A Dollywood Beach Towel — Parton and Pearl

Parton and Pearl is named after Dolly Parton and Minnie Pearl. From the beginning I really hoped Dolly would not sue us, but secretly hoped maybe she would so I would have something to hang on my wall. Humour was a large part of Dolly's persona, so I trust she would have appreciated our mash up of comedy and country music. Would have. Past tense.

I found out that Dolly Parton passed away while I was lying in Toronto Island Park, looking up at a beautiful blue sky with large white clouds, while my Dollywood beach towel cradled my head.

I found out via text message from my dear friend Aubrie. We live in different countries but Aubrie and I met through sketch comedy, but were reconnected through our mutual love for Dolly. Aubrie’s 40th birthday was the occasion that brought me to Dollywood for the first time, where I got that towel that cradled my head.

I do not believe in a higher, god-like power, but it is moments like this that let me know I am exactly where I am supposed to be. I was gutted to receive the news, but I was cradled in that moment.

Dolly did believe in a higher power. She followed a belief system that said if god gave you a gift, it is your duty to share it with others to give glory and show them the way to a good life. The reason we all love Dolly in the way we do is because she showed us the way not only through her music but also through her actions. Your definition of a good life was your own business. No judgement, just live every day to live well. Take care of yourself and others and be kind. She received flack over the years for not giving overt political opinions, but we knew what she stood for by the things that she did, the causes she supported, and the people she worked with.

From Two Doors Down to Little Sparrow, she gave us a soundtrack to laugh to, and cry to, as we moved through our lives. Her songs are reminders, pep talks, laments, and celebrations. She knew words were powerful and she used them well.

Although we never met, Dolly was a mentor to me. I don’t mean in a girl power t-shirt slogan kind of way. Her example and her conviction in her values as a leader, a wife, an ally, and a show business person is a constant guide that I take very seriously. And it was just the luck of the draw, but I was doubly Moderna vaccinated against COVID-19 which made me so proud.

What can we say after someone spent 80 years living with purpose? “Thank you” does not feel powerful enough, but I do. I thank you, Dolly.

“We did share a lot in common. We love to entertain people, we never lost touch with the people who were responsible for our success, and we both love to laugh and make other people laugh - with us or at us.”

- Dolly Parton on Minnie Pearl, in Minnie Pearl Tribute: Hats Off To Minnie