big jack, little jack

While packing up my parents garage I came across this old hat:

I knew this hat was not meant for the DI pile, but had greater purposes.

(including transforming this boy into Jack Kelly)

It was my PopPop's hat. He wore hats like this every time he went outside. Every time.
He also changed into slipper shoes every time he came inside.
He had the most wonderful British accent and was such a doting husband/father/grandfather to all us girls.

He was a man who had lived a lot of life by the time I was around to know him and he would tell fascinating (often very long) stories about his life's adventures.

When I was younger I would listen to his stories to make him happy.
I sure wish that I would have paid more attention. . .
because now, listening to his stories would make me happy.


I've put in a request that when Brian is an old man he will wear hats like this

every time he goes outside.