1950s
The first garments to resemble Ugly Christmas Sweaters started popping up around the 50s, and were referred to as “Jingle Bell Sweaters” (and no, there were no actual jingle bells on them yet!). These sweaters showcased a Christmas-related symbol, but weren’t extremely outlandish or definitively “ugly” yet. It’s hard to say if these can truly count as Ugly Christmas Sweaters, or if they were simply just Christmas Sweaters… we’ll let you be the judge of this one!
1980s
Around the 80s, ugly sweaters hit the mainstream media, and took off! Most people credit the popularity of ugly sweaters to The Cosby Show, due to character Cliff Huxtable’s iconic wardrobe choices on the show. This style of ugly sweater has been affectionately dubbed the “Cosby Sweater” thanks to the explosion of popularity that ugly sweaters saw following this. As anyone in the 80s knows, Cosby Sweaters were all the rage!
The Cosby Show wasn’t the only instance of ugly sweaters in the media, though. Ugly sweaters caught on, particularly for Christmas, and many characters were seen flaunting a true Ugly Christmas Sweater in Holiday movies or TV episodes. Just take National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, for example!
2002
By the 2000s, Ugly Christmas Sweaters were all the rage, but what about Ugly Christmas Sweater parties?
The first one was actually held in Canada! Two university students, Chris Boyd and Jordan Birch, hosted the first known Ugly Christmas Sweater party back in 2002. It was just a small house party, with around 30 attendees. Who would have guessed that 20 years later, Ugly Christmas Parties would be mainstream in several countries across the globe!
In honour of these loveable companions, here are 10 fun cat and dog facts that you (probably) haven’t heard before!
That’s a wrap on our fun facts! Want to check out the new Cat & Dog collection? Click here for Mens sizes and here for Womens. We’re paw-sitive that you’ll find the purrfect pair, no matter what kind of fur baby you have!
]]>The “Great White North.” Land of Maple Syrup. America’s Hat. Canada is known by many names, but here at Friday Sock Co., we call it home! With Canada Day around the corner, we want to take you on a journey from coast to coast with a little help from our Canadian Landscape Collection.
]]>The West Coast
One of the most unique and beautiful landscapes around. The combination of ocean, fresh water and land creates a teeming environment that boasts the biggest diversity of animals in Canada! Think otters, orcas, seven species of salmon, grizzly bears, wolves and even bald eagles. Not to mention, the area just outside of the bustling city of Vancouver is home to some of the best skiing in the world!
The Rocky Mountains
Stretching from British Columbia all the way to New Mexico (USA) they are an adventurer's dream: massive summits, glacier-carved valleys and pristine alpine lakes. Animals that inhabit these crazy conditions include mountain lions, elk, bighorn sheep, owls and bears. Whether you’re looking for epic hikes, scenic drives, or an encounter with untamed nature, the 55 to 80 million year old Rockies are sure to blow your mind!
The Foothills
Funny enough, the Foothills fall right at the foot of the massive “hills” that we call the Rocky Mountains. Acting as a transition point between the vast prairies and the majestic Rockies, the landscape is dotted with forests and rivers. The location also creates some volatile weather - if you’ve experienced a Chinook before you’ll know what we’re talking about!
The Prairies
The Prairies cover Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Without the Rocky mountains, the Prairies would have looked wildly different. As those mountains grew taller, they eventually blocked the majority of rain coming from the West Coast, creating a “rain shadow.” While it stopped a lot of plant and tree growth, it created an awesome environment for grain farming and a unique spot for animals like bison, prairie dogs and swift foxes to thrive.
The Canadian Shield
Covering parts of Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec and the Northwest Territories, the Shield originated around 4 billion years ago! First was the volcanic activity and movements in the Earth’s crust, which created rocks like granite and gneiss. Then, over the next millions of years, the land was pushed and shaped by forces in the Earth creating glaciers, lakes, rivers and much more!
The Great Lakes
The largest group of freshwater lakes on Earth is made up of Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Erie and Lake Ontario - all but 1 of which are accessible from Canada! About 20% of the earth’s fresh surface water is held up in these lakes.
Fun fact: the Great Lakes are so big they have their own tide like phenomenon called “Seiche” caused by pressure changes and wind patterns. Animals of this region include lake sturgeon, smallmouth bass, and the eastern box turtle!
The East Coast
The East Coast is a region renowned for its rugged beauty and vibrant coastal communities dotted with picturesque fishing villages, sandy beaches, stunning cliffs and charming lighthouses. The area encompasses Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island and is home to the Atlantic Puffin, whales and seals.
Northern Canada
Last is the North of the Great White North so grab your toques! Northern Canada is a vast region across some of the provinces and territories. Coming with stunning mountain ranges, expansive tundra and pristine lakes, the north truly is an arctic wilderness.
Polar bears and arctic foxes are only found up there. While sparsely populated, the communities in Northern Canada have a rich heritage, with Indigenous traditions and close connections to the land.
From the frigid North, to the rainy West, across the Rockies and the Prairies to the East Coast, this country sure is impressive! This Canada Day, we celebrate beauty and diversity, and we recommend picking up a pair of Landscape Socks to show it! Jokes aside, Happy Canada Day, everyone!
]]>Still shopping for those hard to buy for loved ones? I have created a list to take the stress out of last minute gift buying. These are sure to bring smiles and joy to all. There is something for everyone on this list from kid, men, and women socks. I have curated it not just from popular items but diamonds in the rough as well to help you find the perfect gift...
]]>Still shopping for those hard to buy for loved ones? I have created a list to take the stress out of last-minute gift buying. These are sure to bring smiles and joy to all. There is something for everyone on this list; from your loving partner, to your annoying sibling, all the way to Uncle Bob who you only see once a year. This isn't just best sellers, but also diamonds in the rough to help you find the perfect gift.
Bear and Tree for the whole family (men's, women’s, kids)
What's better than matching as a family with mismatched socks? With designs like Bear and Trees, you can ensure that the little ones (and big ones), get in on the action. Our Bear and Tree socks come in kid sizes ranging from ages 1-12. This year we've also done a limited edition Bear and Tree pair for adults that will never be seen again after this season.
Ugly Christmas Santa & Reindeer Socks
These are part of our Ugly Christmas Socks Collection, a play on ugly Christmas sweaters. These are perfect to put on your loved one's feet to shine bright with any Christmas outfit and make memories that will last a lifetime. They are available in both men’s and women’s.
Hedgehog Wool Socks
Part of our new Merino Wool Collection these hedgehog socks are perfect for anyone looking for a technical sock. Your feet will stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter as they are excellent temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking socks. They are the ultimate hiking or stay-at-home and snuggling socks. Available in men’s and women’s.
Holiday Snowy Village Socks
If you are buying for someone who loves the holiday season, these socks are for them! A beautiful scene of a snowy village woven carefully onto the sock. They capture the magic of the winter season perfectly and leave a lasting impression. Available in women’s only.
Underwater Scene Socks
One of our newest releases, these capture different layers of an underwater scene! Perfect for those who love the ocean or marine life. The attention to detail of the sea creatures is very evident and your imagination can come to life! Available in both men’s and women’s.
Glass and Whiskey Socks
This one is for whiskey lovers! Jack meets Daniel. Don't go anywhere without a little liquid courage in double malt Men's Glass & Bottle Whiskey Mismatched Socks. It has a nice dark grey base colour that pairs well with almost any colour of dress pants and shoes for those fancier occasions. Available in men's only.
Green RV and Tree Socks
These are for the adventurous at heart. Those who go wherever the road takes them! Available in women’s only.
Kids Rainbow, Unicorn, Narwhale Socks
Make their day magical with perfectly pink Kid's Rainbow, Unicorn, and Narwhal Mismatched Socks. Friday Kid Socks come three to a pair! That’s right folks. Three super fun mismatched matching socks! So... if you lose one, no sweat. If you grow another foot, you’re in luck. Three socks equal one pair of awesomeness. Available in ages 1-12.
Winterberry Camp Socks
I had to put these ones at the bottom so this blog post wouldn't be too biased. These are by far my favourite collection as I am an avid camper! They are made of thick yarn to keep you warm, ribbed for durability, and subtly mismatched to be your new cold-weather friend. Available in men's and women’s.
In case you missed it, we now have wool socks and are all totally obsessed! We flocked to the warehouse like a herd of sheep when they arrived to marvel at their perfection. All we cared about at that moment was how soft they were and how much we loved the designs. Little did we know, these merino wool socks have a bunch of hidden benefits. I’d like to share these benefits with you so you can make a more concise choice in your wool sock buying!
What Is Merino Wool?
Merino wool is wool that comes from the Merino sheep. Traditional wool is infamous for being itchy, while the natural fibers of merino wool are cherished for their soft itch-less nature due to being extremely fine. Merino wool is one of the softest forms of wool and doesn't irritate the skin, which is why it is widely considered a luxurious fiber and frequently used for clothing. The benefits of merino wool include; naturally antibacterial, moisture-wicking, temperature regulating
Naturally Antibacterial
Merino wool has antimicrobial properties making it order-resistant and naturally antibacterial. Lanolin, an oil secretion in the sheep's skin that gets trapped in the wool resists odor-causing bacteria. There is no wet climate for bacteria to grow because merino wool manages moisture so well.
Moisture-Wicking
Merino wool has the ability to “wick” moisture away from the skin. This basically means it can pull moisture (sweat) away from the skin and diffuse it onto the outside of the fabric in a manner where it can dry quickly so that the moisture doesn’t saturate the fabric. The merino wool's absorption and breathable qualities allow this to happen!
