Alley Kat Hat Co

DJH said:

Looks fantastic! Tim does make some nice hats and your colour choices make this one unique.


Cheers!
David

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Thanks David. Yes this was a well planned hat. Tie, sports coat, pants, even socks and cufflinks and tie tack, everything to go well with the colors in the hat. It looks so darn nice, fits fairly well, I had to tweak a slight amount more of Long Oval in it, but not much. I am sure now anything made for us will be Esther and Tim....I have another hat in mind for myself now....as I am loving the hat Esther made for me so much, I will have her make me another.

Bob Roberts said:

Great looking hat Cindy and Tim and Daniel.

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Yes it is....thanks so much Bob. This is a super nice one.

LuvMyMan said:

Thanks David. Yes this was a well planned hat. Tie, sports coat, pants, even socks and cufflinks and tie tack, everything to go well with the colors in the hat. It looks so darn nice, fits fairly well, I had to tweak a slight amount more of Long Oval in it, but not much. I am sure now anything made for us will be Esther and Tim....I have another hat in mind for myself now....as I am loving the hat Esther made for me so much, I will have her make me another.

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Too cool, I hope you'll post some pics of Daniel when he's all kitted out.

I'm intending to get Caren an Esther hat - problem is she's more interested in bags and shoes so it's a slow project. (Sorry, Esther!)


Cheers!
David

LuvMyMan said:

Yes it is....thanks so much Bob. This is a super nice one.

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Wlcm Cindy.

LuvMyMan said:

Well it arrived! I already had a tie I purchased for Daniel (you can see on one of these pictures) that match the ribbon and bow work colors right on the money! And this hat is perfection again from Tim. You can tell when you handle the hat it is a Western Hat Felt body....BUT it is like cream....smooth....Tim did a lot of work on this hat to prep it for the "finishing touches".... Notice the super nice lighter colored leather sweatband? NICE or what! The hat is just perfect. Fit is good, looks good on Daniel, and everything else is exactly what was wanted, and then some! More pictures soon....promise!

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Oh, man. I'm sitting here salivating like Dr. Pavlov's little canine buddy. Arf, arf! Waggle, waggle.

Good morning. I just wanted to drop in and thank everyone for all the recent posting. It's been a rough week, mostly just getting comfortable to sleep was tough. Sleeping sitting up....not easy for me.

Cindy, I'm sorry to hear that hat was not long enough. I still had my band block built up, from the last making. BUT...I just wonder if any of that has to do with the ZERO amount of give in that body, due to the Western weight felt....?

I decided to order long oval band blocks in the sweet spot sizes as well.

I'm hoping that I can be doing some work soon.

Work related note: I have Tropical Bob in progress. I have one interested party pending a deposit. A few others that are expressing interest, so allow me to say,..... Guys who have big heads, 7-1/2 upward, especially the 7-5/8, 7-3/4. These bodies I order special and some colors might not be readily available. I also special order for BRIM. Keep in mind for a 5/8 and 3/4 that need brim outward to 2-3/4 to 3" there could be a delay. So I'd like to get those orders in with the vendor.

If anyone is thinking they are looking to step in line for a hat, let's talk. And I can start to have some bodies picked that will be suitable for the build, or pulled for my order as they get to those colors made. I require a 100.00 deposit.

Shipping: example. It cost me almost 30.00 to have ONE tall crown, big brim sent from TN to PA. The box can hold 5 or 6 pcs. And full would cost only a few dollars more. I've done a few special orders over time and took the hit. But I can't be doing that. Just looking for guys to understand the situation. On special ordering. If I don't have it on hand to make the build, it is a special order.

STAPLE Rabbit and Dress Weight Beaver 100 are regularly blocked by vendor at 5-3/4

So when a person wants 6 inches of crown and still wants minimum 2-5/8 brim cut. We need to talk. Because I need to special order.

Thanks all!

Cane Rod Maker said:

Good morning. I just wanted to drop in and thank everyone for all the recent posting. It's been a rough week, mostly just getting comfortable to sleep was tough. Sleeping sitting up....not easy for me.

Cindy, I'm sorry to hear that hat was not long enough. I still had my band block built up, from the last making. BUT...I just wonder if any of that has to do with the ZERO amount of give in that body, due to the Western weight felt....?

I decided to order long oval band blocks in the sweet spot sizes as well.

I'm hoping that I can be doing some work soon.

Work related note: I have Tropical Bob in progress. I have one interested party pending a deposit. A few others that are expressing interest, so allow me to say,..... Guys who have big heads, 7-1/2 upward, especially the 7-5/8, 7-3/4. These bodies I order special and some colors might not be readily available. I also special order for BRIM. Keep in mind for a 5/8 and 3/4 that need brim outward to 2-3/4 to 3" there could be a delay. So I'd like to get those orders in with the vendor.

