I don't make New Year's resolutions - I am the type that declares "Screw that..." and does what she wants. I know what I should choose - get back to the gym and quit smoking - oooh - I said it - smoking! I need to do that - again - in my time!
I had a choice for Christmas from Ted - usual gift certificates, tires for my car, or simply add money to my gift for my student and his family who are homeless. I chose tires and more on the gift certificate to my student. Ted never expected me to choose one!
I made it threw Christmas - shopping for others, seeing my boyz, and not buying for me. The hardest part was the day after Christmas - the SALES. OMG - THEY WERE GREAT. Coach offered 20% at Macys, the GAP had 50% off all sale items. MK, Cole Haan, and Av had great sales.
I bought nothing. I had to buy dog food and Starbucks coffee, which I get on sale at Target. With nothing else to do, I browsed the stores. I needed no help - just looking. I found some serious sales on MK and Coach shoes and boots at Macys, which I actually detest. I looked and saw nothing. I did not have gift card, so buying was not an option.
I then cruised 20 minutes to Woodbury Commons - not to add insult to injury, but to really see if I was "fixed". I went to my usual haunts - MK, AV, Kate, KC, and Joe Jeans. Nothing... jumped out at me. Nothing said "BUY ME!"
I turn 50 on January 16th and I want new appliances and some new furniture. The best part is that I can get them. We are moving forward with more renovations, so I feel like my goal of selling is closer, if we decide to sell in five years. With all our renovations, we have paid cash - I always flipped at the thought of saving and then using our money, but now I am glad. Ted is pragmatic, I am instant gratification! He has taught me to be a good consumer with cash. Now I am a practical consumer...of nothing for me!
So, what are your resolutions? What did you get for Christmas? Please share - it is not rubbing it in! I really love to hear what great buys you all got!!!! And do not forget the resolutions! Can you quit shopping for you for four months?
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Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Thursday, December 22, 2011
SHOW ME THE MONEY!
I got my bank statement today, which I usually avoid like the plague. As a teacher, I have the option to get the BIG CHECK or save for summer all year. I have always chosen to save on my own - why let them make interest on my money?
A colleague inquired about my Blog and no shopping - she confessed to being a SHOPAHOLIC as well. LOL - she gave me a gift for my Christmas Cookie Exchange/Colleague party! She wanted to know if I was really saving money.
So, instead of using the check and balance system of "if I earn X amount every two weeks, and I have X bills, then I have X amount to spend," I actually looked at my bank statement. YOU do not need to yell at me for this reasoning, Ted does every month. But...I always have more money than the BIG CHECK WOULD GIVE ME by summer, and I HAVE MONEY TO SPEND ON ME.
So, the purpose of this post.... I have $5,000 more in my account now than I did last year.
Frankly, I am a bit upset it is not more... I did throw a party last week that cost over 400 dollars and the Christmas /Eve is about 700 dollars... but I love doing it.
Finally, I really did tell Ted not to get me gifts. I will need perfume around my birthday - January and then there is Valentine's Day. I hope that the next 6 months I save even more. I have a numerical goal in mind and I hope to meet it!
A colleague inquired about my Blog and no shopping - she confessed to being a SHOPAHOLIC as well. LOL - she gave me a gift for my Christmas Cookie Exchange/Colleague party! She wanted to know if I was really saving money.
So, instead of using the check and balance system of "if I earn X amount every two weeks, and I have X bills, then I have X amount to spend," I actually looked at my bank statement. YOU do not need to yell at me for this reasoning, Ted does every month. But...I always have more money than the BIG CHECK WOULD GIVE ME by summer, and I HAVE MONEY TO SPEND ON ME.
So, the purpose of this post.... I have $5,000 more in my account now than I did last year.
Frankly, I am a bit upset it is not more... I did throw a party last week that cost over 400 dollars and the Christmas /Eve is about 700 dollars... but I love doing it.
Finally, I really did tell Ted not to get me gifts. I will need perfume around my birthday - January and then there is Valentine's Day. I hope that the next 6 months I save even more. I have a numerical goal in mind and I hope to meet it!
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
FIVE DAYS 'TIL CHRISTMAS!
Only five days until Christmas and I am not all JONZIN'.
Yeah, right.
It has been four full months since I bought an item for me! Do not get me wrong - I WANT A LOT OF STUFF! But I am using restraint looking, touching, but not buying.
I saw boots, coats, sweaters, perfume, earrings that I would have purchased simply because I wanted them. I actually went BACK TO MARSHALLS TO VISIT MY DESIGNERS SHOES FOR THE HELL OF IT!
Most had left - which saddened me. But I did meet up with Cole Haan, AV, ugh...TOMMY, AND COACH!
Then I spied a MK hat and glove set and actually experienced heart palpitations!!! Seriously????! Why???! MK, you are driving me crazy! I stared at the gift set for what seemed like 10 minutes, and then I went to scarves since I was there to buy a gift for a friend. I left with nothing.
The reality is I hate shopping; I love buying.
Ted just asked me for my Christmas List.... I told him I bought the gift cards for my student. Knowing his six year old brother will get a present is all I need.
Yes, this experience is changing me. Do I like it? NO. When I am 65 and in Europe, I will smile that I gave up shopping for needless items that I simply wanted!
someone comment!!! i have over a thousand hits and this is hard! tell me what you bought, what you want, what you think!!!!
Yeah, right.
It has been four full months since I bought an item for me! Do not get me wrong - I WANT A LOT OF STUFF! But I am using restraint looking, touching, but not buying.
I saw boots, coats, sweaters, perfume, earrings that I would have purchased simply because I wanted them. I actually went BACK TO MARSHALLS TO VISIT MY DESIGNERS SHOES FOR THE HELL OF IT!
Most had left - which saddened me. But I did meet up with Cole Haan, AV, ugh...TOMMY, AND COACH!
Then I spied a MK hat and glove set and actually experienced heart palpitations!!! Seriously????! Why???! MK, you are driving me crazy! I stared at the gift set for what seemed like 10 minutes, and then I went to scarves since I was there to buy a gift for a friend. I left with nothing.
The reality is I hate shopping; I love buying.
Ted just asked me for my Christmas List.... I told him I bought the gift cards for my student. Knowing his six year old brother will get a present is all I need.
Yes, this experience is changing me. Do I like it? NO. When I am 65 and in Europe, I will smile that I gave up shopping for needless items that I simply wanted!
someone comment!!! i have over a thousand hits and this is hard! tell me what you bought, what you want, what you think!!!!
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
IT'S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR!
It's the most wonderful time of the year... ESPECIALLY SINCE I HAVE NOT SHOPPED FOR ME IN FOUR MONTHS!
A colleague at work this week said receiving gift certificates as gifts is cheating. She really wants me to succeed! If Ted, friends, and family truly never gave me gift certificates, then I would agree. But they never know what to buy me, so I get gift certificates from them - and always have.