Temperature-Regulating
Merino wool regulates your body temperature very well. For example, if you go for a morning run or hike, the fabric will keep you well-insulated, but you’ll stay cool and dry once you start raising your body temperature. It’s just as great in the winter as it is in the summer.
RWS Certified
The wool we use is RWS Certified. The Responsible Wool Standard program helps sheep farmers meet consumer, retailer, and brand demands. The standard certifies they meet rigorous animal welfare and land management requirements and is driven by a number of companies around the world! Part of our commitment is to practice ethical business decisions.
Terry Cotton Footbed
The footbed of our Merino Wool Socks are made from terry cotton. More commonly referred to as Terrycloth, made of a cotton blend with the fibres being woven into loops which allows the fabric to be soft and plush. The loops length also determines how much moisture-absorption capacity they have.
There you have it, all the secret benefits of our new Merino Wool Socks! Sounds like the perfect sock for our crazy Canadian weather where it will be -10℃ in the mornings and +10℃ in the afternoons 😅.
Now if you are less inclined about the benefits of merino wool and are a more design-driven person, let us dive into all the new designs!
Stand your ground, climb to new heights, cherish wide open spaces, use your head, make yourself herd, and know when to hoof it!
Be a good listener, leap over obstacles, know when to lay low, tread lightly on the earth, take time to browse, look both ways before crossing the road, and don’t pass the buck!
Don’t worry if you’re just making waves by yourself, the moon does it all the time!
If you haven't heard, we recently released what may be my new favorite sock design ever: Animals & Adam in Space Helmets!
Don't worry, the actual socks only feature Animals in Space Helmets. But, these socks got me wondering… has a chimp, a giraffe, or Adam ever been to space before...
]]>If you haven't heard, we recently released what may be my new favorite sock design ever: Animals & Adam in Space Helmets!
Don't worry, the actual socks only feature Animals in Space Helmets. But, these socks got me wondering… has a chimp, a giraffe, or Adam ever been to space before?
Now I know what you’re thinking… it's very unlikely that a) Adam is a trained astronaut who then decided to open a sock company, and b) a giraffe actually fit into a space shuttle. If you were thinking what I was, then you'd be correct in assuming that chimps have indeed been into space before. This is a true story that began over 60 years ago!
Disclaimer: In no way do we condone the mistreatment of animals or think it’s cool to send them into space. Adam, on the other hand, and animals on socks? We are cool blasting them off to space.
The First Chimpanzee in Space
On January 31, 1961, Ham, one of 40 “Astrochimps” become the first chimp to go to space. His story begins in Cameroon where he was born in 1957. Ham was taken to a facility in Florida called the Miami Rare Bird Farm. He was later transferred to Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico (NM). During his time in NM, he was known as Chang, or #65. He got his name Ham as an acronym for “Holloman Aero Medical.” After a long 18 months of training, Ham would be the chimpanzee selected to test the safety of space flight on an ape body.
The Flight
Ham spent several hours waiting on the launch pad in Cape Canaveral, where he was buckled into a container called a “couch.” At the time of the launch, he was only 3 and 1/2 years old. Once he was propelled into space Ham remarkably performed all his tasks correctly while traveling at an approximate speed of 5800 mph, 157 miles above the Earth’s orbit. His flight lasted just over 16 minutes and his couch came crashing down into the ocean 130 miles away from its target. He survived and seemed calm considering what he had been through. When he was finally released from the couch it was said that he had a gigantic grin, thought to be a smile by many. This grin was actually one of intense anxiety and fear.
Post Flight
Ham was spared years of research, unlike many of his astrochimp comrades. He did however live a lonely life for 17 years when he was transferred to The National Zoo in 1963. Solace was eventually found when he got to live with other chimps in a North Carolina Zoo before his passing on January 18, 1983, at the age of 26, a harrowing 22 years since his historic flight. His grave marker reads “Ham proved that mankind could live and work in space,” where he is buried in New Mexico.
Training
As mentioned before there were 40 Astrochimps that the U.S. government acquired for its Mercury program. These chimps endured grueling daily training including some of the same G-force exposure simulations as their human counterparts. One of the most important tasks was teaching the chimps to pull a lever every time a blue light came on. If they succeeded they got a banana treat, if not they got a small electric shock. During the training, the group was narrowed down to 6 chimps, 2 males and 4 females. All got sent to Cape Canaveral where Ham was ultimately selected just before the flight because he seemed “particularly feisty and in good humor,” according to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.
“These animals performed a service to their respective countries that no human could or would have performed,” says NASA’s history of animals in spaceflight webpage. “They gave their lives and/or their service in the name of technological advancement, paving the way for humanity’s many forays into space.”
Now I know that may be a sad story, but it is part of our history and ultimately paved the way for mankind’s first step on the moon! We can learn from past mistakes and be better today. In the meantime, we’re giving a nod to Ham in monkey heaven and hoping that his story won’t soon be forgotten.
References
]]>This has been a very exciting year so far for all of us at Friday Sock Co. - we’re growing as a company and as individuals! We’ve done many exciting things and this growth has allowed us to travel again to the factories in Italy where our socks are made, hire more awesome people, hold our first annual team summit, and partner with Canadian Down Syndrome Society to create a truly one-of-a-kind mismatched sock. You may be asking yourself what more could we possibly accomplish before winter rolls around? The answer, multiple sock redesigns.
I know you’re wondering, why redesign when they’re already so fun!?🔥 So I took it upon myself to find those answers for you. I sat down with one of our sock designers, Tamara, to get down to the nitty gritty details of sock redesign!
We redesign in order to keep getting better. We always want to offer our customers the best we have; whether that be with a more detailed icon, new colour, or to respond to customer feedback.
For a bit of context it was actually a pretty major project that took 5-6 months.
We go through a big process of review which includes analytics from sales, customer requests, and looking at what is coming and how that will fit in with current offerings. If we let some designs go, then that leaves room for new designs. But, we don’t want to mess with much loved original designs. So, it’s a thoughtful process of what will be best for our customers. We want to make sure we’re offering a variety of colours, styles, themes etc., so it has to be looked at as a whole as well as on an individual basis. Something else we do in our design process is start from the knit pattern vs starting from a graphic. We certainly know the graphic we’re going for, but we’re always improving our ability to work within the constraints of knitting patterns which influences how we can improve detail and creativity in the design.
In the past few years we have grown the team to be able to gather more information from our customers, which informs our design. Maddy in the store chats with people coming in and has a pulse on what people are asking for. We also have a behind the scenes team that are listening to comments on social and software that can analyze things that we couldn’t before. Every year we also gain experience which helps us innovate. We also just really really really love design and coming up with new ideas. We’re always exploring ways we can push design boundaries.
We are continuing to create individual designs but we have (now more than ever) been able to create collections based on both much loved themes (perhaps dogs…) and new materials (perhaps wool…). We want to just keep getting better and better.
There you have it folks, the ins and outs of the sock redesign process. Now that that’s out of the way, let’s get to what you’re really here for. The sock redesigns themselves, you’ll be able to see firsthand some of the stuff Tamara touched on above.
This one is a classic! The redesign was purely functional. With our current experience we now know a better way of placing the stitches so that it prevents threads from coming out.
The panda was so cute we wanted him on both socks instead of bamboo on the other. We were able to infuse more personality in him and have him interacting with the bamboo more.
We knew we had to keep this design - it’s much loved. We were able to make the plane more detailed and the clouds more realistic to showcase the ombre look with the blues that we now have available.
We love telling stories and this was an opportunity to paint more of a picture of the little Gnomes that live on these socks. Because we are able to add tiny details like the glasses, big moustache, and a shovel, our Gnomes now have names and jobs which we think is fun. For the record we have Elliot, Gordo and Papa now on the socks.
People love their bikes! We wanted to try something new by having a stripe on the cuff (which we don’t often do) and make it a unisex friendly design. The darker background colour on this one also makes the bikes more visible.
We were able to make both icons smaller and add fun little details like cookie crumbs and highlights in the glass.
Palm trees was one of the original designs that people loved but we wanted to modernize it - think Hawaiian shirts, but for your feet!
Our Account Manager Taylor recently interviewed Adam about his trip to Italy. Here's what she had to say:
There's no denying the last two years have been...*interesting* to say the very least. Does anybody else feel like it's still 2020?! Needless to say- our Friday Sock Co. owner, Adam Thompson -was finally able to make it back to the land of fashion and food after a two year travel hiatus. I thought you guys might like to know a little more about what goes into our socks (who doesn't like a good behind the scenes?) so I sat down with Adam and grilled him asked him about his trip!
T : How was the trip?
A : It was great! It was so good to be back as we hadn't been able to visit for 2 years. The last time we went was in January of 2020 right before the pandemic hit. So it was a long- overdue trip and really awesome to see the people who make our socks again!
T : Why is it important to go?
A : We're a small family-owned business and we rely on our relationships with the factories who make our socks, who are also small family-owned businesses. It's really good to reconnect with these individuals and get a glimpse into their day-to-day life. Also, it's invaluable to see what possibilities we might have for the upcoming year, new yarns that are coming out, etc.
T : What was your favourite part?
A : Well, I mean it's Italy...They have such amazing food and culture so just being in that place was the highlight. But really truly it's making the human connection with the family owned factories and learning more about them. It was common for us to go out for a bite to eat and (through translation!) really get a good sense of who they are and what they are all about. Also, this time around we hired a videographer and will be making a video telling the story of Friday Socks! I'm excited to share an inside look.
T: How many factories did you visit?
A : We currently are partnered with five different factories. This trip we were able to visit everyone that we currently work with, and also three additional factories who we may expand into or develop a relationship with for future product lines. There's also one factory that specializes in boarding the socks which is basically steaming them to shape and then packaging them with the hang tag. Everything in Italy is very specialized which I absolutely love.
