Shoes

I've found this whole shoe discussion to be very interesting. I seem to have struck an area that needs attention.

Yes, shoes are primarily functional. We need our feet covered in the winter and at least the bottoms protected in the summer. They don't have to be fancy. They don't even have to be stylish.

They do, however, need to be well-cared-for looking.

Many of us have commented about the condition of our shoe collections. Tennis shoes that are worn out do not HELP your body when you try to exercise. Dress shoes that are scuffed, nicked, stained, etc. do not "finish" your appearance when you've gone to the trouble of dressing up.

Many years ago I had a friend who was definitely a "Mercedes." She was ALWAYS put together. Every hair was always in place. (She cut and colored it herself). Her clothes were always neat, clean, and never worn looking. (She bought quality when it was on sale and carefully took care of mishaps as soon as they occurred.) Her nails were always impeccable. (She gave herself manicures and pedicures.) I added the parenthetical statements to show that SHE was the one who took care of her "chassis maintenance."

Once, I asked her for advice regarding laundry because I was so impressed to see the same classic clothing for several years and yet it looked as good as new. I will post her laundry tips separately (they are GOOD!), but I want to share her shoe regime now:

• Have two pairs of everyday work shoes and alternate them so that one can air while you wear the other.
• When you've worn shoes in inclement weather, clean them as soon as you can. Salt, mud and dampness shorten a shoe's life.
• Regularly take time to examine dress shoes for scuffs and worn areas. Use a "Magic Eraser" to remove black marks. Clean with a little soap and water. Use liquid shoe polish (She had one of each color) to coat and protect the shoes. If they're a favorite, comfortable pair, have the heels repaired when they become worn.
• If they're too worn...Replace them!

One doesn't have to go out and buy new shoes all the time. Remember that CARING for our belongings makes them last longer.

The clothing part of my "Chassis Mission" on Sunday will include an examination of my shoes to see what can be changed. I will follow my friend's advice. If you've used any words to describe your shoe collection that are less than positive, maybe it's time to take a hard look and allow your feet to always look like you care about them...and yourself.

After all, they have to hold us up and get us around to do all that we need to do--for the next several decades!

I'm Torn...

According to the most updated poll results (it's not over yet--go and vote!), I'M the one whose middle name is "Imelda!"

I see from those who have commented and also by looking at my closet that we buy shoes for function over form.

My shoe collection is very serviceable. I do need to replace at least two worn pairs. I'll do that at some point soon.

My "chassis maintenance" challenge, however, is to get myself AWAY from doing only the minimum, getting by with just the necessary. I'm also all about saving money and not spending much if any. I have a dichotomy on my hands.

Since it's summer, I think we're in the easiest season to add a little spice to the shoe closet. My goal is to look around and see if I can add a pair of PRETTY sandals (that also feel good!) for under $2.00. Yard sales are good for this as are thrift shops. If you're squeamish about wearing "previously owned" shoes, keep an eye on the sale racks at the stores. Rini found a pair of flip flops at Old Navy for $1.00, for example.

Speaking of flip flops, I would consider them as candidates for this mission. They come in all SORTS of colors and designs. If you're up for joining me in this challenge, the rules are simple:

• They must cost $2.00 or less.
• They must be comfortable.
• They must be pretty.
• Black or brown is admissible ONLY if they are strikingly pretty.
• Looking at them should bring a smile to your face.

I have a soft spot in my heart, though, for the flip flops my parents would buy every year at the beginning of summer. They would always have a giant plastic flower attached. I loved them! Do they make those for adults?

I just did a search and they ARE out there! Look at these two cute numbers. Any bells going off for you?? HOT GLUE, baby! Get a cheap, comfortable pair of flip flops and decorate! If you do it, link a picture. Then, consider your chassis upgraded!

Clothing Evaluation--Week 1

I took some pictures. I viewed the pictures. I deleted the pictures. It's just SO embarrassing!

My clothes are pathetic. After my child was born (AFTER, mind you), I packed on 40 pounds. I dealt with PPD and other issues and allowed junk food to become an addiction. I decided that I just couldn't buy any nice clothes until I lost weight.

My child just turned 7 in April.

I have bought a few things here and there, mostly because I had no choice. Nothing looked good on me, so I stuck to black. Then I branched out into brown.

So, for my "Clothing Evaluation" chassis maintenance task I decided to start in what I thought would be a relatively painless area--my underwear drawer. Oh my. That was definitely one picture I didn't even bother to take! (You're welcome.) After I threw away all that had stretched out elastic, holes, or whose patterns were so dingy and faded there was no longer a pattern, I found that I own approximately 4 pairs of decent underwear. It's a good thing that I do laundry every day! (Don't worry--they're on my list to buy on errand day.)

Next was my sock drawer. I have never owned so many pairs of socks in my life! When growing up in Florida, I pretty much went barefoot or wore sandals. I think I owned a pair of tennis shoes. I also owned "jellies." Anyone remember those? (They're b-a-a-c-k. I saw them in Wally World the other day.)

Now, living "Up North," I have accumulated a dozen pair of black socks, a dozen of white, and two pairs of brown socks. I did that just before last winter, so my sock drawer is in good shape.

Next I turned to take a look at my shoe situation. Sad, very sad. Everything was worn, scraped, limp. Everything was black...and brown. SOMETHING has to be done! I have a TOTAL of ten pair of shoes:

• Suede winter slip-ons (1 black, 1 brown)
• Dress shoes to wear with pants (1 black, 1 brown)
• Heeled dress sandals (1 black, 1 brown, 1 blue)
• Flat sandals (1 black, 1 PINK)
• Old tennis shoes

I told you it was sad. The pink sandals were a purchase on a yard sale day because my feet were getting too hot in the socks and shoes! They're my favorites now as it's nice to look down and see some color.

I feel another poll coming on. I know my "Shoe Number" is especially low and abnormal. I intend to try to increase my collection by a couple of pairs this summer. But, I'm curious as to how I "measure up" to NORMAL people.

What's YOUR shoe number?