One time early in our relationship, Ted and I were malling it - walking through the mall - and I was craning my head to see what was in the GAP. Ted, who is fashion inempt, interpretated my neck craning as 'OH, LOOK AT THE DISPLAY IN THE WINDOW!" So, with a good deed in sight, he went and purchased me everything in the display window.
UNFORTUNATELY, it was all long undrwear, socks, and the plaid wool shirts! He eagerly - no, make that proudly - presented me with my presents on Christmas morning. Seeing GAP, I got scared; actually, Ted shopping even for himself is scarey. Needless to say, the items were exchanged for the outfit I was craning to see BEYOND THE WINDOW DISPLAY!
Another time he bought me a toolbox with a ton of tools since I always take his. It was needed, but not the gift of MK or JCrew I wanted. Thus, I accepted the gift and was grateful I had purchased me everything I desired for Christmas. This was when he vowed to get me gift certificates! I BEAMED. FINALLY, DUDE, WE ARE SPEAKING THE SAME LANGUAGE!
And that has been my way of having a Merry Little Christmas - buy for me a long the way as I shop for others.
THIS IS WHY ACCEPTING GIFT CERTIFICATES IS NOT CHEATING.
For my birthday, we have a tradition of taking ME to Woodbury Commons on a shopping spree! I get to buy all that I want, and he pays the bill. He wants to see that smile on my face, and frankly, Kenneth cole, Cole Haan, and MK definitely deliver!
Gifts are not cheating. I vowed NOT TO SPEND MY MONEY ON ME. I am not about to turn a gift down - and if I did - everyone who knows me would drop dead laughing and think I was lying. I love gifts! I love giving them and I REALLY love receiving them!
BRING IT ON, BABY!
This year, I won't be getting gifts - maybe a bottle of perfume. I bought presents for a student whose family is homeless. I already bought all Ted's presents in October. He probably will get me a gift certificate for Ciao Bella, my hair salon.
A colleague at work this week said receiving gift certificates as gifts is cheating. She really wants me to succeed! If Ted, friends, and family truly never gave me gift certificates, then I would agree. But they never know what to buy me, so I get gift certificates from them - and always have.
One time early in our relationship, Ted and I were malling it - walking through the mall - and I was craning my head to see what was in the GAP. Ted, who is fashion inempt, interpretated my neck craning as 'OH, LOOK AT THE DISPLAY IN THE WINDOW!" So, with a good deed in sight, he went and purchased me everything in the display window.
UNFORTUNATELY, it was all long undrwear, socks, and the plaid wool shirts! He eagerly - no, make that proudly - presented me with my presents on Christmas morning. Seeing GAP, I got scared; actually, Ted shopping even for himself is scarey. Needless to say, the items were exchanged for the outfit I was craning to see BEYOND THE WINDOW DISPLAY!
Another time he bought me a toolbox with a ton of tools since I always take his. It was needed, but not the gift of MK or JCrew I wanted. Thus, I accepted the gift and was grateful I had purchased me everything I desired for Christmas. This was when he vowed to get me gift certificates! I BEAMED. FINALLY, DUDE, WE ARE SPEAKING THE SAME LANGUAGE!
And that has been my way of having a Merry Little Christmas - buy for me a long the way as I shop for others.
THIS IS WHY ACCEPTING GIFT CERTIFICATES IS NOT CHEATING.
For my birthday, we have a tradition of taking ME to Woodbury Commons on a shopping spree! I get to buy all that I want, and he pays the bill. He wants to see that smile on my face, and frankly, Kenneth cole, Cole Haan, and MK definitely deliver!
Gifts are not cheating. I vowed NOT TO SPEND MY MONEY ON ME. I am not about to turn a gift down - and if I did - everyone who knows me would drop dead laughing and think I was lying. I love gifts! I love giving them and I REALLY love receiving them!
BRING IT ON, BABY!
This year, I won't be getting gifts - maybe a bottle of perfume. I bought presents for a student whose family is homeless. I already bought all Ted's presents in October. He probably will get me a gift certificate for Ciao Bella, my hair salon.
Thursday, December 8, 2011
THE REAL MEANING OF CHRISTMAS
Today I had a parent conference and was caught off guard. My intention was to get the student back in class, back on track and back to work, despite the fact he is a disruption.
Instead, the mother blurted out a plethora of "thank you's " to all of us and dropped a bomb - she and her two children are homeless. I just cried. I could not speak. I sobbed the whole drive home.
I have had homeless students in the past - one lived on metro north train to nyc where he worked from 6 pm to 3 am. he did his homework, washed up, and slept on the train.
I simply did not expect this today. All I kept thinking about is all the STUFF I listed I wanted; the gifts I do not need. I thought of his little six year old brother who won't have a Christmas, his mother who is working over 40 hours a week and making no money, my student who I assumed had a home with two parents.
I am sobbing even now...
So, tonight, I will rip up my list that I am sure Santa Ted has checked twice. In its place, a request that we buy toys and clothes for the three of them.
Instead, the mother blurted out a plethora of "thank you's " to all of us and dropped a bomb - she and her two children are homeless. I just cried. I could not speak. I sobbed the whole drive home.
I have had homeless students in the past - one lived on metro north train to nyc where he worked from 6 pm to 3 am. he did his homework, washed up, and slept on the train.
I simply did not expect this today. All I kept thinking about is all the STUFF I listed I wanted; the gifts I do not need. I thought of his little six year old brother who won't have a Christmas, his mother who is working over 40 hours a week and making no money, my student who I assumed had a home with two parents.
I am sobbing even now...
So, tonight, I will rip up my list that I am sure Santa Ted has checked twice. In its place, a request that we buy toys and clothes for the three of them.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
HARK! THE HAROLD ANGELS SING! GLORY TO THE NEW LV!
THESE ARE NOT FLIP FLOPS - BUT REAL SANDALS - THEY ARE MINE - SOON!
THIS IS THE MOTHER LOAD!! I EVEN WROTE COACH AS PER HOW TO GET THE BIKINI - YES! AT 50 I WILL WEAR IT...
K - OR MK - LOL - WRAP THEM UP! OMG! THIS IS ME!!!!THE TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS!
On the first day of Christmas,
My true love sent to me
A Louie Vuitton handbag.
On the second day of Christmas,
My true love sent to me
Two MK turtlenecks,
And a Louie Vuitton handbag.
On the third day of Christmas,
My true love sent to me
Three Chanel scarves,
Two MK turtlenecks,
And a Louie Vuitton handbag.
On the fourth day of Christmas,
My true love sent to me
Four Coach flip flops,
Three Chanel scarves,
Two MK turtlenecks,
And a Louie Vuitton handbag.
On the fifth day of Christmas,
My true love sent to me
Five Joe Jeans,
Four Coach flip flops,
Three Chanel scarves,
Two MK turtlenecks,
And a Louie Vuitton handbag.
On the sixth day of Christmas,
My true love sent to me
Six Tory Burch skinny Jeans,
Five Joe Jeans,
Four Coach flip flops,
Three Chanel scarves,
Two MK turtlenecks,
And a Louie Vuitton handbag.