If anyone is thinking they are looking to step in line for a hat, let's talk. And I can start to have some bodies picked that will be suitable for the build, or pulled for my order as they get to those colors made. I require a 100.00 deposit.

Shipping: example. It cost me almost 30.00 to have ONE tall crown, big brim sent from TN to PA. The box can hold 5 or 6 pcs. And full would cost only a few dollars more. I've done a few special orders over time and took the hit. But I can't be doing that. Just looking for guys to understand the situation. On special ordering. If I don't have it on hand to make the build, it is a special order.

STAPLE Rabbit and Dress Weight Beaver 100 are regularly blocked by vendor at 5-3/4

So when a person wants 6 inches of crown and still wants minimum 2-5/8 brim cut. We need to talk. Because I need to special order.

Thanks all!

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Tim, have you had the operation yet? How're you feeling? Again, no big rush for me.

Cane Rod Maker said:

Good morning. I just wanted to drop in and thank everyone for all the recent posting. It's been a rough week, mostly just getting comfortable to sleep was tough. Sleeping sitting up....not easy for me.

Cindy, I'm sorry to hear that hat was not long enough. I still had my band block built up, from the last making. BUT...I just wonder if any of that has to do with the ZERO amount of give in that body, due to the Western weight felt....?

I decided to order long oval band blocks in the sweet spot sizes as well.

I'm hoping that I can be doing some work soon.

Work related note: I have Tropical Bob in progress. I have one interested party pending a deposit. A few others that are expressing interest, so allow me to say,..... Guys who have big heads, 7-1/2 upward, especially the 7-5/8, 7-3/4. These bodies I order special and some colors might not be readily available. I also special order for BRIM. Keep in mind for a 5/8 and 3/4 that need brim outward to 2-3/4 to 3" there could be a delay. So I'd like to get those orders in with the vendor.

If anyone is thinking they are looking to step in line for a hat, let's talk. And I can start to have some bodies picked that will be suitable for the build, or pulled for my order as they get to those colors made. I require a 100.00 deposit.

Shipping: example. It cost me almost 30.00 to have ONE tall crown, big brim sent from TN to PA. The box can hold 5 or 6 pcs. And full would cost only a few dollars more. I've done a few special orders over time and took the hit. But I can't be doing that. Just looking for guys to understand the situation. On special ordering. If I don't have it on hand to make the build, it is a special order.

STAPLE Rabbit and Dress Weight Beaver 100 are regularly blocked by vendor at 5-3/4

So when a person wants 6 inches of crown and still wants minimum 2-5/8 brim cut. We need to talk. Because I need to special order.

Thanks all!

Click to expand...

Glad you're on the mend, Tim. I'll keep your advice in mind when considering an order.

Cane Rod Maker said:

Good morning. I just wanted to drop in and thank everyone for all the recent posting. It's been a rough week, mostly just getting comfortable to sleep was tough. Sleeping sitting up....not easy for me.

Cindy, I'm sorry to hear that hat was not long enough. I still had my band block built up, from the last making. BUT...I just wonder if any of that has to do with the ZERO amount of give in that body, due to the Western weight felt....?

I decided to order long oval band blocks in the sweet spot sizes as well.

I'm hoping that I can be doing some work soon.

Work related note: I have Tropical Bob in progress. I have one interested party pending a deposit. A few others that are expressing interest, so allow me to say,..... Guys who have big heads, 7-1/2 upward, especially the 7-5/8, 7-3/4. These bodies I order special and some colors might not be readily available. I also special order for BRIM. Keep in mind for a 5/8 and 3/4 that need brim outward to 2-3/4 to 3" there could be a delay. So I'd like to get those orders in with the vendor.

If anyone is thinking they are looking to step in line for a hat, let's talk. And I can start to have some bodies picked that will be suitable for the build, or pulled for my order as they get to those colors made. I require a 100.00 deposit.

Shipping: example. It cost me almost 30.00 to have ONE tall crown, big brim sent from TN to PA. The box can hold 5 or 6 pcs. And full would cost only a few dollars more. I've done a few special orders over time and took the hit. But I can't be doing that. Just looking for guys to understand the situation. On special ordering. If I don't have it on hand to make the build, it is a special order.

STAPLE Rabbit and Dress Weight Beaver 100 are regularly blocked by vendor at 5-3/4

So when a person wants 6 inches of crown and still wants minimum 2-5/8 brim cut. We need to talk. Because I need to special order.

Thanks all!

Click to expand...

There must be some shoulder disease "going Around" the Lounge, Tim! I had my second one done December 5, and am still sleeping with my arm in a sling on a recliner. Although last weekend, I did get instructions for bed sleeping under the circumstances, so we could visit our kids in NYC. Art F. had one done last year, too, so you're in real good company.
EVERYONE WHO"S HAD SHOULDER SURGERY, RAISE YOUR HAND! If you haven't done it yet, you may not be able to raise your hand!!

