7.08.2025

Rare!

"I finally understood what my grandmother meant. If I wasn't comfortable with myself, I would never be comfortable."

― Marjane Satrapi
A rare photograph of the author during an actual Bug Hunt!

A long time ago, someone told me I dress like a Boy Scout. Yeah, I don't think it was meant as a compliment. At the time, I shrugged it off. I hadn't thought much about it since — until I saw the above photo, mid-stride in the woods, geared up in earth tones, pockets, and straps. That's when the memory came back. Yep. Still got that look! 

Here's what I'm sporting:

Shirt: Vortex Optics Quick-dry shirt
Shorts: KÜHL Mountain Wear
Shoes: Keen Targhee IV 
Socks: Darn Tough Vermont
Cap: Vortex Optics
Butt Pack: Hill People Gear
Watch: Suunto Traverse
Binocular: Vortex UHD 8x32
Monopod: Leofoto
Camera: Nikon Mirrorless + Tamron 60mm Macro
Sunglasses: Vortex Optics 'Jackal'
Readers: 1.5x Foster Grant
Water bottle: Nalgene (in Swarovski bino case)
Quiet readiness: Undisclosed

But for me, it's about function, utility, and comfort — clothing that serves a purpose for the kinds of things I do outdoors. I like quality stuff that holds up, fits well, and works when I need it to — gear that performs and lasts a long time, not fabric that flatters. 

Image © 2025 Susan Ulschmid