T : Did you uncover any challenges while you were there?
A : Yes for sure. There are increased electrical costs in Europe which has to do with the war in Ukraine. The issue is that higher electricity prices are working its way into not only the cotton but the factories themselves as they need electricity to run the machines. So we're seeing pricing go up in the supply chain across the board and it's having an impact for sure.
T : Any inspiration for possible new designs or socks?
A : For sure. It's always a really interesting place to be. I also went to Milan for two days and did some trend-spotting which is always really neat. For us, I think we may be developing something for a full line. This week I will be meeting with our design team and going over some potential possibilities using 80% wool. So, I guess that's one of the main things that we may have coming up for fall and winter other than new designs.
T : What's your favourite thing to eat in Italy?
A : That's a really hard one to answer! There is so much good food there it's unbelievable...This trip, I had a very very nice spaghetti with only a few ingredients but it was amazing. They know how to do al dente! And of course, always tiramisu.
There you have it! As I'm writing this I'm just reflecting on how much I want tiramisu how cool it is to know exactly where your products comes from and who makes them. I feel like that's not something we get to see/be a part of very often. We really are committed over here to giving you top quality, ethically made socks and we're thrilled to bring you along for the ride! Keep your eyes peeled for the video detailing Adam's Italy adventures and what Friday Sock Co. is all about.
Green beer is now widely accepted as a symbol of St.Patricks Day, so much so that beer sales go up by 174% on this holiday! For your connivence, here's three Calgary bars with St.Patrick's Day specials you won't want to miss.
Lennox Irish Pub
5909 Signal Hill Centre SW
Serving $6 Green 2515 Lager all day and a "Lucky Hour" featuring $4 highballs, Irish Food features and discount Guinness pints.
Greta Bar
213 10 Ave SW
Enjoy your beer while playing air hockey and hoops. Greta is serving up $3 Guinness and green beer between 3 pm and 6 pm.
Ship & Anchor Pub
534 17th Ave SW
Ship & Anchor is dusting off the St.Patrick's decorations for the first time since 2019. To celebrate they will have live music starting a 12 pm featuring bands such as Red Hot Hayseeds and the Nova Scotiables.
So what are you still reading this for? Go get a pint, tell them Team Friday sent you.
]]>
First up! The Marshmallow. Did you know that Americans buy 90 million pounds of marshmallows each year, about the same weight as 1,286 gray whales. That's a whole lot of softness... but not as much softness as our Ultra Comfort Socks. We have way more than the weight of 1,286 gray whales in softness. It's not even close.
Next we have Pussy Willows. Question: What are those soft little little blobs anyway? Are tiny rabbits tails? Why are they so dang soft and fuzzy? Answer: They're actually flowers just before they fully bloom. The soft coating of hairs acts as insulation to protect these early bloomers from cold temperatures. Soft, but still not as soft as our new Ultra Comfort Collection.
What about fluffy clouds? They are so fluffy! What if I told you they weren't actually fluff... What if I told you that as the warm air cools, the water vapor in it turns into tiny water droplets or ice crystals. These tiny water droplets and/or ice crystals eventually form a cloud. They're like pretend fluffy...
Baby kittens gotta be the softness thing ever! Right? Well, you might think that, and we can see why, but they're only soft until they get ya with their super sharp/tiny paw daggers. If given the choice, you should totally snuggle up to a pair of our new Ultra Comfort Collection socks instead.
Last but not least! Goslings. And we're not talking Ryan Gosling. No, we're talking baby ducks that are so soft and fluffy that they require zero swimming skills but can still hatch out of an egg float around a pond like it's nothing. Bad news though, they're not soft enough to fly. Nice try, but our socks are so soft they can fly (Disclaimer: This is an outright lie. Our socks do not fly. We just couldn't lose to a baby goose).
And the Winner is! Our new Ultra Comfort Collection socks! It was a close race, but there could only be one super soft comfy cozy thing to rule them all. Click the image below to check them out! Note: clicking the photo will take you to our women's collection. If you're looking for the men's collection, please use the menu to navigate.
]]>Why release a new organic collection?
Because we're awesome! Just kidding... Wait, no, we are awesome, but that's not why we're doing it. It's actually long overdue. We've always used OEKO TEX® Standard 100 Cotton which ensures the cotton is manufactured in a sustainable and socially responsible way (it's also tested for harmful materials). Last year we also made a recycled cotton collection (supply chain issues made it impossible this year to make more of these recycled cotton socks). So, it was the perfect time for us to further explore using organic cotton!
Ready to get educated?
Conventional cotton growing requires a significant amount of pesticides that negatively impact our health and environment. 25% of cotton is grown using insecticides with toxic chemicals that can contribute to reproductive disorders and weaker immune systems. This includes the workers who typically hand-pick the cotton crops. Many businesses continue to grow regular cotton due to the cost effectiveness and convenience.
Fortunately, The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) stepped up in 2002 as a leader in organic textile, fabric and fibre standards. In order for a company to get their products GOTS certified, the GOTS first must evaluate the entire supply chain process; growing, harvesting, processing, manufacturing, packaging, labelling, trading and distribution. These strict guidelines have proven GOTS to be a leader in social responsibility. We chose to launch an organic collection with GOTS Certification because it is the highest standard on the globe for organic cotton.
From seed to feet, our GOTS certified organic socks are carefully inspected at every stage, taking into account the environmental impact and the health, safety, and well-being of its handlers throughout the supply chain. GOTS certification allows full transparency for consumers providing complete traceability and accountability every step of the process.
At Friday Sock Co., we prioritize the health and safety of our staff, customers, and the environment. Our new Organic Cotton collection will feel great on your feet, and have you feeling great about wearing them. Our sincere hope is that our customers love them so much that we continue the expansion of this line. As always, thank you for your continued support so we can continue to be as green as possible.
]]>Children's skin is more sensitive than adults and can be prone to irritation. That's why it's extra important for their clothing to be super soft and free from any harsh substances. Because of this, we decided to transition our kids and baby collections to Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) Certified Organic Egyptian Cotton.
Keep reading to learn more about GOTS certification and the benefits of choosing organic cotton!
Cotton is one of the most grown crops in the world, mainly in the United States, China, and India. Native to tropical and subtropical areas, cotton is short and bushy crop and takes 150 to 180 days to mature.
Approximately half of all textiles are made of cotton. It is extremely popular due to it's breathability, softness, and absorbency. It's the fibre behind denim, corduroy, terrycloth, seersucker, and twill. In addition to textiles it can be found in coffee filters, fishing nets, medical supplies, and tents.
Egyptian cotton, gossypium barbadense, is a species of cotton known for its long fibres. It's considered the most luxurious type of cotton, as it makes extremely soft and durable textiles. Because of these properties, it is often used to make towels and bedsheets.
So what does it mean to be GOTS Certified? It is a transparent, clearly defined set of criteria for processing organic fibres. Products are certified by independent third parties and regulates harvesting, processing, and labelling amongst other things.
The Global Organic Textile Standard
Conventional cotton is one of the dirtiest industries in the world, using 16% of all insecticides and 7% of all herbicides. Organic cotton is grown without any of these harsh chemical and instead uses insects to combat pests. This maintains soil integrity and fertility, contributing to an overall healthier ecosystem.
Organic Cotton uses 88% less water during production than conventional cotton. This is because organic cotton is typically grown in areas that can depend on rainfall instead of irrigation.
Additionally, the run off from conventional cotton field is typically contaminated with the large of amounts of pesticides and herbicides used. This has impacts on biodiversity and aquatic life as well human health. Because organic cotton uses less chemicals, the runoff is much less polluted.
Cottonseed oil, a byproduct of growing cotton, is commonly used in food production. It is much cheaper than canola oil or olive oil and is often used for frying in restaurants and snack food production. Cottonseed oil produced from conventional cotton often contains traces of pesticides, which can be harmful to human health.
Compared to growing traditional cotton, organic cotton releases 45% less carbon dioxide during production.
Over 300 million people work in the cotton sector. The conventional cultivation of cotton exposes workers to harsh chemicals found in pesticides and herbicides.
Exposure to pesticides can cause skin irritation, headaches, dizziness, and in rare cases coma or death. Many of the people working in the cotton industry are children, in which these effects are exacerbated.
If Organic Cotton has so many benefits, why isn't all cotton grown organically? The general answer is that it is too expensive. Fast fashion brands depend on cheap materials in order to keep their prices low.
One negative aspect of organic cotton is that crops have a smaller yield, this means that more land is needed to produce the same amount of cotton as conventional methods. However, with enough cotton grown each year to supply every person in the world with 27 t-shirts, there is definitely room to reduce global consumption of cotton. This in turn would allow us to increase organic cotton production.
Because we know how delicate kid's skin can be, we prioritized transitioning our kids and baby collections to Organic Cotton. As Organic Cotton becomes more cost effective we hope to transition our other collections to organic cotton as well. For now all of our other collections are produced with OKEO-TEX® certified Egyptian Combed Cotton.
https://www.patagonia.ca/our-footprint/organic-cotton.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gossypium_barbadense
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cotton
https://www.theworldcounts.com/challenges/consumption/clothing/world-cotton-production-statistics/story
https://sewport.com/fabrics-directory/cotton-fabric
https://www.theworldcounts.com/challenges/consumption/clothing/world-cotton-production-statistics/story
https://www.global-standard.org/the-standard
As with most things, morning meals have fallen in and out of vogue throughout history. These changes in cuisine can be attributed to numerous things including societal norms, food security, and even moral panics (looking at you Kelloggs).
