? Morphing into a slippery eel, ready to send any unsuspecting Baby Boomer into a tailspin.
If you insist on bar soap, consider a waterproof life alert for those inevitable “I’ve fallen” moments. Or switch to gel soap. It’s cleaner, easier, and won’t turn your shower into an obstacle course. But hey, keep playing soap roulette if you want. Just don’t say we didn’t warn you.


Meatloaf
Meatloaf: the culinary equivalent of beige. As a Baby Boomer, you’ve probably had your fair share of this dish—it’s practically a rite of passage. Remember when mom would proudly plop that meaty brick on the dinner table? Ah, memories. But nowadays, many people are giving it the side-eye, preferring more flavorful options.
And what’s with all the ketchup? Is it to disguise the loaf’s aesthetic shortcomings or add color to a monochromatic meal? Either way, it’s not helping. So here’s to all the brave souls still chowing down on meatloaf. May your taste buds be adventurous and your love for ketchup unwavering.


Patterned Vests
Vests, especially patterned ones, have long been a topic of debate in the fashion world. They seem stuck in a time warp, refusing to evolve with style trends.
Patterned vests, in particular, are like that relative who tells the same unfunny joke at every family gathering. It wasn’t funny the first time, and it hasn’t improved with age. We’re not ones to judge based on attire, but patterned vests may just push us to our limit. Kudos to those brave enough to wear them, though. You’re definitely keeping us on our toes.


Cop Dramas
Peak criminal justice? More like peak TV reruns! It’s like the remote control is stuck on repeat. One minute you’re watching Law & Order, the next it’s CSI, then back to Law & Order again, but wait – it’s a different version this time. And let’s not forget the spin-offs, prequels, sequels, and crossovers. It’s a never-ending game of Whac-A-Mole with crime dramas.
And the plotlines? How many times can someone discover a body in a weirdly specific location? Or solve a mystery with some obscure piece of evidence? It’s predictable. So yes, we might have reached peak criminal justice – but hey, who doesn’t love a good detective chase, right?


Transition Lenses
Transition lenses, they’re a bit of a head-scratcher, aren’t they? They’re convenient, sure, but they can leave us looking… well, a bit odd—like we took a detour into the fashion twilight zone.
And let’s talk about their timing. They seem to have their own agenda when it comes to adjusting to light changes. You step indoors from the sunlight, and suddenly you’re in a poorly lit horror movie, stumbling around. So why not go for prescription sunglasses? They’re practical, stylish, and won’t leave you squinting or blinking in sudden light changes. Sounds like a win-win to me!
Mrs. Dash
Alright, let’s talk about your spice rack. Mrs. Dash has been a trusty sidekick, but isn’t it time to shake things up a bit? There’s a whole world of spices out there waiting for you to explore. Think of it like watching a new movie instead of the same old rerun.
Instead of reaching for Mrs. Dash every time, why not try inviting Tony Chachere or other pre-mixed blends to the table? Your taste buds will thank you! From zesty Cajun to smoky BBQ, there’s a flavor for every dish. So, dust off those neglected spice bottles and give them a whirl. Who knows, you might just find a new favorite blend!


Throw Pillows
We all enjoy a nice collection of throw pillows, but when your living room resembles a plush toy store, it might be time to reconsider. Are you running a home or a pillow sanctuary? If guests have to wade through a sea of cushions to find a spot to sit, you’ve probably gone overboard.
And it’s not just about looks. Unless you’re hosting nightly pillow fights or aiming for a Guinness World Record, there’s no need for so many. If finding your remote feels like a treasure hunt, or sitting down is a struggle, you’ve gone too far. Remember, when it comes to throw pillows, less is often more!


Linoleum Flooring


Golf
Golf: the sport as thrilling as watching paint dry. It takes longer to finish a round than to grow a bonsai tree. And don’t get me started on the outfits. They’re like a mix of grandpa’s Sunday best and a rejected circus costume. Plaid pants and a polo shirt should not induce eye-gouging desires!
Then there’s the back pain! It’s like the sport was made to test endurance. And half the players seem more interested in showing off their shiny clubs and exclusive club memberships than actually enjoying the game. Thanks, but no thanks, golf. We’ll stick to sports that don’t require a chiropractor and a fashion intervention.


Avon
Avon makeup, the pricey gamble of the cosmetics world. Paying double or triple for products easily matched by the local drugstore’s generics feels like buying a ticket to the world’s priciest cinema just to watch a movie you could stream at home for free.
And those parties? They’re like never-ending infomercials, but with added pressure and less chance of escape. Next time you’re invited, consider feigning interest in extreme ironing or underwater basket weaving – anything to make attendance impossible. In the beauty battle, remember: it’s quality over cost. Don’t let persuasive party pitches trick you into settling for subpar makeup.


Gendered Everything
The tradition of associating pink with girls and blue with boys is as outdated as dial-up internet. Who decided that all girls should love overly sugary pink? It’s like mixing candy floss with Barbie’s wardrobe and decreeing it as the forever color for girls.
And what about boys? They get a color that’s more suited to a corporate logo or a sports team jersey from the mid-90s. It’s time to embrace the entire rainbow. Life isn’t just pink and blue, after all!

