Shopping

I'm not a big shopper.  I don't like crowds.  I don't like buying for the sake of owning more stuff.  I hate trying on things and feeling bad about myself afterwards.  All in all, shopping is just not a pleasant experience for me.  Add to that the three children I almost always have in tow and it is downright miserable.

So when my husband gave me a big chunk of time to myself last weekend, I did what I usually do.  I puttered.  I folded some laundry.  I broke down about fifteen cardboard boxes that had accumulated on our back porch since Christmas. I swept the kitchen, cleaned off the papers on my desk, and generally enjoyed the sound of silence. It was time to myself that I spent doing chores but I didn't resent it because nothing thrills me more than feeling like I've accomplished something.  Once I got those things done, however, it occurred to me that leaving the house might actually be a good thing.

That's when I went shopping.  I guess the memory of doing anything without my entourage is so far-removed from my consciousness that I thought I would give it a try.  Lo and behold, I actually enjoyed myself.  I admired the shoe selection at Marshall's.  I picked up a no parking sign at Lowe's.  I found a $1.75 sequined t-shirt at Target which I'll tuck away for Vivi's birthday.  I didn't rush.  I didn't have to pack snacks and time my trip so no one would melt down.  I didn't have to buckle and unbuckle three car seats.  And when I got home, everyone was still out.  

How is that for a gift?

Comments

  1. Kate HallJanuary 21, 2011 at 8:13 PM

    oh my god. honestly, like a dream... i browsed savers this week for 20 minutes and felt like a new woman. . . oh brother. . .

    ReplyDelete
  2. UnknownJanuary 21, 2011 at 11:31 PM

    I almost feel lost in a store if I don't have to run in and out. Shopping by yourself sounds like a dream! I hope you week goes smoothly. :)

    ReplyDelete
  3. And I'll Raise You 5January 22, 2011 at 9:27 AM

    A perfect gift! Doesn't it feel slightly strange to travel so lightly?

    ReplyDelete
  4. penguinsandladybugsJanuary 22, 2011 at 10:16 AM

    I love how you took your time! That is great!!!

    ReplyDelete
  5. liz barberJanuary 24, 2011 at 2:41 PM

    I think the actual going out of the house without having to have kids in tow is just a blessing it itself. I'm glad you had some "Me" time!

    ReplyDelete
  6. RenaeFebruary 1, 2011 at 9:33 PM

    That sounds wonderful! Sometimes even the most ordinary activities can seem relaxing and fun when you're doing them without children in tow. :o)

    ReplyDelete

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