Last summer at a wedding, I was outside, sweating and out of breath after a long set of great songs by an even better band.  Trying to cool off and make conversation at the same time, I complimented a guy on his tie.  Just like a middle-eastern Prince, he pulled it off and gave it to me.  Not gave so much as loaned.  We thought it would be fun if I wore it on the air and then gave it back to him.  That was almost a year ago now.  I did wear it and it looked great, I just haven't given it back.

Today, I'm wearing someone else's tie, but for a much different reason-- I forgot mine.  I helped out at a celebrity server fundraiser at the Texas Roadhouse today to raise money for scholarships for local high schoolers.  I've done that for the last few years and always wear jeans and a News 10 shirt and bring along my suit for later.  Today, as I was changing I realized I was sans tie.  I was wondering what the heck I could do, knowing no one brings an extra tie to work.  I tried to think what would Tim Staudt do (WWTD)?  Tim has borrowed a suit coat, reading glasses, ties and mostly technical expertise, because he has left his at home.  (Editor's note: the technical expertise isn't at home-- he's never owned it.)  So, I headed to the sales side of the office where I knew their day was almost over and maybe someone had a tie I could borrow for the night.  I ran into Pat first.  His tie was something you'd see covering a 1970's davenport.  It wouldn't be a problem if I was wearing a black suit and white shirt, but I had on my beige suit and dark blue shirt, which is tough to match.  Just as I rounded the corner, Rick turned around revealing a dark tie with dark blue, light blue and silver designs on it.  Jackpot.  Although the conversation was a tad awkward.

Me: Hey, dude.
Rick: What's up, Jason?
Me: Can I have your tie?
Rick: (looking quizzical)
Me: I forgot mine and I need one for tonight.
Rick: Um, sure.

He took it off so quick I was worried it was a clip-on.  It wasn't and it's a perfect match.  I told him he'd get it back tomorrow.  Which of course means next February.