Hey Shipmate!

From one sailor to another: There'll be plenty of time to buy less expensive and lighter 'knock-abouts' when you want them. Trust me. Just watch the deals that pop up hear from time to time. If you can, go for the best 8 yeard, 16 oz. you can get. Since this tartan has special meaning for you, no need to go to the cheap for it, it will be something you may wear the rest of your life.

Think also about going with makers like Matt Newsome and other artisans--you will NOT be sorry. I had 9 kilts before I got my first 'Newsome' and I kick myself for waiting so long.

So I'd say let it take 2 or maybe even 3 Reserve checks to pay for this. It will be more than worth the time and intitial expense. Besides, it makes getting through those weekends a bit easier knowing that they will be responsible for a great kilt coming your way. When I had to do reserve weekends I was almost always bored to tears