700 Pages, No Tan Lines! Sun Stories: Tales From A Tanning Salon

I was working at a local media company here in Philadelphia. One of my advertising clients was a tanning salon. I became friendly with the owner. He was always complaining about his staff. I asked if I could start moonlighting there for some extra income.

He immediately hired me. One shift became two, then three, and within a month or so, I became full-time. I was tired of working at the media company where I was currently employed. A publication that was no longer relevant in this city. Print was basically dead, but tanning salons were hanging by a thread.

But I enjoyed working there. It was a fun job. I met a lot of great people during my time there. But with every job, there are always challenges… and temptations.

Sun Stories: Tales from a Tanning Salon, takes you on a sunny, and sometimes dark journey of my time working there. It’s filled with funny, unique, and sometimes cringe-worthy tanning stories. But there were other forces at work there. What began as an easy part-time gig, slowly evolved into a story filled with love, obsession, sex, and misadventure.

Definitely NSFW!

Not my best work.

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Thank you for reading my blog. Please read, like, comment, and most of all follow Phicklephilly.

You can check out my books here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=charles+wiedenmann&ref=nb_sb_noss_1

An Unforgettable Evening at the Free Library of Philadelphia

In the heart of the City of Brotherly Love, I recently had the distinct honor and privilege of participating in an author event at the Free Library of Philadelphia. It was an evening filled with appreciation, gratitude, and a profound sense of fulfillment.

A Grateful Author

As an author, there are few moments more special than sharing your work with an engaged and appreciative audience. The opportunity to connect with readers, discuss your books, and answer questions is a true gift. I am immensely grateful to Chris McPeak and the Free Library of Philadelphia for providing me with this platform.

The Perfect Setting

The event took place in the Heim Center room at the Parkway Central Library, a space that exudes literary history and a love for knowledge. The elegant ambiance of the library, with its timeless architecture and reverence for literature, set the perfect backdrop for a meaningful discussion about my books, “LAWNDALE” and “Down the Shore.”

An Engaged Audience

One of the most fulfilling aspects of the evening was the engaged and enthusiastic audience. The questions, discussions, and passion for storytelling were truly inspiring. The Free Library’s commitment to fostering a love of literature and providing a space for authors to connect with their readers was evident in the attentiveness of those in attendance.

A Memorable Experience

The event was not just a chance for me to talk about my books; it was an opportunity to connect with people who share a love for reading and storytelling. The sense of community and the shared appreciation for the written word made it a night to remember.

Thank You, Free Library

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Chris McPeak, his team, and the Free Library of Philadelphia for making this author event possible. Your dedication to promoting literature, supporting local authors, and fostering a love of reading is commendable and deeply appreciated. I am honored to have been a part of this experience.

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In Conclusion

The author event at the Free Library of Philadelphia was an unforgettable evening, and I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to share my work with such a passionate and engaged audience. It serves as a reminder of the power of literature to connect people, spark discussions, and inspire a love for storytelling. To the Free Library and everyone who attended, thank you for making this event a resounding success.

On a final note, when the Lawncrest branch of the library is finished being remodeled, I’ll be doing an event there in the fall. Talking about my book, “Lawndale” in the town where all of those stories took place will be especially exciting!

Looking forward to seeing you all there!

Special thanks to my new friend Masha for getting me fired up to do this event!

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You can get Lawndale and Down the Shore right here:

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Thank you for reading my blog. Please read, like, comment, and most of all follow Phicklephilly.

You can check out my books here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=charles+wiedenmann&ref=nb_sb_noss_1

An Evening in Lawndale

In the heart of Lawndale, a small suburb of Philadelphia, the air was thick with the sounds of laughter and the scent of freshly cut grass on warm summer evenings. The year was 1968, and the neighborhood kids spilled out of their homes, eager to savor the fading sunlight and the freedom of a carefree summer.

The neighborhood, a tight-knit community where everyone knew each other, buzzed with the energy of children playing games that seemed to define the era. Kick-the-Can echoed through the streets, and the rhythmic slapping of jump ropes created a symphony of childhood joy.

Lawndale, a place where life was about the simple pleasures of the outdoors, embraced the warmth of this particular evening. A group of friends, led by a freckle-faced boy named Michael, gathered in a driveway on Magee Street. They divvied up into teams for an epic game of Red Rover, their voices rising in excitement as they called out, “Red Rover, Red Rover, send Billy right over!” The game, a staple of their summer evenings, brought a sense of camaraderie as friendships flourished amid the shouts and cheers.

