The astutely observant Blog followers certainly have noticed in several posted pics a conspicuous black strap looped over my shoulder. Despite that Europeans are more culturally accepting of man-toted personal carryalls, this mismatched-chromosone American expat is not ashamed to admit to my state-side readers that there is most definitely a man-bag (aka: Murse, Bro-bag, Bro-sack, Jack Pack, Hip Pack, Daddy Sack, Dude-bag etc.) dangling on the opposing ends of that strap. In my home state of Illinois, my bag likely would be construed as my Concealed Carry firearm case. Surely, my firearms training class cohorts know very well that my sack is as lethal as it is legal; perfectly fitted to my Walther PPK.
But here in Italy, I’m content to let the Caribinieri sport the sidearms while I use my Hip Pack to holster more conventional urban trekking ammunitions.
Without further adieu, and getting on with what may be my least compelling Blog Post in three weeks… here is a pic and the Essential Minimum Daily Inventory of what lies “Beyond the Zipper” of that slightly-emasculating accessory I’ll be sporting in Florence for the duration. Novel items not pictured include: 0.5L water bottle, Restaurant/Shopkeeper Calling Card, Museum Floor Plan, Sales Receipts, Balsamic Vinegar, Limoncello, Cheese.
The Brandt Blog 
February 8, 2022
Away from Home