Sew Fast, So Easy

Today's puzzle is by Sally R. Stein (pseudonym for Stanley Newman), and it's called "Sew What?" And now for the theme answers.

19A: In charge at home (WEARING THE PANTS). I have not mentioned Sunday's episode of "Mad Men" yet, so this is the perfect time. It was called "Mystery Date" and it was about male-female relationships. You can see that the second Mrs. Draper wears the pants in her marriage with Don. She is a symbol of youth culture and represents the growth of the women's liberation movement. Megan makes Don beg for sex and says "You're married to me now" when they encounter an old conquest of Don's. Peggy Olsen challenges gender stereotypes too by becoming more "masculine" in both clothing and mannerisms.  In fact, we can see that the young are taking over SCDP. It's going to be interesting where this season takes us as we go into the late 60s, which was one of the most turbulent times in U.S. and world history.

38A; Knuckle down on a task (PULL UP ONE'S SOCKS). I found this cute cartoon that fits this idiom perfectly:

51A: Going broke (LOSING ONE'S SHIRT). On TV, some of the funniest scenes have been of people losing all their money at the casino. Examples include "Married With Children", "Family Ties" and "The Flintstones." Unfortunately, I couldn't find any videos on YouTube from these TV shows. However, I did find a scene from "A Hard Day's Night" when Paul's grandfather goes to the casino and loses everything.

I don't think there is a word feeling in the world than having to go into foreclosure. Personally, I haven't experienced this, but because of high unemployment, foreclosures have risen over the last few years. If you are at the risk of losing your house, ABC News correspondent Elizabeth Leamy gives some good advice.

Matthew and I took a long walk this afternoon. I bought Natan Last's book and I can't wait to begin solving! 

Today has been a very emotional day. One friend was expecting her first grandchild but her daughter-in-law unfortunately experienced a miscarriage. Another friend is putting her dog to sleep tonight. Poor puppy had been suffering from cancer and chemo wasn't working. It was a very tough decision for her but I know she didn't want him to suffer anymore. Prayers and love to my friends who are struggling today! 

Till tomorrow. . . .

Signing off,

The Puzzlechick