The Man with the Tool Belt
When I was much younger, I spent several years making a living working as a contractor. I did roofing, general contracting, carpentry, and woodworking. During that time, I definitely met some interesting people. This one particular guy was a bit unusual. There were several interesting aspects of his character, but the one I think stands out the most was his tool belt. I know there’s nothing special about a contractor wearing a tool belt, but this guy made it unique. He was a self-proclaimed painter, and it’s possible the paint fumes were to blame for his odd obsession with his tool belt. In the time I worked with him, I don’t believe I ever saw him with his tool belt off. Of course, being a painter, his tool belt was one of the cheaper models—with the metal hammer loop—so as he walked, the steel hammer handle would jingle, similar to a cowbell you’d find on the milk cow back on the farm. Come lunchtime, if the crew decided to take a break at the diner or fast-food joint up t...