Eddie and I go way back. I may be married to Eric, but Eddie is my secret passion, the one who knows what I like and delivers it without question. When I’m exhausted, Eddie joins me in bed. When I open my dresser drawer or peer into my closet, I think only of Eddie. He rarely disappoints me, he carries my camera and gear without complaining, and he keeps me comfortable. Best of all, he’s available 24/7. Time and time again, in all kinds of weather and circumstances, Eddie is the one I reach for. Eddie Bauer, that is.

I buy the classic V-neck t-shirts in bulk: four white, one sprig green, one celadon, one shell pink, one pumpkin, one black. I love the zip-neck polos with their Jetson’s vibe. Not too tight, not too loose, Eddie’s embrace is always just right. I have linen and wool blazers, stacks of cardigans, long sleeve shirts, even hats and bags—all bearing Eddie’s signature.

Check out the Stine leather jacket with its totally cool buckles nipping in the waist--it makes me feel like Sheryl Crow in leather. When it rains, my yellow windbreaker mocks the gray skies and drizzle and feels silky, not stiff. When the first frost nips at my cheeks, I layer my corduroy field jacket over a wool sweater and feel oh so cozy. In winter when the snow starts to fall, my gray charcoal mittens and Sorel boots come out to play.

A recent Eddie Bauer order arrived with a shipping bill that read like a virtual feast. Clothing colors have sumptuous names, like plum wine, banana, cantaloupe, apple, orange. It only seems right that I unpack the box on the dining room table. The breezy linen dress with the modern print is sidewalk café perfect. And the two new hoodies will be my blogger uniform. And yes--another zip neck polo! I want to do a happy dance.

So today my blog is dedicated to my long-time companion, Eddie. Check out all he has to offer at eddiebauer.com.

September 9, 2005