Tuesday, July 8, 2008

What has it got in its pockets?

by Cassondra Murray

Gollum was probably not the first fellow to ask this question, though he might
have been the first on record to actually wonder about it out loud.

But he certainly wasn't the last.



I've spoken those exact words repeatedly (though silently) in recent years as I've begun to observe male behaviors through the jaded eyes of a middle-aged female writer.

Have y'all heard that Bud Light Real Men of Genius radio commercial--the one about "Mr. Cargo Pants Designer"?

"Is that a banana in your pocket?"

"Why, yes it is. And an orange...."

And an ipod perhaps....


A survival knife? A multi-tool? A flashlight? A cigarette lighter? The list goes on.


Okay, I'll set aside complete dissing of cargo pants because of their military origins. But MOST cargo pants are not worn by military men and women--people who have to carry their lives on their backs for weeks at a time and defend themselves and their fellow soldiers too.


I've decided that most modern cargo pants are designed for the man who is worried about his masculinity. The man who refuses to admit that, just like women, males need to carry around a certain amount of STUFF. I can come to only one logical conclusion. This is a man who believes that if he actually possesses a suitable bag to carry the STUFF in, that one of the appendages necessary to be considered male might...oh, I don't know...maybe fall off or start to rot.


What is up with that?


Consider, if you will, wallet bulge. The male equivalent of disgusting panty lines.

I don't say it out loud, but I do THINK it when I see a fellow with a big square bulge in his hip pocket. Nothing like an icky wallet bulge to ruin what would otherwise be a wonderfully distracting male rear end. There are too few of those nicely shaped male nether regions these days. It's an absolute crime to have the nice ones mangled.

Hey, men are always staring at ours, why not admit it? We like theirs too...sans wallet bulge thank you very much....ahem....


It's even worse when the guy is wearing a suit.

I attended an event this week where I saw a few phenomenal men in very sexy suits. And a whole bunch of men who don't wear them well at all because of what I'm coming to view as "serious male fashion sins."
Let's consider James Bond, the quintessential ladies man, putting his life on the line for his country--saving the world in his $6000 suit--but let's consider him with with seven dollars worth of nickels and dimes clinking, clunking, and bulging from the front of his thighs. I can't help but return to the famous line from Kindgergarten Cop. "Maybe it's a tumor."
Somehow, I don't think we're going to see that in the next Bond film. Bond, of course, carries all the stuff he needs and a whole bunch of gadgets hidden in an immaculately tailored tuxedo. But that's film, and this is real life. And in real life, "tumors" abound.

Men used to get through life with a few bills in a money clip, a car key, and a house key, all which fit in their pockets with nary a tumor in sight. For a well dressed fellow in a nicely cut pair of trousers, any extra...um...anomalies...meant he was happy to see you.

Not so these days. Men carry stuff. Cell phones and laptops and sunglasses (expensive ones, which demand cases so they don't get scratched) and as they age, reading glasses maybe. They need Blackberries and keys for cars, houses, gym lockers, garages and motorcycles. They need newspapers and a paperback book for the commute to work on the train. They need power bars and an apple. They need music devices with all the wires and gizmos and accessories.


And let's face it. A briefcase doesn't work a lot of the time. And a backpack is hell on a nice jacket or a good shirt, and it makes your back all sweaty.

I understand the wish to travel light. I swear I do. I want the smallest purse I can carry that will hold the minimum necessary stuff. And I won't switch out purses. I don't have time. It has to work with all my clothes, or I'll be a fashion failure and that's just too bad. In some ways I guess I'm more like a guy than a girl when it comes to the whole "purse" phenomenon.






I have no idea when the "purse" came into use--I know the regency writers on the blog call them "reticules" in their stories--and ladies almost always had one with them.


They used them to carry their smelling salts I guess--since those corsets caused them to faint without warning--and to carry a little money to get home, in case the handsome rake turned out to be a big jerk and left you stranded.


Some things haven't changed all that much, have they?


If women weren't the first, they certainly weren't the ONLY people using some sort of bag to carry their stuff around....Scottish men wore, along with their kilts, sporrans. Rather handy and unencumbering I think--a much nicer, more elegant version of the fanny pack (which is, like a backpack, almost always ugly in my opinion.)





Here's a fellow, on the right, who looks rather dashing in his kilt and sporran, don't you think? I could be prejudiced by my Scottish heritage.


And below that there's an entire football team, and every one of them has a sporran. I'm thinkin these guys are not wimps, in spite of their blue socks.





I sometimes hear males dissing guys who wear kilts and sporrans--calling them sissies and other derogatory words that would suggest the well-dressed Scottish man has anatomy more akin to the female (those words will probably never make it into one of my blogs).

But I've also noticed that they don't say that stuff out loud if they're anywhere near a fellow like this, who for the sake of his sport (which, if you haven't seen it, involves tossing the equivalent of a telephone pole end over end) is probably having his lassie hold his purse...er..sporran.



Dude, what's in your purse?

Those words apparantly scare the..well..the male anatomy off of most men in the United States. It's my understanding that the Man Bag--or the Man Purse--has been popular in Europe for years. But here in the States, it's been slow to catch on. Why?

My own husband is a good example--not of the scared part. He isn't. But of the "stuff" part. The poor man has, for at least ten years, carried around a shaving kit. He carries it everywhere. It has his allergy meds, an extra knife, small flashlight, money, sundry bits of paper on which he's written addresses and emails of people he'll never contact but thought he would, business cards, breath mints, visine....

Basically, all the same stuff women carry in a purse--except the lipstick. Although he DOES carry chapstick. Still, that shaving kit doesn't have a strap--which means it keeps one of his hands busy. Impractical.

My husband has no fear of having his man card revoked. This man wears pink shirts--and looks awesome in them. Once, when we were very young and just married, he asked me to NEVER request that he buy feminine hygiene products for me. So I didn't. He has since apologized. Said he was young and stupid and can't really figure out what, exactly, he was embarrassed about, but he isn't now. I still haven't asked--some part of me still hasn't forgiven him I guess--for being embarrassed by his association with what was--and is-- part of me.


In spite of my bad attitude, I admit he's the best of the lot when it comes to this sort of thing. If I'm at a wine tasting I don't even have to ask. He just takes my purse off my shoulder and puts it on his--and WALKS AROUND THE STORE WITH IT so I can enjoy the wine tasting free of the weight hanging on my arm.


It's strange, but he has absolutely no fear of anything necessary to procreation falling off of his lower half if he holds my handbag.


But it seems my husband is the exception to the rule. And lately, he's been drooling over some nice leather (and very expensive) messenger bags--Man purses!.


One would think, that after seeing this man with his messenger bag that ALL men would wish to imitate him.

Honestly, that bag strapped onto his body detracts not one bit from his hotness.

And for a short time, it seemed that Jack Bauer had succeeded in bringing the practical to a level of acceptance....




But not so. Not yet anyhow. Of course there are a few fellows who've figured out how practical these are.

Here's a photo of a guy in a rather nice suit, complete with a designer Man Purse. Nary a pocket tumor in sight.....

And just for the Banditas in the lair who drool over Hugh Jackman, here's one for y'all. Does his messenger bag make him somehow less......hunky? His shoulders less broad? Chest less muscled? Biceps more wimpy?








Honestly, I'm curious about this whole man purse idea and the bag-carrying aversion some fellows seem to have.What do you suppose is the root of it?

For the ladies in the lair I've included a few examples of some pretty sparkly purses that are definitely girly. Somehow, I just can't see Indy or Jack Bauer with one of these, but maybe that's reverse prejudice?

And I can't see this guy worrying too much about losing his man card because he carries around a bag for his coins--you know, since kilts don't have pockets and therefore he can't indulge in wallet bulge and ruin our.....uhm.... view.





So tell me, what do y'all think of Man purses?

Ladies, Does your fellow carry a bag of some sort? Will he hold YOUR handbag without a fuss?

If he carries a bag, what does he carry in it?

Guys, will anything important fall off of your body if you carry a messenger bag to hold your stuff?

Remember that old show, Let's Make a Deal? The more stuff you had with you, the better! What's in YOUR messenger bag or purse right now? If you were offered $100 for a paper clip, would you win the money?

How many purses do you have in your closet? And do you change them out to match your outfits? Or are you like me, and stick with one you like?
Do you see a lot of guys carrying bags OTHER than backpacks?
And are any of the ladies like me--do you go "ick" at wallet bulge and pocket tumors?

155 comments:

Christine Wells said...

Moi?

Christine Wells said...

Hey, my so beautiful coq d'or. Viens avec moi!

I'll be back when I've read the post.

Uh, I might be a while...

Christine Wells said...

Oh, Cassondra, as usual, fantabulous post! I'm still snorking at the *tumor* :)

My husband has what he calls a 'nerd bag'. It's actually a beer cooler but it's an attractive design and just the right size for sunglasses, keys, a snack and a change of clothes for my 5yo in case of accidents when they go on their Saturday morning 'missions' together. And when we're at the beach he takes some cold ones in it as well while he goes fishing. It's quite stylish and it doesn't look effeminate. Not that he'd really care if it did.

Hey, check out my favourite handbag designer. They're so gorgeous.
http://www.spencerandrutherford.com/store/favourites-c34.html

Anna Campbell said...

Hey, Christine babe! Congratulations! He hasn't visited you for a while, has he? Put him on babysitting duty and come and have a party with me!

Cassondra, you have such a wonderful take on the world. I can't wait till you're climbing the bestseller lists with your latest opus! That was hilarious! And had some seriously sexy man candy as well. Especially that very handsome Scotsman in his evening rig. Whoo-hoo and och aye the noo!

