From: "B F farmer"
Subject: A day at the ranch
Date: Thu, 7 Oct 2004 10:17:08 -0700

I have been a barefooter for several years, but only in and around my own
property.  The flip flops I keep under the seat of my pickup would come out
if I needed to go anywhere beyond the local farm hardware store or post
office.   I was hesitant to appear in public without shoes even tho the
thought of putting on even flips is disgusting.  I savor the feel of the
ground and the varying textures.  My feet feel alive.

Well, with the encouragement of the SBL group I have expanded my
barefooting and yesterday was an experience on new turf.  Had to go into
town to get some supplies and on way in I stopped at a Taco Bell, where I
never eat, but thought it was a good beginning.  Tacos weren't bad.  Coffee
was shit !  And no problem.  Then  a Starbucks for some good coffee.  Next
Target, then Rite Aide.  No problems.  Then the Mall.  Walked the whole
length and back again.  Stopped in Borders books, Hallmark, an electronics,
and some kind of game place ( all young kids) , along with Penney's and
Macy's.   I think 98% of the people didn't even notice I was barefoot.  Got
a smile out of a clerk in one store as I passed by.  And the clerk in
Hallmark was more than helpful in finding the right card.  I might add I
was wearing long jeans and a short sleeved plaid shirt.  My feet are very
tanned so I guess that helped.  I never go into the mall since I do very
little shopping cause my wife buys my clothes or I mail order, but there
didn't seem to be a whole lot of people.

Next was the big challenge, the farm supply store.  No comments at the
counter tho we all know each other by name.  The kid loading me pulled the
fork-lift up to my tailgate and insisted on helping me load, unlike in the
past, when I've automatically loaded myself with no volunteers rushing up
to help. I had to remind him to go ahead and help other customers that were
waiting.  I expected a comment cause he took a long hard look at my feet.
Probably never seen bare feet in there before.  I think he was envious.

Back at the ranch my feet felt great, but my soles were blacker than
they've ever been.   They never get that dirty in an average day even tho
I'm in all types of soil, plant material and animal "whatever".

Can only describe it as a wonderfully delightful day. in central Calif.

Mike