Alden Norwegian Front Blucher

I lost my job in October, and for much of the competition my boots did not have the life I had envisioned. Instead of attending meetings and getting office-chair-tina, I had to adapt to my new life. But I had a job to do, still, and decided right away that these boots were going to be part my survival. It’s tough to wear Alden’s with sweatpants, so I kept wearing trousers and proper attire despite having nowhere to go. It’s amazing how good getting dressed makes you feel. I used them on walks, while cleaning out the garage, the attic, and the yard. They were my companions while I worked on my house, my career and myself. They went with me to visit friends, family, and my next boss. Now they are my daily wear to my new job. They came on the interview and have been here (nearly) every day since. In between wears I conditioned them sparingly with Venetian Shoe Cream and have had to apply not an insignificant amount of glue to keep the silly half commando sole attached. Changing my footwear philosophy made all the difference. Rather than using them as a vessel to take me from point A to point B, I used them as my reason to go from Point A to point B. They ceased being a tool and started being a toy. They will now get a well-deserved sabbatical this summer while I get the outsole upgraded and ready for next fall. I am excited for them to be a part of my wardrobe for years to come.