Thrift Store Gods Laugh at Me Once More

In a nice way, I hasten to say.

Every now and again, I decide to just buy one item at regular price and be done with it. One such item is the havaiana flip flop, which receives raves. At around $20, this is ridiculously overpriced, but it is supposedly comfy (unlike most flip flops). Plus, it is a status—nay, an iconic—flip flop.

A few days ago, I mentioned that I had 100 things to grade. That was a lie. I had 140 things to grade. Like the deficit, that number is unnerving, so I “rounded down,” following the example of the politicians who don’t include some items in the federal budget. I rounded down the late work that eventually showed up.

I did a lot of work, but still have almost 100 things to grade. Rounding down and leaving things out—bad ideas.

I did some grading this morning and decided to take a quick thrift break for mental health reasons. I also bought some chicken thighs at the grocery for $0.67/pound—a very good price, folks.

First, Goodwill: 2 pairs of just about new ballet flats. One in maroon leather and the other in black suede with a satin bow. Cost: $5.10, plus tax.

Next Habitat: I was talking to another frequent shopper about the local woman who hired someone to kill her husband—both have now been arrested for first-degree murder. I had advance news of this last night when I ran into a former student at the public library. He works at a private elementary school and told us that the woman who runs the book fairs had just been arrested. A perfectly pleasant middle-class mom.

Anyway, this conversation delayed my departure. I think this was the Thrift Store gods at work, because a volunteer came into the room with an armful of shoes. These just happened to be all in my size (6.5-7) and all nearly unworn! Two pairs booties (one Stuart Weitzman), 1 pair Wolky sandals (I’ve always wanted some of these, but didn't want to shell out the $100+), 1 pair Nine West black suede wedge boots, 1 pair Puma Nuala yoga shoes, 1 pair Clarks leather thong sandals.

This was a great moment, because no one else there was my size, so it was a serene scene, with much congratulations and admiration along the way. Five pairs were $2.00 and one was $3.00 (for no apparent reason). Total: $13.00 plus tax.

So 8 pairs of shoes for a bit under $20.00, the cost of the havaianas. OK,OK. I accept that I am not meant to buy things at regular stores. I accept my fate. Thank you, Thrift Store gods.