Christine, as you know - because I tell you ALL the time - when I got my second three book contract from Avon late last year, I celebrated by buying myself a really fantastic handbag. And it's a Spencer and Rutherford. Anyone going to San Francisco, prepare to be dazzled! I'd never owned a decent handbag - it just wasn't me somehow. But I felt like the poor country cousin clutching my mother's rather sad black vinyl number to my bosom last year at Nationals. Now I can set out to give away Tim Tams with my head held high and a bag big enough to conk anyone who thinks they can come back for seconds! Ha!

Christine Wells said...

Hey, Fo, if there's one thing guaranteed to ruffle that rooster's feathers, it would be my two boys.

Yes, I'll be coveting your handbag at National (and the RITA inside it, no doubt!)

Anna Campbell said...

Snort!

Amy Andrews said...

Well it looks like the Aussies are all in the lair.....
Hi Cassondra - great post.

I'm afraid I'm a one handbag at a time kind of a gal. Wear it to death and then get another when it finally gives up the ghost. So it has to pretty much go with most of my clothes. I'm kind of the same with shoes too.
Have just bought a new handbag for SF cos I needed a bigger one and my usual one is looking rather ratty around the edges.

Wallet bulge doesn't bother me. Man bags don't bohter me. If the guy looks confident then I think it looks sexy regardless. Of course if he should also happen to look like Indianna or our Hugh then mores the better.

10 more sleeps.....

Anna Campbell said...

Hey, Miss Amy, did you know you're sitting next to our wonderful Beth Andrews at the literacy signing? How cool is that?

Jane said...

There are many metrosexuals in city, so you'll see a murse or two. Messenger bags are also popular her. Fanny packs are never okay. I have a collection of about 30 purses and bags. I switch them up every once in a while, sometimes according to my outfit. I always carry my wallet, keys, change purse, Purell, tissue, pen, nail clipper, lip balm and pressed powder.

Congrats on the GR, Christine.

Jennifer Y. said...

Um...I am a bit distracted by the hunk in a kilt up there...the first one. He is one good-looking man.

As to the questions...hmm...will I have my girl-card revoked if I admit I don't carry a purse? *ducks* I do own over a dozen purses/handbags and even more bags that could be used as purses (I guess), but I haven't really carried one around in a while. 1) Because I am not used to carrying one and 2) I'd probably lose it somewhere...LOL

If I leave the house, I usually have wallet in hand or something...not the smartest thing, I know. I did recently buy a couple of new purses and bags though (one for SF)...they were on sale and I thought having them might motivate me to carry one...LOL.

As for the question about men with bags...it's not a common site around here really...I live in the land of the wallet bulge. *sigh*

By the way, Let's Make a Deal is one of my fave gameshows (I keep wishing they'd bring it back...LOL) and I still watch reruns on the Gameshow Network...but I have wondered why the heck these people have so much junk in their purse, but then figured they crammed it full of stuff for the show...I hope.

Helen said...

Well done Christine I am sure he is going to have fun with you and the boys.

Cassondra you have such an amazing voice I love your posts I am really looking forward to reading your books when they are published.

Love the pictures Hugh Jackman be still my heart and guys in kilts you have made my day.

I have about 6 bags but really only use one I may occaisonally change it if I am going somewhere special but usually keep using the same one till it falls apart and I need to buy a new one.
My hubby had what they call here in Australia a bumbag for a long while because he kept loosing his wallet and then he needed some where for the phone and a few personal items that he needs but over time he put it away and just has the wallet and phone and keys in his pockets and his personal needs he keeps in a small bag in the car. I don't see a lot of guys here with bags although I live in the suburbs and don't get to the city much where I think there would be a lot more professional guys with them instead of briefcases.
I think they are a great idea for guys but I too think the guys think they are too feminine.

Have Fun
Helen

hrdwrkdmom aka Dianna said...

So tell me, what do y'all think of Man purses?
They are okay by me, I think they look better than cargo pants.

Ladies, Does your fellow carry a bag of some sort?
BF carries a laptop and anything else he needs is either stuffed in there or hooked to his belt.

Will he hold YOUR handbag without a fuss?
He will hold it but not without comment. My son will hold it like it is a live snake.


If he carries a bag, what does he carry in it?
I haven't really looked what else he carries besides the laptop, I just know he has stuff in there.

Remember that old show, Let's Make a Deal? The more stuff you had with you, the better! What's in YOUR messenger bag or purse right now? If you were offered $100 for a paper clip, would you win the money?
Oh yeah, I would get the money...LOL

How many purses do you have in your closet? And do you change them out to match your outfits? Or are you like me, and stick with one you like?
I have about three but only carry one until it dies. Nice neutral color that goes with everything and can hold my paperback.


Do you see a lot of guys carrying bags OTHER than backpacks?

Not that I have seen but as I said, I don't get out much. Work and home is the extent of my traveling.

And are any of the ladies like me--do you go "ick" at wallet bulge and pocket tumors?
Hmmmm, I am going to have to check this out, I always just assumed he was glad to see me! LOL BF carries a wallet but it doesn't bulge, that I would have noticed cos he has a nice butt and I look a lot.

Congrats on the GR Christine but keep your eye on the little devil.

Buffie said...

My dh would never use a man bag. Nope, never. He is a born and breed Southern guy and wouldn't even think of it. But don't get me started on what he carries in his briefcase!!!! But when it comes to carrying my purse in a store, he has no problem what so ever.

As far as what I carry in my purse. There so much stuff in that Vera bag that I probably don't know half of what is hiding in there. And my boys are forever putting things in it, just in case they need it.

Amy Andrews said...

Yes Fo - I'm very excited about sitting next to Beth at the book signing. Bring it on! We're gonna be loud and proud in the A's.

Did I mention only 10 more sleeps? And you know what that means? Single digits after tonight. Woohoooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!!

Terry Odell said...

DH has a tattered Lands End canvas briefcase for his work stuff. Hooks his keys, cellphone and ever-present Leatherman tool on his belt. Wallet in the back pocket, but it's never bothered me. (Sometimes I lift it when he's distracted). The circular bulges from chewing tobacco are more of a turnoff.

When we travel, he has a backpack with everything in it from full raingear to TP. And a camera bag.

I have two purses for day use, and two for evening, although now, I only use one for day. It's black, but I got it for South Africa, and it holds everything, so it's become my purse of choice.

My mother had a closet full of purses.

Gannon Carr said...

Great post, Cassondra! My dh is not the man bag type, but he never carries he's wallet in his back pocket either. Which leaves a perfect view for me! ;) He has no problem holding my purse if I ask him, but I doubt he'd carry his own.

As for my purses, there are way too many to count. I inherited quite a few from my MIL, and she was a champion purse-a-holic! I do get lazy about changing purses, though. *sigh*

Beth Andrews said...

Fun post, Cassondra! Like Buffie's dh, my husband would never carry a man purse. Not because he's afraid something important would fall off his body but because he doesn't carry around very much stuff *g* He doesn't have wallet bulge either because he doesn't carry his wallet in his back pocket :-)

Oh, and he has no problem holding my purse for me *g*

Honestly, if I had the income, I'd definitely have more purses. As it is, I only have a few and I rarely change them unless I have to.

Congrats on nabbing the GR, Christine! Loved the link with the gorgeous handbags *g*

Beth Andrews said...

Amy, I can't wait to meet you and sit next to you at the Lit Signing!! I'm so excited *g*

And if you want to toss a few extra Tim Tams into your purse that night (for sharing with your Lit Signing neighbors) that would be perfectly fine with me ;-)

(you didn't think I'd do it, did you Anna??)

I've been trying to think of something yummy I could bring to share but am coming up blank. Thank goodnesss I have 3 weeks to do some searching :-)

Joan said...

Cassondra, love the post as per usual.

Hmmmm....I think the pics of the guys in kilts (save the ball team) look EXTREMELY masculine. Not so much due to the sporrans but their posture. Arms out to the sides like they're getting ready to grab their claymore and defend Joanie T and thwart their enemies and...

Well, you get the picture. (THANKS for the Hugh pic btw)

While I've always known the sporrans were purses they remeind me more of a shield specifcally designed to protect the, uh REAL important equipment, LOL

As to modern day. I only know a few young guys who carry what I'd call satchels rather than purses. My brother wouldn't be caught dead with one but he wears his cell phone clipped to his belt like a modern day version of a rapier. And gosh, the FACE he puts on if I ask him to hold onto mine.

Wallet bulge is unattractive but as you say, there are fewer and fewer rear views to admire in the boys nowadays. I saw a guy out the other day and could tell by peripheral lines that his would be a fine view. But alas, he was wearing those )*(&^^ baggy jeans! Gah!

Remember I cleaned out my closets last fall and discovered 21 purses. I downsized to about 12 though I generally only use one per season. Medium size, enough strap to just hang off my shoulder. Just glancing in right now I have wallet, tylenol, multivitamins, 6 pens, tissue, sanitizer, lotion, brush, reciepts, coupons and a padlock :-)

Oh, and does a binder clip count as a paper clip? Could I get .50??

uxb said...

Cassondra's DH here.

As a general rule, I would prefer to travel light. My wallet consists of a small thin leather folder with only my driver's license and other photo ID, and I rarely carry it on my person. It's usually in my shaving kit.

I also almost always carry a small folding knife in my right front pocket. Wouldn't want to spoil "the view" in case anyone was looking.

I do carry the "shaving kit" to hold my essentials in one place. Let's see what is in there now...