On the seventh day of Christmas,
My true love sent to me
Seven Coach Bikinis,
Six Tory Burch skinny Jeans,
Five Joe Jeans,
Four Coach flip flops,
Three Chanel scarves,
Two MK turtlenecks,
And a Louie Vuitton handbag.
On the eighth day of Christmas,
My true love sent to me
Eight Fendi wallets,
Seven Coach Bikinis,
Six Tory Burch skinny Jeans,
Five Joe Jeans,
Four Coach flip flops,
Three Chanel scarves,
Two MK turtlenecks,
And a Louie Vuitton handbag.
On the ninth day of Christmas,
My true love sent to me
Nine bottles of The One,
Eight Fendi wallets,
Seven Coach Bikinis,
Six Tory Burch skinny Jeans,
Five Joe Jeans,
Four Coach flip flops,
Three Chanel scarves,
Two MK turtlenecks,
And a Louie Vuitton handbag.
On the tenth day of Christmas,
My true love sent to me
Ten Lord and Taylor shopping sprees,
Nine bottles of The One,
Eight Fendi wallets,
Seven Coach Bikinis,
Six Tory Burch skinny Jeans,
Five Joe Jeans,
Four Coach flip flops,
Three Chanel scarves,
Two MK turtlenecks,
And a Louie Vuitton handbag.
On the eleventh day of Christmas,
My true love sent to me
Eleven Prada dresses,
Ten Lord and Taylor shopping sprees,
Nine bottles of The One,
Eight Fendi wallets,
Seven Coach Bikinis,
Six Tory Burch skinny Jeans,
Five Joe Jeans,
Four Coach flip flops,
Three Chanel scarves,
Two MK turtlenecks,
And a Louie Vuitton handbag.
On the twelfth day of Christmas,
My true love sent to me
Twelve Elie Saab outfits,
Eleven Prada dresses,
Ten Lord and Taylor shopping sprees,
Nine bottles of The One,
Eight Fendi wallets,
Seven Coach Bikinis,
Six Tory Burch skinny Jeans,
Five Joe Jeans,
Four Coach flip flops,
Three Chanel scarves,
Two MK turtlenecks,
And a Louie Vuitton handbag.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
I'M DREAMING OF A... GIFT CERTIFICATE!
THAT'S RIGHT! I WANT GIFT CERTIFICATES...and that is not cheating!
Ted always gives me gift certificates for Christmas - and he better not dissappoint! Usually, I don't care what store - BUT NOT THIS YEAR.
Dear Santa Ted,
I have been a very good girl... okay, I have been less bad. I have some demands, I mean requests, that will put a smile on my face for six and half months.
1. The One - D & G perfume - I am almost out
2. Gift certiciate #1 - MK -
3. Gift certificate #2 - Coach
4. Gift certificate # 3 - Cole Haan
5. Gift certificate #4 - Amazon
6. Gift certificate #5 - Ann Taylor
7. Gift certicate #6 - Kenneth Cole
8. Gift certificate #7 - Nordstroms
9. Alfred Sung - half bottle left
10. One case of Santa Margherita
11. UNDERWEAR - size 5 low rise, pa-leese
Santa Ted, I am not in need of anything but the perfume, but I have been so good not shopping for four and 1/2 months. I have walked 5th Avenue three times in the last month. I have shopped for others and never did I pick a thing up for me. Remember, Santa Ted, you get cookies and milk left for you - I will add an extra cookie!
Ted always gives me gift certificates for Christmas - and he better not dissappoint! Usually, I don't care what store - BUT NOT THIS YEAR.
Dear Santa Ted,
I have been a very good girl... okay, I have been less bad. I have some demands, I mean requests, that will put a smile on my face for six and half months.
1. The One - D & G perfume - I am almost out
2. Gift certiciate #1 - MK -
3. Gift certificate #2 - Coach
4. Gift certificate # 3 - Cole Haan
5. Gift certificate #4 - Amazon
6. Gift certificate #5 - Ann Taylor
7. Gift certicate #6 - Kenneth Cole
8. Gift certificate #7 - Nordstroms
9. Alfred Sung - half bottle left
10. One case of Santa Margherita
11. UNDERWEAR - size 5 low rise, pa-leese
Santa Ted, I am not in need of anything but the perfume, but I have been so good not shopping for four and 1/2 months. I have walked 5th Avenue three times in the last month. I have shopped for others and never did I pick a thing up for me. Remember, Santa Ted, you get cookies and milk left for you - I will add an extra cookie!
Sunday, November 20, 2011
LOOKS ARE DECEIVING!
Fifth Avenue is so exciting, especially at Christmas! I wanted to sing Christmas songs the enire walk. I was animated and alert; i had fallen asleep in the taxi prior to this walk.
The real truth is the cost of my outfit I wore. Seriously????? I just added it up - what do you think I spent?
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
UNDER PRESSURE...
Talk about pressure!
Rachel Zoe just sent me a $250 gift certificate! DSW sent me a $20 gift certificate. Anne Taylor reminded me of her 40% off. Norstroms sent me 20% off all purchases.
Sure, I want stuff that I don't need. HI, MY NAME IS TRACEY AND I AM A SHOPAHOLIC.
So I perused Rachel's site. I even enter two contests. The first was for a $3,000 MK handbag. The second was for a $3,00 recipe. Yep, I enter my portabello recipe! I can win $3,000 in new kitchen appliances and Fairway groceries. NO, I do not think this is cheating; I see it more as CREATIVE NOT SPENDING MY MONEY.
Here is the real dilemma, the real pressure; I need underwear. No, not the sexy kind.... I need the basic, everyday underwear. I AM FEELING THE PRESSURE!
Seriously! Forget Rachel Zoe. Forget DSW shoes! Foregt Norstroms....OMG...did that come out of my mouth?! - I NEED EVERY DAY UNDERWEAR.
Yes, I am blogging about underear. The basic, everyday underwear that we girls wear. Not the "good ones," but the ones you wear when you know you are going to work and then going home. I forgot to buy them this summer...
So, do I buy them? Is it a necessity or is it a desire?
Rachel Zoe just sent me a $250 gift certificate! DSW sent me a $20 gift certificate. Anne Taylor reminded me of her 40% off. Norstroms sent me 20% off all purchases.
Sure, I want stuff that I don't need. HI, MY NAME IS TRACEY AND I AM A SHOPAHOLIC.
So I perused Rachel's site. I even enter two contests. The first was for a $3,000 MK handbag. The second was for a $3,00 recipe. Yep, I enter my portabello recipe! I can win $3,000 in new kitchen appliances and Fairway groceries. NO, I do not think this is cheating; I see it more as CREATIVE NOT SPENDING MY MONEY.
Here is the real dilemma, the real pressure; I need underwear. No, not the sexy kind.... I need the basic, everyday underwear. I AM FEELING THE PRESSURE!
