During my childhood era, we had Little Orphan Annie-style lockets we shared with our besties. Each half of a whole locket joined together to form the perfect fit in friendship jewelry. 

 

Today’s Taylor Swift era is all about friendship bracelets. While these colorful bands date back to ancient Central America, Swift’s lyrics on a Midnights album track have been credited with its popularity resurgence. 

 

 

Campers at the T.R.E.E. House Children’s Museum in Alexandria were all about making bracelets and taking moments at the Swift Popstar Camp this week. 

 

Showing off her signature style in bedazzled microphones for an epic performance later this week was Hallie Bordelon, 5. 

 

Asking why she chose bananas for her microphone, Hallie said they reminded her of her brother. 

 

“Really? Why do bananas remind you of your brother?” I asked. 

 

My mind went through a litany of metaphors. I was in full “Easter egg” decoding mode. 

 

Leveling me with a gaze only a child can produce, Hallie responded, “Because he likes bananas.”

 

Touché, Hallie. Thank you for reminding me how simple life can actually be. 

 

The kids at the Swift Popstar camp showed me that sometimes you just need to stop thinking and pretend you’re a pop star! 

 

The T.R.E.E. House Summer Camp program continues with Wild West Camp next week. For more information, visit kidtreehouse.org or call 318-619-9394. 

 

The T.R.E.E. House Children’s Museum is located at 1403 Third Street, Alexandria.