Meds
Cash
Toothbrush and toothpaste (cleanliness is next to godliness, you know)
Artificial tears
Another small knife
Chapstick
Various and sundry receipts and bits of paper with phone numbers (no names - I only write down numbers. Then I find them later and say "Who is this?" and google to see who the number belongs to).

Herein lies the problem with a man purse. Or in my case, a cast-off back pack from Cassondra.

A purse is an enabler. It allows you to carry things you might not otherwise carry. After all, there is space that is available, might as well fill it up).

Let's see what is in there...

Reading glasses
Notebook
Binoculars
Collapsible Baton
Floppy Discs
Postage Stamps
Gov't paperwork
Catalogues
Night Vision Goggles
Fixed blade knife
Pistol with a silencer
Spare magazines with ammo for above pistol
Yet another notebook
Pens and pencils
Bits and pieces of fiction I am working on...

Waaaay more stuff than I would carry if not for the "space" available and the ability to carry it all at once.

Would I carry a man-purse? You betcha'. And I have no issues carrying Cassondra's purse.

I think the early aversion to buying hygiene products for Cassondra early in our marriage was more related to issues from a previous psychotic ex-GF. I have admitted my mistake and moved on...

I will admit that I will sometimes covet "man purses". Especially the supple leather ones that I see from time to time.

So, I do not have a favorite purse, but I'm always looking. ;)

I would have no qualms about wearing a kilt and sporran, either.

Joan said...

Welcome, uxb! Nice to meet ya!

NOW throw p226 in the mix....

uxb said...

Thanks, Joan!

I read here pretty regular, but this is my first time as a poster.

I was in bed too early to get the Golden Rooster...

Donna MacMeans said...

Dianna - we live the same life! I identified with everyone on your answers.

Jennifer y - I'm not sure how it would feel not to have a purse hanging off my shoulder. I'd be so uncomfortable thinking I'd forgotten something, I wouldn't be able to enjoy what I was doing.

Anna - can't wait to check out the new purse! Hope it's big enough to haul that RITA.

Christine - Congrats on snagging the rooster. Watch out for that camera, though.

jo robertson said...

Cassondra, great post! You had me from the get-go with "man card" and the whole concept of challenging masculinity.

Remember the "Friends" episode where Joey bought a man-purse? Hilarious!

I love the look of the male messenger bag. It's so practical and looks great. Dr. Big carries one when we're traveling, but around town, alas, just the wallet in the hip pocket.

Fortunately, around the house, it's the first thing to go, so I get to stare at his amazing butt all day. Trust me, this old man can wear a pair of jeans like nobody's business.

Congrats, Christine. Teach the fellow some French. I think he could do with a little refinement.

jo robertson said...

Oh, I forgot to say that when Dr. Big taught college, and had to wear a suit and tie every day, he carried a briefcase, so the line of his suits was never messed up. Hmmm, a man in a suit, dress shirt, and tie is still super smexy to me!

Kate Carlisle said...

Cassondra, brilliant post, as always! :-)

What a lovely way to start the morning, staring at photos of Hugh and Indie, and especially those delightful Scotsmen in their kilts! Thanks for that!

My DH carries a backpack. Yup. It's absolutely packed with stuff. I know he's got his laptop in there, but other than that, I don't wanna know!

The sound of change jiggling in pockets drives me insane! Men do that in the elevator and I want to grab them by the shoulders and shake them to make them stop! LOL

I carry one purse at a time, can't bother switching out for different outfits. And when I leave my office for lunch, I don't take my purse with me. I squeeze cash into my ID tag, loop my sunglasses onto my shirt, and that's it. Not very girly, but it works for me. :-)

Madame, tres bon sur le coq d'or!!

Terri Osburn said...

OMG! This is so fun. Great blog, Cassondra. We're always so behind the rest of the world when it comes to fashion forward stuff. But we have bigger cars! Har.

I'm a one purse girl. I usually use a black purse all winter then switch to a lighter color for spring and summer. Then back again in the fall. I know - booorrriiinnnggg.

I love that the picture with the dude, his suit and his purse is just some guy. Uhm, that's Becks! Total hottie but European which explains the murse comfortability.

Don't mind the wallet bulge within limits. Never dated (or married) a guy willing to carry a purse. Cargo pants don't bother me, but the tons of stuff in the front pockets does. Leave the change at home!

Cassondra said...

Ah! Well done, Christine! Outfit the little fellow with a rooster-sized man-purse while he's at your place will you?

Cassondra said...

Oooh, Christine, those bags are unusual! Such gorgeous colors. I love the little applique backpack-style purse.

Hmmm....didn't see any Man Purses there...Lemme look again.

And your dh sounds like he has his priorities just right! A man purse that can hold alcohol? Well....I'm thinking that might actually win over some otherwise reluctant men.

Cassondra said...

Anna Campbell said:

And had some seriously sexy man candy as well. Especially that very handsome Scotsman in his evening rig.

Amen sistah! (Waves hanky) That is one of the finest looking gentlemen I've seen in a kilt. I wish I could see the tartan more clearly. It's a bit dark in the photo. I can't make out enough of the castle either, to guess at his clan. Darn. He could be my cousin or something. It doesn't look like Blair castle does it? Perhaps I'm safe in ogling him.

Cassondra said...

Amy Andrews said:

I'm afraid I'm a one handbag at a time kind of a gal. Wear it to death and then get another when it finally gives up the ghost. So it has to pretty much go with most of my clothes. I'm kind of the same with shoes too.

Aha! I'm not the only one! I was feeling practically un-girly because I won't take the time to switch out bags! But I'd be forgetting something--"it's in my other purse"--I hear this line all the time and just can't see the point of it. Also, I have such a hard time finding one I like and am willing to carry.

It's a bit like underwear you know? If your purse irritates you, it's with you all day long. I have to find one that's shaped just right, that I can get into easily but stuff won't fall out of...not too big, not too small--MUST be made of leather, no fake leather....not clunky but not just a floppy thing either...I'm WAY too picky.

Cassondra said...

Jane said:

There are many metrosexuals in city, so you'll see a murse or two. Messenger bags are also popular her. Fanny packs are never okay. I have a collection of about 30 purses and bags. I switch them up every once in a while, sometimes according to my outfit. I always carry my wallet, keys, change purse, Purell, tissue, pen, nail clipper, lip balm and pressed powder.

See, I figured this. The man bag is going to be more common in urban areas of course--with some legitimate reason I'd say, since people will be taking trains to work rather than everyone driving his/her own vehicle. And of course, cities are often the first to adopt new ideas--for good or for ill.

I think fanny packs are just ugly, but they had their day, didn't they? They were SO popular for a while.

And I think this type of list for purse contents must be key to the "changing purses" thing. It's a pared down list.

Kudos to you Jane, for not carrying everything and the kitchen sink in your handbag. Of course, you won't have a chance on Let's Make a Deal but the payoff is, you'll look MUCH better than the rest of us.

Cassondra said...

jennifer Y said:

...hmm...will I have my girl-card revoked if I admit I don't carry a purse? *ducks* I do own over a dozen purses/handbags and even more bags that could be used as purses (I guess), but I haven't really carried one around in a while.

NO, absolutely not. I did this for a while. For about three years I'd keep a bag in the car with emergency stuff, but took only my little leather ID case with some cash and credit card in a pocket. It was kind of liberating actually. I put all my change in the bins for people in need, or the little penny containers lots of stores keep by the register.

But then I got older and started needing reading glasses to see the restaurant check, and I caught sight of myself in a store mirror once and scared myself and decided I needed to carry a lipstick. And business cards. And I started keeping all my receipts that had potential as tax deductions.....well...that's how it starts. Now I never go anywhere without ibuprofen.

The sad thing is, I hate my present purse. I liked the one before it(which was a Ralph Lauren--I LOVED when he was doing soft leather that was neither brown nor black but sort of both--I always matched), but needed something larger.

That's how it starts you know. You just start needing more and more stuff. I think once you become a mom (which I've never been, but I've observed this happening) you could NEVER go back. Once you've carried diaper bags and a "mom purse" complete with goldfish and animal crackers for snacks, I figure then, it's just over.

Fedora said...

Woo! Congrats, Christine! Does the GR carry a murse?

Cassondra, definitely another fabulous post! My husband is guilty of at least slight wallet bulge. I'm not much for purses since I've been carrying around a diaper bag for years now (and not the cute stylish ones, no, not me!)--but my youngest isn't in diapers anymore, so I could definitely splurge on a new bag...

As for Let's Make a Deal, if they're looking for candy wrappers or granola bar bits or half shredded Kleenex, then I've got it all wrapped up ;)

Cassondra said...

helen said:

I have about 6 bags but really only use one I may occaisonally change it if I am going somewhere special but usually keep using the same one till it falls apart and I need to buy a new one.

Oh good. Another who doesn't change purses regularly. I have maybe six or seven purses total. And three of those are evening bags--for when you can't really be seen with a big honkin' purse full of stuff cuz it just ruins the look, you know? Now I'm feeling less alone in the "purse world." It's just too time consuming to fool with changing purses.

My hubby had what they call here in Australia a bumbag

Oh, that's kind of a cool name actually---well...I guess depending on which meaning for "bum" is intended.....I've never heard that name for a man bag.

Cassondra said...

hrdwrkdmom aka dianna said:

Will he hold YOUR handbag without a fuss?
He will hold it but not without comment. My son will hold it like it is a live snake.


*sigh*

There it is. Your fellows are afflicted with the common purse phobia--a disease so prevalent it may be the death knell of the whole man bag culture....*sigh*

Dianna, have you ever noticed anything...well...missing from your men after they've held your purse?

