I sort of miss hats on men to complete the 3 piece suit. Like hats and gloves for women to complete the ensemble. Still seen around here in the South going into church, at weddings and funerals, but most often the older crowd. They look so polished and yet at ease. I've noticed some of the younger crowd in full panoply at the local Steeplechase for instance who look a little self conscious or like kids dressed for a party on their best behavior. It is easier to dress "down" and appear comfortable than "up". As to strange or ugly clothing...Marda, your dress sounds strange being made of paper but not ugly. I've usually tried to avoid the extremes of fashion...but even so old photos tell a strange tale...LOL Through the years: Remember the huge glasses frames and the wrinkly linen and the bouffant hair and high cork shoe soles and the very worst...the over-padded shoulders and the blazer/menswear look with the stringtie to look "professional"? josh

Difficult, yes. But if we took that attitude more often, the world would be a better place. Good quote for the first day of Advent.

You're a brave one...today is the busiest day of the year for postal service according to news this morning. Hope you survive with Christmas spirit intact...josh

"it simply means you might be in the wrong race". Good one. A certain amount of competitive spirit can be a good thing, but like everything else, it can be a heavy burden if everything in life is a race you must win. I think that is what keeps some people from even trying. When I enter competitions, of course I'd like to win, lol. But, it's still a good feeling when you don't, if you've managed to exceed your own personal best.