Aylon's Angels: Five Inspirational Blonde American Women, a blog by Alan Ewing

 

 

 

 

  Aylon's Angels: Five Inspirational Blonde American Women

 

 

The five most influential women figures in my life have been blonde, American actresses. Yes, their looks were extremely beautiful, iconic. Though they touched my life with their on screen persona. From childhood, through teens and then into adulthood, these women became touchstones, muses, and inspirational to me.Here is my personal reflecti0n on how the sheer power of these women touched my life ... 

Marilyn Monroe 1926-1962

In adulthood she became a major influence in life. I entered her world and through that became a businessman. During that time I was engaged to an American blonde. Intense communications with her Estate took place. Marilyn Monroe became the strongest muse that I had ever known. Her career spanned acting, singing, dancing, modelling and writing. I have, other than The Beatles, never known such a strong artistic influence within my life. She was born in Los Angeles, California, USA.

Sharon Tate 1943-1969

Born in Texas, USA. So attracted to her. The manner of her death in no way distracts from her beauty in life. Her performances and presence onscreen were so powerful. She lives forever.

Farrah Fawcett 1969-2009

In teens she was my huge crush. More than that, she became an example of catholicism to me. Her death was heart-rendering. Though it was her life that influenced me. She was born in Texas, USA.

 

Donna Douglas 1932-2015

Ellie May Clampett was a childhood heart-throb of mine. The character’s love of animals and kindness reaching me. A true legend. She harboured from Louisiana, USA.

Goldie Hawn 1959-Present

Very early years of life, and this woman would pop out of the box window on Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In, an American import on British TV. Born in Washington D.C. USA. Her bubbly nature made me feel happy.

 

In my personal and domestic world, both offline and online, these five woman have played majot parts. They are my idols, inspiration and womanly muse. I absolutely adore each of them, and they are never far away from my thoughts. I’m truly grateful to have experienced life with their beauty having touched my life. They are truly ‘Aylon’s Angels’ (‘Aylon’ being my late middle sister’s name for me, and my musical moniker.) 

Yours, with Love, Aylon (Alan Ewing) 

 

 

 

The Dilution of Monarchy, a blog by Alan Ewing

 

 

 

 

 

 THE DILUTION OF MONARCHY

 

 

The recent passing of Queen Elizabeth II has brought into sharp focus the nature of English Democracy, which in turn affects Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The Monarchy has shown itself to be a unifying force throughout the United Kingdom. Since its inception around 10th Century following the invasion of Britain at The Battle of Hastings, The Crown has been part of the British constitution. Feudal in origin, it owed its evolution to the huge landowners who would compete for power. Though the challenge to its rule came through Magna Carta in the 13th Century, when the rights of smallholders and peasants began to be asserted with rights to challenge The Crown.

As the centuries ensued then the challenges became greater as an elected Parliament began to challenge the courtiers and The Church of England found its own role within the establishment. The 17th Century saw upheaval within the times of Charles I (English Civil War) and Charles II (Restoration of Monarchy). For a short time Monarchy was abolished in England, though it was so powerful that it was quickly restored. Oliver Cromwell's civic rule would soon give way, with Puritans setting sail to found America. Following this, an elected Parliament would erode the powers of Monarchy, which survived, though became ceremonial in nature, holding no real power other than that of Royal Assent, which if removed could cause a government to fall.

This brief, potted summary of history gives context for the current circumstances of the United Kingdom. With unelected government, through establishment means, becoming a norm in recent times, and an opposition seemingly in paralysis in setting out a viable alternative, than democracy itself is threatened within the UK. For Scotland this could lead to independence, with Ireland becoming reunited, and Wales joining with the North of England in a devolved breakaway.

The challenge for King Charles III is obvious. Firstly, to ensure the survival of Monarchy. Then to seek to preserve the United Kingdom itself. It seems poignant that a new Carolean age is bringing around once again questions of constitution. It remains to be seen what historical events will unfold at a time when the British people have shown a longing for unity and a caring society. Political events in 2022 are moving rapidly following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, and it would appear that they will continue to do so. The role of King Charles III could be pivotal and crucial in the economic and social turmoil that is currently taking place.

Alan Ewing, MSc, BA Hons, Cert HE