Hello-hello, all. The Consort here striding confidently mikeside while The (lovely and slightly overwhelmed) Princess takes a spa day. I’m standing at the window gazing at all the leaves falling on the lawn at The Prepatorium. It occurs to me that they are not going to rake themselves so I am left with one choice: I am going shopping.
Before any leaves get raked I am going to need a nice shirt. LL Bean never disappoints. The Hurricane Cloth Shirt repels water, oil and most stains so it’s perfect to wear while acting busy outdoors. I especially like the flannel lining – great for when the temperature drops into the “brisk” zone. The shirt is a nice start but I’ll need a coat, too.
I’ve liked a nice, waxed canvas jacket ever since my friend Andreas brought his from London. Stylish and hardworking are the keywords here. You can spend a boatload on a jacket but this one from Orvis seems to do the job for me. It has bellows pockets and a nice zip-down game bag for stashing bottles of ale. What? You didn’t think I was just going to rake leaves, did you? I need some pants now.
At the risk of going all hipster on you I have been a Carhartt fan for years. These lined twill pants are just this side of indestructible. When you buy a pair I recommend you alert your offspring that they might well inherit them someday. Make no mistake; these are hardworking pants that are designed for comfort and convenience “on the job”. Even if that job is standing in the front yard with a rake in your hand. And warm feet.
My toes are warm because I went back to LL Bean for these Gore-Tex lined Moc-Toe Leather boots. The price is right and the Gore-Tex provides great waterproofing while the kangaroo hide is strong and durable. I still have my classic Bean boots in the closet and break those out in heavy snow or rain. It’s all a question of which pair I grab first; I can’t go wrong either way. Now that my feet are warm I have to take care of my head. There is one choice.
The Stormy Kromer cap is a classic. All wool and designed to do what it should – keep your noggin warm. The company’s been making them for more than 100 years. They’ve got it right. Bonus: They make more than caps. It’s worth your time to take a look at the other lines for men, women and children.
Now that I’m covered from head to toe it is time to face the leaves. Who am I kidding? It’s time to go watch football. The leaves will still be there tomorrow. And The Princess will be back to delight and enlighten you. Thank you for your time and attention. Don’t forget to tip your waitperson because they’re working hard for you tonight. Good night, everyone!