Cassondra said...

Buffie said:

But when it comes to carrying my purse in a store, he has no problem what so ever.

Well now see? That proves he, at least, isn't scared of a purse. That's a start I think!

And my boys are forever putting things in it, just in case they need it.

HA! Proof! We have proof of how this disease gets started. Little boys get the idea that females will lug their stuff around for them! Hmmmm. Maybe we should start giving little boys tiny "man bags" for their Matchbox cars and little green army men--they'd grow up more organized don't you think?

Cassondra said...

Amy Andrews said:

Yes Fo - I'm very excited about sitting next to Beth at the book signing. Bring it on! We're gonna be loud and proud in the A's.

And Jeanne Adams will be somewhere close by too won't she? The A's are lookin good.

Cassondra said...

terry odell said:

The circular bulges from chewing tobacco are more of a turnoff.

Oh YEAH. I didn't even think about mentioning those. The snuff boxes. They don't do anything for the male anatomy either. Ick.

Y'all remember when it was the thing to roll up a cigarette pack in your t-shirt sleeve if you were a guy (okay some of you are too young to remember this--I am almost too young but I've seen lots of pics of it.) I presume that was to keep your cigarettes from getting squished when you sat down? I'm kind of glad about that whole thing. Otherwise we'd have an ugly rectangular bulge in EACH hip pocket.

uxb said...

Cassondra said "Maybe we should start giving little boys tiny "man bags" for their Matchbox cars and little green army men--they'd grow up more organized don't you think?"

Even the grown up ones would benefit from a man bag. It's not too late.

I am more organized now that I have all my "stuff" ahem..."essentials" in one place instead of scattered within my sphere of influence.

Cassondra said...

gannon carr said:

My dh is not the man bag type, but he never carries he's wallet in his back pocket either. Which leaves a perfect view for me! ;)

Ah, a man of style and...intelligence obviously. (grin)

Cassondra said...

Beth said:

my husband would never carry a man purse. Not because he's afraid something important would fall off his body but because he doesn't carry around very much stuff *g* He doesn't have wallet bulge either because he doesn't carry his wallet in his back pocket :-)

Oh, and he has no problem holding my purse for me *g*


Well, you obviously chose well sistah. All the right answers. No wallet bulge to spoil the view, no unnatural fear of YOUR purse, and travels light. Hmmmm. What's not to like?

Cassondra said...

Joanie said:

I saw a guy out the other day and could tell by peripheral lines that his would be a fine view. But alas, he was wearing those )*(&^^ baggy jeans! Gah!

Joanie, I mourn with you. It's a crime. Ultra baggy pants on men are a crime. I really have been hoping that was a trend that would go away. :0/ That's all I have to say about that.

Oh, and does a binder clip count as a paper clip? Could I get .50?? I figure a binder clip would be worth at least that, yeah. I probably have a few of those in my bag as well, from mailing off contest entries.....

Cassondra said...

uxb said:

Cassondra's DH here

Uh oh. Better be on my best behavior....

Waaaay more stuff than I would carry if not for the "space" available and the ability to carry it all at once.

BLEEEEEEEEP! You carried all that stuff before. It was just scattered all over and you were always leaving pieces of it somewhere. (grin)

Actually there is some merit to this hypothesis. I think we can get by with lots less stuff than we're used to. But as I've grown older, it's true. I need more stuff with me.

I have to say though, that the backpack in question cost $80 and is, perhaps, the worst piece of equipment I have ever purchased. I hated it from day one. It's big and cumbersome and poorly balanced.

I'm glad you like it though.

For you who don't know, I now have my laptop in a Ralph Lauren leather tote that I already owned. uxb carries it for me regularly. ;0)

Cassondra said...

Donna said:

Dianna - we live the same life! I identified with everyone on your answers.

Really Donna? I figured your DH would hold your purse with absolutely no issues. How interesting!

Cassondra said...

Jo said:

I love the look of the male messenger bag. It's so practical and looks great.

I agree Jo!

Fortunately, around the house, it's the first thing to go, so I get to stare at his amazing butt all day. Trust me, this old man can wear a pair of jeans like nobody's business.

WOOOOOT! Cheers all around!

Okay I'm going to tell on my husband. This was before I knew him, but I've heard from several reliable sources that when he was in college (this was a university btw) he was voted as having "the best butt in jeans" on the ENTIRE campus.

Is there any wonder why I have such an aversion to wallet bulge?

So Jo, I'm right there with you...er...metaphorically.

Cassondra said...

Jo said:

Oh, I forgot to say that when Dr. Big taught college, and had to wear a suit and tie every day, he carried a briefcase, so the line of his suits was never messed up.

CLEARLY a man of good judgement. And good..uh...well...ahem...I'll take Jo's word for it.

Cassondra said...

Kate said:

What a lovely way to start the morning, staring at photos of Hugh and Indie, and especially those delightful Scotsmen in their kilts! Thanks for that!

You're welcome Kate. Sorry about the blue socks on the football team. I think it must be a uniform thing or something. I've never seen such a thing in the real world....I tried to look past it to the chests and shoulders actually.....

The sound of change jiggling in pockets drives me insane! Men do that in the elevator and I want to grab them by the shoulders and shake them to make them stop! LOL

Indeed. More sins related to pocket tumors.

And at least your husband carries a bag of some sort. Far better than cargo pants. It has to be their choice of course. Maybe one day the messenger bag will make its way into general acceptance...*sigh*

Jennifer Y. said...

NO, absolutely not. I did this for a while. For about three years I'd keep a bag in the car with emergency stuff, but took only my little leather ID case with some cash and credit card in a pocket. It was kind of liberating actually. I put all my change in the bins for people in need, or the little penny containers lots of stores keep by the register.

That's what I do...I had to get another little ID case though last week because I had worn out the one I have used since I was in college.

I think once you become a mom (which I've never been, but I've observed this happening) you could NEVER go back. Once you've carried diaper bags and a "mom purse" complete with goldfish and animal crackers for snacks, I figure then, it's just over.

I have observed the same thing from my sis and sis-in-law. My sis asked me to get her something from it one day and I had to dig through bags of crackers, wipes, tissues, toys, and other various kid items. I think the same things happen with cars. Before kids my sis's little car was spotless...now it's a minivan filled with toys, spare clothes, wipes, diapers, and she is calling mom to find out how to get melted crayon (or was it a birthday candle? I can't remember) out of clothes because one somehow found it's way into her seat.

Cassondra said...

Terrio said:

I love that the picture with the dude, his suit and his purse is just some guy. Uhm, that's Becks! Total hottie but European which explains the murse comfortability.

Yup. David Beckham. I wondered if somebody would notice. ;0)

Cassondra said...

flchen1 said:

I'm not much for purses since I've been carrying around a diaper bag for years now (and not the cute stylish ones, no, not me!)--but my youngest isn't in diapers anymore, so I could definitely splurge on a new bag...

See, now herein lies the EXACT problem that I have. I now carry my laptop with me pretty much everywhere--if I go out, it goes in the car with me--in its leather bag, which is really a fair-sized tote bag. But I don't want to lug that thing into the supermarket to grocery shop, so I ALSO have to carry along a purse...so wherever I go, I have this BAG,AND a purse.

I admit, like parents with their ton-o-gear necessary to sustain baby life, that I feel encumbered. The thing about the man bag is that everything goes in there. One bag does it all. I would like to find such a useful bag. I have in fact fondled the leather messenger bags that I've seen---I've SAID I was looking for uxb, but actually I was thinking--would this work for ME? I would have no issues with carrying a "male-oriented" bag. none. If I like it and it's attractive and fits the need, I'm there.

Flchen, I think it's definitely time to switch to a purse--get yourself a nice one and enjoy now that diapers are no longer necessary. The thing is, that if the kids are small, you'll have to have a mom-sized purse no matter what. One that will take granola bar stains and wipe clean from melted m&ms....ah well...as life changes, so must our gear-toting accessories, right?

Cassondra said...

Jennifer said:

That's what I do...I had to get another little ID case though last week because I had worn out the one I have used since I was in college.

But just think! You know all those cutie pie little bitty purses with eensy teensy straps--the ones none of the rest of us can use cuz they won't hold all our stuff? YOU COULD GET THOSE!!! THEY WOULD WORK FOR YOU!!!!

And you'd be the envy of every woman with an unfortuntely over-large purse. I used to carry big purses, then I got aggravated and went to a really small one, and pared down what I carried. Then I got old. :0/

AND I often carry a personal defense weapon, so the purse has to be able to handle the bulk and weight of that too. Sigh. I fear I'll never have a small, cute bag again.

Trish Milburn said...

My husband carries a bag, but it's for his laptop. Can't imagine him carrying a messenger bag. Lots of times his stuff ends up in my purse.

I recently culled a bunch of stuff from my closet, so now I just have 18 purses. :) The shoe total is way more impressive.

Trish Milburn said...

Oh, meant to say I love kilts on guys. I'd like to see guys call the guys who fought at Culloden a bunch of wussies and live to tell about it.

The wallet bulge doesn't bother me. What does is Skoal can bulge. Ick.

Terri Osburn said...

I think we might be missing a question here. I know there are NOT many single gals here, but if you are single *cough*JoanieAnna*cough* would you go out with a guy wearing a man purse?

I have to be honest and say I'm not sure I would.

Cassondra said...

Trish said:

I recently culled a bunch of stuff from my closet, so now I just have 18 purses. :) The shoe total is way more impressive.