As the sun dipped below the trees, the children’s attention turned to the soft glow of fireflies flickering in the gathering dusk. Mason jars in hand, they embarked on a magical mission to catch the elusive creatures. Laughter rang out as little hands darted through the warm summer air, capturing the blinking lights of nature’s lanterns.

In Lawndale, where time seemed to slow down, parents sat on their porches, exchanging stories and watching over the neighborhood’s lively scene. The distant jingle of an approaching ice cream truck added a sweet note to the atmosphere, prompting a collective dash for change and a chorus of delighted shouts. The warmth of the evening carried with it a sense of security and belonging.

In the late 1960s, Lawndale was a place where kids roamed freely, and the simple pleasures of childhood took center stage. As the fireflies continued their dance and the stars emerged overhead, the neighborhood of Lawndale embraced the timeless magic of a summer night, etching memories that would last a lifetime.

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If you’d like to read more stories like this one, you can get them here.

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Thank you for reading my blog. Please read, like, comment, and most of all follow Phicklephilly.

You can check out my books here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=charles+wiedenmann&ref=nb_sb_noss_1

PHICKLEPHILLY 2: He Found Love…But Can He Keep It?

Phicklephilly 2 is the sequel to the best-selling book, Phicklephilly: One Man’s Journey to Find Love in Philadelphia.

In the first book, our hero returned to the city in search of the perfect girlfriend. It was a funny, and sometimes heart-wrenching tale of a man trying to navigate the pitfalls of the modern dating world. After two failed relationships, he turns to online dating. He goes on several crazy dates but finally finds a woman he really likes. She’s a bright, unique beauty, but like all relationships, they face several challenges.

Phicklephilly 2 continues his journey and walks you through what it’s like being in a relationship and the dynamics that play out inside of city living. But several factors work against them both at every step. Will the couple survive the pitfalls and demands of being in an exclusive committed relationship?

He doesn’t always do what’s right, but neither does she. This is his own intimate story of what that’s been like for him. Join him to see if he wins… or loses again. There are always three sides to every story. His side, her side… and the truth.

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You can get your copy here:

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Thanks to everyone who bought this book!

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Thank you for reading my blog. Please read, like, comment, and most of all follow Phicklephilly.

You can check out my books here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=charles+wiedenmann&ref=nb_sb_noss_1

A Summer Afternoon on Magee Street

In the heart of Lawndale, a small enclave in the suburbs of Philadelphia, the summer of 1969 brought with it the enchantment of carefree afternoons. The neighborhood streets echoed with the laughter and chatter of girls playing jump rope, hopscotch, and a myriad of outdoor games beneath the warm, golden sun.

A group of friends, led by the spirited Jane, gathered in the middle of Magee Street, where the asphalt became their canvas for hopscotch adventures. Chalk in hand, they meticulously drew the numbered squares, each one a portal to a world of imagination and friendly competition. The click-clack of stones against the pavement, accompanied by giggles and cheers, created a symphony of nostalgic delight.

Jump ropes, with their handles worn from countless twirls, became the catalyst for rhythmic chants and synchronized jumps. Deneen and Margie took turns showcasing their agility, their faces beaming with the thrill of each successful hop. The neighborhood echoed with the familiar tunes of rhymes passed down through generations, creating a timeless soundtrack to these idyllic summer days.

Lawndale’s streets transformed into a playground, where innocence thrived and friendships blossomed. Sidewalks became racetracks for enthusiastic bike races, and the distant jingle of the ice cream truck became a siren’s call, prompting a chorus of eager voices and the jingling of spare change.

Underneath the shade of towering maple trees, the girls gathered on their front steps, their mothers’ homemade lemonade cooling them from the inside out. They shared dreams, whispered secrets, and reveled in the simplicity of a summer day spent outdoors.

As the sun began its descent, the mothers called from porches, signaling the approaching dinner hour. Reluctantly, the girls dispersed, their laughter lingering in the air like a sweet melody.

Lawndale, in the summer of the 60s and 70s, was a haven where the sidewalks became canvases, and the streets transformed into stages for the timeless games that knit together the fabric of childhood memories. And so, the echoes of laughter and the rustle of jump ropes would linger, carried on the warm evening breeze, a testament to the enduring magic of those cherished Lawndale summers.

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If you’d like to read more stories like this, check out this book.

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Thank you for reading my blog. Please read, like, comment, and most of all follow Phicklephilly.

You can check out my books here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=charles+wiedenmann&ref=nb_sb_noss_1

Just When You Thought It Was Safe To Jump Back In The Dating Pool… Here’s CRAZY DATING STORIES

Here is the complete collection of all of the Crazy Dating Stories books in one anthology. If you like reading about true stories about dates from hell, then you’re in for a treat. I dare you not to laugh at these insane tales from my life in the dating world over the last 30 years.

