I managed to sneak off to my neighborhood library today. I am in love-- again.
Last week, I discovered the reference room. I had never been in there before, because it's way in the back and I don't generally use the reference section.
Well, I'm happy I went exploring. They have just about every magazine imaginable, including two specialty industry magazines (very expensive) that have so far been very helpful for my new weekly freelance gig. And I don't have to pay for the subscription. The library also lets you sip coffee while reading. Pure heaven, I tell you.
This is the second week I snuck off to the reference room with a mug of tea in order to write and work. Grandma comes over on Tuesdays to take the babies so I can work, and now that my toddler can find me no matter where I hide at home, (and loves to scream only while I am on the phone) the library is the perfect spot to sneak off. And, they have really comfy chairs and free wifi. Why am I the only one in there????
While I was out, I decided to have a little me time. I have always loved thrifting but haven't done much since I had the kids. Last year, I gave away 2/3 of my clothes, because most no longer fit. Even if you lose the baby weight, your measurements are different, I swear. On several occasions this year-- some work related-- I found I just didn't have anything even vaguely acceptable to wear. I left the house looking pretty frumpy and mismatched, let me tell you.
I live in pajamas and jeans right now, but I really need to get some new work clothes for when I have an event outside of my living room. I hate being frumpy. It's got to stop.
Enter the thrift store.
I just discovered one by my house that is a gold mine. It;s the size of a walmart. I bought my 2.5 yr old's entire winter wardrobe there for $35 earlier in the fall, and my youngest's snow pants for $2.50 and a winter coat for $3.25.
Today, I decided to pop in because I had a few baby free minutes. I thought I'd gamble on some clothes, and I actually found a few things while casually perusing the racks.
I spent $13. I got two Calvin Klein jackets-- one a very fashionable work blazer that I could also wear out, the other a long, black simple coat good for spring or fall. AND I got a pink silky blouse I absolutely love.
Here is the kicker. I saw that blouse in a Macy's ad last Christmas and totally drooled over it, but I couldn't rationalize spending the money. And here, a year later, it's at the thrift store in MY SIZE for only $2.99. What are the chances??
I think there are both auspicious signs for the new year.
LOVE LOVE LOVE my library! and battling the frumpies
December 29th, 2010 at 02:09 am
December 29th, 2010 at 02:23 am 1293589418
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December 29th, 2010 at 06:04 am 1293602651
Great job with the thrift finds and your library time.
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December 31st, 2010 at 10:07 pm 1293833237
I don't remember where I saw it, but I read somewhere that this time of year is the best time to hit thrift stores. Tons of people taking their clothes to make room for new or decluttering.