This..THIS is why I will never make it in the fashion world. EIGHTEEN purses? I think I might have eighteen pairs of shoes--including the grubby old running shoes that have been relegated to yard work.....

You people astonish me.

Trish do you actually CARRY all of those purses--I mean--not all at once of course, but EVER?

Cassondra said...

Trish said:

Oh, meant to say I love kilts on guys. I'd like to see guys call the guys who fought at Culloden a bunch of wussies and live to tell about it.

Amen SISTAH! *High Five from Kentucky*

Cassondra said...

terrio said:

I have to be honest and say I'm not sure I would.

Seriously terrio?

Oh I would in a heartbeat--I mean--look at Indy. Now I'm not sure I'd go out with Beckham because I'm guessing he knows he's pretty and that's usually a turn off. I have no idea whether he DOES know this or not, but I'm just sayin.

But if I were still single I'd go out with one of these guys in a HEARTBEAT--assuming they were as nice as they LOOK. Being a jerk cancels out looking good. But his carrying a man bag would not bother me at all.

Cassondra said...

Terrio, tell us WHY it would bother you? I'm interested in this. If guys have a legitimate reason--and there is some prejudice against men carrying bags because they are in fact perceived as effeminate by some women, then I can see their reluctance...

Joan said...

Terrio,

Interesting question. The messenger bag deal I wouldn't mind at all...it doesn't really SAY purse to me, no matter that its contents may well rival mine.

But see, there would be many other things that would attract my notice and influence my decision to go out with him. Is he nice? Does he make me laugh? Does he look good in a loincloth? LOL.

But on satchel alone, no it wouldn't.

Joan said...

PS Got anybody in mind? It's been a bit of a dry spell

:-)

Claudia Dain said...

Not only does DH hold my handbag without a fuss, so did my sons when they were teens! They'd even offer to carry it when it was obvious that I was tired. How sweet is that?!

No handbags for men. Ugh. Not appealing. DH has a modified money clip, slim section for credit cards and DL. No bulges. No change jingling. No comb. No chapstick.

I have enough handbags for 50 women. I used to change them often, for the outfit, but now I'm too lazy.

Terri Osburn said...

Lessee, first we have to take out the Indy/Hugh part. Because I'm not stupid enough to turn down a guy who looks like that no matter what he's carrying.

I think it's what I'm used to. I've never known or been around a guy who carried something like that. Would seem strange. Now, if I met a guy, we went out and I liked him, then one day he pops up with the murse, I wouldn't drop him because of it.

Maybe I would need a period of adjustment. In fear of sounding like a cavewoman, it just doesn't look...manly.

Gosh, I'm not looking good here am I? LOL!

Terri Osburn said...

Joanie - yo & me in San Fran. Surely we can scope out two dudes somewhere.

Claudia wrote:
No handbags for men. Ugh. Not appealing.

See! Claudia's backing me up here.

Cassondra said...

TICD said:

Not only does DH hold my handbag without a fuss, so did my sons when they were teens! They'd even offer to carry it when it was obvious that I was tired. How sweet is that?!

... DH has a modified money clip, slim section for credit cards and DL. No bulges. No change jingling. No comb. No chapstick.


Claudia, CLEARLY you have the best of ALL worlds. Interesting though, that you don't like bags for men, and if I call them a "handbag" then I don't like the idea much either. I admit that I had a whole slew of pics of guys that I culled and did not include in the blog photos--all with teensy little bitty coin purses on straps and one guy with a black alligator clutch and I thought--UGH.

I think there is a line there for me, that says "purse" instead of "man purse or man bag" and the messenger bag does nicely in my view. But for you and Terrio--no murses allowed! ;0)

I think maybe it's the "pretty" factor--whether it's fluffy and/or fancy. A guy's bag should be more functional than anything else I guess. Function before fluff. I guess it's our culture. It seems that the women are the ones expected to decorate ourselves and when men do the same it strikes us as odd? Hmmmm. Kind of indefinable for me I guess, but the messenger bags--I love those. Anything I would call an actual handbag? No.

Cassondra said...

Terrio said:

Claudia wrote:
No handbags for men. Ugh. Not appealing.

See! Claudia's backing me up here.


Oh no worries. To be sure, you are not the only one who feels this way. I seriously doubt these will ever catch on in rural communities across the south and midwest.

But honestly, if he's hot, he's hot--and if he has a nice scruffy messenger bag slung across his body, well that's okay by me It doesn't cool the hotness at all.

Trish Milburn said...

Cassondra, I do change out purses mainly once every season or so. Lighter purses for spring and summer, darker ones for fall and winter. But a lot of them are what I call conferences purses. They're the matching handbags that go with various conference outfits and formal gowns.

Now shoes, I've got 45 pairs, not counting the grubby ones that are used to work in the yard. Again, a lot of these just get worn at conferences and other writing events.

Cassondra said...

Terrio said:

I think it's what I'm used to. I've never known or been around a guy who carried something like that. Would seem strange.

This is the root of all of it I think. They're very popular, apparantly, in Europe, and have been for years. I saw lots of them in London when I studied there--and that was many years ago. When I was on campus recently I saw a lot of this type of bag, so it's not so hard for me to adjust to seeing them on the street. And now that we have laptops, we're getting used to seeing EVERYBODY walking around with one type of bag or another.

Just like funky colored stripes in hair, mohawks when they first came out, longer hair on guys, and now, (grits teeth) facial piercings (I don't think I'll ever like those).

When we're not used to it, it just takes an adjustment period.

One of the things that got me started on this topic was that a couple of years ago our friend came back from Iraq after a tour with the Air Force there. He'd carried what was, basically, a murse, the entire time--it held his passport and money and other stuff that you wear under your clothing in hostile areas or countries where you're likely to have your pocket picked.

He got addicted to it. His was all grungy when he came back to the States and our big hunky firefighter buddy went around looking for another "murse."

Cassondra said...

Trish said:

Now shoes, I've got 45 pairs

Hmmmm. I realize that your shoe collection probably pales in comparison to real shoe divas, but to me, that's a LOT of shoes.

I also have more dress shoes than anything else--because they don't get worn as often and last longer.

It's the storage issue for me. In this OLD house, we don't have closets. There's no place to put 45 pairs of shoes! Maybe I need to build an addition. Y'all are making me feel shoe deprived!

Tom said...

I was going to give your Husband a pass on the pink shirt, until you started talking about his habits with your purse.

Sorry, but your Husbands ManCard has been revoked.

Carol said...

Hi to all,
Congrats Christine for inviting the GR back to Au,
Does not the GR have his own fabulous Armani Bag of Holding! Filled with mementoes from all over the world!

http://my.nymag.com/kennysanghera/myfashion/Man-Bags/?rm=view_album&view=slideshow&offset=0&start_at_index=28&top=1000

Lovely post today Cassondra! especially on the eye!
Cheers Carol

p226 said...

Ironically, when I was in the military, we were not allowed to use our cargo pockets for ANYTHING on base. It was even discouraged in the field during training. However, when actually deployed, no one said anything if you had magazines or assorted gear jammed in there.

Having anything heavy in them was pretty uncomfortable during a hump. Stuff would beat against the backs of your thighs. Pretty maddening after a few miles. That stuff would be better off in your pack.

Now, to some of the questions cassondra asks. No, I'll not be carrying a man purse. I prefer a back-pack if for some reason I have to carry more crap than what fits comfortably in my pockets. I like things to be attached. A purse (man purse or otherwise) is simply too easily stripped from your body. I've seen first-hand purse-snatchings that involved a knife ripping through a strap, and off they go.

I have a portage system for all of my day to day gear. ID, cell phone, keys, nicotine, knife, firearm, and spare mags are all securely attached to me, or in pockets. Shortly, I'll be adding a nice compact flashlight to the mix. None of those items are going to be easily snatched from my possession should I be caught unawares. If I have to carry more, a backpack is called for. A single flick of a blade will not part you from a backpack, or place you into a losing tug-of-war where you have the sliced end of a cut strap, and a thief has the bulk of the bag for leverage.

I feel secure with my system. And not in a "secure in my masculinity" sense. I mean physical security over those possessions.

So, I suppose cassondra would judge me as chock full of those tumors.

Now, as to holding my wife's purse. I have no problem at all doing that. Should anyone decide it's somehow degrading or less than masculine, I'd encourage them to hang around long enough for my wife to return. Given that she causes whiplash and traffic accidents just walking down the street, I suspect that those same deriding souls would form a line to hold her purse if given the opportunity.

But a purse for me? No. Not secure enough. As for the tumors? Who cares, no one's looking at me anyway. I'm not out to impress anyone. In fact, I prefer to be as anonymous as possible nearly 100% of the time. And if they are looking at me? They must be bored. And if they're looking too hard at me, they'll likely notice "tumors" in familiar shapes here or there.

No, my days of "dressing to impress" are long gone. Unless I'm on the stand. Then it's a sport jacket, and no tumors. All that gear locked away somewhere else.

p226 said...


Sorry, but your Husbands ManCard has been revoked.


I assure you, that if you're talking about uxb, his man-card is irrevokable. He earned his life-time man card long ago. UXB could dance burlesque in fishnets, and you could not remove his man card.

Cassondra said...

Carol, thanks for the great link! Some yummy-looking guys on that runway.

Joan said...

None of those items are going to be easily snatched from my possession should I be caught unawares.

Unawares? Pftttt....I doubt that.

Who cares, no one's looking at me anyway.

Hmmm.. Are you sure p226? Really?


Turn around. :-)

Terri Osburn said...

*looks over Joanie's shoulder*

Do you think that's the knife or the....err...nevermind.

