By 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.
joynealkidney
March 16, 2022I think my husband could relate to every bit of this. (He believes in duct tape.)
Trev
March 16, 2022Thank you, Joy. Oh my, yes, duct tape has come to my rescue many times too. 🙂
Jim Flanigan
March 16, 2022I feel your loss. Parting with good footwear is like your feet saying goodbye to their best friends.
Trev
March 16, 2022It surely is, Jim. Thank you. 🙂
anotherday2paradise
March 16, 2022Their time was up. It happens to us all. 🙁
Trev
March 16, 2022Thank you. 🙂
John
March 16, 2022You could have buried them in the backyard (garden), then you’ll always know where they are!
Trev
March 16, 2022Thank you, John, now there’s an idea. 🙂
PiedType
March 16, 2022A 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.
Trev
March 16, 2022I think you are right, I just wish I had thought of that before now. Thank you. 🙂
Yetismith
March 16, 2022Oh 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!
Trev
March 16, 2022Thank you, Yeti. It did feel like a betrayal as they have been so good to me. 🙂
luisa zambrotta
March 16, 2022Lovely story!I am very fond of the old shoes I walk well with, as well 🥿🥿
Trev
March 16, 2022Thank you, Luisa. Yes, good fitting shoes are hard to find. 🙂
Lou Carreras
March 16, 2022Finding 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.
Trev
March 16, 2022Come 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. 🙂
SueW
March 17, 2022Morrison’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!
Trev
March 17, 2022I 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. 😊
Peter's pondering
March 16, 2022My old gardening shoes went through a whole roll of masking tape before they were finally laid to rest!
Trev
March 16, 2022Yes, duct tape, elastic bands, the lot. Thank you, Peter. 🙂
Herb
March 16, 2022I 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.
Trev
March 16, 2022Wow, you don’t forget things like that, Herb. Thank you. 🙂
Rosaliene Bacchus
March 16, 2022I 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.
Trev
March 16, 2022Thank you, Rosaliene. You are so right too. 🙂
Going Batty in Wales
March 17, 2022They 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!
Trev
March 17, 2022Yes, they were well made. I doubt I will ever find another pair as good. Thank you. 😊
SueW
March 17, 2022Oh, 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. 🙂
Trev
March 17, 2022Thank you, Sue. It is strange, the emotional attachment. 😊
Cheryl, Gulf Coast Poet
March 17, 2022Very 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
Trev
March 17, 2022Thank you, Cheryl. It was quite sad, but I suppose that’s life at times. 🙂
Cindy Georgakas
March 18, 2022This is such a wonderful story Trev and so relatable. Wonderful writing style always!💖🌻
Trev
March 18, 2022Thank you, Cindy, I appreciate your very kind words. 😊
shankjoejoe
March 19, 2022I 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 😊
Trev
March 19, 2022Thank you, it certainly helped keep us fit. 😊
Priti
March 20, 2022Leaving old things which we are using for long is tough sometimes especially umbrella or shoes.😃😃😃
Trev
March 20, 2022Thank you, Priti, I totally agree 😊
Mariana Dynasty
March 23, 202225 years is a long time. If I used something for that long I’d be definitely attached to it
Trev
March 23, 2022Thank you, Mariana. They were comfortable for such a long time. 🙂
susiesopinions
March 24, 2022I feel sad throwing and giving away Len’s shoes and clothes. Can’t believe it is almost a year now.
Trev
March 24, 2022Sorry, Susie. Time passes but the memories remain. 😔
mitchteemley
March 25, 2022I know the feeling, Trev. Farewell, faithful footwear, rest in pieces.
Trev
March 26, 2022Thank you, Mitch. 😊
MythRider
March 27, 2022There 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)
Trev
March 28, 2022Thank you, I never thought about that, the blog will keep the memory. 🙂