Although my sister and mom both live within driving distance – an hour and two hours away, respectively (that's on a good day when the traffic gods cooperate. When they don't, well, all bets are off), our schedules don't allow us to get together too often.
This past Saturday when hubby was out of town with our boys – their way-delayed annual father's day overnight – mom, Lynne and I had our sleepover, beginning with – what else – a trip to the nearby Lord & Taylor for boots. Why is it that every time we get together one of us "needs" to shop? But, you know, those friends & family sales are tough to ignore, especially when you're boot-aholics like us.
So many choices. But plenty of time to decide.
Nature or nurture? You decide.
"Let's go before lunch," I suggest. "This way, it won't be so crowded." Wrong. Who knew that everyone else would have that same idea?
So, why do I tell you this? Well, for one thing, I have to say that the nearly-two hours we sat there didn't really phase me. I didn't get impatient. I didn't get bored. Sure, I tried on just about every size 9-1/2 boot that was in stock. But more than just that, sitting still gave me an opportunity to eavesdrop on life – something I rarely, if ever, get to do. And being the curious sort (some might call it nosy, I call it being a "keen observer of life"), I love to learn about what other people are wearing/saying/thinking/doing.
Woman A: I don't need a facelift; it's my neck I can't stand. I have these vertical bands that AGE me!
Woman B: So, what can be done about that?
Woman A: Well, a plastic surgeon I went to told me that he could cut the muscle, and the bands would disappear.
Woman B: What? Cut your neck? How could you do that?
Woman A: What's the big deal? So what if I can't talk or swallow? People can overlook a little drool, can't they? At least… I'll look younger.
Woman C: I am so totally beside myself since K left for college. The pain is so intense, it feels like someone died. I just don't know how I'm gonna get through this.
And to all my readers, I ask this question: Do you ever get a chance to sit back and observe life?
If you don't, perhaps you should. It's really a nice time-out. While not nearly as good as a vacation, it gives you a break from life and a unique perspective on it all at once.
Oh, and the boots I bought? They're pretty cool. I might have to go back for another pair.
Since I majored in journalism…let's say….several years ago…I have been listening in on conversations everywhere I go…one of my favorite past times! I have learned much about life that way…and, oh, Woman C? You will get over that!!
I agree, Pam, Woman C will – I hope – get over it soon enough!
Yup, a very good place to observe, and buying boots doesn't hurt, either.
People watching is one of the guilty pleasures of women with time on their hands. Unfortunately, I am not one of those women:) But I do remember when I was able to do just that–often at restaurants or out to lunch. It's fun.
Maybe some day you'll be able to get back to that guilty pleasure, Estelle!
Sign me up for that neck-cutty-thing!
Okay, Anne… I'll cancel that appointment I made for you!
Whoops. But really, I think we were quite well-behaved and they couldn't get much dirt on us, Irene.
Wow, what a fun thing to do…I may have to go boot shopping with my best friend this weekend!!
Just arrived home from L&T's shoe department in Southern NJ. Wasn't successful with boots but bought a pair of shoes. My stylist says I should wear pointed toe shoes to make me look taller. Every 1/4-inch helps.
Yes, I do agree, listening in the shoe department is so much fun. I also always ask other women what they think of the shoes I am trying on to get a second opinion. Happy shopping.
How funny. They do have quite a shoe department, don't they? Never knew that about the pointy toes. I don't need the added height…but I do like that look.
Love your sense of humor. The nail salon is another great place to be "curious". There are some juicy conversations going on at that drying table.
Oh, I love shopping! And, of course, I love "accidentally" eavesdropping on other conversations. How can you help it? I love learning what other's are talking about/doing/care about. It's fun! Ah, I'd be right next to you eavesdropping, and hopefully buying a pair of boots. With that, I need your help! Fun post, Sheryl.
Shoe departments are great places to hear things!!! Thanks for the reminder, next time I'm feeling blocked I will head to the nearest one!! Not sure about the neck thing, but I could relate to the feelings of loss regarding the child going off to school. I will add though that my oldest is a freshman in high school and I'm in the "dreading" faze, I'm sure I will get over it quickly!! Lol!
My mom, sister and I always end up shoe shopping when we're together but are so busy trying on and buying that there's no time to people watch! We're probably a sight in ourselves!
Riding the elevators at one of my clients I hear bits and pieces of some funny, bizarre conversations. It's fascinating…makes me wonder what others think when they hear me talk without knowing context…oh well!