All the best, Tim. Don't rush your rehab, but don't miss it, either.

hatsRme said:

There must be some shoulder disease "going Around" the Lounge, Tim! I had my second one done December 5, and am still sleeping with my arm in a sling on a recliner. Although last weekend, I did get instructions for bed sleeping under the circumstances, so we could visit our kids in NYC. Art F. had one done last year, too, so you're in real good company.
EVERYONE WHO"S HAD SHOULDER SURGERY, RAISE YOUR HAND! If you haven't done it yet, you may not be able to raise your hand!!

All the best, Tim. Don't rush your rehab, but don't miss it, either.

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Close. I found last spring I have some misaligned vertebra which causes me shoulder/neck discomfort. I'm working through it with exercises, though.

Cane Rod Maker said:

...I'm hoping that I can be doing some work soon...

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I realize you have bills to pay and other responsibilities, but I'd suggest caution and allow yourself the time to heal thoroughly. I don't know exactly what kind of surgery you had--I seem to recall seeing "rotator cuff" somewhere--but one of my brothers-in-law had his left shoulder essentially replaced (i.e., the "ball and socket") last year. He was well on his way to being recovered after a couple of months of physical therapy, but he used that shoulder without thinking, re-injured it, and they had to perform a second surgery. I know it can be difficult to find that turning point between "not quite yet" and "good to go" when you're on the rebound from something like your surgery (I've been there myself a number of times), but pushing yourself could lead to further delays.

tropicalbob said:

Tim, have you had the operation yet? How're you feeling? Again, no big rush for me.

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Bob,
Yes, I had the operation on the 18th.
I feel much better now. I'm actually out of the sling today, being really careful. Several rounds of PT- home based. I'm feeling good about the procedure. Not rushing, but I think I'll be able to do some work on your hat soon.
I am at the brim and opening. Just need to cut that 3 inch brim and do some pouncing to the brim. I'll surely update you. Thanks for checking in. Tim

tropicalbob said:

Tim, have you had the operation yet? How're you feeling? Again, no big rush for me.

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Frunobulax said:

Glad you're on the mend, Tim. I'll keep your advice in mind when considering an order.

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Jim, thanks for the good words man. Good to see you!!

Zombie_61 said:

I realize you have bills to pay and other responsibilities, but I'd suggest caution and allow yourself the time to heal thoroughly. I don't know exactly what kind of surgery you had--I seem to recall seeing "rotator cuff" somewhere--but one of my brothers-in-law had his left shoulder essentially replaced (i.e., the "ball and socket") last year. He was well on his way to being recovered after a couple of months of physical therapy, but he used that shoulder without thinking, re-injured it, and they had to perform a second surgery. I know it can be difficult to find that turning point between "not quite yet" and "good to go" when you're on the rebound from something like your surgery (I've been there myself a number of times), but pushing yourself could lead to further delays.

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Hi Al,
Good hearing from you and I appreciate your words on the mend and re-injury cautions.
Mien ended up being a fully torn rotator cuff.
Definitely paying very close attention!!
Example....I had a ice bag on it and the darn thing slipped off and I jerked my body to catch it.... That woke me up quick!!
Just keeping it real simple post op, follow up Feb1. Hope your well my friend. Thanks for stopping by.

Did they make you a DVD copy of the video of the procedure, Tim?

Cane Rod Maker said:

Hi Al,
Good hearing from you and I appreciate your words on the mend and re-injury cautions.
Mien ended up being a fully torn rotator cuff.
Definitely paying very close attention!!
Example....I had a ice bag on it and the darn thing slipped off and I jerked my body to catch it.... That woke me up quick!!
Just keeping it real simple post op, follow up Feb1. Hope your well my friend. Thanks for stopping by.

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Yep, that's the sort of thing I was thinking of, those reflexive movements we all make without a thought. I think it's safe to say we all care about you and want you to achieve a full recovery, so watch that stuff!

The rotater cuff is a wickedly painful joint. There is no position a person can get in, to escape the pain when it goes out on you. Gravity pulls on your arm, compressing it in the shoulder and the pain is excruciating. Daniel has this issue in both shoulders, some from the build up of those small "sharks teeth" calcium formations and some from his MS attacking it. If they would have done the surgery, they would have had to cut out too much. So, there was a PT there, and she took charge of a long slow process, he had to have the PT for an entire year. Five days a week. You learn about "wall climbers" and the "Codman" exercises, and then resistance and light weights pulling your arms up over your head from many different angles to bust loose the calcium deposits that are grinding nerves and tendons that run through the shoulder. Eventually after about 7 months he could raise his arms over his head at some angles without suffering too much pain. After the full 12 months, he was back to normal and was lifting over 250 pounds over his head, and was free of all the shoulder pain. However, once this issue hits you, it is a good idea to keep doing the exercises so this does not come back.

