Reading the language of jackets

My little, midsized and larger helpers here at the R&R spread flit in and out of my room as silent as butterflies.

If I didn't have my eyes open, the only way I could tell they'd come in is by a slight passing breeze.

But I like to have my eyes wide open so I can see what jackets the helpers have on that day.

The jacket tops are all made from the same pattern -- short sleeves, rolled-back collar, button-down front, with two big pockets.

I've made many myself, sometimes out of mismatched scraps.

The pockets are the great utilitarian feature. The print of the fabric is what makes them personal and individual.

For all I know, the tops may be ordered from the same nurses' catalog, but I like to think the helpers have some say-so in the tops they wear.

There are checks, plaids, paisleys, polka dots and all manner of little pictures.

One top has a half-worked tic-tac-toe puzzle on the left back shoulder. I wonder if others are like me and want to pick up a pen and finish the puzzle.

Another top has prints of all manner. I can identify all but one of them.

Could it be a pit bull? I've never seen a real live pit bull, but based on what I've heard, if I saw one running freely toward me on the same path I bet I'd have the good sense to change direction.

I once had a near neighbor who had such a dog. When he heard strange outside noises at night he would let the dog out. Would that now be considered some kind of illegal weapon?

My favorite top is worn by a middle-aged helper. It has all kinds of butterflies.

I don't tell her that it's my favorite. However, when she comes flitting in with that top on, it seems that all summer has been let loose.

Of course, there are those who stick to solid colors -- red, blue, green. No silks, satins, sequins -- just plain cotton or linen.

I admire those who make their fashion statements by the prints they choose.

Does the helper who wears a jacket with dog prints own a dog or just want one?

Does the lady who has birds pictured on her top want to fly somewhere over the rainbow or just want to hear them sing?

There is a beautiful wooden patio where one can go hear the birds and be virtually embedded with flowering vines, potted flowers, visits from hummingbirds, and new friends who can reminisce about all these things.

I'm going to have Viney buy some printed fabric that has heavenly blue morning glories with yellow butterflies here and there. Then she can make me a top.

REJOICE!

Jean Bell Mosley is an author and longtime Cape Girardeau resident.