Like a Moth To A Flame

Today was better. It wasn't great, but it was definitely better than yesterday. Baby steps, I guess. I took the boys shopping after the kids left and it was great to get out. We visited Ace at work and went to Old Navy. Awesome sale. I spent a bit more than I had planned but COME ON. All clearance an additional 50% off? I was like a moth to a bug zapper light. There was no fighting it.
I'm definitely a shop-a-holic by nature, I just never have time or money to actually shop anymore. Before I had kids, I remember spending half of my paycheck every other week on just clothes. How on earth did I ever think that kind of thing was okay? It's not like I had some job where I was in the public eye and had to present myself a certain way. I did things like retail and waiting tables and construction and working in a CUBICLE.

Now, when I do go shopping I end up looking around for a bit before inevitably going straight to either the little boys' clothing or the toy section. I just can't buy myself something anymore without first thinking "ZK really needs some better PJ's right now.." or "CJ needs pants". I can't justify buying myself a shirt when I know there are shirts in my closet that do fit me and my boys are in need of new shoes.

Speaking of buying my boys things, I was reminded today that it's almost time for Black Friday! I can't even begin to explain how excited I am about it. I've participated in it every year since ZK's first Christmas. Seriously, I make it into my own olympic shopping event. A week or two before thanksgiving every year, I start scanning the ads for all of the best deals on the toys I know I want to buy. I write everything down and categorize everything by store and by that store's opening time. I make a plan of which stores i will hit in what order and where I need to go in each store. I'm up at 2:30am to be out by 3:30 and in line by 4am. I love it.

This year will be a bit harder because I'll be shopping for two kids' Christmas AND birthday presents as well as for Ace and my extended family members. I'm ready though. I'm looking forward to it! I shop, therefor I am!