Toe Covers

Toe Cover: Exhibit A

Here’s where I make a short story long—A little while ago a friend of mine mentioned how much she enjoyed reading my blog (gee, thanks!!). She said the humor reminded her of author Betty MacDonald in her memoir, The Egg and I. I wasn’t familiar with it and my audio book app didn’t carry it, but it did carry another of her books, The Plague and I (1948). In the list of “Little Known Facts About Theresa” you’ll find my fascinations with the 1940’s AND tuberculosis sanitariums. This was the perfect book for me. It was so interesting to learn about a first-hand account of life and treatment in a TB sanitarium. I found myself really drawn to the characters, crossing my fingers that they’d all make it in the end.

1. I didn’t know my TP required a cover. 2. If it did require a cover, what makes anyone think this one is a good idea??

By now you’re wondering where I’m going with this. Stay with me. During the Treatment, after patients endured complete bed rest for at least 6 months they were moved to the ambulatory hospital. Gradually, as their health improved, they were granted privileges of being upright, eventually adding more activity including occupational therapy. Ironically “occupational therapy” meant “useless crafts.” Patients were given the choice of crochet, lace collars, counted cross stitch, etc. I say “useless” because most of what was created was not of the quality that anyone would want to keep or use. What struck me was the term the author gave to these creations—Toe Covers. Presumably a “toe cover” refers to a handicraft that arguably serves no purpose. I say arguably because of course there will always be someone to defend any handicraft, regardless of its dubious nature. I Googled “toe covers” and found nothing except, well, toe covers! Perhaps it’s an archaic term but I’m all for bringing it back!

The most redeeming thing about this toe cover? It’s called “gimp.” I have no idea why but that’s awesome.

I’m humble enough not to be offended if someone considers any of my creations to be toe covers. One man’s toe cover is another man’s treasure! But I did find it fun to reflect on some toe covers I remember from my childhood. How about you? What are your favorite toe covers?