Retail Therapy

A couple of weeks ago I was battling an episode of depression. When I finally overcame the inertia that accompanied it, I did what every red-blooded American woman does when faced with a difficult situation--I went shopping.

First I stopped by a consignment shop just to kill some time and found a lovely hand-decorated vase for only $8. I checked in at Target, WalMart and Kohl's but found nothing I felt like spending money on. Even all the low-priced items at Dollar Tree didn't tempt me.

Then I went to Hamrick's where it was Senior Citizens' Day, got an extra 10% off already "on sale" items and paid $100 for clothing (2 swimsuits, a pair of capri pants and shoes) that was already cheaper than at almost any other place in town. Finally I ordered on line a couple of more pairs of capris, in colors I hadn't been able to find locally, for a "bargain" price even including shipping. (Just hope they fit!)

WOO HOO! I felt better than if I had spent the same amount of money with a professional counselor--and I got new STUFF to boot!

It's not as if I really needed those things--except maybe the swim suits. And some of the capris in my closet are looking a little "tired" so I just bought their replacements before they completely gave out. It didn't help the U. S. economy much--the clothing was made in China, Guatemala and Dominican Republic--but it brightened my outlook on life considerably.

I'm fortunate I can afford some "retail therapy" once in a while. Maybe I should budget for it under "Medical Expenses".