My contemplations in the shower this morning ran like a thread on this site. So here it is. Yesterday I read a post asking how we use our scuttles. One member brusquely suggested that it was over the top to pay $50 or more for a coffee mug (not a direct quote). Makes sense. But to me the answer didnt quite square, and its perhaps because I paid nearly $50 for my glorified coffee mug! To me that stance represented an approach to SR shaving that runs against the grain. The grain seems to run in the direction of finding whatever it takes to get an enjoyable comfortable and satisfying shave. Yet, I read many posts about low priced shaving innovations and discoveries. Innovation and discovery YES. Grumpy old man I walked barefoot to school in the snow and I liked it NO.

In common, we SR shavers enthusiastically relish the esoterica of what is, to most of the civilized world, a damn mundane chore. There is the tactile stimulation from feeling the heft of a well made blade, the smooth and centered closure in the scales...and similar minutae regarding soaps, brushes, hones, stops and on and on. Is this what we have in common?

But...........we have our differences. Perhaps the biggest is our approach to spending (relative to our means). I'm guessing most of us spend more than we would shaving via other means despite the fact that once equipped with the basics, you're set for life. I rationalize by acknowledge shaving as a hobby. Hell, I pay to watch lousy tv. But to some of us its boar not super badger, kitchen bowl not scuttle, Clubman not L'Instant de LeGuerein, Norton not Shapton.

Maybe we should take a poll. Are there people here who subscribe to the save-money-shaving school? I know I have spent plenty so that I can save! Will I, on my deathbed, regret the purchase of my scuttle.....hope not!!

By the way, I am not so much talking about our ability to buy as much as I am our willingness to buy relative to our means. I well understand that many of us, especially in these hard times, cannot pull the plug on many purchases we'd like to make. And don't we all love bargains!! No offense to anyone. By the way, if each of you puts a dollar in my mug I will put it to my admission in the Mastro Livi club. Thanks for permitting the ramble.

Best to all