Sometimes funny, sometimes stomach-churning, it’s all here in its uncensored glory for your reading pleasure! You’ve been warned!

In “CRAZY DATING STORIES,” embark on a rollercoaster journey through the unpredictable landscape of modern romance. Brace yourself for a whirlwind of hilarious mishaps, unexpected connections, and jaw-dropping encounters that will leave you laughing, cringing, and nodding in empathetic understanding.

As our intrepid author navigates the wild world of dating, you’ll find yourself immersed in tales of comical misunderstandings, awkward encounters, and heartwarming moments of connection. From disastrous blind dates to unexpected serendipity, these stories will have you questioning the very nature of love and human connection. But “CRAZY DATING STORIES” isn’t just about the misadventures; it’s a journey of self-discovery.

Along the way, you’ll witness our author’s growth, resilience, and the enduring hope that keeps them diving headfirst into the dating pool, no matter how many curveballs life throws their way.

So, prepare to laugh, gasp, and perhaps even shed a tear as you delve into the pages of this candid, entertaining, and ultimately heartwarming collection of dating escapades. “CRAZY DATING STORIES” is a testament to the enduring spirit of those who dare to seek love in the face of chaos.

You can get it here:

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Thanks to the brave souls who bought this hilarious book!

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Thank you for reading my blog. Please read, like, comment, and most of all follow Phicklephilly.

You can check out my books here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=charles+wiedenmann&ref=nb_sb_noss_1

Beyond the Tracks

In the early spring of 1973, a group of adventurous boys from Lawndale set out on a quest to explore the wonders concealed within the lush woods and along the banks of Tookany Creek. Armed with curiosity and a sense of camaraderie, they ventured into nature’s playground on a warm and sunny day. The woods, just beyond the familiar streets of Lawndale, were a sanctuary of tall trees, their branches reaching skyward like cathedral spires.

The air was tinged with the sweet scent of blooming wildflowers as the boys followed a narrow trail that led them deeper into the heart of the forest. As they trod on the soft carpet of fallen leaves, their laughter echoed through the woods, accompanied by the distant melody of birdsong.

In their quest for adventure, they stumbled upon hidden clearings, secret hideouts beneath ancient oaks, and the occasional critter scampering away from their curious gazes. The murmuring sound of Tookany Creek beckoned them closer.

As they reached the creek’s edge, the boys marveled at the crystal-clear water, reflecting the azure sky above. Skipping stones across the surface became a competitive art, and the ripples of laughter mirrored the playful dance of the water beneath. Exploration led to discovery, and the boys encountered the wonders of the creek’s ecosystem. Frogs leaped from lily pads, dragonflies flitted through the air like living jewels, and the occasional splash hinted at the presence of fish beneath the surface.

Nature’s symphony played on, and the boys reveled in the harmony of their surroundings. After hours of adventure, the boys found a sunlit clearing beside Tookany Creek to rest and share tales of their explorations. With their imaginations fueled by the mysteries of the woods, they spoke of legendary creatures that might dwell in the shadows and undiscovered treasures hidden beneath the forest floor.

As the day waned, the boys reluctantly made their way back to Lawndale, their pockets filled with rocks, leaves, and the magic of a day well spent in nature’s embrace. The woods behind Lawndale and the serenity of Tookany Creek had become the backdrop for a timeless adventure, etching memories that would remain woven into the fabric of their childhood.

And so, with the setting sun casting long shadows through the trees, the boys of Lawndale returned home, their hearts filled with the joy of discovery and the promise of future escapades in the wonders of the woods.

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If you’d like to read more stories like this, check out this book.

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Thank you for reading my blog. Please read, like, comment, and most of all follow Phicklephilly.

You can check out my books here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=charles+wiedenmann&ref=nb_sb_noss_1

PHICKLEPHILLY: One Man’s Journey to Find Love In Philadelphia

This is where it all began! My very first published book!

Love at first swipe! One man’s story of returning to Philadelphia in search of the perfect girlfriend. Will he succeed or fail miserably in his quest to find love in this city?

This is a funny and sometimes heart-wrenching tale of a man trying to navigate the pitfalls of the modern dating world in the city of Philadelphia in the mid-2000s.

You can get a copy of my first published book here:

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Top review from the United States for PHICKLEPHILLY

talltales87

5.0 out of 5 stars You will be entertained and educated!

Reviewed in the United States on February 18, 2020

I love this teaser. I found Phicklephilly online when he first started blogging, and I have not been disappointed. He had me at the post where he was hanging out with a beautiful woman he works with and having to carry around a large banner from a work event. He’s fun, thoughtful, and provides lots of life experience advice.

