I think I’ve mentioned once or twice that I’m originally from Long Island. Growing up in an upper middle class suburb has definitely impacted my views on personal finance, excess, and the craziness that happens when those two come together. For instance, bar and bat mitzvahs.
Long Island is infamous for its outrageous bar and bat mitzvahs. Not only is it a huge rite of passage for a Jewish boy or girl, it’s almost an introduction of sorts into the Long Island scene of ridiculous and outrageously expensive parties. Even 20+ years ago, when I was that age, the parties were the perfect description of extravagence and excess. More food than you can imagine, and separate food (and tables) for the kids and adults. Fancy, professionally calligraphied invitations, open bars, DJs, dancers, expensive favors, dessert tables, photo booths and centerpieces…Long Island bar and bat mitzvahs can put many weddings to shame. A bar or bat mitzvah on Long Island can easily cost $20-$30,000. Sickening.
While the price tag makes me grateful that I don’t live on Long Island anymore, I still smile when I think about my bar and bat mitzvah going days (including the god-awful dresses I wore with my super fabulous 1990 hair). They were seriously good times. And the music. Oh, the music. I still can’t hear “Crocodile Rock”, “Oh, L’Amour” or “Celebration” without a big goofy grin covering my face. But my favorite memory of bar and bat mitavahs (besides memory glasses, of course) is hearing Rob Base and DJ EZ Rock.
So, for today’s Money Tune I bring you “Joy and Pain”. Not as well known as “It Takes Two” but just as awesome. Totally!
Ha Ha..my heart beats with excitement on the rare occasion I hear that song! So many memories and it’s all over if “It Takes Two” is played. My husband and I revert back to our teenage persona of bad ass and sing with reckless abandon (hee hee)
Quinceneras (a 15 year old birthday party) is just as ridiculous and expensive. It’s like planning a wedding. I’ve been to and been in way too many. I’m surprised my dad forked over the cash.
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This song brings me back to junior high and the embrassasing school dances! It also reminds of the awful hair styles that at 13, we thought were cool. The higher your bangs were, and the more Aqua Net or Rave hairspray you used, the better!
Did know there are bar and bat mitzvahs. Joy and Pain, Sunshine, Rain! My friends and I lived for the weekend and dances. Crazy. Thanks for the flashback and Happy New Year!
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