Purple and Plaid
17 Oct 2011
I have been so excited to show off my new purple suede boots! Their story begins with a pretty dull day. In the midst of the afternoon doldrums last week, I ran to Target to pick up a few things we needed. I was kind of in a sour mood, so I thought I might cheer myself up with some small prize, like a clearance scarf or some bubble bath or something. I didn’t find anything at all that looked appealing, and my mood grew even darker. But then I realized I was around the corner from my favorite thrift store. “I’ll swing by,” I thought, “just for a lark.” I didn’t expect to find anything, as I’d struck out the last few times I had been there, but a surprise was in store for me. It was a complete BONANZA!
I didn’t even pick up a basket at the entance, but just sauntered over to the shoes, where I could not believe my eyes. 30 seconds later I was hobbling back to the front door, clutching 4 pairs of shoes, to get a basket! They had so many amazing pairs, and they all fit me! *Magic!* I got some blue heels, which I’ve wanted for a long time, and some sweet white flats. I got some amazing black heels and some silver and gold strappy sandals. And I got some adorable red flats, but the prize of the litter was this perfect pair of purple suede boots! Purple is my most beloved color, so I was pinching myself!
I also picked up this little plaid skirt and a dress that I’m planning to repurpose. The grand total: $32. Amazing! I cannot say that these boots are the most comfortable things I’ve ever worn, but oh my goodness do I love them!
I have had this yellow shirt for ages, which I sometimes wear with a black skirt for a bumblebee effect. 🙂
The jewelry is special to me. A friend of my husband’s family recently got a serious cancer diagnosis, and we sent a small donation to help with their treatment costs. The family organized an auction, and Eric’s parents used the money we sent to bid on this sweet necklace and bracelet set. I’m so touched that they thought of me at the auction, and wearing these pieces makes me feel closer to them, when they are so many miles away.
I will put together some looks with my other new shoes soon, but for now, I am still basking in the glory of these boots, and wondering at the magic little surprises that life holds for us, often when we least expect them.

Oct 18, 2011 @ 06:17:26
Great shot leaning over the balcony! I think you should tell the truth to your readers: You have the most amazing shoe luck at thrift stores that I have ever seen. From what I can tell, before you enter the store you make a statement such as, “I want some purple suede boots.” When you enter the store the correct shoes or boots have somehow materialized, and are shining and winking at you from under 200 pairs of men’s smelly tennis shoes. Yep, that’s how it works!
Oct 18, 2011 @ 09:09:30
Thank you! That was Eric’s idea 🙂 It is true that sometimes I have shoe magic: all the more reason for us to go shopping together more often!
Jan 13, 2013 @ 15:18:26
As I’ve said before: some people have all the luck, and, Magic, even when it comes to shopping. 😛 Maybe some of your magic will rub off on me.
Jan 14, 2013 @ 22:21:55
Ha! I’d be happy for it to! I haven’t done any shopping in a long time, but I just found a hole in my beloved cowboy boots, so I guess I need to find a new pair!
Jun 28, 2013 @ 12:41:54
Ooooh! Is the thrift store near the Target near Vromans (I think its–Colorado??) LOVE these boots!
Jul 01, 2013 @ 21:02:42
It’s called ACTS, and it’s right at Hill and 210. It’s my favorite–we should definitely hit it up!