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Thanks to everyone who bought this book!

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Thank you for reading my blog. Please read, like, comment, and most of all follow Phicklephilly.

You can check out my books here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=charles+wiedenmann&ref=nb_sb_noss_1

Water Wisdom: A Look Back at Hydration in the 1970s

In the bygone era of the 1970s, the way people approached hydration was markedly different from today’s ubiquitous water culture. Back then, the act of drinking water was refreshingly simple and devoid of the modern obsession we witness in the 21st century.

In the 70s, quenching your thirst was a straightforward affair. You sought out a spigot, found a water fountain, or indulged in the timeless ritual of sipping from the garden hose on a hot summer day. Water consumption wasn’t a constant preoccupation; it was a response to genuine thirst or the need to cool down in the warmth of the sun.

Perhaps part of the shift can be attributed to the rise of the recommendation that humans should consume eight glasses of water a day. This guidance, while well-intentioned, marked a departure from the intuitive approach of drinking when thirsty. The idea of a daily water quota became ingrained in our collective consciousness.

The turning point, however, may have been the advent of bottled water. Companies seized the opportunity to monetize a resource that had always been freely available. Bottled water came with a marketing pitch – the notion that tap water was somehow inadequate or impure. This narrative, despite being a myth, gained traction, and people began to question the quality of the water that flowed effortlessly from their taps.

Contrary to the marketing hype, spigot water or tap water from the average source was, and continues to be, perfectly clean and safe to drink. The shift in perception, fueled by the bottled water industry, contributed to the transformation of a simple act into a complex regimen.

Moreover, the rise of bottled water has had a profound impact on our environment. The plastic waste generated by the millions of water bottles consumed daily is a stark consequence of the commercialization of this essential resource. The very element that sustains life has become entangled in profit-driven practices, creating an environmental challenge that we grapple with today.

As we reflect on the bygone era of the 1970s, where hydration was a natural response to thirst and not a scheduled task, it prompts us to reconsider our relationship with water. Perhaps there’s wisdom in the simplicity of yesteryear, a reminder that the pursuit of profit should not compromise the sanctity of a resource essential to life itself.

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Thank you for reading my blog. Please read, like, comment, and most of all follow Phicklephilly.

You can check out my books here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=charles+wiedenmann&ref=nb_sb_noss_1

Tales of Rock: Forever Rocking: A 61-Year-Old’s Endless Stage Fantasy

Age may be a number, but the love for rock music and the dream of being center stage remain timeless. At 61, a former musician and dedicated rock enthusiast finds solace, nostalgia, and a burst of energy every time a great song ignites the airwaves.

The Power of Musical Memory

As the opening chords of a favorite rock anthem reverberate, it’s not just a sound; it’s a portal to the past. The rush of memories from the heydays of youth, the thrill of live performances, and the camaraderie of fellow music lovers all come flooding back.

Stage Presence Never Fades

The allure of the stage is eternal. In the mind’s eye, this seasoned music aficionado transforms into the rock god of yesteryear, commanding the stage with unrivaled charisma. The dream of delivering electrifying guitar solos to a sea of cheering fans is a fantasy that refuses to age.

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A Symphony of Nostalgia

Each riff, beat, and lyric becomes a symphony of nostalgia, carrying the listener back to the golden era of rock. The songs that once provided the soundtrack to rebellion, love, and youthful exuberance now serve as a time machine, transporting the soul to the unforgettable moments of the past.

Rock’s Timeless Relevance

Rock music’s enduring relevance is a testament to its ability to transcend generations. The fact that a 61-year-old can still be transported to a realm of youthful energy and boundless possibilities speaks to the timelessness of rock’s impact on the human spirit.

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The Air Guitar Symphony

While the physical demands of rocking on stage may change with age, the spirit remains unwavering. In the privacy of one’s space, the air guitar takes center stage, and the fantasy of playing alongside legendary bands becomes a personal, unbridled performance.

Connecting Through Music

• The beauty of music lies in its ability to connect people across time and space. Whether reminiscing about the glory days or discovering new sounds, the shared love for rock creates a bridge between the young and the young at heart. As the chords of a great rock song continue to echo in the ears of a 61-year-old, the stage lights of memory illuminate a timeless fantasy. In the realm of rock, age is but a number, and the dream of standing before thousands, bathed in applause, remains forever etched in the heart of a true rock enthusiast.

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You can read about my life in rock ‘n roll in these books:

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Thank you for reading my blog. Please read, like, comment, and most of all follow Phicklephilly.

You can check out my books here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=charles+wiedenmann&ref=nb_sb_noss_1