Seriously! Forget Rachel Zoe. Forget DSW shoes! Foregt Norstroms....OMG...did that come out of my mouth?! - I NEED EVERY DAY UNDERWEAR.
Yes, I am blogging about underear. The basic, everyday underwear that we girls wear. Not the "good ones," but the ones you wear when you know you are going to work and then going home. I forgot to buy them this summer...
So, do I buy them? Is it a necessity or is it a desire?
Friday, November 4, 2011
SURPRISE PARTY AT MARSHALLS
Rio wanted to go to Marshalls - yes, that Marshalls with the BEST SHOES! I headed right to the boots.
MIchael Kors, Cole Haan, Addrienne Vittadini, Marc Jacobs - seriously, Marc is never there - Calvin Klein, Coach ( adorable rain boots), and Kenneth Cole were all waiting for me! I wanted to cry for the surprise party just for me! I hugged them all! I tried each one on, ooing and awing at design. Obviously, I held on the MK little tighter than the others; I even was a bit angry at him for meeting me at such a mundane location where I could not stay longer or even invite him home. And of course, Cole Haan had not one pair there, but three! AV, the classy lady she is, had boots and shoes for me try!
We hugged, we laughed, we even cried a little since our relationships have changed. I reminded them one day I would return, but I will be changed. I slight tear fell from Cole Haan's steel green rainboot. I took my Starbuck's napkin out of my MK purse and tabbed it away.
Rio yelled to me she was all checked out. I touched each one as I made my way out of the aisle. I know they thought I would turn around and change my mind; I did not.
MIchael Kors, Cole Haan, Addrienne Vittadini, Marc Jacobs - seriously, Marc is never there - Calvin Klein, Coach ( adorable rain boots), and Kenneth Cole were all waiting for me! I wanted to cry for the surprise party just for me! I hugged them all! I tried each one on, ooing and awing at design. Obviously, I held on the MK little tighter than the others; I even was a bit angry at him for meeting me at such a mundane location where I could not stay longer or even invite him home. And of course, Cole Haan had not one pair there, but three! AV, the classy lady she is, had boots and shoes for me try!
We hugged, we laughed, we even cried a little since our relationships have changed. I reminded them one day I would return, but I will be changed. I slight tear fell from Cole Haan's steel green rainboot. I took my Starbuck's napkin out of my MK purse and tabbed it away.
Rio yelled to me she was all checked out. I touched each one as I made my way out of the aisle. I know they thought I would turn around and change my mind; I did not.
Monday, October 31, 2011
VINTAGE - NEW FAVORITE WORD!
This past week was test of the WILL!
Each outfit I had to "pull together" for work tested my desire to shop. Literally, I was uttering "oh, this old thing" when several colleagues said they liked/loved my LOOK. The sad thing about it is that all year, every outfit will be an "OLD THING"!
Thus, the term VINTAGE.
Vintage MK. Vintage Kate Spade. Vintage GAP. Vintage BR. Vintage Kenneth Cole. Vintage Anne Taylor...
Can I say VINTAGE WALMART ?
OR VINTAGE TARGET?
I do have a pair of GAP jeans that I have had since the 90s that remarkably still fit! Since I dry clean almost all my clothes, they held onto the dark color. I do love them! Are they real vintage?
Do you have a vintage piece or outfit that you just love? Share! Let me know wearing old clothes is in!!!!!!
Each outfit I had to "pull together" for work tested my desire to shop. Literally, I was uttering "oh, this old thing" when several colleagues said they liked/loved my LOOK. The sad thing about it is that all year, every outfit will be an "OLD THING"!
Thus, the term VINTAGE.
Vintage MK. Vintage Kate Spade. Vintage GAP. Vintage BR. Vintage Kenneth Cole. Vintage Anne Taylor...
Can I say VINTAGE WALMART ?
OR VINTAGE TARGET?
I do have a pair of GAP jeans that I have had since the 90s that remarkably still fit! Since I dry clean almost all my clothes, they held onto the dark color. I do love them! Are they real vintage?
Do you have a vintage piece or outfit that you just love? Share! Let me know wearing old clothes is in!!!!!!
Friday, October 21, 2011
OCCUPY MICHAEL KORS! OMK
With the OWS taking hold of every issue out there and losing focus, I want to throw into the ring MK - for me. Since I am not shopping, a chapter of OWS that has money needs show up and spend! OCCUPY does not have to be negative!
C'mon! I can't shop for another 7 months, and it hurts. I am aware this hurt, this pang of loss, this desire I shut down like I did to every -well not every - BAD BOY - is self inflicted, it is still real. Actually, I am withdrawing from fueling the economy. I do buy from farms all year since I buy organic meats. I do try to support local stores with our house hold needs.
When President Bush announced in 2001 to get out there and shop, Ted cringed. The fact he never told us to stop shopping was my excuse to keep truckin'.
Michael Kors needs to be occupied by people who are willing shop. OCCUPY does not need to be a negative connotation - I personally would love to OCCUPY MK.
I support the initial concept of the OWS. I am excited to see the people taking to the streets to say enough is enough.
To see live feed from people shopping at Mk would have me drooling - yelling hockey phrases, "AND SHE SCORED!!!!"
When I do go shopping for dog food or wine - my choice of shopping these days - I see malls packed. So occupy MK and keep him going so on June 26, 2012, when I can shop, his stores will still be there!
PS- I have not shopped for me for eight weeks. I know, that is not much. In dog years, however, that is 56 weeks....
C'mon! I can't shop for another 7 months, and it hurts. I am aware this hurt, this pang of loss, this desire I shut down like I did to every -well not every - BAD BOY - is self inflicted, it is still real. Actually, I am withdrawing from fueling the economy. I do buy from farms all year since I buy organic meats. I do try to support local stores with our house hold needs.
When President Bush announced in 2001 to get out there and shop, Ted cringed. The fact he never told us to stop shopping was my excuse to keep truckin'.
Michael Kors needs to be occupied by people who are willing shop. OCCUPY does not need to be a negative connotation - I personally would love to OCCUPY MK.
I support the initial concept of the OWS. I am excited to see the people taking to the streets to say enough is enough.
To see live feed from people shopping at Mk would have me drooling - yelling hockey phrases, "AND SHE SCORED!!!!"
When I do go shopping for dog food or wine - my choice of shopping these days - I see malls packed. So occupy MK and keep him going so on June 26, 2012, when I can shop, his stores will still be there!
PS- I have not shopped for me for eight weeks. I know, that is not much. In dog years, however, that is 56 weeks....
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Bucks are Adding Up!
Right now I have 3,000 dollars more than I did at this time last year! For me, that is really good. I don't get a big check at the end of year like most teachers; I save all year. The truth is I did not save all year; I bought what I wanted when I wanted to shop. I just knew I needed X amount of dollars to be in the bank by June 25th. Right now, I am only a three thousand dollars away from my summer funds!
I am not a Kohls-kinda-gal: nothing against it, but the sizing did not work with my body and frankly, I want a bit of quality so the item lasts.
