When did you meet Mickey?
1974
Where did you meet him?
Childhood father figure
Memory of Mickey
I have several memories of Mickey as a child. He was so different from my own father, who is careful in his interactions with the world.
Mickey approached things in a carefree, bold, inquisitive, demanding way; sloshing coffee along the way and not being bothered with decorum. He didn’t care what his hair looked like. He wore what was comfortable and familiar.
As something of a rule follower, I am still astounded that Atlanta City Parks allowed him and his friends to roast full animals (goat, pig and god knows what else) in a public park. Several years in a row. And encouraged us kids to camp out while they did. Pretty sure that wasn’t allowed, even back then.
He built a boat in his basement. In the city limits. I’m sure HE knew it was going to be the right size to get back out of the door, but I know I was pretty doubtful.
He challenged the status quo, knew what he wanted, and was a force of nature.
I’m glad to have known him.
You’re forgetting that my Dad was married to my Mom, the ultimate rule follower. I’m sure had he not been married to her, he would have just roasted that pig right there, but every year, my mother got a permit. Not just for the digging of the pit, but for the overnight, and the party!
And Mom can speak to this, but I’m pretty sure getting that boat out of the basement was something he left to chance, and I’m pretty sure it didn’t go very well!
BTW, I love this entry. It captures him perfectly.