Sign O' The Times.....

I hit the local stores last week and snatched up some real bargains. I do this twice a year, in January and then in June. If you know me, you already know that I NEVER pay full price for anything and am not opposed to "thrifting." Because I AM basically thrifty. There really is very little I really need in the way of clothes and such, so they have to almost give it away before I indulge. I can't stand lines or crowds, so it's a good thing I have the luxury of perusing during the week with less people to annoy me. And although I log 5 miles regularly on the path or treadmill, I like to park about 10 steps from the door of any store. Maybe cuz it allows for a quick escape, or at least a shorter walk carrying, oh, say 20 bags full of stuff. It's hard to believe that a store can sell merchandise at 70% off and still be profitable, but my short stint in retail taught me that that is exactly the case. Sweaters I would never pop $80.00 for are a must have at the reduced price of $12.00. I bought my son a watch that was 50% off then 20% off then an additional 10% off! I love it and so does He. Even Mickey got a snazzy new leash. Now, if it would just warm up enough for us to resume our walks, heh Mick? I love buying my gym wear at a deep discount, cuz really all you do is sweat it up. The fact that I go 5+ times a week, makes it necessary to own quite a few pieces--or constantly launder. I am a sucker for jewelry, hats, shoes, purses and accessories in general, so I feel way less guilty paying little or nothing for the stuff. I don't give a rats ass about $300.00 dollar purses or their cheap knockoffs. Sales of this type afford me decent bags that I won't be afraid to drop on the car or bar floor. I also grab up gift items for anyone appropriate and stow it away till birthday or Christmas. It's kinda like a little challenge to get the most bang for your buck. The only time I ever buy books at a "real" bookstore is when they are featured on the clearance table. I usually hit the thrift stores and eventually end up with my picks (I carry around a list) for $2.00 or less. Very important when you read with the voracity of a crack addict. It's a literary treasure hunt! I also find things at the thrift store for my brothers three kids. They love the care packages from Aunt Jodi and it just makes sense, cuz they are growing like weeds and my brother has no time or inclination to shop. My contribution the the green thing, too. And it cracks me up that while they are blowing the winter wear out the door, on the next rack the saleslady is putting out the swimwear. When I glance over she shrugs and says, "lot of people are going on cruises in February." Really. And buyin' up the bathing suits at FULL price. No way, babe--wrong price. And we don't even have to discuss the shopping killjoy of exposing pale, post holiday bods in small rooms with fluorescent lights. Not happenin'. Everybody knows if you have the sense got gave a chicken, you would have purchased the bikini at the end of June when they were 75% off and being sold while on the next rack the current winter coats were being sold. What a debacle. When we retire to the Keys, I hope to enjoy the climate that will basically allow for one type of clothes. So much simpler than this madness. Celebrate Martin Luther King Day and enjoy your dreams! xoxo