Are you cutting back on your shopping? What are you cutting out? What is motivating you to save and spend less?
And PLEASE ! iF YOU SHOPPED, SHARE WHAT YOU BOUGHT! I SO WANT TO BUY SOMETHING FOR ME!
I am not a Kohls-kinda-gal: nothing against it, but the sizing did not work with my body and frankly, I want a bit of quality so the item lasts.
Are you cutting back on your shopping? What are you cutting out? What is motivating you to save and spend less?
And PLEASE ! iF YOU SHOPPED, SHARE WHAT YOU BOUGHT! I SO WANT TO BUY SOMETHING FOR ME!
Monday, September 26, 2011
Bank Account Growing
I have never worn my earnings or have been house poor. Ted and I - well, Ted taught me, I should say - do not use a credit card for anything we can't pay for when the bill arrives. I did that in my younger days. I worked one summer school session to pay the card off. I have learned to be wise with my money. We pay cash for our trips, our home improvements and if Ted had his way, our cars.
I just received my first paycheck from work. I paid three bills - the cable, the phone, and my car insurance. I went to the grocer today - a whole other story. That is it. My bank account is growing. As a teacher, I don't get the BIG CHECK AT THE END OF THE YEAR. I actually save all that money all year long. So, unlike many who would not know how much they saved by NOT SHOPPING FOR ONE YEAR, I will. This year, I hope to have thousands more than I usually save. Stay tuned.
I just received my first paycheck from work. I paid three bills - the cable, the phone, and my car insurance. I went to the grocer today - a whole other story. That is it. My bank account is growing. As a teacher, I don't get the BIG CHECK AT THE END OF THE YEAR. I actually save all that money all year long. So, unlike many who would not know how much they saved by NOT SHOPPING FOR ONE YEAR, I will. This year, I hope to have thousands more than I usually save. Stay tuned.
Monday, September 19, 2011
FINDING NEW IN THE OLD
Yesterday, while I was looking for something to wear, I discovered a pair of Privos, a pair of brown boots, and a pair of brown shoes all still in the boxes tucked deep in the back of my closet. I can honestly say I have no idea when I bought them or why I bought them. I have two pair of Privos that I love. Did I buy them simply because they are Privos? I have three pair of brown boots - too bad they were not black since that is what I am telling myself I NEED. I also have eight pairs of brown heels. Why did I buy these shoes?
Since the purpose of this journey was well planned, I am amazed that these buys had no purpose or reason attached to them. I simply must have wanted them whenever I bought them. This journey has already connected me to the here and now, the emotions I am feeling, and the difference between necessity and desire. I actually felt guilty and embarrassed as I took the Privos out of the box. I don't need them - at all. The boots are cute, but I have a pair I love. The brown shoes are just another pair of brown shoes. Lesson learned.
Since the purpose of this journey was well planned, I am amazed that these buys had no purpose or reason attached to them. I simply must have wanted them whenever I bought them. This journey has already connected me to the here and now, the emotions I am feeling, and the difference between necessity and desire. I actually felt guilty and embarrassed as I took the Privos out of the box. I don't need them - at all. The boots are cute, but I have a pair I love. The brown shoes are just another pair of brown shoes. Lesson learned.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
IT IS BETTER TO GIVE THAN RECEIVE -UMMM.... NO
I am not a fan of this sentiment at all. No, I am not stingy with giving; as a matter of fact, I am quite generous and even down right thoughtful with all the gifts I give.
With Christmas right around the corner - according to displays in stores - I already have my list and checked it twice, but this year the monetary tally will be sufficiently lower since I will not be picking THINGS UP FOR ME. My Christmas shopping is always completed by Halloween. My presents are wrapped by Thanksgiving and mailed by December 10th. I hate crowds and hate even more not finding a good parking place.
I always hit the list first to make sure that I have not left anyone out by error. Then the fun begins; I circle round each store again, tossing in items just for me. "This is cute," "This is so me." and "OMG! I have to have that" are favorite utterances that come bellowing out of me, often to a tune of a Christmas Carol. "It's the most Wonderful Time of the Year" truly rang true to me!
I would rush home to show Ted all the THINGS I bought - as if he cared. I would try my boots on for him, coats, dresses, pants, and then declare I am now done shopping for Christmas. All the while I would be belting out Christmas tunes!
This year, I will still have my shopping done by Halloween, my packages and presents will be wrapped by Thanksgiving, and I will meet the deadline to get them shipped out by December 10th. Hmm... doesn't seem to be so joyous right now. I probably will still belt out the tunes. I know.... something will be missing.
The BIG TEST is just around the corner when I have to purchase the gifts for giving and NOT RECEIVING. It is really gonna suck. I really like IT IS BETTER TO GIVE TO ME than to simply give. There is the hope that Ted, who hates to shop, will just give me a gift certificate to shop! That won't be cheating since it is a gift for me by him!
With Christmas right around the corner - according to displays in stores - I already have my list and checked it twice, but this year the monetary tally will be sufficiently lower since I will not be picking THINGS UP FOR ME. My Christmas shopping is always completed by Halloween. My presents are wrapped by Thanksgiving and mailed by December 10th. I hate crowds and hate even more not finding a good parking place.
I always hit the list first to make sure that I have not left anyone out by error. Then the fun begins; I circle round each store again, tossing in items just for me. "This is cute," "This is so me." and "OMG! I have to have that" are favorite utterances that come bellowing out of me, often to a tune of a Christmas Carol. "It's the most Wonderful Time of the Year" truly rang true to me!
I would rush home to show Ted all the THINGS I bought - as if he cared. I would try my boots on for him, coats, dresses, pants, and then declare I am now done shopping for Christmas. All the while I would be belting out Christmas tunes!
This year, I will still have my shopping done by Halloween, my packages and presents will be wrapped by Thanksgiving, and I will meet the deadline to get them shipped out by December 10th. Hmm... doesn't seem to be so joyous right now. I probably will still belt out the tunes. I know.... something will be missing.
The BIG TEST is just around the corner when I have to purchase the gifts for giving and NOT RECEIVING. It is really gonna suck. I really like IT IS BETTER TO GIVE TO ME than to simply give. There is the hope that Ted, who hates to shop, will just give me a gift certificate to shop! That won't be cheating since it is a gift for me by him!
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
STILL HAVE TOO MUCH
Last night I discovered two sweaters - one light grey and the other light pink - in my closet. I vaguely remember buying them at the The Gap last June and actually bragging about the bargain price.
Today, I gave away the two sweaters I have never worn to a colleague. I won't miss them - I did not even know I owned them. I never wear any hue of pink - ever. They were too big for me. I must have been in that "mindless buying state of mind."
I hesitated only once about sending a message to a colleague to inquire if she wanted them. I quickly stuck to my resolve to rid myself of them and she was grateful for the new sweaters.
I am Jonzin' to shop, no doubt about it. I have been to Target a few times for dog food and cereal - great prices, by the way. I look at the clothes and continue on my way. My friend and a dynamite fashionista had on new boots last week and I was in awe. I actually heard the Angels singing when my eyes made contact with them! It was heaven on earth. I hope she wears them a lot this year! She felt bad telling me she just bought them, along with a new Loubutin purse.
