Welcome to White Cane Connections.

My name is Sue Boman. Yes, that’s me in the picture posted here. I have called this blog White Cane Connections because I am one of the many people who use a white cane. I began this blog because I wanted to write about a project I undertook in 2012. The plan was to complete a series of walks using my white cane. Between March and September, I walked in 82 different locations across Canada. So, the blog begins by telling of my experiences and the many people I met along the way.

While this particular journey has now been completed, I find that I still have much to write about. I am continuing to make new white cane connections, and so for the time being I will continue to add regular posts to this blog. I am hoping that you will be a partner in the journey.

Sue


Tuesday, 20 December 2016

December 20 - How Do I Look?



As a partially sighted person, I do rely a bit on other people as to my appearance. Obviously I can’t change the basics, but when it comes to details of hair and clothing I turn to people I can trust.  For instance, I have recently had my hair cut and I am almost totally in the hands of my hairdresser. Linda knows that I can’t see myself in the mirror and she is careful to follow my verbal directions as to what I would like her to do. My question for Lyle when I come out of the salon is usually the same -  “ How do I look?”

I am also a little dependent on others when it comes to colour coordinating my clothes. I am able to see primary colours fairly well but not necessarily shades and patterns. Just a month or so ago I was trying to decide between two outfits for a special occasion. My choices – or so I thought, were between a black patterned skirt and black top or a green patterned skirt with a green top. I had worn both combinations several times in the past.  I was quite surprised when I asked my daughter to help choose. Apparently the first skirt was brown and the second was gray. While my original choices didn’t clash too terribly, Jennifer said that switching to the gray skirt and black top was a much better option. I wish she lived closer!

I miss the small clothing store that used to operate in our town. The assistants there were so helpful, but in the larger stores it is sometimes tricky to find someone to take your money much less offer advice on clothing selections. It is at times like this that I am grateful to Lyle or our daughter Jennifer. They know my tastes and have learned to be honest in their comments on my choices. That critical honesty is exactly what I need.

One of the best pieces of advice was something my friend Norma gave me about socks.   I cannot tell the difference between black, brown or navy.  White and beige are also difficult. Norma said that she only bought black or white and stuck to the same brand or design. This small suggestion took away much of my frustration in matching socks. I now do the same thing. It makes for a much easier choice when getting dressed in the morning.

So, how do I look? Well, I will probably never know for sure again, but thanks to trusted friends and family, I think that my appearance passes the test.

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