This is why we know what Tim is going through...pain...and more pain. It can get so painful you about go nuts with it. All the "typical" painkillers they prescribe do not take away all that pain, they just seemed to take the edge off for Daniel. We found some good alternative things to do for the pain, one of which was a healthy dose of Scotch...OFTEN! And there are other "natural" substances that also worked for him. Hot tub and then ice pack worked to some degree...but only time and the PT will speed the recover up to finally have a shoulder be back to as normal as it can get.

Now with Daniel having some horrific pain from Cancer, he has been prescribed heavy doses of Morphine. I have to set up an IV bag drip for that as they took him off taking pills for it. He will refrain from this even as long as he can, he does not like being on Morphine, as it makes him feel odd and somewhat "goofy", sick to his stomach, and when it wears off, he has a monster head ache...so...it is back to the Scotch and some "natural" substances to give him some rest from the pain.

So yes, we send all our best prayers and wished for Tim. Imagine he is still poking along doing hats for us here...all I can say is it shows the love, care, and ethics Tim has.

Raise your hand....NOT when you have that shoulder problem you don't! haha!

Cane Rod Maker said:

Hi Al,
Good hearing from you and I appreciate your words on the mend and re-injury cautions.
Mien ended up being a fully torn rotator cuff.
Definitely paying very close attention!!
Example....I had a ice bag on it and the darn thing slipped off and I jerked my body to catch it.... That woke me up quick!!
Just keeping it real simple post op, follow up Feb1. Hope your well my friend. Thanks for stopping by.

Click to expand...

Find a couple of tube socks...make a ICE BAG harness using them and the ice...be creative and you will figure it out on how to wrap it around your neck and have the middle and toe of the sock with the plastic bag holding the ice in the right spot.

Oh yes...for heat...if you have a hair dryer...use it on a low setting...works well when you are tired of the ice making you shiver...and is easier to direct the heat where you want it much better than a heating pad.

Cindy, thanks for the healing tips. I am making it through the entire day w/o the pill.
And I am keeping this arm active the best I can. I did need one pain pill last night, and slept through it. I don't drink whiskey any more because I had a run in with a WILD TURKEY, 22 times one night back in the early 80s ....whoever invented the idea of one shot per year of age, they were obviously young....yes...this was the prelude to my 23rd birthday, some 30 years back.

I like the mention of my ethics and still doing some hat work. I am almost there where I can use the arm. I had sewn a bow keeper to my finger the other day, but it was only a few days after surgery....i was still all groggy. I found myself taking out my LesPaul yesterday. The body width , I am able to get between my body and inner arm.

I played backing blues chords most of the day and evening. My muscle in my arm has been feeling weak, between the elbow and shoulder, and my wrist was sort of slow coming back..but yesterday was only one week since surgery. At the end of the day I feel it was a good therapy session and I think I'll do that again today. As well, doctor's prescribed therapy. i am hopeful that i am back to hat work soon.

Cane Rod Maker said:

Cindy, thanks for the healing tips. I am making it through the entire day w/o the pill.
And I am keeping this arm active the best I can. I did need one pain pill last night, and slept through it. I don't drink whiskey any more because I had a run in with a WILD TURKEY, 22 times one night back in the early 80s ....whoever invented the idea of one shot per year of age, they were obviously young....yes...this was the prelude to my 23rd birthday, some 30 years back.

I like the mention of my ethics and still doing some hat work. I am almost there where I can use the arm. I had sewn a bow keeper to my finger the other day, but it was only a few days after surgery....i was still all groggy. I found myself taking out my LesPaul yesterday. The body width , I am able to get between my body and inner arm.

I played backing blues chords most of the day and evening. My muscle in my arm has been feeling weak, between the elbow and shoulder, and my wrist was sort of slow coming back..but yesterday was only one week since surgery. At the end of the day I feel it was a good therapy session and I think I'll do that again today. As well, doctor's prescribed therapy. i am hopeful that i am back to hat work soon.

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WHOA, there, pardner! Yesterday, at my PT session, where I was complaining about some pain returning to the bicep, (like you) they were clear and firm about the first six weeks following rotator cuff surgery. ONLY for some slight movement. She even told me I might be ok to do the dishes (thanks for that...) but NOT the pots and pans. That's for six weeks!!! I am about at six weeks, so off to Walmart last night where I pushed and pulled the cart mostly with one hand. It was that mostly piece that got me, as today, I can barely move it, there's a new level of pain and I'm worried I may have caused some damage. I'll be whining about this for a couple of day ONLY, I hope. Walmart is a dangerous place.

Do NOT rush it, Timster!!! We need you in good shape, sir!