One of the problems with Zerzan is the generalization about hunter-gatherer subsistence. While his summaries of the Mbuti Bushmen and Kalahari San are accurate, they are only two examples. A broader reading of the ethnographic literature shows that hunter-gatherers were opportunistic and their economies varied depending on the ecological niche they occupied. The particular mix of subsistence patterns might have included hunting and fishing, as well as horticulture (although in some ethnographic typologies even limited ag would automatically exclude them from the hunter-gatherer club - see how it works?). Then what do you do with the Aleut (Eskimos) and their predecessors who lived virtually totally by hunting and fishing? Another problem with the ethnographic literature is that most of the examples are from non-temperate marginal ag areas (rainforest or desert) where hunting and gathering still survived although likely early civilizations occupied more temperate niches too before the advent of agriculture. In those areas, seasonal variations in food availability likely resulted in what is termed "seasonal rounds" where groups moved around to different locations to exploit seasonally available food sources such as fall seed and nut crops, spring fish runs, migrating deer and ducks, summer fruits, etc. They might even totally reorganize their society to more efficiently distribute themselves across the landscape - breaking into family groups part of the year and regrouping other times. This was typical of some North American Native groups. Humans were very resourceful

I belong to 3 different chapters. One is basically about dining out once a month. Most of it's members belong to other smaller chapters so It's a good place to network and get invites to the things they do. These ladies love to dress in regalia. Lot's of bling and hats from casual to silly to beautiful at their events. My second chapter is the one where we have the most friendships. We take turns hosting in our homes for a monthly gathering where we have a short "business" meeting followed by a game or whatever else the hostess has planned. Sometimes it's a potluck and sometimes it's themed, perhaps an ice cream social, a luah or a poolside drink and munch. This group also does one monthly outing. This month we went to see the elephants seals. Fun and friendliest group but not much into the dressing up and being seen part. Sigh, now they are calling me the "hat Nazi" since I always comment if one is not wearing one. LOL The Queen is shy about bling and so they follow her lead. Third is a new group that is a spin off of another large (over 100) group. The Queen likes to do plays, visits to museums etc. and ethnic dining out. I'm enjoying this group but it is still in the formative stages and doesn't have a committed membership yet. So Red Hatting is different for everyone. You have to find the right fit. I have thought about starting my own but I am quite busy with these three, picking and choosing what I enjoy doing with each.

What a nice gesture and nice shot...My MIL did that...She would go to visit a friend and she'd visit everybody there in sight. She made a point to say hello or give a hug...or whatever they may want...So giving and thoughtful of you and your group...

I am a Red Hatter! Where did you find the book? I hope your Red Hat group has as much fun as ours. There are six groups in our small community and they all say our group, The Nipomo Royal Crown Jewels has the most fun. We are going to tour a local winery that makes sparkling wine (Champagne) next weekend.