The first record of a daily morning meal comes from Ancient Egypt. Peasants would consume beer, bread, and onions in the morning before going to work. It was typically a heavy meal as they would not eat again until the end of the day.
During the Middle Ages breakfast was not commonly eaten as it was seen as gluttonous by the Catholic Church. Typically only the old, sick, children, and labouring men ate breakfast as they did not have the strength to make it to the typically large midday meal.
The term breakfast originated in 15th century Europe but eating in the morning didn't become a daily ritual in Europe until the 1600's as this is when many people began going to work each day.
According to food historians, humans have been eating eggs for about 6 million years, originally eating them raw from the nests of wild birds. Jungle birds were domesticated for egg production in India by 3200 BC, and it is thought that Ancient Egypt and Ancient China were the first societies to domesticate hens.
Bacon can be dated back to 1500 BC, making it one of the oldest cuts of meat. The phrase 'bringing home the bacon' originated in 12th century England. If a married man could testify in front of God that he had not argued with his wife in a year he would be awarded a side of bacon. It was a great honour to 'bring home the bacon'.
Funnily enough, bacon and eggs for breakfast can all be traced back to the founding father of psychoanalysis, Sigmund Freud. He just really has a way of inserting himself in American culture. His nephew, Edward Bernays, inspired by his uncle's work was a founder of propaganda and public relations and is credited with the introduction of bacon and eggs into the American breakfast.
In the 1920's Americans typically ate light breakfasts of coffee, orange juice, rolls. In order to increase bacon sales Bernays wrote to 5,000 physicians asking whether a heavy breakfast was better for health than a light breakfast. 4,500 physicians wrote back confirming that a heavy breakfast was better for health as the body is depleted of nutrients after a night of sleep. He had this 'study' published in newspapers across America, conveniently presenting bacon and eggs as the ideal choice.
While bacon and eggs can now be found almost anywhere, it is not the first thing that comes to mind as breakfast in most countries.
In Japan miso soup, white rice, and fish are common breakfast items. Breakfast is usually a light meal and is often accompanied with green tea.
Breakfast cuisine in India varies by region but is typically similar to foods eaten at lunch or dinner and may include roti, dosa, spiced potatoes, or various chutneys.
Nordic countries typically eat open faced sandwiches for breakfast with cold meats, fish, cheese, or vegetables.
Shakshuka is a breakfast dish originating in Northern Africa which is now popular throughout the middle east. It consists of eggs poached in a tomato sauce and is typically served with warm pita or naan.
Houseplants are really having a moment. Is it because it's a fun and exciting hobby that provides joy and fulfillment? Or is it the fact that we've all be locked inside for almost a year and are willing to do almost anything just to feel shred of joy? Who can say.
Due to this explosions of plant enthusiasts there is now a thriving exotic plant market where some spend thousands on rare plants to add to their collections. But even if you are ready and willing to drop some serious cash on plants you might not be able to get your hands on them. Most of these plants sell out within minutes of becoming available.
Keep reading to see what all the fuss is about and find your next plant crush!
Listed on Canadian Rare Plants, this can be yours for a mere $395. It's named its the galaxy-esque variegation.
This bad boy is listed on Canadian Rare Plants for a cool $1,350 (sold). But don't worry you can pick up a leaf cutting for around $250 on Etsy.
With delicate lacey leaves, Monstera Obliqua is absolutely stunning, but extremely slow growing. Recommended for experienced growers only, they can be very difficult to grow and require consistent humidity.
Named for it's likeness to dragon scales, they are relatively low maintenance and can live for decades when properly cared for.
Alocasia Cuprea, also known as Elephant's Ears, features distinctive shiny leaves. They grow best in bright, indirectly lit areas.
Anthurium Chrystallnium requires fresh soil every one to two years, and it's leaves must be wiped dry after watering. It should be kept away from pets as it can irritate the intestinal tract if swallowed.
Anthurium Papillilaminum has dark velvet leaves that grow to be quite large. In combination with the red stem, this truly is a rare find on Canadian Rare Plants and is currently sold out.
Anthurium Warocqueanum leaves can grow to over 2 meters in the proper conditions. They require high heat, high humidity, and lots of water.
The appearance of hand painted leaves make Philodendron Majestic Hybrid a unique addition to any plant collection, and is very easy to care for.
The striking white variegation of the White Wizzard truly make it standout. It comes highly recommended to beginners as it requires little care and can grow to be up to 3 meters in length.
The variegated leaves of this rare philodendron make it a beautiful addition to any collection. They grow best in bright shade, and will tolerate dry air.
Friday Sock Co. has been working with Kidsport Calgary since 2017. We recognize how important the opportunity to play sports is for all kids and we feel really lucky to be a part of their work here in Calgary.
Last November we released our Kid's Soccer, Baseball, and Football Socks with 50% of profits being donated to KidSport Calgary. Thanks to all of our wonderful customers we were able to raise over $800 for KidSport Calgary which we rounded up to $1000!
Check out our interview from November with Kevin Webster, CEO of KidSport Calgary to find out more about the work they do and how they were affected by COVID-19.
March 2017 and May 2018, respectively.
KidSport is a community funded social profit organization that provides financial assistance and no cost equipment to qualified (low income) families so their kids have the chance to get active, be on a team and chase their sporting dreams.
Sport provides kids so many positive benefits and teaches them so many great life lessons. Kids get to gain new friendships, learn skills like hard work, team work, respect, inclusion, commitment, perseverance, resilience and many more. Kids get to learn how to win and lose, while also learning to fall down and get back up again. Sport is something every child should have the chance to play, and KidSport helps make that possible for the families we assist.
COVID has affected our organization, our sport community and our families much like many others. We have had to say goodbye to over 40 different fundraising events we would have hosted or been part of as a charity partner between March and September 2020. This has impacted our fundraising revenues with a loss of over 60% this year. Sport was shutdown for a big chunk of this time which meant we were sitting idle not able to help those families who need us for sport registration fee assistance. However we wanted to ensure kids had access to equipment to keep them busy and get them outside so we partners with the Calgary Youth Centres and City of Calgary Low Income housing to distribute free sports equipment to almost 400 kids so these kids had the ability to play something they loved.
Now that sport has begun to slowly return we are once again supporting kids with financial assistance and no cost equipment, but the pace is much slower then in previous years. The main reasons we learned of through a recent survey of our families and sports clubs is that there is still a hesitation from some of our families to return to sport just yet, some sport clubs are still not ready to open some of their programs, some sport clubs are no longer operating, capacity for the majority of our sport partners is below 75% of their regular capacity, meaning less spots for kids to play and finally the cost of sport has had to increase for some due to the cost associated with meeting new guidelines and increase cost of space due to CBE and CCSD school gyms not being available to rent.
All of this is challenging for us and our sport community, but most importantly it is really difficult for our families. That is why we will not stop, we will find new ways to raise funds and find opportunities for KidSport kids to be able to play. Sport is just too important in the lives of kids and for the kids we assist that value is exponential as sport is a positive outlet that they need in their lives.
Start by ordering a pair of the Friday Sock Co socks in support of KidSport! We have many great opportunities from volunteering, donating, hosting a fundraiser, signing up for our KidSport Recycling program, get bidding in our Back to Sport Auction (now closed), donate new or gently used kids equipment to our Calgary Flames Sports Bank and supporting our great local partners and events. Check out our website for more info
Knowing that everyday we are helping change the course of a child’s life in a positive way. Sport has been part of my life from the earliest of years. It provided me a chance to grow and develop, it gave me lifelong friendships, taught me the importance of teamwork, compassion, modesty, integrity and respect. Sport is a huge part of who I am today so I like everyone involved with KidSport want to make sure that ALL kids get those same opportunities and that their families financial challenges will not limit them.
“When I think about KidSport, I don’t even think about kids being able to play sports, I think about kids having the opportunity to change their lives.” - Jeff Vela past KidSport kid
“KidSport is like being able to give kids and their families hope for something more” - Emily past KidSport kid
"I wanted to express my sincere gratitude for the generosity shown by your organization. The kids were thrilled to get new gear, and we are so thankful for the financial assistance to play a great, but expensive, game."
"Thank you all so much for giving my children the opportunity to join a club and learn a sport - and learn a whole other side of themselves that would never have been found without your help! I’m a disabled, single parent and I know that my children will have opportunities to get out and get exercise because of Kidsport... because of you."
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There's no place like YYC in the summer and we wanted to share some of our favourite things to do in Calgary to keep moving and soak up those long summer days.
]]>Calgary is conveniently located less than an hour away from world renowned trails. Check out 5 Unreal Hikes Near Calgary to find your next summit!
Here in YYC we are blessed with over 700 KM of multiways. Put your feet to the pedals and see where the road takes you! (Patio stops recommended)2. Bike This summer is also a great opportunity to bike to Johnston Canyon. The natural attraction is typically overflowing with visitors but Parks Canada has decided to close the Bow Valley Parkway to all public vehicles for the season. Bike the empty road to the canyon and enjoy the area sans tourists while you can!
Bow River Pathway
Kart? Yeah you heard that right, during the summer Skyline Luge operates Downhill Karting at Winsport. Take the chairlift up and kart down the 1.8 km track!
Winsport
Humans starting forming agricultural societies about 10,000 years ago. Before that humans were mostly nomadic, depending on hunting and gathering for sustenance. The establishment of agriculture created a reliable food source that allowed humans to stay in one place for an extended period of time. The ability to live in one place is a fundamental component of modern society. Having a permanent place to live is essential to being an active member of society. Getting a job, drivers license, healthcare, insurance, bank account, and even going to school require an address. Not to mention the emotional significance of having a home. Of course agriculture has changed dramatically over the years. Livestock, new technologies, and genetic modification have all contributed to changes in how and what humans grow. However, arguably the most significant changes have been in the past 100 years, when the global food network completely exploded.
