Tuesday, November 9, 2010

resisting temptation

This might seem shallow to you, but in the interest of keeping it real around here, I thought I'd share.

I have this problem...a shopping problem.  I just adore pretty, cool, or unique things.  I also adore fun, quirky, bright, shiny, cute, interesting things.  And by things, I mean shoes.  And bracelets.  And shirts.  And skirts.  And shoes.  And sweaters.  And earrings.  And scarves.  And shoes.  And boots.  And hats.  Oh, and shoes.  See, it's a problem.

Let me explain it just a little further, so I can really feel ridiculous.  Lately, in order to curb my shopping impulses, I have sort of made a law unto myself that I can only shop at thrift stores.  Because, really, not only are they generally cheaper, but let's face it: it's hard to find stuff that fits properly, doesn't have any stains or rips, and that I actually "love".  {I fall in love very easily with clothing items.}  Plus, when I do find something that meets the aforementioned requirements, it is usually way cooler and more unique than anything I would find in a regular store.

But wait, let me define my normal, when it comes to stores.  I don't shop at Macy's or Bergdorf {not that we have that in OKC}, or even the mall.  I used to venture into the mall sometimes, but then I discovered Ross...and Burlington Coat Factory...and Marshalls.  And all the lovely, cheap-o stores that perfectly fit my desire to hunt and find treasures at a really low price.  Almost as good as thrift stores.  Oh, except that it is waaaay too easy for me to find things I "love" at stores like Ross.

Here's a perfect example...A few weeks ago, I allowed myself to go to Burlington, because I needed to get a flowy black vest.  {This is false.  I don't need anything when it comes to clothing.}  And I did find and purchase a flowy black vest, for a great low price.  I also found and purchased a cream colored vest, a green vest, a black sparkly hat, a black fedora, and a purple hat.  Oh, and a pair of earrings...or two.  Seriously.  And I didn't even let myself look at the shoes, because I was terrified of what gems I would discover that I couldn't live without.

As much as I joke about this little problem of mine, it has actually been a big problem.  My lack of self control when it comes to buying, has led to financial struggles.  I drive an ancient, crappy car...because I buy shoes.  So, I am using this post to test the theory of "admitting you have a problem is the first step to overcoming it."  Now I've put it out there for all the world {okay, for my twelve readers} to see.  I feel exposed and a bit ashamed.

But wait, I can't leave it on that note.  I want you all to be proud of me.  Because yesterday, I resisted temptation.  I went into the evil place of temptation Ross on my lunch break to buy a birthday present for a friend.  And what do you know, I found an adorable animal print fedora and some snuggly-looking clogs that would look oh-so-fab with the fedora...What's that you say?  You didn't know that clogs could look snuggly?  Well, they can and these ones did.  Look, I have proof...

2010-11-08 12.25

I loved these so much that I just had to.....take a picture of them.  That's right, friends.  I set them on this shelf, snapped this photo on my phone, and walked away.  See, aren't you so proud of me now?

And yes, I know that I should have returned the hat to it's little hook at the front of the store, but I was secretly hoping that some fabulous girl, who wears a size 8 shoe and could rock an animal print fedora, would come along after me and scoop them up and give them a happy home.  Together.  Forever.

Did I mention I have a problem?

I'm working on it...

~abi~

9 comments:

  1. oh girl you just said what i've never been able to admit...my problem is more with online shopping...i just can't help myself! i have even gone as far as having things shipped to my office so stephen doesn't find out....my goodness, that's a problem.

    well maybe we can have a support group...

    ReplyDelete
  2. I am the SAME WAY with Ross girl. It's scary! I'm so proud of you and DO believe that admitting to it IS the first step. You can overcome anything through HIM IN YOU! Like I said...loving your blog- please continue! :)

    ReplyDelete
  3. Omg!! I love em! What Ross did u find them at?! U have to get em! Or I'm going to get them for u!! :) I know this doesn't help ur problem but.... U really need em!
    Love, ur best friend that wishes she was as fabulous as u!,
    ~Cassie

    ReplyDelete
  4. I'm giving up shopping for 30 days! You should try it. :) It's like detox.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Yea, I've notice that gals are addicted to Ross. I've been in there twice and it looks like a garage sell with bright lights and registers. There seems to be no order to things and an overall organized clutter of items.

    Abi, you do have a problem. As I remember, you had more clothes, shoes, etc than a Super Walmart when I used to be your next door neighbor... and your telling me its worse now? I will pray for my dear friend:)

    ReplyDelete
  6. You had me laughing the whole time. Although I know this is quite serious, I can't help but crack a smile. Can I be your support leader/person/counselor? You can call me anytime and I will tell you to get out of there right away, don't even look at another item... and I'm heading there to pick you up immediately. Feel temptation - just call me. ;) I love you girl and think you are pure fabulousness!!

    ReplyDelete
  7. oh Abi...if this is your problem you and I could have so much fun together! I am addicted to clothes and shoes and shopping! I cant stop. Truth be told...Im ok with that! You come my way and you gotta let me know. WE ARE GOING SHOPPING! WHOO HOO

    ReplyDelete
  8. hahahahahahaha, im dying!! i read this when you first posted it, tho i never commented. but going from crying to literally LOL in a matter of 2 minutes.. i just have to share that with you.

    ReplyDelete

thank you for spending some time here in my corner of the internet. and thank you even more for chiming in with your comment!