16 Comments
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Scott Corner's avatar

You are a master of vivid imagery, painting a picture of the wind that the reader can sense - like a sailor instinctively knowing how many points they are off the wind when a gentle breeze rises on the back of their neck.

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Winston Fowler's avatar

I still have an old football practice jersey from 1963, it has fed a few moths, but still maintains its wearable integrity and is the most comfortable piece of clothing I own.... and by "comfortable" I mean not only the fit, but includes the memories this jersey and I share over the years we've been together... Again I thoroughly enjoyed your article... W

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Janice Anne Wheeler's avatar

Right Winston? You reach for it after confusion or a little heartache or whatever challenges we face. 1963 might win the prize! Keep it forever. J

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Elizabeth Beggins's avatar

You made this piece of clothing come alive, Janice, and simultaneously created an homage to your seafaring life. Stunning! I have a scarf, once brightly colored, to which I am similarly attached. Its edges are frayed to the point of looking like fringe - from a distance. I've yet to be able to part with it.

May the breezes always blow in such a way as to cool what's underneath!

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Janice Anne Wheeler's avatar

A true compliment Elizabeth, thank you! Staying cool this week may take more than a gentle breeze in all the right places! Always so great to connect. J

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Switter’s World's avatar

I actually thought a camo colored, ripstop nylon kilt worn commando would be just the thing for through hiking.

Don’t look to me for life advice!

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Janice Anne Wheeler's avatar

Too late I already do! The young lady who broke all kinds of records thru hiking the PCT wore dresses the entire time. Wore one out, put on another...

There ya go. !! Thanks Switter for being aboard. J

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Switter’s World's avatar

That young lady is Heather “anish” “the Ghost” Anderson, an extraordinary person and her dresses were 25 cent thrift store models. Heather is one of my sheros.

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Janice Anne Wheeler's avatar

YES! I read and followed her single minded amazing self. Hero worthy for certain. I don't remember WHY she did what she did?

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Switter’s World's avatar

She decided to break the fastest known record for hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, 2452 miles, and did it by hiking 40-50 miles per day. When she reached the Donner Pass, she was met by the current record holder she was trying to beat, a big guy she idolized. He had a couple of bags of goodies for her and they chatted for a few minutes while she ate, but Heather was not one to linger, so off she went. The big guy shouted “Heather, I hope you beat my record, but not by too much, please!”

That is the spirit you find everyday on the trail.

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Lindsay Waite's avatar

Haha. I too have clothing that I love that is decades old. It seems like finally I can re-purpose them and some - barely worn but with memories - are going to Goodwill. Happy for your recent successful repairs!

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Janice Anne Wheeler's avatar

Thanks Lindsay! Sorting can be very easy or really hard! I tend to try them back on and think "I'll wear this someday!"....

Sorry I missed your reading last week! Thanks much for following.

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Neil Hawkesford's avatar

Sounds wonderful, but might be a step too far down here in windy Cornwall!

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Janice Anne Wheeler's avatar

Point taken Neil!! I appreciate the early morning chuckle. Thank you as always! There have been moments of windy indiscretion. J

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Janice Anne Wheeler's avatar

You are simply the best support one could conjer. Thanks Jeanine. SPARRING next week! J

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Jeanine Kitchel's avatar

Always a breath of fresh air, Janice Anne, sarong or no sarong ): even on troublesome days like today. Sigh. But your chipper attitude and a reminder of your love for the Caribbean and those colors cheers me. Saludos, amiga.

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