Up to 80% of our fresh fruit and vegetables are imported, over half of that coming from the United States. Our next biggest import partners are France, Italy, Brazil, and China respectively. The dependence on imports draws criticism due to the emissions created during transportation and concern about Canada's food security. In reality Canada actually does yield a considerable amount of food, about 1.5% of the world's food is produced in Canada. Mainly grains, red meats, and dairy. In order for Canada to become less dependent on food imports we would either need to alter our diets or heavily invest in greenhouse growing, which would produce at least the same amount of emissions as importing, if not more. Below is a map illustrating a broad overview of the global trade network. Only our partnership with the US is represented but the map is a great depiction of how complex the global food trade network is.
Next time you get home with a load of groceries, look at where each item is from as you unpack it!
A food desert is an area that lacks access to affordable nutritious food. They are typically in low income areas where residents have limited mobility. These neighbourhoods are unattractive to grocery stores and residents often end up having to rely on convenience stores for food, where the items are more expensive and options are limited. Most of the items are processed; and high in sugar and fats with have proven health consequences.
The next time you stop in a convenience store take a look around and imagine having to rely on that selection for the majority of your diet. The responsibility to address food deserts relies on municipalities, not individuals. However, gardens may play a role in the solution. Some cities have addressed food deserts with fresh food carts and pop ups, but a neighbourhood garden with a work-for-food system may be another creative solution!
The obvious benefit of growing your own garden is the increased consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, but there are other benefits as well. Many studies have shown that increased time outdoors can help improve anxiety and depression, reduce stress, and boost mood. It also helps improve hand strength and can be a great bonding activity when done with others!
If you live here in Calgary, or anywhere else with short summers, you'll want to start your seeds indoors. It sounds like a lot but it's quite easy, and it gives your little plants the best chance possible at producing.
Supplies:
Plants don't require many nutrients at the seedling stage so as long as you use a high quality soil mix you don't need to worry about fertilizer. Once you've got everything you need, simply follow the instructions on the seed packet. Each variety will have it's own set of specifications to give it the best chance at germinating. Before you know it you'll be cooking up a stew with your own home grown veggies! Check out Common Mistakes Made While Growing Seeds Indoors for an indepth run down of the do's and don'ts of starting seedlings indoors!
A common barrier to growing your own food is space. Producing a significant amount of food requires a decent amount of outdoor space that many people don't have access to, especially in urban areas. The good news is that many cities are developing creative ways to give their residents access to growing space.
Community gardens in urban areas are becoming more and more common. They may be at a park, a community center, or a vacant lot in the middle of a neighbourhood. Not only do they allow residents to grow their own food but they foster ties and bonds within the locale. Here in Calgary, anyone with a location in mind can form a committee and apply to the city for a community garden permit. If approved, new gardens may be eligible for up to $5,000 in-kind support from The City. Check your city's website to see how you can start a garden in your neighbourhood!
A green roof is a roof covered with vegetation. In 2009 the city of Toronto enacted a bylaw requiring green roofs on new developments and additions larger than 2,000 m². Toronto was the first city in North America to put a green roof bylaw in place. Not only do green roofs create growing space in urban areas but the host a number of other benefits as well:
Building a green roof is definitely not as easy as planting a garden, but supporting green roof bylaws in your municipality and electing environmentally conscious officials is a great start!
What are you growing this summer? Let us know in the comments below!
Sources
https://www.calgary.ca/csps/parks/programs/community-gardens.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agriculture_in_Canada
https://healthtalk.unchealthcare.org/health-benefits-of-gardening/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Food_desert
https://www.toronto.ca/city-government/planning-development/official-plan-guidelines/green-roofs/green-roof-bylaw/
Catchfly
Catchfly originates from Europe and are said to represent unchanging friendship. Its flowers are primarily pink but may also have tones of lavender or white.
Sweet Alyssum
Sweet Alyssum produces clusters of tiny flowers that produce an extremely pleasant sent. The flowers may be pink, salmon, purple, white or yellow. They are said to possess a spiritual energy that helps improve emotional balance.
Snapdragon
Said to represent strength and grace, Snapdragons are a hardy plant and give off an exciting, pleasing fragrance.
Bird's Eye
Native to California, Bird's Eye is often visited by bees and hummingbirds.
Black Eyed Susan
Representing justice and triumphant love, Black Eyed Susans are native to North America and are known to attract butterflies. white or yellow.
Clarkia
Named after William Clark (Lewis and Clark), Clarkia produces beautiful pink flowers said to represent enthusiasm and charm.
We all know that flowers are aesthetically pleasing but are there any other benefits? The answer is yes!
Many studies have cited improvement in productivity, mental health, and immunity from keeping plants and flowers in the home or office. Which are things we could all use a little more of after a year of living through a global pandemic.
We are so excited to see all of your wildflowers growing. Don't forget to share on Instagram and Facebook with #fridaysockco !
25 Casteel Creek Road, Edwards, CO $78,000,000 USD
This ski in/ski out property boasts stunning mountain views, an on site gas station, and facilities for almost any activity you could imagine. Dual indoor and outdoor pools, stocked trout pond, indoor tennis court, rock climbing wall, shooting range and soccer field means you'll never run out of things to do. Also included is 12 high performance snowmobiles, 3 ATVs, and a touring snowcat.
Spread through the main house, multiple guest houses, and a historical cabin are 21 bedrooms and 34 bathrooms. You can sleep in a different be everyday for 3 weeks.
149 E Inlet Dr, Palm Beach, FL $78,000,000 USD
Beachfront living at it's finest! This Palm Beach home features 7 bedrooms, 11 bathrooms, and ocean views from almost every room. Watch the sun rise over the Atlantic Ocean from one of four balconies or your private hot tub.
Get moving in your fully equipped gym and finish with a sweat in your private sauna. The modern clean design and constant lapping of waves will have you feeling zen af.
Paris, Ile-De-France, France $96,420,393 USD
Live in luxury in The City of Love. Built in 1885 and newly renovated this home is simply begging for someone to eat croissants in every single room. This home has blended traditional design with modern amenities to perfection. The living spaces feature elaborate wall panelling while the basement features an ultra modern pool and gym set up.
Walking distance from the Eiffel Tower and Bois de Boulogne, you'll get a major upgrade to your morning run. (If you're into that sort of thing)
12 E 63rd St, New York, NY $65,000,000 USD
Located in peaceful Lenox Hill, this 7 story home features 7 bedrooms, 11 bathrooms, and a rooftop garden. Equipped with an elevator, you can get from you basement indoor swimming pool and fully equipped gym to your 6th floor master that spans an entire floor in minutes.
Walking distance to Central Park, The Met, and Grand Central Station, you can spend your days fulfilling your Serena van der Woodsen fantasy.
Laglio, Como, Italy. Price Upon Request (AKA Really Expensive)
Just an hour outside of Milan this villa is nestled near the cozy village of Laglio on the shore of Lake Como. The region is known for its scenic beauty and is home to many wineries. It is a popular vacation destination for celebrities, including Madonna and George Clooney.
Built in 1900, this property features 7 bedrooms and 17 full bathrooms. Each room is more stunning than the last, with stunning mouldings and elaborate details throughout. Spend your days relaxing in the garden or basking by the lakeside pool, and you evenings eating pasta under the stars.
Blue Island, Exuma Cays, Bahamas $75,000,000 USD
The possibilities are endless with you're very own 700 acre island. It features a brand new jet strip and on site customs and immigration. The island currently has a 12 bedroom main house and a staff house, but there are numerous house sites ready to be built upon. As the largest private island in the Bahamas, this truly is a one of a kind property!
118 Downtown Dubai, Dubai, UAE $13,478,557 USD
Located in the heart of downtown Dubai, this 11,000 square foot penthouse features stunning city views from every window. The residence is accessed via private elevator, and not a single expense has been spared. First class finishes throughout with extreme attention to detail and design.
Each of the six bedrooms has its own luxury ensuite, and the master features a private terrace. You will have access to top of the line amenities including a fitness centre, multiple terraces and lounges, along with a temperature controlled swimming pool with a skyline backdrop.
Spend your days relaxing on one of the many beautiful beaches or exploring the city's rich culture.
Which home is your favourite? Leave a comment!
You may think you know what a good carbonara is, but if your thinking of pasta drenched in a cream based sauce, you're wrong! Traditional carbonara consists of just five simple ingredients: hard cheese, cured pork, pasta, black pepper, and egg. It originated as 'peasant' food and can be a difficult dish to master as the eggs can easily make the sauce lumpy. Give it a try here!
Pesto has taken on a very loose meaning in North American cuisine. Arugula, spinach, sun-dried tomato, pumpkin seed, and a myriad of other variations have popped up in restaurants, grocery stores, and food blogs. They are typical made in a machine which results in a more homogenized sauce, where as traditional pesto is hand chopped to maintain slight definition between ingredients. If you're looking for a taste of old school Italy, 101 Cookbooks' How to Make Pesto like an Italian Grandmother is a great place to start. Find it here Because deep down, don't we all just want to be Italian Grandmothers?
Bruschetta has become a staple appetizer in North America, but typically differs from the traditional recipe. Cheese, balsamic vinegar, onions, and meat are all common add ons. Traditional bruschetta dates back to Ancient Rome and relies on fresh ingredients. It is best made in the summer with vine ripened tomatoes and enjoy outside with a glass of wine. Fine the recipe here and save it for your next summer party.
