Friday, January 10, 2014

Miller Time Friday - we are ten days into the new year, I have bought nothing, and yet i have 2 new pairs of shoes...



Oh don't worry!  I am sticking to my guns on the no-shopping ban.  Good as gold - I do not visit ANY retail sites and the only way I know that there is new clothing in the world is thanks to your blogs!

I found it hard the first few days - I ain't gonna lie.  I was used to drinking a tea and perusing the sale sections of various retailers, seeing what was new, what was a good price, checking just "to see" but "just seeing" sometimes leads to "just buying", so best to avoid altogether and focus on other things for the next couple of months, like reorganizing my body, my head and my closet - who knows in what order?

However, I did get a box in the mail yesterday, containing two new pair of Kiki ballet flats that were ordered  right before Christmas.  Can you believe it took that long to arrive?  Well I can believe it, out here in the hinterlands as I am, but even I was a little surprised at how long it took this time!

I am sharing because I assume they are still on sale and someone might be interested.   You know my crazy obsessions with these shoes - for whatever reason, they are absolutely, 100%, comfortable on my feet and I wear them around the house a lot and take them with me when I go out to dinner parties. 

Every once in a while when I am working in my office I glance over at my shoes and they all make me happy.  It is the simple things I say, and just as Joaquin Phoenix can fall in love with his smartphone suri, there is no reason that I can't cackle with delight and abandon when I look at my shoes.




Why did I buy two pairs?  Well, in the big 50% off sale they were down to $64 and $70 CDN and frankly I cannot buy one shoe around here for that price.  Oh, and I couldn't decide between the two of them.  This is a recurring theme in my life.  I am the world's worst ditherer.  I seem to like too much - too many people, too many pretties, too much wine, too much song.  I try hard to rein this natural exuberance in, want as I am to continually recreate the infamous scene in the Michael Jackson documentary when he is standing in the shop saying "I'll take this and this and this and this..."


 
Luckily for me, I will have no idea if they introduce more colours or patterns of kikis for the next two months - phew!

The two pairs in question?  A blue velvet Kiki, which has a completely different vibe than the navy glitter Kikis (if this sounds like some kind of junkie rationalization, well, you would be right!  These are very rich looking IRL.  I have green velvet smoking slippers bought a couple of years ago, and these are a feminine variation on that theme.


 
mirror cap toed Kikis.  I like these - they could be worn year-round and are very pretty.  I am anticipating wearing them mainly with my black capris. 





Enjoy them folks, because all you are going to see on me for the next couple of months are my old duds, which I will try and flair up for you!

In honour of the new shoes, let's have a cocktail shall well?  Well - I can't have it till Saturday night, but you start without me and I will catch up tomorrow!

The Stiletto (Oh the irony after I have just bought flats!)

  • 1 tsp amaretto
  • 1 1/2 oz lemon juice
  • 1 1/2 oz bourbon
  • ice

    1. add ice to old fashioned glass
    2. add lemon juice
    3. add amaretto
    4. add bourbon
    5. stir


    Tabs - do you mix anything in with your bourbon ever?


    What are you up to this weekend?  We are invited out to dinner tomorrow night, will be hitting "Saving Mr. Banks" and have been invited out for a cocktail Sunday afternoon by someone who wants to meet me after reading my piece in the Globe and Mail.  I continue to be surprised by the response to that article.  I still get emails every day from people who were touched by it, many of whom I do not know at all or whom I barely know. 

    Have a great day and stay safe out there!



     

    57 comments:

    1. Love the shoes Wendy - especially the metallic capped ones. Very impressed with you holding to your plan of no shopping too. I exhibited some willpower today - I went into the shops for the first time (as opposed to going online and browsing) and tried a lot of things on, nearly bought a few things, but remembered that I'd written a list, and that I was trying to buy things for my real life, rather than my fantasy life of being out at cocktails every night. So I resisted. Yay me! Enjoy the new shoes, and hope the cold is abating up your end of the world - here we're in for a week of 40C plus every day. Sweltering. xx

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      1. Oh Heidi - 40+! We were -24 this morning!!!

        I am avoiding the shops assiduously! Too much temptation IRL and online!

        One exercise I am going to engage in over the next couple of weeks is try to figure out why I wear what I wear and why I ignore some of the things in my wardrobe (excepting the odd thing that just isn't quite warm enough in our deep freeze!). I make lists, but then they don't really help me - last year I made a list to buy a shift, tory burch wedges and a white purse. Hardly used any of them. Why was that?

