Three months ago I showed up at XMarks thinking maybe I'd buy a kilt, and looking for information. I thought maybe I'd buy a kilt because I'd seen some affordable kilts at some Celtic faires and music festivals and I liked the look. I almost bought a Utilikilt off the rack at one of them, but balked at the price.

Since I've become something of a regular here at X Marks I've learned a lot about kilts. Now I wear one to work one day a week, and have two more on order! But more than that, X Marks was the starting-off point for learning about my family history, which takes me back to the Ulster Scots. Because of that I understand much more to do with Ireland and the strife there between Protestant and Catholic that goes back 400 years. I understand more about the history of the countries from whence came my ancestors on my mothers side.

Because of X Marks I took out a two week freebie account at Ancestry.com and then Geneology.com and I'm in touch with Halls and McKnights that are my relatives. Because of X Marks I've watched some great movies (Rob Roy and Her Majesty, Mrs. Brown). Because of X Marks I've learned a MESS of European/English/Scottish/Irish history that I didn't know before.

I've come to appreciate the craftsmanship, care, skill and love that goes into making a fantastic piece of clothing.

This is totally silly, but it's true... Because of X Marks I don't mind taking a little time now and again when I get dressed in the morning to make sure I look sharp. It's more than just putting on clothes for the occasion, you know? I wear tuxedos all the time...I'm a musician. Big Whoop. I just *put it on* do the job and *took it off*. It ain't that way with kilts.

When I wear a kilt I find myslef standing a little bit straighter, looking people in the eye a little bit more clearly and directly. Because of X Marks I've done something a little bit "different" and find myself standing a little bit taller, being a little bit more confident in myself, than before. Who knows why it all worked out that way, but I like it.

Ladies and Gentlemen at XMarks...... Thank You.

OK, carry on, now! [/i]