So we've all seen, laughed at, heckled and chuckled at the Snuggie- the blanket with sleeves (who evidently is getting some hard competition from the sleeved blanket- or Slanket!). It's not the idea so much- you know- stay warm under the blanket and still have hands free to knit, type, update your blog. As a concerned blanket thermodynamic equilibrium manager myself, I appreciate the idea of not allowing cold air into your cocoon while still being able to interact with the world. No, what moved this product from OK idea into every late night comedian's object of derision was the TV ads which showed people moving the snuggie from its rightful place on the couch to several unsuitable and inappropriate locations such as around the family marshmallow firepit, or in front of a cozy fire with two grown adults playing games, or the favorite: the family of four in matching snuggies at a football game standing and cheering in their ultra-dorky, matching, monastic somewhat cult-like snuggies- and looking happy while they're at it.
Well, advertising is a powerful medium, and my sons have been completely taken in by the snuggie- particularly Josh, who loves pillows, blankets and the whole concept of snuggling. He has been angling for a Snuggie- to which I replied I thought it would be a waste of good Christmas money, for he would have to buy such items on his own, as I would not be taken in. But again, I heard him watching the commercial tonight and lamenting that to buy the Snuggie, and pay shipping and handling would deplete his holiday savings- but maybe he would do it. Inspiration struck. I went into my closet, dug into an old box of clothes and came out with a very large terrycloth thick robe given to my mom on a conference retreat and embroidered with her initials on the sleeve (JBS). I came out and told Josh I had a Snuggie for him- had him stand up and proceeded to put it on him backwards- he was ecstatic! He was amazed! Where had I found that marvelous thing? I must be magic! He wasn't even put off when I explained it was just a robe turned backwards! He immediately settled in on the recliner and proceeded to use his Snuggie in proper lounging fashion. He was even more impressed when I pointed out it had pockets! He modeled it proudly for his big brother when Burke got home-and even remarked, "Now it comes in grey!" Lastly, we have appropriated the intials to stand for "Josh's Best Snuggie". So- for all who want a cheap solution to your snuggie dilemma, please find an old robe and wear it backwards. It won't stimulate the economy- but maybe it will keep you from thinking you can get away with wearing it in public!