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    2. The new flats are so pretty! Yay for the Kiki ballet flat! The items I ordered on December 26th from Tory Burch just arrived this week. Took forever! Luckily they are very beautiful and I don't have to return them. I like the idea of not adding new things to my closet this year after the wardrobe edit I've done. As you know my biggest temptation is the Brora Sale, which is now on and is fabulous, but I can wear the Brora I've already bought these last years and save some for others! NOT looking at sites is key. I have looked at the Brora sale a few times but I can't help myself, it's all so soft and warm looking. And we are freezing here just now as you well know. Still I must monitor that as we only have so much willpower and then we crack and fail!
      We have a quiet weekend thank goodness as I've been suffering one of my headaches these last couple of days, I'll be resting for the most part and doing as much cooking/baking as I can!

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      1. Poor you on the headaches!!! I am so glad your Tory Burch things worked out! I have not strayed to a site at all; my willpower will flag if I do! When I feel the urge I go do some housework or read!

        I keep thinking of the money I will save and the nice thing (whatever THAT is) that I will be able to afford in the spring with restraint now!

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      2. Yes your flats are beautiful Wendy. I admire you and Dani as my cart is already full on the Brora website even after the visit I made a couple of days ago! Thankfully I have not been through the check out, but I know I will. It is not really that I am missing anything but I THINK I have gaps in my wardrobe and as Dani said, their sales are very tempting... I might draw my will power in your strength and determination! I will go through my clothes over the weekend to make a "purge" and I am planning to cook and bake! I wish you a fabulous Friday.

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      3. Thanks Steph! Can't wait yo hear what you decided!

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    3. Your shoes are darling. I managed to find your article by googling your name and The Globe...popped right up. I do understand how it has resonated with so many folks. We have a very busy weekend...friends for dinner, Jeff Dunham show, taking MIL to Cherokee Casino for the day. From your post yesterday, I have set a goal to do yoga Friday, Monday, Wednesday for the next four weeks. I am SO stiff it is ridiculous. Have a wonderful weekend. Much love.

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      1. Oh good luck getting your Yoga back! I am faithfully doing it daily and see a huge difference after only 7 days!!! Cherokee Casino - oh my! Does she love the slots?

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      2. Have fun at Jeff Dunham! Should be hilarious!

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      3. Enjoy Jeff Dunham. We love him and are hoping to see him live if he gets back to SF.

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    4. I don't like velvet clothes but those shoes are lovely, I also love love love the flats with leopards on them. Hmm, not doing anything this weekend, I think it's going to be a long boring one.

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      1. I wish you could come with me Sunday and add some sparkling wit to my conversation with this writer fellow I do not know - I get awfully shy in those kinds of situations! I do like a little velvet shoe, but realized after my velvet Brora dress debacle that one must be careful what velvet one drapes on one - we are not all willows like our dear Dani - I realize I am more of a peony - short, squatter, but bursting with exuberance!

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      2. tabs do you ever mix anything with your bourbon??? :)

        love the flats wendy!!!

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    5. Hi Wendy, congrats on your piece in the Globe!

      I've been away for the last month and am catching up.

      Great that you got some feedback on your book!

      I'm looking forward to hearing more about your shopping break as it unfolds. I have been wanting to do some kind of experiment related to clothes and shopping, and I think now is the time for it for me. I'm thinking about doing a version of that Project 333. After nearly a month of living in a tent, I have a fresh perspective on my clothes.

      I have a post idea/request - If you're up to sharing, I'd love to hear more about how you've gone about establishing a work from home routine for yourself (and from other readers in the same boat too!). I'm now working independently from home full time and am trying to figure out a routine that helps me enjoy the flexibility and actually get things done!

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      1. Abby - I will write a post about that this weekend! I am now in a groove and have found what works for me and am quite disciplined about it, but in a good way!

        Hope you enjoyed the trip!

        I have often thought about project 333 as well, but never quite did it, though I find that I often end doing a season in about 33 items anyway, even though more is in my closet!

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    6. $70 for shoes that fit you well is a steal, no rationalization needed. I overindulged this holiday & on vacation, I'm afraid to open my credit card bill.

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      1. Oh I hear you - we have Christmas and our upcoming vacation to pay off, is all part of the January hangover...

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    7. I admire your resolve. And thank heavens for the late delivery as the shoes are beauties and will brighten up the month!

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      1. I did kind of think that when they showed up yesterday!!!! I do have a birthday as well and there is always a goody or two, so I will not be wholly without new things this month, but I do treat a birthday as something different as they are gifts to me, not from me!

