Had to Have It, But Do I Really?

Just before my senior year in high school, I paid (or maybe my mom paid) full price for a gorgeous shirt and skirt at American Eagle. A few weeks later, they were discounted to much, much less than I originally paid. Ever since then, I can't recall a time I have actually paid "full price" for clothing. It kind of makes me sick to think about doing so, especially when there are so many other things I want to do with my money.

Instead, I browse the clearance and sale sections and avoid rows that aren't marked down. Often, it pays off. Like today I finally got a pair of jeans I've been hunting for--that actually fit comfortably!--for $10.50 (regularly $50). Yeah, awesome deal, I know. And they rock.


A few weeks ago, I walked past a cream-colored shirt that just called to me. It literally said, "Hey! Take a closer look at me, I know you'll like me!" And then I saw it's dark teal sister. I love it. Nothing totally special, but I had to have it. It was regularly $40, on sale for around $30-35. I couldn't do it. Not when I really would like some boots, and I really need a couple new bras, and the list goes on.

So, I've been watching it closely. If I drive by Kohl's, I'll stop to see if it is cheaper. I've probably checked on it 3-5 times in the last couple of weeks. The supplies have been dwindling; less sizes to choose from; and no price drop.

Then I got a coupon for 30% off an entire purchase (Kohl's rocks, bytheway, almost as much as Target...almost), and the ad showed that brand would be on sale.

I tugged Winston with me today (as I usually do) and finally bought it. It was down to $25, but I had 30% off, which makes it $17.50 (honestly still more than I typically spend; I'm cheap, what can I say?). I had to have it, you know? Few things call out to me like this.

And now I've got you all worked up. It's really nothing special, really. See?

Now there's a problem. They were out of my size, but another store in the area has it.

And I just now thought to look at the care label. Hand wash only (because of the tiny beads). Oh brother!

Did I mention that I have a cute little almost-18-month old? He drools a lot, wipes boogers on my shoulder a lot, and other random Winston-mostly-ate-that particles are always ending up on my shoulder.

I'm not gonna put forth the effort to wash it, by hand!, every time I wear it. And as much as Sam helps out, I don't think he'd be too keen on the idea either. Ho hum...I think I might take this not-the-right-size-anyway totally-awesome shirt back. After all of the effort...