If you're used to starting your morning with an Americano, you would be in for quite the surprise if you ordered one in Italy. Dating back to the 1860's, an Italian Americano is a cocktail made with sweet vermouth, club soda, and campari. Campari is a an Italian liqueur infused with fruit and herbs. Find the recipe for this classic cocktail here
Alfredo is a classic Roman dish that was commonly made table-side. Similarly to Carbonara, Alfredo has been adapted into a cream based sauce in North America. Traditionally it gets its creaminess from butter, parmesan, and pasta water and is season with salt and pepper only. Where North American versions often include chicken, garlic, oregano, broccoli or shrimp. Find a recipe for traditional Alfredo here, and save it for the next time you need some comfort food!
Of course pasta was not traditionally found in a box in aisle 2, but dried pasta is now commonly used all over the world, including in Italy. However, if you are looking to make fully authentic Italiano meal, fresh pasta is a must. Lucky for you it isn't nearly as hard as it seems. It requires only flour, eggs, salt, and olive oil and can be made using a pasta maker or by hand. Delicious, fresh, and makes a great Instagram post. Find an easy to follow recipe here
]]>Our baby socks will now be packaged in reusable wash bags made out of organic cotton. (Woohoo!) Not only will this save your little socks from being lost in the dryer abyss but it's a big win for mother earth too. Our mismatched baby socks were previously packaged in recyclable cardboard containers, but only about 1/4 of Canada's paper and cardboard waste is actually recycled. Switching to functional packaging with only a cardboard tag greatly reduces the amount of waste associated with the purchase of our product, and for us that's a huge win.
So how did we come up with this? First hand experience. Adam was blessed with his second bundle of joy, Ollie, in May 2020 and of course he was immediately hired as a Friday Sock product tester. While Ollie loved how his mismatched dinosaur socks complimented his soft spot he lost his favourite sock (purple brachiosaurus) the first time they were washed. Adam, always the ideas man, immediately thought of wash bags, and the rest is history!
]]>It's no secret that 2020 has been a tough year for everyone. But if we have learned anything, it is the importance of community. We feel incredibly blessed to be a part of such an amazing one here in Calgary, despite being a big city the comradery and goodwill often make it feel like a small town.
]]>Two of our company core values are creativity and responsibility. We are constantly striving to apply these values to everything we do, including our packaging. Even as a small business we recognize that we have a responsibility to do everything we can to protect the environment, and we pride ourselves on finding creative solutions to reduce our impact.
In April 2019 we switched from plastic to cardboard hang tags that are 100% recyclable. In August 2019 we made the switch to biodegradable plastic mailers. These were a huge step up from traditional plastic packaging but they still took 2 years or more to begin degrading. So after some research we are super excited to announce that we will now be sending out our socks in 100% compostable mailers! (woohoo).
These bad boys are made out of corn and break down completely in 3-6 months. They can be put right in the compost with your banana peels and egg shells. Don't have a compost? That's all good, even if they don't make it into a compost bin they will still break down in the landfill. Which means no turtles will be choking on Friday Sock Co. mailers. We recognize that this is a just a start, be we believe that every little piece counts and we are super proud of how far we've come.
Keep reading to learn more about the environmental impacts of traditional plastics, how to reduce your plastic usage, and how to make your own compost!
Plastic was first synthesized in the late 1800s and became widely used during World War II. A cheap, lightweight, and malleable material with endless applications, plastic transformed society. Plastic is a part of almost every aspect of modern day to day life. The world now produces over 380 million tonnes of plastic each year, and 50% of it is single use plastics. Single use plastics are the worst environmental offender as they are typically only used for a matter of minutes before being discarded and are more likely to be littered.
Plastic takes about 450 years to decompose, this means that every piece of plastic ever made is still on earth today. While most plastics are recyclable only about 9% of them actually are. The majority ends up in landfills or polluting the environment, particularly waterways. When plastics make their way into the waterways they erode into microplastics. This is not the same as degrading, the plastic still exists it's just in smaller pieces. This means that animals of all sizes are unknowingly ingesting plastic, including humans.
We can probably all agree that we need to curtail the amount of plastic entering the environment, but what's the best way to do this? There's 3 general solution of how to do so: reduce, reuse and recycle.
Reduce
Reducing plastic consumption is the most effective of the 3 R's. Many plastic reduction movements have started in the past few years. This market pressure has resulted in plastic alternatives for products that were previously only available in plastic, toothbrushes for example. If you're looking for more ways to reduce your plastic use, check out Plastic Free July here for tons of great ideas!
Recycle
Recycling sounds great, but in reality it's not nearly as green of a solution as it claims to be. First of all, many types of plastic aren't even recyclable at all, including: dirty plastic, straws, and plastic bags. Plastics that are recycledable can only be recycled a limited number of times as the plastic degrades each time. Materials like tin and glass can be recycled endlessly.
Secondly in order for plastic to be recycled it has to make it to the proper facility. Recycling infrastructure is expensive and many governments are unable to provide it, meaning that many people don't even have the option to sort out their recyclable waste. If you do have access to recycling facilities it's important to ensure you only put in approved items. Over 25% of Canada's blue bin content is unable to be recycled due to contamination.
Reuse
Reusing plastic items helps extend their life, and keeps them from the landfill longer but ultimately it's not the best solution. Reusing your plastic cutlery for multiple meals is better than throwing it away after one use but as they are not meant to last you will eventually end up throwing it out. The better solution is to invest in plastic or non plastic items that were meant to be reusable.
Many municipalities have started implementing composting programs that run alongside regular trash collection. If your city hasn't implemented one of these programs yet, don't worry! Making your own compost is affordable and easy, plus you get to reap the benefits of rich nutrient dense compost.
1. The first step is to purchase a compost bin. You can buy a specialty compost bin, but even just a large pail with a lid will work!
2. Next, start filling it! Experts recommend alternating layers of 'browns' and 'greens'. Browns are things like: evergreen needles, dried grass clippings, paper towels, shredded newspaper, and Friday Sock Co. packaging. Greens are things like: egg shelfs, fruit peels, vegetables, and food scraps. Alternating these layers allows for proper drainage and air flow.
3. Mix it! It might not be the most fun thing in the world but mixing your compost will help it breakdown faster and reduce odour.
4. In 4-6 months your compost should be complete. The finished compost will end up at the top of your bin, and the non-decomposed items will stay at the bottom. Sprinkle it on your lawn, flower beds, and garden and reap the rewards of your hard work!
]]>Envisioning a future where no mama or child is left behind.
Having cool socks is cool. Not having any socks at all? Not cool. The unfortunate reality however is that in times of struggle, some Mama’s aren’t able to provide something as simple (and necessary) as socks to their children. We make socks! So how (we wondered), could we make sure kiddos who need socks will get them?
]]>Having cool socks is cool. Not having any socks at all? Not cool. The unfortunate reality however is that in times of struggle, some Mama’s aren’t able to provide something as simple (and necessary) as socks to their children. We make socks! So how (we wondered), could we make sure kiddos who need socks will get them?
Enter Mamas for Mamas.
Mamas for Mamas is a Canadian charitable organization providing support to those in crisis and struggling with poverty. Knowing that this organization is on the front-line, we donated over 600 pairs of children’s cookie socks for them to distribute. We're not sure if there's anything funner than having cookies on your feet, and we hoped they put a lot of smiles on little faces.
For us, this goes beyond giving socks. We trust in what Mamas for Mamas is doing and believe that an organization who also empowers people to give kindness back for the goods they receive - holy moly. That is a place we want to support.
If you want to see more of what Mamas for Mamas is doing - please visit their website HERE
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Socks, not much to them right? Just some little cloth envelopes we put our feet in so our shoes don't stink. WRONG! You put socks on everyday, you walk around in them for hours, you live in them, you laugh in them, you love in them. They protect your feet, they can pull an outfit together, you can even use it as a face mask in a pinch.... what more can you ask of a piece of clothing?
]]>Socks, not much to them right? Just some little cloth envelopes we put our feet in so our shoes don't stink. WRONG! You put socks on everyday, you walk around in them for hours, you live in them, you laugh in them, you love in them. They protect your feet, they can pull an outfit together, you can even use it as a face mask in a pinch.... what more can you ask of a piece of clothing?
Here at Friday Sock Co. we like to think we've changed the sock game a bit; easy sizing, creative styles, a monthly sock club, and more! Keep reading to find out what we can do for your feet, because your toes deserve the best.
Yeah you heard that right, our socks come fully loaded with 6 state of the art features, no extra cost.
We extend our knit all the way inside of our top cuff to provide extra durability and comfort. This also allows for our socks to stay up longer. No slouching here!
We use a variety of high needle count knitting machines to make socks of different density and softness while keeping the integrity of the design. High needle count also results in a stronger and finer premium quality sock.
The STANDARD 100 by OKEO-TEX® is a worldwide consistent independent testing and certification system for raw, semi-finished, and finished textile products at all processing levels, as well as accessory materials used.
The toes on our socks feature our No-Feel Toe Seam™. This means you won't be feeling anything unpleasant on your toes. We think this is a bit of a game changer.
No holy socks here. We reinforce our heels and toes with cotton wrapped polyester yarn so that you still feel the softness of cotton, while getting the strength of polyester.
We have committed to be environmentally conscious in all areas of our business. Our yarns are made in an eco-friendly environment and are free from harmful materials that can be found in non-regulated manufacturing. We are also in the process of phasing out all plastic hooks and have moved to 100% cardboard tags since 2019. Our shipping mailers are even biodegradable! Look at us doing good things and stuff.
