Too much holiday cheer!

Sadly, it seems that my work has been overtaken by tacky Christmas decorations, festive holiday jingles and crazy soccer moms. It isn't even Thanksgiving and I am already in the bah-humbug spirit. Where did my joy go? Oh, that's right, out the door with the middle aged women who just gave me an attitude because I only trying to help her.

Anyway to combat this ever present feeling of ennui, I went bargain shopping (at my place of work, haha) and ended up getting a nice pair of flats and a cashmere cardigan for like $15. Considering the cardigan alone was originally $80, I think I made out pretty well. And I am abslutely obsessed with cashmere right now. To the point that it may be unhealthy...

Hello, beautiful.

These are shockingly comfortable.

I have started Christmas shopping for others, too. (Not just for myself, haha.) Already it seems I've crossed off my mother, two brothers, aunt and cousin off my list. But I am having a hard time deciding what to get my boyfriend... I want to get him something funny (because he's the type of guy that would give me a gag gift), but at the same time, I want to give him something I know he will really like and use. Dilemma!

So, what or who are you shopping for this season?

I want to go to there.

Had to do some online window shopping tonight:

• This pearl and starfish necklace combines everything I love about the sea. Maybe it's a little cliche, but I can't help it.
  
• Would absolutely love a black Kate Spade handbag just like this. Actually, I would probably kill for it. Yeah.
  
• I'm going to need new tan loafers or brown moccs considering I completely destroyed my old ones last winter by wearing them every single day. They were amazing.
  
• If only I was a trust fund baby, then I could afford shiny gold shirt from Martin & Osa.
  
• I told Jason that I would become a fan just to wear this Phillies hoodie or tee despite my love of the Yankees. Oh, and they are both on sale too! (Hint.)
  
• These argyle wellies are totally necessary for the fall. Seriously. I can't wear all my shoes in the rain, they will get ruined!
  

Alright, I guess I'll stop now before I torture myself into the fetal position... Sigh. One day I will have enough money to afford at least one of these things on my list. One day.

Bargain hunting

As a broke, unemployed college graduate, you are forced to search high and low for that perfect bargain-- the one item you must have at a price that is absolutely affordable. Yesterday afternoon, my mother and I went to Kohl's and I found these wonderfully simple black heels that will look completely polished and professional with my grey suit. They aren't Nine West, but they will certainly do the job for $13!

More and more I have come to appreciate the happiness that bargain hunting can bring. Shopping has always been one of my favorite past times and ways to unwind or disconnect from my life-- whether or not I end up buying anything. (Although, I won't lie, it's much more fun to be able to bring something home!) It's just nice to be able to think about what's in front of you at the moment, as opposed to all the distractions and frustrations that can arise in every day life. When I was still at the University of Richmond, I took daily trips to the various malls across the city-- walking, listening, browsing and people watching. Sometimes I would catch a movie or treat myself to one of my favorite restaurants in town and just enjoy being alone.