The past year was challenging and wonderful all at the same time, so that explains my mixed feelings about the end of my year-long no shopping project. I was happy with my accomplishment and I looked back fondly on what a fabulous year I had, but let's be honest.....I was also extremely excited to go shopping!!
Day 1: So January 1st, I headed to the mall with my wish list in hand, and my hopes high.
2012 Wish List:
Nike Free Run Shoes
Moccasins
Lululemon Awareness Wrap
Black Boots (flat)
Chunky Knit Sweater
Coral Flats
Cute Flowy Tops
Floral Top
Aritzia Leather Jacket
Cute Dresses
Converse Chucks (grey or black)
I guess I sort of assumed that the shopping Gods would reward my year of sacrifice with a perfect shopping trip where I could check off all the items on my wish list. Too much to ask? Apparently so! With Murphy's Law in full effect, my first shopping expedition ended up both fruitless and frustrating. I had forgotten all about the agony of decision-making and the pressure of the hunt....and so at the end of day one, I walked away with one shirt!
I couldn't believe it....after a whole year of not shopping and finally being able to go out and buy anything I want and.....nothing. Right colour, wrong size or right size, wrong colour.... lead to tears of frustration and perhaps a minor meltdown I am not proud of, over a pair of moccasins that I was in love with, but the size 7 was too small and the size 8 was too big. Ugggh!! I was about ready to swear off shopping for life.....well almost anyways...until my hubby talked some sense into me and helped me realize that it was unrealistic to think that I would be able to find every item I have longed for, coveted or dreamed of for the past year in just one day! So I decided to adjust my expectations and start fresh another day.
Day 2: January 2nd, I set out again, list in hand but equipped with a better attitude and the day was slightly more successful! I found a pair of moccasins that not only fit me, but I loved them even more than the ones from the day before. The right size, the right colour and on sale.....my faith in shopping was starting to be restored. I was also able to find the comfiest, cosiest sweater ever from Lululemon in my size! Yep, today was a much better day.
Day 3: Earlier today, I was heading out for an appointment and it just so happens that there are quite a few shops along the way. In fact, the route to my doctor's office was one of the biggest areas of temptation in 2011. On this day, I didn't even intend on shopping but what can I say...I am still a sucker for a sale! I was very careful to stick to my list though and only buy things that I love and need, not just because they are on sale. Well I happened to find.... not 1, not 2, not even 3.... but 4 list items!!
I found a cozy chunky knit sweater in the perfect neutral colour, a pretty black lacy tank, a flowy pink dress and a pair of cute casual runners (similar to Converse chucks, but bonus....they don't make my feet look huge and they are slip-ons!)
Post 3-day Shopping Trip- Updated 2012 Wish List:
Nike Free Run Shoes
Black Boots (flat)
Coral Flats
Floral Top
Aritzia Leather Jacket
So the moral of the story is that shopping is a little like falling in love ....it is only when you stop looking that you find just what you are looking for. Too much pressure and too many expectations only set you up for disappointment.
Who knew there were so many lessons to be learned from the shopping world!?!
♥ Lindsay
Well it looks like you are taking some fine baby steps back into the shopping world. Isn't retail so frustrating?!? My sisters and I agree that we are changed people after the year and I can tell you are too...for the better that is! Good job, and us there a project for you this year?!?
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