linda fairmont: a short-lived identity change

I'm sitting on the couch having coffee. My mom hands me a box and says, "Here, look through this.  See if there's anything in it you want to keep, otherwise I'm throwing it out."

I open the box and the awkward teen-age me greets me.

I first find a bunch of small photos from 9th grade. On the back, most have written something that begins to a great kid and ends with  love ya. 

I find a picture of my mad crush through all of junior high. He writes, "To Linda, A real sweet kid. Good luck in the future. Love, Chickie." I wonder how long I thought about his closing words?

This boy is more creative than most and writes, "In case of emergency call me at JU 66722." 

And this kid is trying to be funny, but isn't. He writes, "To Linda. A good try in running for office. You lost. Haha. Bill." I don't remember running and I have no idea who Bill is.

Next I come across old newspaper clippings from my short-lived modeling career.  I was selected at age 15 to be part of the Marsha Jordan Fashion Board, sponsored by Jordan Marsh.

The article announces the introduction of Teenage Charm courses for girls aged 11-17. The five-hour session "tackles such subjects as good grooming, posture, calorie and nutrition counts, make-down (the best way for youngsters to apply make-up), how to walk, sit and stand like the models do, and how to care for your hair and complexion and generally make yourself more attractive in manner and appearance."  What young girl wouldn't want to learn these important skills? Especially when it's only $2!

A yellowed page from The Boston Globe dated Friday, April 21, 1967, includes me modeling a white gown that I later wore to my junior prom.

But my favorite find is this, from a place called Personality Plus, Inc.  Like the movie studios from the 50's, I guess this agency thought it was important to change my name. 

I consciously became Lyn from Linda as soon as I went to college. But I have zero recollection of ever being called Linda Fairmont. I'm sure if the agency had named me Gisele instead my modeling career would have turned out differently.