Got my first "tank," and then some...

**Rex_Tremende** · 9th July 06, 06:38 PM

This was SO not the plan...

I'm going to need professional help soon.

So, the other day, I mentioned here how I found out about a Celtic shop not too far from here, and that I heard they had some deals. Yesterday I decided to take a little drive up to Waynesville, OH, to see for myself.

Well, I didn't think they had anything in my size - everything was marked 38, and I'm sporting a 40 these days. But Michael, the owner, suggested that the O'Neil of Dublin casual kilts run large. Turns out they fit me perfectly. So I decided to pick up a 13-oz wool, pleated to the sett, 5-yard, MacLeod Hunting/Modern (rather than the Blackwatch, because I liked having the extra colors) for $150.

And THEN I tried on the 38 Old Lang Syne 16-oz '8-yard' tank from J. Higgins, with pleats to get lost in, and OH..... MY..... GOSH!

I think some of you know what I mean.

Well, it was a good thing that it was too snug - fit only on the last holes on the straps - and too long by an inch or so. But then Michael offered to sell me his similarly fashioned, only-worn-a-couple-times Douglas Modern that was too big for him and shorter than the Old Lang Syne. He'd bring it in to the shop the next day. He offered it to me for $250.

So, today I returned, and well....

Really - I was saving up for a made-to-measure tank in a tartan that I was going to choose after much research into my family tree, thoughtful deliberations, and with consideration toward all the tartan police...

So, here's my Truthiness Statement for James: Yeah, I bought them because I like the pretty colors, but really because I'm impulsive and thought they were good deals.

Now this kilt is just a little big - the buckles are on the first holes on the straps - so it keeps slipping down a bit - but when it's hitched up where it should be, the length is OK. I may see about getting it taken in, or I may do nothing about it and know that I have a kilt ready for when my fat tide comes in again.

Just a couple of notes on the photo: There is more green in the tartan, it just doesn't come through in the photo; and the navy polo shirt is a souvenir from Sandringham Castle that I have had for several years and never worn until today.

I also came home with:

Two Rob Roy sporrans (black and brown)
Two pairs of flashes (red and green)
Two more pair of hose (brown, at half price, and cream)
A 3.75"/9.5cm diameter 3-dog celtic belt buckle
A belt (free)
A kilt pin (gift from Michael)

I have GOT to get a grip on myself!

Well, at least I paid cash.

Regards from the threshold of the poor house,
Rex.

**bubba** · 9th July 06, 06:45 PM

Rex, if that kilt isn't too much on the large side you can have the under apron strap and the buckles on the right side moved a bit to tighten it up.

**Rex_Tremende** · 9th July 06, 06:53 PM

Originally Posted by bubba

Rex, if that kilt isn't too much on the large side you can have the under apron strap and the buckles on the right side moved a bit to tighten it up.

Oh, yes, I see now how that could be done easily enough. The under-apron strap is sewn on oustide all the layers, and the right buckles appear to be hand-stitched on top. I assumed they'd be buried in something.

Thanks!

R.

**GMan** · 9th July 06, 07:07 PM

Oh my Rex, what a great deal you got. You certainly will be happy, and of course knowing full well that after the poor house is behind you, many more will come.

**Panache** · 9th July 06, 07:19 PM

A handsome kilt and a host of cool accessories! Sounds like you indulged, but found some bargins at least to indulge in. Being frugal isn't being cheap, it's getting your money's worth. The kilt looks good on you and you should post soon wearing all the goodies you bought to go with it.

Cheers

**Blu (Ontario)** · 9th July 06, 07:23 PM

With a cursory glance, I thought that was an Xmarks tartan kilt! Looking a bit closer, I can see the green on this monitor. Wonderful looking kilt. Don't ya love it when those pleats hang a straight as window blinds!

As for the cash.... did it all fit into one suitcase?!

Seriously, I think you got a great deal. This is the reward for all your hard work!

.