Did you know that socks are typically sized in inches? As if anyone knows how long their feet are in inches. Here at Friday we've tried to make it as simple as possible by sizing our socks based on shoe size. Our women's socks come in one size which fits a women's shoe size 5-10, men's shoe size 4-8, and kid's shoe size 3-6.
Fun fact, socks are actually unisex, we recommend checking out our men's socks. Our men's collections offer some of the same designs as women's, plus more! Our men's socks fit a women's 8-13.
You my friend are in luck, since our socks have such a high cotton content you can shrink them by tossing them in the dryer or check out our kid's socks which come in four sizes you tiny footed person you.
Friday Sock co. has three women's collections; crew, ankle, and recycled cotton. (Is there a very exciting new collection coming in October?? Sign up for our newsletter at the bottom of this article to be the first to know!)
Our women's crew socks are our OG's, made with 85% Egyptian combed cotton, 12% nylon, and 3% elastane. These babies hit above your ankle so you can show off your awesome sock choice with almost any sneaker, ankle bootie, sandal, or even a chic pump. We have over 80 designs in the women's crew, so whether you are a leopard lady or a cupcake connoisseur there is something for you or whoever you are buying for.
Next we've got the ankles, they have the same composition as the crew but they hit below the ankle. Maybe you have a dress code you need to follow, maybe you ankles need to breathe, or maybe you just don't want the world to know you're a unicorn fanatic. These guys stay your little secret, hidden by most closed toe footwear. We have over 40 designs available in women's ankle, that's like a different pair of socks everyday for 6 weeks!
Our newest collection (for now) is recycled cotton. They are 55% recycled cotton, 30% recycled pima cotton, 12% nylon, and 3% elastane. Not only do these guys do good for mother earth by keeping fabric scraps out of the landfill but the pima cotton makes them extra soft. Right now this collection features 8 designs, with colours and patterns not found in our regular crew or ankle collections.
Your socks do so much for you, the least you can do is take care of them back. Don't worry you don't have to hand wash your socks, just throw them in the machine with your tighty whities and sweatpants. Drying is a bit of a different story, as mentioned above our socks have a high cotton content and this means they can shrink in the dryer. If you don't want them to shrink it is recommended that you hang dry them. Hang dry my socks???? What you think I live the Ritz-Carlton? I don't have a fancy sock hanger! Good news, you can hang dry your socks almost anywhere; on your balcony or deck, your dining room chairs, your ceiling fan, your boyfriend, or your toaster oven (disclaimer: we don't actually recommend putting your socks on your toaster oven).
Picture this; a new pair of surprise mismatched matching socks to spice up your feet every. single. month. Sounds like a dream doesn't it? Well it's a reality with our monthly sock club; available in 3, 6, 9, and 12 month terms, perfect for some monthly self care. It also makes a great gift, not only does it fit any occasion but it also forces the person to think of you at least once a month. But you're on your way to your to your Great Aunt's Bar-mitzvah right now? No sweat! Place a subscription order in her name and print of or email the confirmation sheet. Boom gift done in 30 seconds and you look like the most thoughtful relative ever!
Check out some sock inspo below and click any image to find your next perfect pair!
Difficulty Level: Moderate
You can't talk about hikes around Banff National Park and not mention Larch Valley. The hike offers exceptional views right from the get go, with the trailhead starting off at Moraine Lake. Head to the west side of the lake and start your ascent up the 14 (yes 14) switchbacks. Good company is recommended to make them go by a little faster. Once you've conquered them though it's smooth sailing with views literally all around you. Follow the trail and you'll be greeted with lakes, a meadow, and maybe even some wildlife.
Honestly the biggest struggle of this hike will be finding parking at Moraine Lake, it's typically full by 5am for sunrise and then people clear out around 9am. After that it's basically luck of the draw if they'll be letting people up when you're there. The Roam bus is also doing trips to Moraine until October 12th. But if you can't get to Moraine don't stress, Lake Louise is just up the road and offers just as many outstanding hikes.
Difficulty Level: Moderate / Hard
Starting at Lake Louise, Big Beehive offers an impressive return on views per effort. Along the way you pass a multitude of Instagramable spots including a waterfall, Mirror Lake, Lake Agnes, and the Lake Agnes Teahouse. Fun fact, the staff hike up to the Teahouse 2-4 time per week and sleep in a loft above the kitchen. After hitting up the Teahouse for a mid-hike tea and sandwich, continue along the shoreline around the lake until you hit the switchbacks. They seem intimidating, but keep an even pace and you'll be up in no time.
Once you've conquered those it's a quick jaunt to the viewpoint with stunning views of Lake Louise. There's nothing like seeing the Fairmont the size of your thumb to make you feel accomplished. If you're not satisfied at the top of the Big Beehive you can head up to Devil's Thumb, significantly harder than the way up to Big Beehive but very worth it. At the top you are rewarded with a bird's eye view of both Lake Louise and Lake Agnes.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Can you take a gondola to the top of the mountain and get the same views as if you hiked up? Yes. Will they look as jaw-droppingly awesome? Probably. Will you feel same pride in your heart knowing you conquered a mountain with your own two feet? Absolutely not. This hike is great because it's right in Banff and easy combined with a day of shopping and strolling along Banff Ave. The trail consists of well maintained switchbacks and you are greeted at the top with gorgeous views of the Town of Banff, a choice of restaurants, full service bathrooms, and even a gift shop. And hey if you drink one too many glasses of wine on Peak Patio or just decide you've had enough for the day you can always take the gondola down.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Just over an hour from downtown, Barrier Lake is a beautiful escape for minimal driving. For the best view of the lake take the path to the north side of the lake and follow the signs for Prairie View Trail. At the top you can turn around and head down the way you came or continue on to jewel pass which takes you past a waterfall and ends with a long walk along the shore. If you aren't spent from the hike you can rent a SUP, kayak, or canoe and spend even more time soaking up the autumn lake air.
Difficulty: Hard
I will warn you now, this hike is not for the faint of heart. Be prepared to scramble and walk along ridges with drops on both sides. But with 360 degree views for the majority of the hike, it is more than worth it. As you walk along the ridge you will be greeted with peaks as far as the eye can see and an aerial view of Spray Lakes Reservoir and valley that will make you feel like the only person in the world. The best part of this hike is that it's a loop so you never have to retrace your steps, and the two trailheads are walking distance apart so you only need one vehicle. A bit of a long drive, but bring some company, crank the tunes and make a day of it!
Always check the weather before going hiking and make sure you are prepared with food, water, proper clothing, first aid supplies, and bear spray. Choose a hike that you are comfortable with and fits your experience level.
]]>Every child is unique and may have their owns reasons for their vendetta against socks but in general, this issue has two common explanations. The first is sensory issues. Even if your child hasn't been diagnosed with a sensory disorder, the experience of wearing socks may still be uncomfortable for them. Whether it's the feel of the toe seams, tightness of the cuff around their ankle, or a bump under their foot from a wrinkle or snag.
Human feet contain about 8000 nerve endings, and since children aren't as used to footwear as adults they can be more overwhelmed by the sensation of wearing socks or shoes.
So what can be done about this? Occupational Therapist and Author Cindy Chaun suggests taking time to acknowledge your child's feelings about socks. She explains that for your child wearing socks can be "a frustration between an external expectation placed on them and the perceived "pain" they may be experiencing". This means that even though for you putting on socks is two seconds of the day you barely think about, for your child it can be a major source of stress and anxiety. After acknowledging their emotional response she recommends working with your child to try options until you find something together that works for them. While this may seem like a lot of effort and hassle just for socks you can use it as a bonding experience and shared time together shopping.
The second reason kids may be against socks is the same reason they're against bedtime, baths, and broccoli. They want to assert their independence and have some control over their life. Psychologist and New York Times Best Seller, Wendy Mogel explains it as your child saying "you can make me do a lot of things, but you can't make me put on my socks".
Mogel recommends giving your child more responsibility and independence in order to combat this. She suggests that even something as simple as having your child lay out their outfit the night before, including socks, can give them a sense of control and responsibility.
And while your child may not know that black and brown shouldn't be worn together, or that before leaving the house they should "look in the mirror and remove one accessory" (Coco Chanel). Letting them choose their own outfit (no matter how creative it may be) can help with your sock struggles because if they got to choose them they are more likely to want to wear them.
So what if you try all of that and they still won't wear socks? Well the good news is that it is likely just a phase that they will grow out of. Before you know it you'll be arguing about who gets the car Friday night and you'll be dreaming about those good old sock days.
Sources: Chicago Tribune, Your Kids OT
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Camping is the quintessential summer activity, and now that it's October you may think that your chance to go this year has passed. And okay, maybe it has but that doesn't mean you can't get the camping✨vibe✨at home. Utilizing knowledge gained over 20 years of real life camping trips, and a few google searches, I have curated for you the ultimate at home camping experience.
]]>Camping is the quintessential summer activity, and now that it's October you may think that your chance to go this year has passed. And okay, maybe it has but that doesn't mean you can't get the camping✨vibe✨at home.
Utilizing knowledge gained over 20 years of real life camping trips, and a few google searches, I have curated for you the ultimate at home camping experience.
One of the best parts of camping is the food. Hot-dogs, s'mores, and a cold beer. I can't in good conscience recommend that you start a fire in your living room so instead let's talk about some ways you can make those campfire favourites at home (safely).
The unpredictable hotdog cooking experience that a campfire provides is hard to replicate at home, however you'll be happy to know that hotdogs can be cooked by almost anything that provides heat; stovetop, oven, microwave, bbq, hair dryer, iron, furnace. The choice is yours.
To make s'mores at home start by lining a baking tray with tin foil. Next place a layer of graham crackers with a layer of marshmallows on top. Put it in the oven and broil it until the tops of the marshmallows are golden brown. Add the chocolate and second layer of graham crackers, throw it back in the oven just until the chocolate is melted, and boom you've got s'mores from the comfort of your own home.
