grandpa's hat

of my grandfather's earthly possessions, there were really just two things i wanted when he passed away:  his fishing kreel and his hat.  why?  because they represented who he was.  (that and his Levi suspenders, but i was ok to let those go).

i wore his hat this week and got more compliments that i expected.  for one, i was almost afraid to wear it.  would it fall apart?  what if the suede got wet?  the side feather has seen better days, but you know, it actually fit pretty well.

grandpa was a tall and stately presence but the hat was only a bit loose on my head (it helps that i inherited his thick head of hair no doubt).  the inside label says "large JC Penny" and it reminded me of where i come from.

i'm not one to put things in moth balls; i use them, for better or worse.  and wearing this hat was more than just a fashion statement, it meant land and fishing, love of nature, hard work, family legacy, honesty, strength, humor and generosity.  all of the things i would want to wear as my character and more...