Richard's Choice.

Shoe shopping, legitimate research. Walking in shoes and testing them out and checking the style against the latest European styles. Eight weeks walking all over Europe and the UK requires thought and preparation. The feet must be catered for. The shoes have to be bought. It must be done, but this time.....just for a change....... it was Richard doing the shopping.

It is always good to test out the shoes before embarking on a trip. Break them in and mould them to measure. Ensure they are up to the task and suit the weather. Make them old friends. Unlike others who have many pairs to choose from, Richard has few. So all over Wollongong, all over Shellharbour and anywhere else.... but alas, nothing was suitable. This has been going on for a little while. Not quite sure of what he wanted, the process of elimination helped to narrow the field until articulation was possible and parameters defined. Found just the right pair but not in his size and none could be ordered in. He is a man of distinctive style and is determined to get exactly what he wants, no temptation of cost or good value will dissuade. No second rate or good enough. The master ever of temperance and discipline the miles were trod and possibilities dissolved. I found at least 10 pairs of shoes I did not need but would have liked, to add to my already extensive wardrobe. More than a little dispirited the last foray was completed and we returned home empty handed (or footed). No, he insisted (like he does with everything...) that it was better to get exactly what he wanted.

He eventually found what he wanted on line and they will arrive soon. While some may have been frustrated accompanying the very selective chooser, it was comforting to know that this is typical of his nature and his way of doing things. Richard's example is an encouragement to resist being the ultimate consumer, a role model of restraint and a reassurance that he would not be with me unless I was exactly what he wanted.