My flapper mentality has helped keep me vibrant through the years.

Why? Consider this definition from Merriam-Webster.

Flapper:  a young woman of the period of World War I and the following decade who showed freedom from conventions (as in conduct).

So a woman somewhat unconventional. Not being bound by or in accordance with convention — the typical, customary, usual, generally believed rules of conduct or behavior. Being out of the ordinary.

I think that means being Uniquely Me, being comfortable with it and taking pride in it. Not apologizing for my uniqueness, which is undoubtedly peculiar and/or unacceptable to some/many.

Like the women profiled in the four-part BBC series on Netflix, The Ascent of Woman. This series,  written and hosted by historian, author and Wall Street Journal contributor Dr. Amanda Foreman, traces the impact of women on politics, religion, science and other aspects of human history from 10,000 B.C. to the present. The positive, influential impact. Helping other women rise up from oppression.

Without an unconventional mentality – one that says women are contributors, women don’t need to stay quiet or hidden, women can vote and have opinions – many of the strides you and I currently enjoy (and take for granted) wouldn’t exist.

I just watched this last week, even though it was released in 2015. And I can’t emphasize enough: add this to your watchlist. Binge watch. Then feel empowered to forge ahead with the things YOU want to do and accomplish.

Be uniquely you.

And flaunt that flapper mentality. Over the years, it’s meant many different things for me:

Not having that typical burning desire to have children. Not feeling like I had a “ticking clock.” I am thrilled that Jeff’s sons (my stepsons) have boys ages 3, 5 and 8. I love being a Grammy. It’s the right thing for me. Having kids was not.

Not taking my husband’s last name. When I was married the first time in 1988, I did the hyphenated thing, as that was my underlying flapper mentality. I was divorced in four years. Before I married Jeff in 2008, I made it clear my name would remain Kim Galeaz. OK he said.

Traveling alone. Since many of my adult years were spent single, I would just plan trips alone. I especially loved going to this resort far, far away from the typical Cancun. I couldn’t tolerate the noisy partying hotels in Cancun. I much preferred solitude, good food and reading several books.

Living downtown Indy. Before it was cool. I lived downtown from 1992 to December 2016.

Not into sports. However, if the Colts, Pacers or Indians end up in playoffs, I’ll have a smidgen of interest and hope they win.

Not into my alma mater at all, Eastern Illinois University.

I went to my first kickboxing match in November 2016 and thought it was quite interesting. Maybe too violent at times, but I’d go again. Especially if Ronez is fighting.

I support gay rights, gay marriage and have my own strong viewpoints about many issues, including organized religion and politics. And I have a voice to express them.

Contemporary blue couches. Not one, but two blue couches in my new home. Custom made from one of my fave stores, Room and Board in Tatum Blue fabric. Orange accent pillows. No conventional couch for me. Even our sales guy said they were a bold selection. Not typical.

Blood orange chair. Unconventional “out there” color.  Love it. From my second fave store, Crate & Barrel.

International Women’s Day is today, March 8. I thank all the women who have accomplished great things. You’ve made my life better.