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    8. Gorgeous shoes! I quite like the mirror toe ones; you'll get tons of wear out of them. My willpower is zero, don't think I could do a shopping ban so I am quite impressed with your stick to your guns approach. That drink sounds delish! Amaretto AND bourbon? Yum!

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      1. Oh Shopalot - it is quite pathetic at times, I miss the thrill of seeing what's out there, but this will be good for me as it will teach me some self-restraint and about being more judicious with my time and money. My greatest strength is also my greatest weakness - I am so enthusiastic about everything and love it all.....

        I like the mirror cap toes too - I actually have the mirror kikis as well, but have completely rationalized this in my mind, as I am want to do, and so blithely go along my way!

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    9. I am trying to dial down my shopping since I really don't need much. January sales are the killer. I love fall and winter clothes and the bargains are just too good to resist. There are a few things online at J.Crew that I'm interested in that I'm waiting for better prices on. After January I probably won't buy much since the new spring things won't be able to be worn for a long time. Your two pairs of shoes are both gorgeous and totally fit into your wardrobe plan. When you find shoes that are cute and comfortable you should buy them in every color! Oh and thanks for that shout out about the way to find your newspaper article. I was happy to help.

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      1. Thank YOU!

        I agree about the shoe thing and my closet proves it!!!! I hear you on Spring. We are going to Florida at the end of February and really I have more than enough to take with me....

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    10. My confession is that I hate shoe shopping and my shoe collection reflects that but I am loving all these flats!! I guess I need a shoe shopper, Wendy?? I did buy a pair of suede boots today that look rather utilitarian but planning to wear with big woolly socks in this cold weather.

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      1. God! I should go with you! Can't wait to see the boots!

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    11. Looking at my shoes makes me smile too Wendy! I think it's smart to just sign off the sales for a bit, they are just too tempting. I'm done as well. I ordered a bit with the non-sale promos and am being ruthless in what stays and goes. Am also getting rid of 2 for every one item I keep.

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      1. Oh good for you! I still have stuff I haven't worn this winter, but am going to not cull till I know the future!

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    12. When you find the perfect pair of shoes you can not be faulted for collecting the full set, or at least your favorites.

      When I am feeling fat and icky I go to the shoe closet and pull out a favorite pair to wear around the house. There is nothing like the "shoe high" as ruth says!

      Have a wonderful weekend Wendy!

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      1. Have you had any foot swelling yet? I was a size 8 during the last part of your pregnancy up from a 6' 6.5! It was horrible!

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      2. I'm not retaining water at all, absolutely no edema and my blood pressure is nice and low. Usually I'm a real salt hound but have curtailed my intake dramatically and that helps I'm sure. Now, if I can keep that up postpartum I'll be surprised.

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      3. Oh lucky girl! I didn't with baby #2 either, but the first one - yo vey!

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    13. Love the new additions to your shoe closet Wendy! I finally bought a pair of La Canadienne boots on sale last weekend - black suede with sheepskin lining - but that's it for me for quite a while; we also have to pay off Christmas, plus we have to save for vacation later in the year.

      Enjoy your cocktails with your admirer - I think it's so wonderful that they reached out to you like that.

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      1. I think the Le Canadienne's may be added next winter. I have hardly even worn my high boots this year cause it's been so cold! It's been my hard core uggs all the way, the high ones that look like trapper boots!

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    14. I'm so glad that your published essay continues to result in new contacts for you. Good luck with the ban! Stay strong! But what about your birthday? I seem to recall that it is coming up soon; it's pretty close to mine.

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      1. I gave had a sweater in a box under my bed since nov. For my birthday! Isn't that crazy? The verdigris cashmere long sleeve t. Not sure I will be getting anything else and avoiding shops in case! :-)

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    15. You crack me up, Wendy. I love some pretty comfy shoes....what could possibly be better!
      Helping a friend buy draperies tomorrow and headed to birthday/49er football game gathering on Sunday morning. I will be glued to the couch Sunday evening for the Golden Globes. I'd watch Tina and Amy drink a cup of coffee-they are hilarious.
      PS-I'm back...come over and have a read :-)

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      1. I can't wait for the GGs too! Oh resend the link! I've searched and lost it and will put you back on the banner - I've missed your blog!

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    16. I like both of those,too, and who knows when another winner for you will appear? OH, I love that excuse. I have not visited any stores or looked online at anything; I'll do a warmer weather list and stick to it but not yet.

      In other news, I'm now Vice President of Sheets for Goodwill, having broken all prior records for donation of same. I am now down to a good supply for a smallish inn! Thrilling!!

