Traditionally “wearing the pants in the family” means you
are the boss in that group.
“Pants” was the symbol for a man since a woman wore a skirt or a dress, and in the old days men were usually the ones who had all the say so. All that aside this phrase denotes a
position of authority, of taking charge, of getting things done. And today I get to wear the pants.
Not even mentioned in Things I get to do today is “put on the
pants.” It is understood. By "pants" I mean my Carhartts. They are boy-pants. Meant for hard work
with handy storage, they will go a piece before giving up to the trendy fashion
statement (sorry I can’t read) of holes in the knees.
I have my very own pair. In brown. They fit perfectly in all respects. They are hand-me-ups from my daughter, Aimee. A hand-me-down is from someone older
and bigger. She is neither of
these in relation to me.
Once I’ve put on my pants, tucked the phone into one pocket
and a handkerchief for my sometimes-drippy nose (plarking• on things I love
touches my soft spot) into another, you can bring on all the “get to’s” you want ‘cause now I’m in charge.
•[see post "Diapers for my table saw" 9//20/11]
•[see post "Diapers for my table saw" 9//20/11]