Cassondra said...

p226 wrote:

So, I suppose cassondra would judge me as chock full of those tumors.

Hmmm. I've SEEN you and I don't remember you having any unattractive "tumors" anywhere visible.

Actually things worn on the belt don't generally detract from a man's appearance to me. It's the pants pockets stuffed way too full that ruin the look.

And as to the backpack, you know I never felt as secure with a backpack. The thing was so darn HEAVY, and I found that anyone could walk up behind me in a crowd and unzip compartments and take stuff out really FAST. Further, it was so "back heavy" that it made it easy for someone to just grab it and tip me backwards. But I'm small, and the backpack was normal-size, so security for me was better with a strap across my body (which was how I always carried a bag when I was out of the country). And of course, this blog is about MEN and what they carry or don't, and that's a different matter from what I would choose for myself.

I think in high-risk areas that a reinforced strap would be a good idea. But if one is spending much time in those areas I think a different mentality would be in effect other than simply what "looks good" or what doesn't.

I guess I think Bond, in his films, is the only one who can actually carry all that gadgetry and look the way he looks--because it's film and not real.

The discussion of what is secure against attack is an entirely different one, but a valid one for certain.

And even if your wife wasn't the type who could stop traffic by walking by, I do have the sense from knowing you that you would still hold her purse if she needed you to-and not worry a bit about your masculinity. ;0)

catslady said...

What I can't stand is the fact that my husband and kids make me carry their stuff because they don't want to carry it themselves!

p226 said...

Hmmm. I've SEEN you and I don't remember you having any unattractive "tumors" anywhere visible.

I'd been in court all day. Meaning, it was a tumorless day.

Fedora said...

Cassondra, it's so true, even when I venture into the small purse category, I end up grabbing a tote bag filled with the rest of the junk and lugging that around, too--and then like you, I've got TWO bags! Argh!

And you mentioned carrying a personal defense weapon--well, at times, my bag IS the personal defense weapon ;)

Cassondra said...

catslady said:

What I can't stand is the fact that my husband and kids make me carry their stuff because they don't want to carry it themselves!

*High Five*

Totally. If they can't carry it on their person, with their chosen form of "transport" then I think they need an augmented form of transport. (not so for little bitty kids, of course) Girlfriend, tell 'em that making use of mom's purse is lame if they don't carry their own! (evil grin)

Not tryin' to get you in trouble or anything. (whistles, looks the other way)

Terry Odell said...

Back in the day, I always had a purse because I worried that something would bother my contacts, so I didn't feel safe unless I had my glasses. And then all the other stuff builds up. DH is a stickler for not leaving the house without ID, so it's just easier to have a purse.

However, when I didn't want to bring a purse to an evening function, he was more than willing to put my lipstick in his jacket pocket. I broke him of assuming I'd carry his keys early on.

He'll hold my purse, wait around dressing rooms, and has even accompanied me to the lingerie stores.

My son in law wore a kilt for his wedding blessing ceremony (held back in England a year after he and my daughter got married in her backyard in Maine, where he wore shorts and neither wore shoes.) His family wanted a formal celebration.

As for backpacks -- I find the drawback is being whacked with them when dh turns around too fast and forgets I'm behind him.

Cassondra said...

P226 said:

I'd been in court all day. Meaning, it was a tumorless day.

Ah. I do remember that. The deposition that would not die...

Hmmmm. I'll have to do further recon to determine if you fall into the tumor category.

Oh, and you know what? UXB has the same story about not being allowed to carry stuff in his cargo pockets. He has a little bitty stuffed bunny--no bigger than a medium-sized lemon really--(named Ernie I think) and that little worn out bunny is jump qualified.

When Uxb went to Jump School they weren't allowed to carry ANYTHING in their cargo pockets--because when they did parachute landing falls they'd hit the ground HARD and anything in the pockets could cause injury. Uxb was totally legal the entire training until it was time for his last qualifying jump, and he had Ernie in his right side cargo pocket.

So Ernie the little stuffed rabbit earned his jump wings that day.

I'd forgotten about the "nothing in the cargo pockets" rule until you mentioned that.

Cassondra said...

flchen said:

And you mentioned carrying a personal defense weapon--well, at times, my bag IS the personal defense weapon ;)

HA! You know it. But my darn laptop tote is so heavy I couldn't swing it if I needed to! Stuff tends to collect in there. If I can't find something I need, after a given amount of searching the house I'll start digging in my tote--sure enough--that's where it'll be.

Part of the problem is that I still like paper for a planner and phone numbers and stuff. I have numbers programmed into my phone, but when I'm talking to somebody I need to scribble--I need a calendar that's visual--a whole month at a time so I can make little notes and write numbers in the boxes for the days, and I need legal pads to write lists and ideas...and (heavy sigh) I end up carrying all that stuff around with me.

I just can't scribble on a little digital device ya know? The older I get, the more stuff is required to maintain me.

I actually am upset by this. :0/

Cassondra said...

Do you think that's the knife or the....err...nevermind

I'm guessing it's the barrel of the 228. (whistles, looks away, acts casual)

Claudia Dain said...

The way I look at it, Indy was carrying a 1930s version of a backpack and for the same reason: he was in the wild and needed survival gear. You want to carry a bag like that? Be climbing the Andes or canoing down the Ganges. Walking the streets of LA? Uh, no. I don't care how tough the mean streets are!

Of course, I'm the sort of woman who melts when DH wears a torn, worn flannel shirt. In fact, when I met him he didn't have a single item of clothing that didn't have a rip, tear, or stain on it. Drool. I like a manly man. DH can't even be bothered to wear sunglasses! Me? I have 4 pair. *G*

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Cassondra said: I think once you become a mom (which I've never been, but I've observed this happening) you could NEVER go back. Once you've carried diaper bags and a "mom purse" complete with goldfish and animal crackers for snacks, I figure then, it's just over.

SO true! Not only would I win the $100, but I could supply a bink (pacifier), about 20 pens in varying colors, a Swiss Army Knife (one of the big ones), binder clips, soldiers, aliens, and a Thomas train or two. There, my own office supplies, transportation and defense all in one bag. Snork!

I do change out purses, but not with any regularity. I have around 15 with the fancy ones included. Like you, Cassondra, they have to be leather.

Murses don't bother me. My DH carries a briefcase and as someone else mentioned, I don't really WANT to know what's in there. It might have once been alive... He'll hold mine w/o a thought to it. Very secure he is. :> No back-pocket wallet to obscure the view, yeah! Like Dr. Big, my DH can flat out wear a pair of jeans. Grins.

MEN IN KILTS. Yum. I think a couple of the blue-stockings have on Ferguson Tartans which would be my kinfolk. Not sure about Mr. Handsome. Thanks for Hugh. Yum.

Got my DH in a McLeod kilt. Oh. My. Goodness.....

Love the caber toss pic too.

Brilliant as always, my evil twin. Christine, great grab up on the GR!

Joan said...

So Ernie the little stuffed rabbit earned his jump wings that day.

Awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww.....that's so cute!

Cassondra said...

P226 said:

UXB could dance burlesque in fishnets, and you could not remove his man card

We could watch Tom try. (evil grin) That would be entertaining.

Cassondra said...

TICD said:

I like a manly man.

Believe it or not, I'm exactly this way. The other Banditas will tell you that when we have drool fests and bring up hot men, I'm the one who goes for the scruffy ones--the ones a little rough around the edges. Daniel Day Lewis in LOTM, Viggo as Aragorn, Tom Selleck as Quigley...not too polished.

But for some reason I actually like the look of the messenger bag and it fits the whole long line of "manly man" bags in my psyche. I'm not entirely sure why, but I think maybe it's the Indy influence. HE was probably the first to carry stuff around on film--as a rugged guy--in a messenger bag (though his was beat up canvas and not leather).

There's the Scot warriors and their sporrans, the Native Americans with their leather pouches for carrying game and other stuff, and now.....the messenger bag. All the better if it's kinda scarred up and looks like it's seen a bit of the world, but hey, you have to start somewhere.

There are a number of things that scream "not manly" to me=(the above-mentioned facial piercings would be one). But this type of bag does not push those buttons at all.

Cassondra said...

Jeanne (my evil twin) said:
My DH carries a briefcase and as someone else mentioned, I don't really WANT to know what's in there. It might have once been alive.

Amen to that. I quit looking for anything in my husband's briefcase or backpack years ago. It's too scary.

Love the caber toss pic too.

Are those some arms and shoulders or NOT?

I'm just sayin. (fans self)

Cassondra said...

TICD said:

DH can't even be bothered to wear sunglasses! Me? I have 4 pair. *G*

Claudia, will he carry an umbrella?

My husband is all about the sunglasses because he has dry eye syndrome and the sunglasses help keep stuff out of his eyes. But an umbrella? He'll carry one for ME, but as far as using one for himself, you'd think the thing had never been invented. He's oblivious.

I have observed this ignorance of any knowledge of umbrellas in a number of men.

p226 said...

I have observed this ignorance of any knowledge of umbrellas in a number of men.

You spend enough time in the field, you realize rain's just water. It doesn't hurt. And you'll eventually dry out.

A hat's helpful for keeping it out of your eyes. But that's about all the shelter you need.

Cassondra said...

Joan said:

Awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww.....that's so cute!

Ernie the Rabbit is a cutiepie.

Old and a little fragile now, but he wears those jump wings like an honest to gosh Airborne rabbit.

Cassondra said...

P226 said:

You spend enough time in the field, you realize rain's just water. It doesn't hurt. And you'll eventually dry out.

