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Living Alaska, High Fashion
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High Fashion in Ketchikan, Alaska
Look at me, all snazzy in my new High Fashion Jacket, Alaskan style. I am not kidding; my bright fluorescent yellow green jacket is all the rage. It is one of the most popular colors sold in my town. I walk around fitting in with the crowd rather than standing out. Back in San Francisco they would ask me, “where is the fire.” “Did you get a job with the Fire Department”?
Answer No. I bought it for work, but I wear it everywhere. I do not get stared at or asked strange questions. I fit in. This is what we wear in Alaska. We need to be seen, or we might get shot. Hunters wear them, as do fisherman, longshoremen, construction workers, highway crews, lumberman, shipyard workers, and tug-boat crews. That is pretty much everyone in Alaska. They might be a teacher or accountant by day, but their second job is hunting or fishing.
I like my new jacket. I bought it yesterday at the Tongass Trading company. It is right down the street from my house. There is a whole section of fluorescent colored clothing. Mine has reflectors on it as well. I remember putting reflectors on my bicycle right next to the training wheels. My boss gave me a high five. Now he can see me better. No more naps on the job.
The sales lady said I could write it off on my taxes. She did not know I am a retired CPA. I retired from accounting because it was putting me to sleep. If I had my fluorescent jacket instead of a suit and tie, I would not have been so bored. Actually, accounting is boring no matter what you wear to the office.
I like my new jacket though and plan to wear it often. Even the flower lady at Safeway liked it. She said it looked good on me. I will take that as a plus. From Ketchikan with love.