No one should feel bad about shopping. I am just going to save money this year and wear my clothes more often- Minus two sweaters I did not know I owned.
Today, I gave away the two sweaters I have never worn to a colleague. I won't miss them - I did not even know I owned them. I never wear any hue of pink - ever. They were too big for me. I must have been in that "mindless buying state of mind."
I hesitated only once about sending a message to a colleague to inquire if she wanted them. I quickly stuck to my resolve to rid myself of them and she was grateful for the new sweaters.
I am Jonzin' to shop, no doubt about it. I have been to Target a few times for dog food and cereal - great prices, by the way. I look at the clothes and continue on my way. My friend and a dynamite fashionista had on new boots last week and I was in awe. I actually heard the Angels singing when my eyes made contact with them! It was heaven on earth. I hope she wears them a lot this year! She felt bad telling me she just bought them, along with a new Loubutin purse.
No one should feel bad about shopping. I am just going to save money this year and wear my clothes more often- Minus two sweaters I did not know I owned.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
FORTUNATELY, UNFORTUNATELY
http://fashionsnightout.com/nightout/Zm5vYzI2NDQ4OA== FORTUNATELY, TONIGHT IS FASHION NIGHT OUT IN NYC. UNFORTUNATELY, TONIGHT IS NO FASHION NIGHT OUT FOR ME.
Just because I won't buy a thing for another 178 days, does not mean I can't look and touch - I just can't pick it up, take it to the register and then take it home. Take a little tour of the places I would have gone to tonight!
Sunday, September 4, 2011
THESE ARE THE DAYS - TO REMEMBER!
It has only been four days since I began this journey, but it feels like months. Uh-oh. That is not a good sign. I am taking deep breaths, several, in fact.
Ironically, this no shopping thang has made me a better listener. Whenever a person is speaking of the purchases they made, I am hanging onto every last detail, salivating! I guess it is similar to person who loves chocolate - yeah, not me - and they give it up for Lent. I can't wait to see what people bought this weekend! If you are a shopper, let me shop vicariously through you!
What did you buy?
Thursday, September 1, 2011
ONLY 185 DAYS TO GO
Later, I was speaking to another colleague and I complimented her on her dress. She then said I was one of the best dressed teachers in the building. I then told her what I was doing.
She laughed. And laughed. And laughed! Then when I tried to explain to her the logic behind this decision, I was abruptly interrupted with HER LAUGHING. We ended the conversation with her simply shaking her head - laughing.
THE WANTING TO SHOP is not gone - I mean FNO - FASHION NIGHT OUT is Sept 8. I am inundated with fashion emails, fashion ads, fashion! My friend mentioned Woodbury Commons, two other colleagues were talking to me about Tangers Outlet, and when I got home, I had a $5 Rewards from DSW. Sure, I want to shop. Now while I choose not to, I need to examine why I feel I NEED A NEW ANYTHING, especially since I get such a kick out of picking up my dry cleaning and am THRILLED AT WHAT IS IN MY BUNDLE! Dah - it is all mine that I simple forgot about for a week. Umm... another issue... I dry clean all the clothes I wear to work which is 90% of my wardrobe.
I don't know where this will take me on all levels, but I am sure interested to discover it!
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
THE CALM BEFORE THE STORM
This is it - the day before I do not shop for me for 186 days. My initial response is to Run! Forrest! Run! to Woodbury Commons. If I am going to succeed in understanding the purpose of this journey - to find fulfillment in life without excessive material items, then I must show restraint. I know that my impulse to shop is not dead, and I know I will need a little help from my friends to work this through.
My focus is: What makes you fulfilled in life? What brings that smile to your face? What makes your heart ache with shear joy?
When I take a look at my favorite, cherished memories, they are of being with family and friends that do not require money.
It is funny that my last spree or two, Ted simply said, "Model them for me!" Not, "You spent how much!??" Ted has never questioned my spending - ever. One time at dinner, between bites he asked, "Now why did we need to get a new refrigerator?"
I replied: "The light bulb was out." Ted continued eating, nodding his head.
This is not a bet or a dare; this is a journey that I hope leads me to a better understanding of life in its simplest form of happiness.
I will still go to Broadway plays. I will still go on vacation. I will get manicures and pedicures. I am excited to see how much money and time I save by not going on the HUNT OF A LIFETIME. I am more excited to see what I know do with my time.
My focus is: What makes you fulfilled in life? What brings that smile to your face? What makes your heart ache with shear joy?
When I take a look at my favorite, cherished memories, they are of being with family and friends that do not require money.
It is funny that my last spree or two, Ted simply said, "Model them for me!" Not, "You spent how much!??" Ted has never questioned my spending - ever. One time at dinner, between bites he asked, "Now why did we need to get a new refrigerator?"
I replied: "The light bulb was out." Ted continued eating, nodding his head.
This is not a bet or a dare; this is a journey that I hope leads me to a better understanding of life in its simplest form of happiness.
I will still go to Broadway plays. I will still go on vacation. I will get manicures and pedicures. I am excited to see how much money and time I save by not going on the HUNT OF A LIFETIME. I am more excited to see what I know do with my time.
Friday, August 26, 2011
HURRICANE SHMURRICANE!
I live in the middle of New York, sixty miles from NYC and I can't wrap my mind around this hurricane warning - at all. As a matter of fact, I plan to run my five miles tomorrow morning and walk the dogs before snuggling up to my Kindle!
What I am noting is that all the clothes and purses and shoes and THINGS will not be what a grab if I do need to leave. I won't be upset if the house is flooded and all my belongings go down with the ship. I am definitely on this journey for a reason and it makes sense. I don't need a new anything. I have 15 pair of black pants. I could wear the same pair to work everyday and simply say they are different.
My real no shopping start5s Sept 1 and no, it is not a never buy anything again! It is personal shopping - cloths, purses, shoes, perfume, stuff! I know what I want in my life and change in actions must occur. NO, we are not broke. Actually, Ted and I have never fought over money - ever! We have never fought over my purchases. He convinced me when we married never to have credit card debt, so I pay cash for everything. It sucks, actually in that moment, but later on, I am glad there is no balance, no "I can't do that cuz we don't have the money." I pay cash for everything - even the renovation of our bathroom!
My favorite things in life are relationships. And of course, my relationships with designers! But with this warning upon us, I won't save any of them - not first. So can not shopping remind me of life's real purpose?
What I am noting is that all the clothes and purses and shoes and THINGS will not be what a grab if I do need to leave. I won't be upset if the house is flooded and all my belongings go down with the ship. I am definitely on this journey for a reason and it makes sense. I don't need a new anything. I have 15 pair of black pants. I could wear the same pair to work everyday and simply say they are different.