Since you're at home and have full access to your pantry this is your chance to really up your s'mores game. Add some peanut butter or banana, substitute Nutella or jam for the chocolate, add chilli powder for all I care, the s'more is your oyster.
Making cold beer at home is surprisingly easy, simply purchase some beer, place the beer in the fridge and within a few hours you will have a refreshing cold one. To really get that true camping feeling try pairing it with a frustrating activity, the way you would camping with setting up the tent. Some suggestions include: organizing your Tupperware containers, dusting your blinds, or doing your taxes.
There's really nothing like sleeping in a tent. The freezing nights, the sun beating in at 5am, the stick poking into your back, waking up slightly damp from condensation, and the sounds of the forest. Wait was that a bear or Dave peeing for the 7th time tonight? It truly is an experience that can't be replicated at home. And besides who has enough open space inside to set up a tent. (If you do please call me I need somewhere to Jazzercise).
Instead go for a good old fashion blanket fort. Not only will it make a hella cute insta pic but I promise you that it will be just as uncomfortable as sleeping in a tent, and you will experience the same relief when you can finally get out in the morning.
Hiking, fishing, kayaking, bike riding; all seemingly outside activities. And well they are. Sure I could tell you to set up a stationary bike in front of your TV and watch some nature show but we all know it's not the same. I could tell you to fill your bathtub with fish and moss and cast a line, but that just sounds like a biohazard waiting to happen. I could tell you to walk up and down your stairs a few hundred times and then stare at a picture of a mountain but the only place that will transport you to is disappointment city.
In reality there really is no way to reap the benefits of the outdoors without actually going outdoors, tragic I know. And luckily for those of us that sustain subzero temperatures for half the year, most activities can be winterized. Plus the snow opens up a whole new range of outdoor hobbies. I mean come on, who doesn't want to strap onto a piece of fibre glass and throw themselves down a mountain?
Yes I am going to tell you to put your phone away, no I'm not trying to ruin your social life. Like it or not most of us are pretty attached to our phones and putting it down for a while can do more good than you realize.
Having trouble putting it away? You could put it in a bowl of water and freeze it into a block of ice but unfortunately this will result in your phone no longer working once you thaw it. Instead shut it off and put it in the room furthest away from where you're having your campout. Or make a bet with whoever you're with that the person who looks at their phone first has to buy everyone breakfast.
There really is no substitute for conversation around a campfire under the night sky. But that doesn't mean you can't have a different type of fun. That's right I'm talking movie marathon baby! And yes I did just tell you to disconnect from technology but you're not going to learn that your ex is engaged or be invited to join Tiffany's MLM for the 10th time by watching Forrest Gump so it's different okay.
Share you camping at home photos with #fridaysockco for a chance to be featured on our Instagram!
]]>However, what do you do with your socks, specifically your Friday Socks? We have news for you - socks are in this summer, but not just any socks, mismatched ones. That’s right! They are this season’s must-have accessory that will give your feet a break from those dreadfully bland white knee-highs that your Grandma just loves to buy you. They will provide your look with the pop of colour that it’s been missing since the tie-die craze of the 90’s – in a less tacky and florescent way of course.
They will allow you to bring your usual street wear up a notch by playing with different colours and textures, and allowing your feet to play a leading role in determining your summer 2020 style. From a casual Sunday bike ride, to a cocktail bar on a Friday night, your mismatched calf-huggers can be dressed up or down to suit the occasion and will have you standing out in any crowd.
The key: choosing the right pair the both contrasts and compliments your look at the same time – easy peasy!
Not sure where to get started? Here are 8 trendy ways for both men and women to wear Friday Socks this summer that you simply can’t miss out on!
If you’re working in the corporate world of 9-5, there is generally not a ton of flexibility to play around with personal style. Interject this cookie cutter look, by throwing a subtle explosion of colour on your ankles that will tie your outfit together, catch the eye and insert some life into your daily humdrum attire. There is nothing like a pair of burger and fries socks to cheer up the office on a dreary Monday morning!
Yes ladies, we said it! According to Vogue, even Kylie Jenner is adapting this funky style that shocked the runways last year. If heels really aren’t your thing, a pair of Adidas Superstars are perfectly acceptable for a more Athleisure look. We have cupcake, watermelon, floral and even cat socks that will take your outfit from drab to fab. If Kylie validated it, it’s got to be the next hottest trend right?
That’s right; yank those socks up real high, because this 80’s workout trend is back! Whether you’re at the gym, or for a brisk run in the great outdoors, this is probably one of the most practical, comfiest and fashionable decisions you’ll make all summer. We even have football or bike themed socks for extra motivation!
Whether you’re attending the Calgary Stampede, Canada Day or Ride Your Bike to Work Day, always arrive in style and dressed to the nines. This is a fun way to subtly incorporate the motif of the festivities into your attire, while adding your individual stamp to the dress code.
Despite the many debates, socks and sandals are officially on the “cool” end of the fashion spectrum. However, there is still a fine line that you have to watch out for between the safari Sam and the tacky tourist faux pas - neither of these are looks you want to emulate. Instead take this practical style and turn it into a chic and playful look that will be sure to catch people’s attention and show off your toned calves.
In the 90’s we did underwear, now we have moved on to socks! However, rather than being labeled for each individual day, it’s up to you how you want to label them. Try taco Tuesday, Caffeinated Monday, Donut Friday, Adventure Saturday, Travel Tuesday –whatever gets you through the week!
Everyone has their favourite comfort food so what better than to add it into your personal style! Acknowledge current colour trends and elevate your look by trying a pair of timeless burger and fries, pancakes and maple syrup, or Ice Cream Popsicle socks. You can even encourage healthy habits by wearing our veggie sock design – 100% gluten free by the way.
The English were on to something when they invented these two mainstay fashion items, but they were missing one thing – colour! Generally both of these staples are not cheap, so instead of breaking the bank on various shades of brown trousers, mix-it-up with a different colour ankle grazer and make that the vocal point of your look. You’ll be the most dapper one in the room – we promise.
Now you know!
- Team Friday
#Notyouraveragesockcompany
Despite our skepticism of hiring someone that brought so little to the table, he has blown us away with his sense of humour, kindness, and most of all his work ethic. Rain or shine he made the grueling journey across our almost 5-meter wide parking lot to deliver socks to our customers. He sometimes did this up to 10 times a day, with only a three day weekend to recharge. In between orders, he would sit around the office staring in silence, greatly improving office morale during the pandemic.
After a little over 11 weeks of this intense workload and crazy schedule he decided it was time for him to retire, and with pandemic restrictions lifting we sadly agreed to let him go. We thought it would be the last we'd see of him, but last week he rolled up to the office and demanded to be rehired. I don't know if you have ever been confronted by a 15-inch shopping basket on wheels, but we had no choice but to find a position of him. It's pretty much the only thing that would stop him "beep beeping."
With that being said we are excited to announce our new customer service executive, Curbie the Customer Service Wonder! (Yes he did legally change his name you can check his passport). To celebrate him rejoining Team Friday, I sat down with him to find out more about where his past, what he has been up to since leaving Friday, and what he hopes to accomplish now that he's back.
I have been living it up in Kelowna baby, it was the perfect place for a sun-loving basket like me! I bought a boat and everyday me and my buddies would get out on that wakeboard, there's really nothing like it. In my spare time, I worked as a sommelier and picked peaches.
I grew up in a Walmart actually, my mom was a shopping basket and my dad was a remote-controlled monster truck. They fell in love in the frozen pizza aisle and moved to auto parts when they found out I was on the way.
Growing up they told me I either had to choose life as a shopping basket or life as a toy vehicle. But I said no, and one day I rolled right out of that Walmart. I didn't know where I was going or what I was going to do but I knew I would find my place in the world. I spent a few months backpacking around Europe and working as a bartender. It was amazing, but after a beautiful Italian woman named Elena broke my heart, I decided it was time to move on.
So I moved to New York, got a degree in finance, and started working on Wall Street. At first, it seemed like a dream; a penthouse apartment, designer suits, and surrounded by beautiful people. But after a few years, I realized I didn't even recognize myself anymore. Who was this half shopping basket half toy monster truck in the Prada suit looking back at me in the mirror? I decided I needed to return to my humble beginnings, so I hit the road and drove across the midwest, stopping at every Walmart along the way. I eventually headed north and found myself in Calgary. As I cruised down 28th Ave, I saw something in the distance so beautiful I thought it was a mirage. It was the Friday Sock Co. sign, I ripped into the parking lot and the rest they say is history.
I can't lie to you, living in Kelowna is expensive. And since I have about 1000 years until I decompose I thought I should work for a least a few.
And free socks! Just because I don't have feet doesn't mean I don't like to look good.
The fame! I was an Instagram star! Oh, and meeting all the great people.
Ever since I was a little basket I've always wanted to be the employee of the month. I didn't care where or how, I just wanted my photo up on that wall. When I started working at Friday in April and I found out the employee of the month also gets a mug and parking spot I couldn't believe it. Sadly I didn't get it the first time around, but now I'm back and more determined than ever.
I am going to be a customer service machine, a wonder if you will. 24 hours a day 7 days a week, I will be at my desk answering questions and helping customers. I will be there like a light in the night guiding people towards the answers they seek.
Oh and I was thinking about starting Frozen Yogurt Friday's? People love frozen yogurt.
]]>We are so excited to have Curbie back to help with customer service and wish him the best of luck in his endeavour to be the employee of the month! You will find him at the bottom right corner of our website.