It's been roughly 4 years since I purchased my first kilt. Sadly, the garment spent the first year and a half of its existence shut away in a garment bag. It was after discovering the existence of an internet community dedicated to kilts and their kin that I realized my kilt was wearable beyond highland games and Christmas dinner. I also discovered a group of people with a much different view of kilts that I wasn't particularly comfortable with. When Xmarksthescot was born, I knew I'd found my internet "home". Through the good graces of Hank, his clever website, and its international membership, I've learned many things, met interesting and fun people, shared many experiences, and engaged in interesting discussions. I've gained an appreciation for the history of the kilt its technical complexities. Importantly, I've gained the confidence to wear my kilts much more often and the knowledge to deflect the negative jibes and silly criticisms that tend to shadow the committed kilt wearer. In the time I've been a member of this forum, I've also managed to convince my dear wife of the legitimacy of the kilt as a useful and acceptable bit of men's attire - not a quick or simple process. Like many, I've found the experience of wearing a kilt both a lot of fun and a bit unnerving at times.

Xmarksthescot is blessed with a healthy and active membership that is growing and changing. I am finding that, I too, have interests and responsibilities that are growing and changing - interests outside of tartans and pleats. There is, I confess, much to life beyond the amazing philabeg. In order to pursue those interests, however, I must unfortunately, reassign time I otherwise might spend following the adventures of this forum. My contributions to the forum as of late have, admittedly, have been less that stellar and for that I apologize - the distractions in my life having gotten the better of me I presume. Although I will no longer be able to post on a regular or frequent basis, I will try to peek in as time permits. There are also certain members I will continue to correspond with personally.

On that note, I want to say thank you to all and wish everyone the very best for the coming year.

Blu