Hello all

[Two ravens]

Hello all. I am Douglas Solberg-Bell, and I live in Hillsboro, Oregon with my wife Briani. We lost our only child this summer and are still finding our way back into the world. I invested a lot of time and effort into things that I could pass on to my son, and I am having to re-evaluate what to do with all of that now that there is no-one to succeed me. I decided about a month ago that I was going to carry on with these things for their own sake, because they are inherently valuable and because they make my wife and I feel good to continue to participate in.

One of those things was my budding interest in my Scottish heritage and in the kilt. I haven't worn my 16oz. Solberg-Bell in awhile, but am starting to put wardrobes together to make it practical and more likely for me to put it on. I am also talking with Steve Ashton of Freedom Kilts about getting Solberg-Bell Hunting woven in 13oz. and made into kilts for myself, my wife, and my friend. I am looking forward to picking the brains of experienced folks who can help advise Briani and I how best to pull off certain looks.

I am looking forward to getting to know folks on this forum, and appreciate the opportunity to join!

Douglas

[Father Bill]

Welcome to the "Great Rabble!"

Our deep & sincere condolences on the loss of your son.

[Jock Scot]

Welcome, from Inverness-shire.

[Rick Y]

Welcome, Douglas, from Ridgefield, WA. So very sorry for your loss.

[Tarheel]

Well met Douglas. I'm glad you're here to help move forward with your future.

[Woodsman]

Warm welcome from Wisconsin Douglas.
Sorry for your loss. I hope this divergence of Xmarks can help you move forward. You shall find friendly conversation here.

[ASinclair]

Hello Douglas!

[grizzbass]

Hope you find comfort here.

[Nile]

Hello Douglas. Welcome to X Marks from all the way over here in Seaford, Delaware.

We lost our only child this summer and are still finding our way back into the world. I decided about a month ago that I was going to carry on with these things for their own sake, because they are inherently valuable and because they make my wife and I feel good to continue to participate in.

Douglas, I'm sure that this is what your son would expect and want from you and it's perhaps, the best way you and your wife can again be grounded in this 'world'.

I'm guessing that your avatar is a representation of your Sloberg-Bell tartan; I must say, a very good design job and a very attractive tartan.

Glad you chose to join the Rabble and I look forward to your participation.

Nile

[Two ravens]

I sincerely appreciate it. As someone who has spent some time looking in from outside, you seemed like a great, friendly group of people, and you do not disappoint.