I'm good with that when I'm searching in woods for a lost person or training for same. But when I'm on my way to work or a social event....Umbrellas are good things.

Terry Odell said...

You spend enough time in the field, you realize rain's just water. It doesn't hurt. And you'll eventually dry out.

I'm good with that when I'm searching in woods for a lost person or training for same. But when I'm on my way to work or a social event....Umbrellas are good things.


Yeah, I prefer to avoid ruining good fabric, or the clinging and see-through effect of wet clothing.

And living in Florida, the rain plummets and can raise black-and-blues. Of course, if it's windy, then the umbrella is useless against horizontal rain. But DH will carry the umbrella until it's needed. Then, it's graciously turned over to me, and he moves as far away as possible to avoid eye-pokage.

Cassondra said...

Terry Odell said:

My son in law wore a kilt for his wedding blessing ceremony (held back in England a year after he and my daughter got married in her backyard in Maine, where he wore shorts and neither wore shoes.) His family wanted a formal celebration.

Oh, man Terry, I bet that was a gorgeous ceremony! What tartan did he wear?

He'll hold my purse, wait around dressing rooms, and has even accompanied me to the lingerie stores.

Mine has done this too. I love a guy who isn't worried about being perceived as "not a guy." Actually I think this kind of confidence is the sexiest thing about a strong man. It says he's more worried about me, and cares more about me than he does about anyone's opinion.

hrdwrkdmom aka Dianna said...

Donna, my sister, want to split the dollars with me when I pull out my paper clips?? Even when I do change purses, EVERYTHING is changed, even the paper clips.

hrdwrkdmom aka Dianna said...

Cassondra said...
hrdwrkdmom aka dianna said:

*sigh*

There it is. Your fellows are afflicted with the common purse phobia--a disease so prevalent it may be the death knell of the whole man bag culture....*sigh*

Dianna, have you ever noticed anything...well...missing from your men after they've held your purse?

Uh no trust me when I tell you I have checked carefully and absolutely nothing is missing. Occasionally his sense of humor disappears but I don't think it has anything to do with my purse...
As for my son, I have noticed when a certain lady across the street comes out to mow the lawn he is right there and tumors have been known to show up. Keep in mind my son carries nothing in his pockets, all twelve are empty. :::Up until now I thought boys were easier than girls:::

Cassondra said...

Dianna said:

when I do change purses, EVERYTHING is changed, even the paper clips.

Now THAT is some serious dedication to purses.

Okay you guys are making me want a new purse. I hate my present one.

Cassondra said...

Dianna said:

As for my son, I have noticed when a certain lady across the street comes out to mow the lawn he is right there and tumors have been known to show up.

Dianna, believe it or not I think this is probably the only acceptable form of "pocket tumor." Though I'm sure it doesn't make YOUR life any easier (grin).

hrdwrkdmom aka Dianna said...

My son wears cargo pants and won't carry a wallet. It feels funny when he sits down. So why does he wear pants with enough pockets to make up for 10 purses, I have absolutely no clue.

Claudia Dain said...

Cassondra, you named my *exact* list of delicious men: Viggo as Aragorn, Tom as Quigley, Daniel as gorgeous man in leather leggings with long rifle. Sigh.

DH will carry an umbrella as long as it is open and raining. I'm not sure what he does with it when it's closed and has stopped raining. It might be a magic trick.

Terry Odell said...

I checked with my daughter about the kilt clan thing. She said he wore an Irish National because they didn't have his clan; he can wear either McKay, MacDonald of the Isles, and she thinks Mackenzie, too. He prefers McKay.

I can't post a picture here, though, can I?

Amy Andrews said...

P226 said - having anything heavy in them was pretty uncomfortable during a hump

LOL P226, almost spat my coffee all over the screen. You know what a hump is here in Oz right? ;-)I'm assuming you meant some kind of skirmish though.

This whole topic reminds me of Brad Paisley's song, I'm still a guy.
The chorus goes -
Well love makes a man do some things he aint proud of
and in a weak moment I might
walk your sissie dog
hold your purse at the mall
but remember I'm still a guy.

In fact the whole song is hilarious and if I could work out how to link it I would but my x chromsome is coming into play. Go google it, it's fab!

Cassondra said...

Terry Odell said:

I can't post a picture here, though, can I?

Oh shoot. I don't think there's any way to do so. I'd LOVE to see those pics.

Perhaps I'll do a "Real Men in Kilts" blog after National and you can email it to me and I'll include it! Whaddaya think?

LOVES me some men in kilts. (fans self)

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

**mental image: UXB dancing in fishnets**

Now THAT's an image. Snork.

Cassondra, the caber guy has fab biceps. ummmmm-mmmmm. Nothing like a guy in a skirt throwing a telephone pole. Grins. Or an ax. Call HIM a girlie-man. I dare ya' - And I'll grin evilly as he gives you his answer. Mwah-ha-ha!

As for the Mom-purse, I also usually have a leash, a couple of dog biscuits, and a book in there too. Survival gear, in my little world. Ha!

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Hey Beth...I FINALLY got my hot little hands on NWHF! Yeah! Can't wait for the weekend...

Cassondra said...

Amy Andrews said:

This whole topic reminds me of Brad Paisley's song, I'm still a guy.

Amy, that song is embedded in the blog I did called "She Thinks My Tractor's Sexy" a couple of months ago.

Here's the URL:

http://romancebandits.blogspot.com/search?q=She+Thinks+My+Tractor%27s+Sexy

Y'all can go there and listen to the song.

That song actually was the start of this blog. The "hold your purse at the mall" part.

And actually "hump" has more than one meaning over here. It has what I think is the SAME meaning here as it does there. But it also means a forced march--I'll say something like, "Here I am, in the pouring rain, knowing nobody is gonna show up for this rappel, but I have to hump my pack and all this gear up and down the mountain anyhow."

Which is the proper context, I think, for P226's comment. ;0)

Cassondra said...

Jeanne said:

As for the Mom-purse, I also usually have a leash, a couple of dog biscuits, and a book in there too. Survival gear, in my little world. Ha!

Our world too. Always dog gear in the back of the van.

It's what happens when all of your children have fur. :0/

Cassondra said...

Jeanne said:

Hey Beth...I FINALLY got my hot little hands on NWHF! Yeah! Can't wait for the weekend...

Oh, Not Without Her Family is GREAT. You'll LOVE that book. Rats. I have to work all the rest of the week or I'd stay up and re-read it. :0( It's that good.

Cassondra said...

Dianna said:

So why does he wear pants with enough pockets to make up for 10 purses, I have absolutely no clue.

I think it's the same reasoning as having on a belt but letting your pants hang off of your hips and showing off your boxers.....but I could be wrong.

I'm just sayin.

Who knows about kids and fashion. But cargo pants have been around for almost every generation haven't they? There's been at least a wave of "fashionable multi-pocket pants" out there as long as I can remember. I guess they go in and out of favor with those who are trendy.

Oh THERE YOU GO!

CLAUDIA, I've found a perfect example. Wearing your pants hanging down around your knees is definitely NOT on my list of manly things.

Terry Odell said...

Don't know if I can get a link to the picture here.

A bit of pre-event jitters, and the 'not another picture' syndrome.

Cassondra said...

Oops. Strike that.

The song (it never had video, just the song) is "no longer available" so I guess it's been taken down from the YouTube site. Y'all will have to go lookin for it.

Sorry!

Cassondra said...

Terry Odell said:

Don't know if I can get a link to the picture here.

A bit of pre-event jitters, and the 'not another picture' syndrome.


Oh, that Tartan is Gorgeous! And what a beautiful gown the bride had! Thanks for posting the link Terry, it worked great.

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Terry, that's a great pic - you're right though they both look like "okay, hurry up and snap the pic" or "is that the last one?"

ha!

But, he looks good in the kilt.

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Too quick on the trigger, but I also wrote - belatedly - that your daughter looked fab in her dress! Quite the gorgeous couple.

p226 said...

Amy...

Would it help your monitor and keyboard any if I told you that experience shows loaded magazines in cargo pockets beat up the backs of your thighs during either kind of hump?

Amy Andrews said...

Cassondra I LOVED that blog of yours and agreed with every point. But I thought it was based around the Kenny Chesney song you had up there - which I also loved.

Yeah, we also say "giving me the hump" here which means giving me the s#$ts...

peggy said...

to be honest I dont think my husband or son woud carry a bag.
they won't even hold my purse .

Amy Andrews said...

Now there's a visual P226 and I don't even know you but I'm suddenly very interested in your "experience" with this....

Terry Odell said...

Thanks -- that was a very 'casual' dress, to tell the truth -- she found it in the Chadwick's catalog. For the 'real' wedding out in the yard the year before, she just wore a simple white sundress. Tres casual. They exhanged vows after the salads while the meat cooked on the grill.

The England ceremony was more formal -- in a 17th century stone church.

Terry Odell said...

Gee, P226 -- for some reason, I picture the pockets on cargo pants in front or on the side, not where they'd bother the backs of thighs -- but no need to explain. I'll take your word for that one.

jo robertson said...

Welcome to the Lair, UXB, aka Cassondra's DH. We love the male perspective, sort of dilutes the estrogen levels.

And thanks to everyone for the compliments on Dr. Big's butt, but, uh, let's keep that in the Lair, k? If you see him at nationals either (a) don't look or (b) be very, very sly.

Above all, remember, man bag or no, wallet or no, he's mine! And some of ya'll are gonna want to adopt him as your gramps!

Joan said...

terry, that's a braw looking son in law ya have there.

