Anniversary Update

[TNScotsman]

A happy email from XMarks reminded me today that this is my official one year anniversary on the site. When I first started reading the forum before joining I didn't own a kilt and was getting started in preparation for a friend's wedding, although my own interest in my Scottish heritage played a part as well. Since then, I've had a good bit of fun in the kilting world.

Kilts:
8 yard, 16 oz. wool traditional from Atlanta Kilts, Campbell of Cawdor ancient
8 yard, 13 oz. traditional PVs: Black Watch (required for the wedding), Scottish National, American Heritage

In addition to the kilts I've acquired a good number of accessories. I've bought more hose than I thought I would, in part because on recognizing the difference between good ones and cheap ones I had to refresh with really good ones. There are a couple of day sporrans, one evening, and a couple of kilt belts, along with a pair of Ghillie Brogues. A higher quality day sporran is on the list as the rather inexpensive ones I have just aren't as usable as I'd like.

I've also had good chances to be kilted at a variety of events: high tea on a summer afternoon, Christmas Eve service, St. Patrick's Day dinner, pub night for my friend's bachelor party, Downton Abbey in the theater, highland games, a Daughters of the British Empire Christmas Tea, full PC for a wedding

I'm looking forward to being kilted more often during the holidays this year, including having the PC for Christmas Eve service. Yes, it's an evening event and while attire varies there has been a tradition at that particular church of people attending in PC, so it's an appropriate outfit for the event. Up next on the kilt list will be a MacFarlane, as I've discovered that my maternal heritage is of Clan MacFarlane and they've generously welcomed me into the fold. I also need a new Argyll jacket and waistcoat; I bought the first a few months after my fight with COVID and lots of time in the gym since then means it simply doesn't fit in the shoulders any more. It's a valuable reminder to be thankful for a good recovery and the opportunity to rebuild.