These boots were made for working and they certainly did that. Who knew that throwing an old pair of worn-out working boots could be so emotionally challenging? It was like saying goodbye to an old friend and in many ways, they really were. I can’t remember when we first met, and it has to be over 25 years ago.
Comfortable
They were so comfortable, we really were such a snug fit for each other. It didn’t matter what shift I would be working on, early mornings, afternoons or nights, my trusty old boots were always with me, providing much-needed comfort during the average 7 miles of walking on each shift.
My Protection
When the time came for me to finish work, I thought the boots and I would be parting company, but it wasn’t to be. I was allowed to keep them and so they came with me on the next part of the journey around the sun. They came in handy too, for walking, carrying out DIY and general everyday jobs around the garden. When I dropped the heavy concrete slab, they protected my feet with their steel toecaps. They never complained.
We Were Made For Each Other
I was so lucky to have these boots. It’s not often you get to wear such heavy footwear and they feel like a pair of old slippers. Alas, after a quarter of a century of plodding all over the place, the soles started to separate from the body on both boots. They were letting in water and struggling with the demands of a daily walk. I had to face the truth that these old boots were failing.
The End Was Nigh
I knew the end was close and I think they did too. I took them off one last time and kept them safe in the shoe rack in the hallway. I thought no one would notice them there, being warm and safe and having some peace and quiet. However, time passed and the space was needed where they were settled. I tried my best to keep them, but in the interests of everyone, I had to chuck the stinky things out! I still think of them though, every single day.
This is a true story that was prompted by the Weekly Prompts Page run by Sue & G.C.
I think my husband could relate to every bit of this. (He believes in duct tape.)
Thank you, Joy. Oh my, yes, duct tape has come to my rescue many times too. 🙂
I feel your loss. Parting with good footwear is like your feet saying goodbye to their best friends.
It surely is, Jim. Thank you. 🙂
Their time was up. It happens to us all. 🙁
Thank you. 🙂
You could have buried them in the backyard (garden), then you’ll always know where they are!
Thank you, John, now there’s an idea. 🙂
A good cobbler might be able to give them new life. After all, they are more than just boots; they are trusted friends who’ve shared a big part of your life.
I think you are right, I just wish I had thought of that before now. Thank you. 🙂
Oh Trev, I totally understand! When you get shoes/boots that are comfortable and work well they become a part of you and they take you over so many miles. Giving them up seems like a betrayal. But at least your boots got to rest for a while and they will not be forgotten!
Thank you, Yeti. It did feel like a betrayal as they have been so good to me. 🙂
Lovely story!I am very fond of the old shoes I walk well with, as well 🥿🥿
Thank you, Luisa. Yes, good fitting shoes are hard to find. 🙂
Finding a cobbler is a great idea that was suggested. But I know that around here I’d have to travel an hour to get to the nearest one. These days they make it all to be thrown away, so nobody repairs things anymore.
Come to think of it, I have no idea where the nearest cobbler may be local to me. I live in the middle of Wales, at least 20 miles from the nearest large town. Thank you, Lou. 🙂
Morrison’s stores usually have a Timpsons, but I find them quite expensive compared to the little family run cobbler’s business. Now I’ve said that, I’m just wondering if our little cobblers has closed down!
I used to see a lot of Timpsons shops around where they did shoe repairs and key cutting etc, but I haven’t seen a proper independent Cobbler for years. Thank you, Sue and it’s a pleasure taking part. 😊
My old gardening shoes went through a whole roll of masking tape before they were finally laid to rest!
Yes, duct tape, elastic bands, the lot. Thank you, Peter. 🙂
I relate to this. I almost managed to cut my foot off with a chainsaw but my boot saved me. I kept them for a long time past their usefulness.
Wow, you don’t forget things like that, Herb. Thank you. 🙂
I know the feeling, Trev. Comfortable boots are hard to come by. I’m still holding onto a pair of leather boots that served me well.
Thank you, Rosaliene. You are so right too. 🙂
They must have been really well made – I wear out a pair of workboots about every 10 years and that is not wearing them every day!
Yes, they were well made. I doubt I will ever find another pair as good. Thank you. 😊
Oh, Trev, I feel for the loss of your trusty boots.
I become attached to my shoes in much the same way – shoes that I will never wear again and yet I cannot part with them. Thank you so much for joining us on this challenge, Trev. 🙂
Thank you, Sue. It is strange, the emotional attachment. 😊
Very funny, Trev, but with nostalgia and a touch of sadness too…sorta like the old favorite party dress that hangs in the closet hoping that some day you’ll be able to get into it again! <3
Thank you, Cheryl. It was quite sad, but I suppose that’s life at times. 🙂
This is such a wonderful story Trev and so relatable. Wonderful writing style always!💖🌻
Thank you, Cindy, I appreciate your very kind words. 😊
I spent most of my life working as a Culinary Chef. Sometimes I would calculate how many miles I walked during the day. This piece brings back memories 😊
Thank you, it certainly helped keep us fit. 😊
Leaving old things which we are using for long is tough sometimes especially umbrella or shoes.😃😃😃
Thank you, Priti, I totally agree 😊
25 years is a long time. If I used something for that long I’d be definitely attached to it
Thank you, Mariana. They were comfortable for such a long time. 🙂
I feel sad throwing and giving away Len’s shoes and clothes. Can’t believe it is almost a year now.
Sorry, Susie. Time passes but the memories remain. 😔
I know the feeling, Trev. Farewell, faithful footwear, rest in pieces.
Thank you, Mitch. 😊
There are somethings that you just have to keep, until you can’t keep them any more. The photo and blog with keep their memory safe. ;0)
Thank you, I never thought about that, the blog will keep the memory. 🙂