But one aspect of the dress I have issue with when it comes to the "manly" part...those lace up, ballet type shoes! I cannot fathom those being practical during the day to day wearing of the kilt.

Don't get it.

limecello said...

Hm... I know a few guys who have "man bags" - and I carried around a messenger bag that a few guys liked and asked about for a while (of course... it was a "men's bag" from gap). But yes - a lot guys refuse to carry a bag. I figure, if they need it, it's useful. I always have my purse - can't go anywhere without one.

Cassondra said...

Joanie said:

But one aspect of the dress I have issue with when it comes to the "manly" part...those lace up, ballet type shoes! I cannot fathom those being practical during the day to day wearing of the kilt.

Don't get it.


Those are ghillies.

It's traditional tribal dress.

Modern footwear includes several types of boots and shoes (though not just ANY type will do, there are certain kinds as far as I've come to understand.) Lemme see...I've got a picture here somewhere. I should have included it in the blog but did not.

Terry Odell said...

I think those shoes are for dress only -- perhaps someone who knows historical clothing can respond. I know they spend a lot of time re-lacing them, especially during the traditional dancing we did at the reception that night.

Cassondra said...

Peggy said:


they won't even hold my purse


Aw, I'm sorry Peggy. Maybe you could bribe them...once they see that nothing important falls off, they might warm up to the idea....

hrdwrkdmom aka Dianna said...

Terry, loved the pic, very nice, I so love a kilt.

Caren Crane said...

Christine, congrats on the GR! Not sure how he'll enjoy the winter weather, so keep him warm, will you?

As to man purses, I'm always reminded of the Seinfeld episode where Jerry's girlfriend encourages him to carry a "man's European carry-all". Which, of course, everyone calls a purse. Eventually, she quits carrying a purse and has him carry all her stuff in his carry-all. Ha!

I do love a man in a sporran. Mmm. Scottish men. I find nothing unmasculine about a messenger bag. It certainly is preferable to the pocket melons!

Cassondra said...

Okay I've uploaded a picture of an Irish pipe and drum corps in traditional dress, with a different type of shoe--more modern shoes. Let's see if I can make it work:

http://www.fototime.com/3B26C4056AD0E42/standard.jpg

Hmmm. You'll probably have to paste it into your browser.

Anyway, His Grace, Duke Of Athol came to our Games last year, and he wore nice men's dress shoes with his traditional Scottish dress clothes. Also included the two Eagle feathers in his cap denoting him as a two-feather clan chief. Very interesting when you get into it, but I haven't had time to learn as much as I'd like.

Cassondra said...

Hmmm. I also think I broke the blog somehow. That line of text is too wide.

Posh, you there?

Caren Crane said...

Oh, Lord, all those danged questions. My husband will hold my purse with minimal eye-rolling. He looks like a husband carrying his wife's purse. Kind of looks like an Irish wolfhound wearing a tutu.

How many puses do I own? Am I supposed to know that? At least 10 regular ones and about six or more evening bags. Who knows? I like choices. I do, though, tend to carry the same bag for months on end, until even I can't deny it's time for a seasonal change. San Francisco will force me back over to the across-the-hip purse. If I remember. *sigh*

Cassondra said...

Caren said:

Mmm. Scottish men.

I'm seeing a pattern developing here. (wide grin)

Cassondra said...

Posh said:

He looks like a husband carrying his wife's purse. Kind of looks like an Irish wolfhound wearing a tutu.

Ha. They all do. But that's the beauty of it I think. Nobody in their right mind would think such a man would carry a purse like the ones we carry.

San Francisco will force me back over to the across-the-hip purse. If I remember. *sigh*

I'll remind you when we walk to dinner. Security and all that.

p226 said...

How many puses do I own?

Paging Dr. Freud... Paging Dr. Freud....

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

p226 said...
How many puses do I own?

Paging Dr. Freud... Paging Dr. Freud....

SNORK!!!! I was TRYING to be polite, but...SNORK!

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Of course, the visual of the wolfhound in the tutu was pretty much snorking me out too...

Joan said...

Paging Dr. Freud... Paging Dr. Freud....

ROTFL....

Joan said...

Thanks for the pic, Cassondra. Those shoes are getting better.

I just picture kilted men wearing calf high boots of leather.

Hey, Christine! Why don't you wrap the GR in a plaid?

Cassondra said...

Joan said:

I just picture kilted men wearing calf high boots of leather.

They often do. In fact, that's most of what I see at Highland games....it's casual. The fancier shoes and the traditional ghillies are usually for more formal affairs. I see a lot of combat boots and such--which is actually in keeping with everyday wear for the way kilts originated.

You can google kilts and see all kinds of stuff, but BEWARE...there is a LOT of material under men in kilts that might be found objectionable.

Cassondra said...

P226 and Jeanne said:

SNORK!!!! I was TRYING to be polite, but...SNORK!

Hey, I WAS being polite.

But since it's been said...

Snork!

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

I particularly liked "Paging Dr. Freud, paging Dr. Freud"

SNORK!

Terri Osburn said...

After a night of Descriptive Statistics, I needed this laugh. LOL!

Did someone ask for men in kilts?

http://www.georgenick.co.uk/Kilts.htm

Jennifer Y. said...

See, I have been thinking more about this subject...and I prefer the messenger bag look for guys.

I am not sure if anyone mentioned this yet, but I remember seeing actor Terrence Howard on the red carpet at an awards ceremony on tv and that guy was definitely secure in his masculinity. He was carrying (if I recall correctly and there are probably pics somewhere) an alligator and diamond evening bag/clutch...I think the fashion people said it was a unisex item worth thousands upon thousands of dollars. At first I thought it was his date's, but nope, it was his. It was kind of cool looking and looked like something I'd like to carry, but it just looked a little out of place on a guy. It almost looked like he was carrying a giant wallet around.

Cassondra said...

Jennifer Y said:

but I remember seeing actor Terrence Howard on the red carpet...carrying an alligator and diamond evening bag/clutch

This is the guy I was referring to when I mentioned the alligator skin clutch in one of the pics I culled for the blog.

I'm just not that evolved I guess. THIS does not appeal to me for a guy. That's like an evening bag I would carry--not even what I'd call a real PURSE. IT's a specialty, formal, foo foo purse. I suppose it would also qualify as "bling."

*heavy sigh*
What a can-o-worms I have opened. I like the messenger bags that can hold everything from a laptop to, like my husband's items--night vision goggles--but a little clutch? I dunno...I think that crosses the line Terrio mentioned into the stuff I'm WAY not used to. I dunno if I wanna get used to it. A messenger bag? Okay. A handbag? Well.....

Sheesh....ya hate to draw lines in the sand ya know?

Cassondra said...

Terrio said:

After a night of Descriptive Statistics, I needed this laugh. LOL!

Omigosh, tell me that's a class you're taking and not the field you're going into please?

I had a TON of that stuff in grad school. Experimental Design and AnalysisYeah BABY! I could do it, and could even get interested in it, but darn. If it wasn't my experiment I was crunching, those numbers started to get REALLY old and repetitive. Heck. Even if it WAS my experiment. I haven't done that kind of math since.

HOOOWEEE on the guys in the kilts.

Everybody should know that some of those sites turn up a bunch of fellows who prefer other fellows, btw, so be prepared when looking through those. Or turn the SAFE function on your browser or something if that sort of thing offends you. I got quite the education as I searched for good pics of our Scottish brethren.

Terri Osburn said...

No worries, Cassondra, this is just a class I have to take for my business degree. And yes, anytime you go searching for pictures, you have to be very careful of what you might find. Sometimes even the most innocent search will pull up stuff you don't want to see.

Cassondra said...

Limecello, you sneaked in on me--somehow I missed your post-so sorry!

Hm... I know a few guys who have "man bags" - and I carried around a messenger bag that a few guys liked and asked about for a while (of course... it was a "men's bag" from gap). But yes - a lot guys refuse to carry a bag. I figure, if they need it, it's useful.

That's what I think too. If they have enough stuff to go in there--and these days with laptops, it's kind of a given--then go for it. I honestly see no difference between this and a briefcase except it has a shoulder strap, which frees up your hands. A good thing.

Interesting that you were carrying a bag that the guys liked. Hmmmm. THAT's a first in my experience. Cool.

Cassondra said...

Hey all, Jeanne is up next (today already on the East Coast), and I'm gonna go pass out and get some sleep.

THANK YOU SO MUCH for making this day phenomenal, and for chiming in about Man Bags, Murses, Kilts (ooo-la-la), purses, and the "view from the rear" regarding men.

And thanks to the guys for putting up with our cyber-drooling. ;0)

Pat Cochran said...

Congratulations, Christine!

Sorry I'm so late in posting a
comment today, it's taken me an
hour and a half to read through
all the comments! OK, it's been
all the laughing at the comments
that has taken so long! LOL!

Great post, Cassondra!

Pat Cochran

Pat Cochran said...

Whoa............

MY BAD!!

So sorry, we were having internet problems and it seems to have taken
over. Three posts!! Does this mean
I can't post a comment for another
three days?? LOL

Pat Cochran

Cassondra said...

Pat Cochran said:

So sorry, we were having internet problems and it seems to have taken
over. Three posts!! Does this mean
I can't post a comment for another
three days?? LOL


Not at all Pat! Glad to see you in the lair. And glad you got a laugh out of the conversation. It was, indeed, a good day, with some rather brilliant scenery, don't you think? Pull up a bar stool. Jeanne will be along shortly. I can delete your duplicates if you like.

Cassondra said...

There you go. All fixed!