Wednesday, December 15, 2010

The "L" Word

Growing up I was taught the L-word was Layers.  To stay comfortable you needed layers.  I had layers of blankets on my bed, would wear multiple socks, layers under my jeans, and most importantly the torso.  Well, covering my head was probably most important for warmth, but the ability to add and remove layers kept me comfortable all day long.  Not uncommon to go to the woods for the day with a t-shirt, a long sleeved t-shirt, and and over shirt or sweater all under a light-weight jacket.  My favorite layer was the sweater.
I have always had a number of sweaters.  Before the "Ugly sweater party" was popular, I had a closet full of them!  Even now I have a countless collection of sweater, but my favorites are what I call the magic or elfin sweater.  The light weight merino wool (wool is the only way to go) sweater, a tad small so it doesn't have extra fabric that can get in the way.  If it has some caulk or tar on it or get a small hole in a non-vital location, then it become a classic Wedel-Way sweater, adding to the magic.  Magic in that it is itch free, warm, cool, and has the protection factor of chainmaile from Arda.  I don't think it is bullet proof, but it maybe blade and nail proof, and possibly even chainsaw resistant (like Wedel-way jeans)!  And they makes me feel good, the right combination of warm and cool, sexy even.  I have brown, charcoal, even a dark purple one and a couple black ones, the cashmere with a couple holes is my lucky sweater. ;)
So under a waterproof shell, a wool sweater is the prefect layer in the cold half of the year, joining my Exofficio's as the most import part of my wardrobe.

Random acts of kindness

Random acts of kindness make me tear up.  Hell, formulaic acts of commercial kindness do as well.  And 'tis the season for both!  The other day American Pickers was on in the background at work.  I had never seen the show before as I stay away from reality shows unless food is involved.  Well, the guys find some carnival sign and buy it for $200.  But when they take it to NY and get it appraised they are told it is worth $10,000 if restored!!  They were offered $5000 on the spot, but turned it down, opting to restore instead.  The show goes off on other adventures for a while, then come back for the last scene with the seller with the sign, and gloat that they restored it and got ten grand for it.  Then they thank him and give him half the sale price, $5,000!!!  I had to go stand in the cooler and compose myself for a minute... I get a little sniffly now recounting.

At home I am spared most of the wrenching commercials with the miracle of DVR, but rarely does a day go by that some selfless act in a book or touching story on the radio that gives me hope that this can be a better world.

Merry Christmas!