Cotton Socks

My black cotton work socks are shot. They do that uncomfortable slide-into-your-shoes move. After searching thirty minutes at the red-circle-dot store and not finding any black socks with any more than 80% cotton, I've run out of time because Katee has to get to work.

Then the sock fairy directs me to a display that shows hanging organic blend cotton socks. They even have the soothing mantra of "Simplify" knitted into them. The label reads "Finding the union between mind, body and spirit brings you closer to your true well-being. ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY no chemicals, no pesticides, mild dyes..." I've found what I need. Then I see the fiber content is 85% cotton/12% polyester/ 3% spandex. I won't even tell you what the cuff of these organic socks are made of. I buy one pair at $2.99 and will wear them tonight.

Why do I think I need 100% cotton? It's about control. I stand on my feet at work, which means I have no cubicle, which means I have no input over my work environment or my polyester uniform. If you're wrapping me in mandated crappy fibers I'll spend time going natural on the rest. I'll shop for hours looking for 100% cotton pants with pockets (but not too many pockets because a dealer could stuff money or chips into them).

The job forces me to rebel anyway I can.

I get radical by waiting for until the last minute to button the top button of my shirt (I do tuck it in before leaving the house--I'm not for anarchy).

I'm not wild enough to take my cell phone into the pit, even with the ringer off. But then again I don't have a cell phone...

I have gone nearly off the deep end by slipping a notebook and pen into my pocket. A couple of months ago at a "huddle" (that's casino speak for pre-shift meeting) we were told no paper, pens or purses allowed on the casino floor.

All I want is natural fibers next to me as much as possible. So I'll give these impure sock a try. It's a good thing it's winter. It think even with this little bit of polyester in the new socks my toes will get roasty. Even with the all cotton socks there are some nights towards the end of my shift I have to go outside and take my shoes off and cool my feet on the freezy metal floor of our boat. I do this while the smokers are huddled together, wrapped in blankets, puffing away. (Kathryn)