My real no shopping start5s Sept 1 and no, it is not a never buy anything again! It is personal shopping - cloths, purses, shoes, perfume, stuff! I know what I want in my life and change in actions must occur. NO, we are not broke. Actually, Ted and I have never fought over money - ever! We have never fought over my purchases. He convinced me when we married never to have credit card debt, so I pay cash for everything. It sucks, actually in that moment, but later on, I am glad there is no balance, no "I can't do that cuz we don't have the money." I pay cash for everything - even the renovation of our bathroom!
My favorite things in life are relationships. And of course, my relationships with designers! But with this warning upon us, I won't save any of them - not first. So can not shopping remind me of life's real purpose?
Thursday, August 25, 2011
I'M WEARING ALL MY FAVORITE BRANDS,Brands, brands...
Michael Kors - check. Coach - check. J.Crew - check. Kate Spade - check. Tory Birch - check. Cole Haan - check. Kenneth Cole - check. BR - check. Mission accomplished to add some quality pieces to my wardrobe that will not be enhanced after Sept. 30 - next Wednesday.
As I prepare for this One School Year of No Personal Shopping, I am having heart palpitations since I need a pair of shoes to go with my new MK pants! I honestly don't know what type of shoes to wear with this skinny wool blend pants!!! If I don't find the shoes before next Thursday, September 1, I may never wear the pants. The kicker is I bought them in two colors !
Sunday, August 21, 2011
SKIRTING THE ISSUE
One of the reasons I am doing this no shopping is because I hope to retire in 6-7 years. I wear a lot skirts to work and when I retire, I most likely will never wear another dressy skirt again. I presently have 56 skirts that I do wear - now 59. I get bored wearing the same things for 186 days, so often, I will just go and buy something new. It is kinda like washing the bath towels - I geet sick of washing the same towels and have often just thrown them all out so I don't have to wash them again! I know, not logical since now I will be washing the new towels... but only until I get sick of washing them! On this journey, my real goal is bring new activities into my life or actually, revise some I have abandoned. With the money, I can travel more and that is what I want in my life now - not more stuff. I have 49 pair of pants, 76 sweaters, 115 shirts, 86 pair of shoes. I did not even bother to count my T-shirts, which is what I live in during the weekends and summers. All three of the skirts were also 40% off at BR, not my fav store, but a stopping place. The first skirt is actually a wool herring bone of grey and black. The secnd skirt is a navy blue strtch cotton blend that is easy to wear - not too tight, but I do not have to pin this skirt on like I do most of my skirts. The last skirt is again uncharacteristic of my style - but that seems to be underlying mission.
KATE SPADE SPREE!
So, this was actually the first stop of the LAST SHOPPING SPREE OR TWO... before I begin my journey of no personal shopping for one school year. Not only did I get three great pieces, but I got them at 60% off the sale price! There is no dressing rooming in Kate Spade Tangers Outlet, so Keith told me to just in the back store room and try it all on> Odd, but it turned out to be great. I actually tried on several pair of pants, the bain of my existence since they never fit, and not surprisingly, the pants did not fit at all. Keith then kept bringing me all these dresses to simply model - lmao - I told him I did not want a dress! He insisted since no one had ever asked to try on the clothes in the store - seriously?- so I did and we had a blast. They would not let me take photos, but what a hoot! The first shirt is again, unlike me to buy. Pok-a-dots in light colors. But it was so cute, I just could not resist it. The apple green sweater with the be-jeweled color is also something I would not wear normally, but I liked it, especially with the zebra-brown skirt. It screams Kate Spade. Finally, the embroidered brown cardighan is def me - it is lined and actually fits. I say that because most of the time, I buy clothes that are too big simply because I am so used to not finding clothes that fit. I spent the first hour of my spree just laughing with the workers, especially since I told them My Mission of the day - no one could believe me. Now other customers were asking me why I would give up personal shopping for a year. No one questioned the monetary value of it, but most wanted to know what I would do with my time. That is the journey - what will I do with my time.... only time will tell!
Saturday, August 20, 2011
I
I like to call these pieces my odds and ends. The first, a MaxMara long dress shirt has a cute pair of black leggings that accompanies it. I just had to have this shirt - it is unlike what I normally wear, but a chic little outfit that I wore in the city. The second item - a white collar dress shirt and long blue sweater is what started the extension of the last spree to the last two sprees! I went to Michael Kors with the intent of buying a purse - end of issue. Unfortunately, I saw this sweater along with two pair of pants and a two shirts - and had to have them! So love this sweater - and thanks Emily for helping me with all of it! The RED DRESS is a slinky little dress that I can wear to work since it is not tight and can wear out on the town. Again, even Ted marveled at many of my new items since they are not what I usually buy. Finally, the grey wool MK skinny pant - in grey here - but umm.... they ordered me a pair in black since they did not have my size. I did tell Emily that I have a very tight deadline of September first - and I can not go beyond it - so they better arrive soon!
PART ONE: THE LAST SPREE OR TWO!
I did not intend on purchasing more flip flops on this last Shopping Spree - which turned into the last Two Shopping Sprees before I quit personal shopping for a school year - but as would have it, I just could not resist. Kenneth Cole has the funkiest flip flops in all these bright colors! The old me would have bought a pair in every color, but I practiced restraint, which I will have to call on for the 186 days I do not shop. So love these funky flips!
Tory Birch - my fav in flips flops! They have little cherries on them - too cute. TB flip flops are my to go to flops - six in all! Not only were these a Bonus Find - lol - but they were on sale.
These pale pink Col Haan sandals - fancy for leather flip flops - are my to- die- for bargain! Just under a hundred dollars, I so love them that when it began pouring on us at a Pub Crawl, I quickly removed them and wandered around barefoot rathre than risk them getting ruined!
Ellen Tracy - the look I always return to- classic and basic. They go with any outfit that is more classic in structure than modern.
Monday, August 8, 2011
MICHAEL, KENNETH AND ANNE - OH MY!
In one day I leave for Tangers Outlet where I will embark on my last shopping spree for the school year. I am nervous - not about getting to the airport on time or losing my luggage ( I can always by more), but about not shopping again after September 1, 2011. It is beginning to sink in that I won't resume shopping until after June 25, 2012. This is not all shopping, but personal retail shopping for me.
The luggage is light, much to Ted's surprise. Usually I pack enough to last three weeks, despite the duration of my stay anywhere. This time I have to consider purchases, which, I do know Ted is thinking won't occur since we are not driving. See, we do think alike - I need room to get my new purchases home!
I am going into this journey with an open mind. It will be like Lent all year long! Yeah, that is not really helping. In order to succeed, I need to remain focused on why I chose this journey - Ted has no idea. Between texting, tweeting, FB, Blogging, surfing, Online shopping and the antiquated emailing, I feel a connection to the here and now is actually being lost not gained. I just want to experience life a bit differently. So why shopping?