      I have a birthday party for a 70 yr old to attend and after that the Patriots. And tax preparation...

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      1. Oh that makes you our Veep!

        Tax preparation - soon enough!

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    17. Wendy, I applaud your good choices, and need to tell you that I thought of you when I caved and spent my Christmas gift card on a pair of blue glitter Darby flats. OOOh the sparkle. And I am not really a magpie. Though I may be trending in that direction. I also purchased my first pair of (heavily discounted ) Kikis- metallic soft sand cap toe) and will debut both the Kiki and the Darby when the treacherous ice and snow are gone. For now, I, too, look longingly at the prettiness. Enjoy your weekend!

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      1. You have the lovely blog where you could post a picture! Someday I will try the Darby's in person, the Nigella's hurt my feet so am nervous to order the Darby's till I get a chance to try in person!

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      2. Oh my gosh- my horribly neglected blog. The Darby glitter fit my rather wide foot, the patent didn't. Definitely a different consideration for your aristocratic feet! SO many deadlines, so little time. I really may try to post this weekend. Yikes.

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    18. Your new shoes are excellent and sure to brighten up the rest of your month. A good quality pair of shoes for under $100 is a bargain, for sure! I totally admire your willpower in sticking with your shopping ban. I stayed away from the Boxing Day sales but then I happened to look online a couple days ago, and ended up buying a few things that I had my eye on through the fall. Oh well, at least I got them half price! But still, I put quite a dent in my credit card!

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      1. Yes, just got Christmas bills and then gave Mr. disney a pile of cash yesterday...

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    19. You are hilarious. I also "just look," which leads to "just to try," and so on. Always hoping to be better. In the meantime, I'm MJ in the shop. I can be of no help because those 2 pairs of Kikis are totally different. I feel not one sliver of guilt that I have at least 6 pairs of Martinas. Feet keep us upright. Treat them right, I say.

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      1. Gigi - it is a slippery slope and since I wNt to be so much more measured in all things in 2014, takes great effort! I agree on the feet!

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    20. Cute flats! That's a serious collection over there!

      Petstting again this weekend. It has been raining buckets, which makes it unpleasant when walking the pooches. We are all getting soaked here!

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      1. Hi Rose! They are some heels hidden in that wall of shoes, but more and more flats of various brands! It was crazy here yesterday- freezing rain - people were skating on the street with their ice skates!

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    21. I have multiple pairs of leopard print flats so you know what my opinion is on multiple kikis! If they work for your feet and make you happy, that's a small price to pay and you have been very good sticking to your guns. All the sales are tempting but kikis don't work for me, thank goodness in a way. My shoe dollars have been going to yoox, that's where I got the gold lace-ups you liked from my latest post.

      This weekend I continue my closet reorg, still haven't reached that milestone to treat myself reading your article ... I may just reneg on the deal made with myself.

      Belated happy new year wishes, Wendy, seems I haven't been good keeping up with my blog besties!

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      1. Hi TR! When I am off my ban, I am going to have to think about checking yoox out! Ah - maybe you need to read my article to help inspire you to finish! I need to do some analysis in my closet - this shopping ban is making me think more and more about why I shop, what I shop for and why I never feel as satisfied as I ought to. Since my funds will be very specifically allocated this year, I need to think about that!

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    22. Those shoes have arrived to reward you for being SO GOOD and I can only hope that other delights will pop up at suitable intervals throughout the year to keep you on the straight and narrow. (I've read somewhere that flats are THE fashion statement for 2014 so you are obviously leader of the pack!)
      I'm feeling rather virtuous myself having just returned from London, where there was sale frenzy, without buying a thing. I'm going to attempt to follow the example of Janet at Gardener's Cottage and give away one hundred things. I've made a start - a white Whistles dress with matching petticoat to a friend and a shoulder bag full of trinkets to her grand-daughter. I'm feeling quite virtuous. Can it last?!

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    23. Your blog is a delightful read. I am here from Tabitha's blog. What a good link.
      Would love to see a repro of your article.

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      1. Sizzle and Zoom - I am besotted by your name!

        The article can be found at

        http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/facts-and-arguments/i-was-holding-my-dying-fathers-hand-when-my-blackberry-buzzed-i-answered-it/article16125073/

        thanks for popping in! Isn't Tabs the mostest?

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    24. Your blog is really helps for everyone, who search apartments & villas etc.Thanks a lot.

      sitges villas & sitges accommodation

      ReplyDelete

    Kindness is a virtue...