If I need to zone out for a half-hour, I look for an episode of TLC's "Say Yes to the Dress." I don't care about wedding dresses in particular, but I love those moments when a different cut or style of gown transforms a bride from "blah" to "wow."
I think it's because most of us imagine — no matter what our Visa card limit might tell us — that just the right clothes or haircut or makeup will make us happier. We're in a never-ending quest for that combination that will pull everything together so that we feel more confident, more attractive and more in control.
But what if all you wear is fur? What if your summer look is the same as your winter look? What if your daytime wear goes into evening because there's no other option?
I look at Jackson and part of me is jealous. He doesn't have to worry about what color looks good on him, whether he's in style or how big his rear looks in whatever he's wearing. Except for some shedding between seasons, his white fur with brown and black spots is a classic for any occasion.
Think of the time we'd all have if we didn't have to rummage through our closets each day for something stylish, weather-appropriate and comfortable enough so that we're not miserable. Think of the money we'd save if we didn't have to own the right shoes, jeans, sweaters, belts, T-shirts, skirts, blouses and dresses.
Think, my friends, of the laundry.
And yet, anyone who knows me will tell you that I'd never trade my shoe collection for a year-round fur coat. In fact, I sometimes feel sorry for Jackson when its 90 degrees outside and he has no other options.
So I'm really not all that jealous when I think of the carefree existence of our furry friends. My brain can tell me it's all manufactured by the fashion industry, but my instincts have been honed to look for the latest trend.
No matter how futile it may be, I'd miss the challenge of finding that elusive combination.
Except, of course, for the laundry.