I go shopping all the time; it is on my To Do lists every week! Seriously? I need to remind myself to go shopping? NO, I need to make sure that with everything else that needs to be done, I leave a chunk of the day open to shop. I am not very good shopping with others; I used to embark upon the girl's sprees when I was young, but now that I am older, I enjoy the hunt and kill solo. Get in, get out. Done. The hours I have lost to purchasing - driving there, hunting items down, searching for more, driving elsewhere - could be better spent just living. It is even more than that; do I need more of anything? NO, I can't think of any material thang I need that will make my life more fulfilled.
And that is this journey - a more fulfilled life, not a more filled life.
The luggage is light, much to Ted's surprise. Usually I pack enough to last three weeks, despite the duration of my stay anywhere. This time I have to consider purchases, which, I do know Ted is thinking won't occur since we are not driving. See, we do think alike - I need room to get my new purchases home!
I am going into this journey with an open mind. It will be like Lent all year long! Yeah, that is not really helping. In order to succeed, I need to remain focused on why I chose this journey - Ted has no idea. Between texting, tweeting, FB, Blogging, surfing, Online shopping and the antiquated emailing, I feel a connection to the here and now is actually being lost not gained. I just want to experience life a bit differently. So why shopping?
I go shopping all the time; it is on my To Do lists every week! Seriously? I need to remind myself to go shopping? NO, I need to make sure that with everything else that needs to be done, I leave a chunk of the day open to shop. I am not very good shopping with others; I used to embark upon the girl's sprees when I was young, but now that I am older, I enjoy the hunt and kill solo. Get in, get out. Done. The hours I have lost to purchasing - driving there, hunting items down, searching for more, driving elsewhere - could be better spent just living. It is even more than that; do I need more of anything? NO, I can't think of any material thang I need that will make my life more fulfilled.
And that is this journey - a more fulfilled life, not a more filled life.
Monday, August 1, 2011
EXACTLY ONE MONTH!
In exactly one month, my obsessive shopping behavior is coming to a halt. I know what you are thinking- just cut back, just limit your spending, just.... I did that this year. I barely shopped. Okay, in my eyes, I barely shopped.
I am really interested in what I am going to do. Maybe I will do the yoga rather than sit on the couch drinking wine while I watch it - aka - couch yoga - because I am too tired from walking around Woodbury Commons. Shopping is exhausting! Maybe I will take an extra walk or read another book. Maybe I will surprise Ted and clean the house before he gets home! Yeah, maybe not that last one!
August 9 is our 15 year anniversary, and we are headed to South Carolina for a week of sun and fun AND MY LAST SHOPPING SPREE before I go back to work. I am salivating, I must admit it, especially since Michael - yes THAT MICHAEL KORS - is now opened in Tangers (17 not 501 - I am an outlet snob). On that note, I don't even know the highway numbers by me or the exit number I take everyday, yet, I know the two highway numbers of Tangers!
Next week, I will post pictures of me with all my friends, I mean all the stores.
I am really interested in what I am going to do. Maybe I will do the yoga rather than sit on the couch drinking wine while I watch it - aka - couch yoga - because I am too tired from walking around Woodbury Commons. Shopping is exhausting! Maybe I will take an extra walk or read another book. Maybe I will surprise Ted and clean the house before he gets home! Yeah, maybe not that last one!
August 9 is our 15 year anniversary, and we are headed to South Carolina for a week of sun and fun AND MY LAST SHOPPING SPREE before I go back to work. I am salivating, I must admit it, especially since Michael - yes THAT MICHAEL KORS - is now opened in Tangers (17 not 501 - I am an outlet snob). On that note, I don't even know the highway numbers by me or the exit number I take everyday, yet, I know the two highway numbers of Tangers!
Next week, I will post pictures of me with all my friends, I mean all the stores.
Saturday, July 30, 2011
AULD LANG SYNE
To good friends!
Adrienne, Kate, Tory, Kenneth, Tom - though I never had you, I so admire you from a distance -, Anne, my go to gal, Tommy - yeah, not so much, Calvin, Donna, Ralph, where would I be without my Polos!- Joe J, D & G, and of course, Michael...Michael... Michael. My sweet, dear Michael:
I am not saying good bye, just saying see ya later! Each and everyone of you has touched my life in so many ways. Kate and Tory, my feet and shoulders have adorned your genius! Kenneth, Michael and even Adrienne, you all have been with me on those very special occasions that, well, not everyone was up to the task! Ralphie, my man! In a pinch, I can throw on any number of your Polos and be out the door, stlyin' it babe! And no J. Crew, I could never forget you! My gosh, when I was down and out and could not find a thing that fit, you always came threw for me! Double zero,baby, jeesch! Joe, you hug me in all the right places! My love, Michael K, the K-man, The Style meister, I breath you in! I can smell your stores before I even pull into the parking lot - even of a new plaza I have never visited! Michael, you are my favorite, but I think you know that...
We may run into each other now and then, but in truth, for this one school year, it won't be the same. The gleam in my eyes, the spritely steps into the stores, the ooze of confidence, well, it won't be there - for a while.
Friday, July 29, 2011
IN THE BEGINNING...
I shopped - not until I dropped, but until I felt full and happy. I shopped when I was bored, when I thought I needed or had to have that something now! Shoes, purses, pants, jackets, watches, sweaters - you name it, I had a justification for why I needed it and needed it now! No joke, several times I have returned home to discover I already purchased a dress or sweater. Instead of recognizing my addiction, I would giggle and compliment myself on my good tastes! Once, walking out of a store, I turned to Ted and actually said, "Well, every girl needs something ugly in her closet!" Ted just gave me THE TED LOOK that is defined by his inablilty to understand my logic.
Ironically, twice a year, I park myself in the bedroom converted into my closet and purge my possessions. Some I pack up to bring to school for my colleagues, some I pack up to go to The Salvation Army, and the rest, I simply pack into large garbage bags and throw out. Many times my colleagues will say, "Trace, this still has the price tag on it!" This process is always cathartic for me - out with the old, in with the new! In reality, removing the clutter, the undesirables from my life is what I actually reveled in - until I made more purchases.... and then more purchases that enabled me to continue the purchase and purge process six months later.
Nearing 50, I find myself thinking of retiring in six or seven years and the desire to continue traveling. The thought that two week check will not be coming in is scaring me - shop less! This process of not shopping for an entire school year, is frightening.
How much many can I save by not buying that purse or those jeans?
Ironically, twice a year, I park myself in the bedroom converted into my closet and purge my possessions. Some I pack up to bring to school for my colleagues, some I pack up to go to The Salvation Army, and the rest, I simply pack into large garbage bags and throw out. Many times my colleagues will say, "Trace, this still has the price tag on it!" This process is always cathartic for me - out with the old, in with the new! In reality, removing the clutter, the undesirables from my life is what I actually reveled in - until I made more purchases.... and then more purchases that enabled me to continue the purchase and purge process six months later.
Nearing 50, I find myself thinking of retiring in six or seven years and the desire to continue traveling. The thought that two week check will not be coming in is scaring me - shop less! This process of not shopping for an entire school year, is frightening.
How much many can I save by not buying that purse or those jeans?
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