Dirty Little Secret

I have a psyc exam on Tuesday so I've been busy studying for it most of the weekend, in between the glasses of wine of course.  I discovered last term that I actually write better under the influence.  I'm wondering if my understanding of sleep and language will be improved under the influence.  I guess one could say I'm performing a scientific study.  I should mention this to my prof - maybe I can get extra credit.

So I decided to take a study break this afternoon (others may call it "procrastinating"), and head to my local VV boutique.  What is this VV boutique you ask?  It's my dirty little secret.  It's something I've been doing since my single days: I occasionally shop at Value Village.  As mentioned previously, I AM CHEAP.  I'm not always cheap - I have paid full price for articles of clothing, shoes and accessories, but I do try and limit those purchases, perhaps not to the extent that some in my household would like, but still, I am pretty good.  Here, let me give you an example:

This dress was purchased last week from Ricki's, full price of $55 (including taxes).  Great dress.  I had to have it, so I bought it:

When worn to the office, I wear it as a longer-style shirt with either dress pants, skinny jeans or a black skirt.  It's just a little too short.  But to the bar or club - I would wear it with tights.  It's gorgeous.

And here's what I bought today during my study break for 50% less.  A shirt, skirt AND accessories for a grand total of $25:

I'm so proud of myself.  *beaming*

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I came home from my successful shopping trip to find my man watching "Glory".  Yes, "Glory".  You know, the 1989 film about the first all black volunteer regime in the Civil War.  This is also the man who's bed time reading includes the 800 pound book entitled:  The Civil War, An Illustrated History.  I made him leave it at home when we went to Jamaica. It would have required it's own suitcase otherwise.

It dawned on me that all the men I've ever dated have all been preoccupied with war stuff.  I ran downstairs to the recroom and quickly scanned the bookcase.  Yup, there it was.  I had received from a then-boyfriend (2001?) a book entitled "The Wars" by Timothy Findley with an inscription inside that says:  "For Michelle, Just to show her that the subject of men's dark night does not have to be without nobility and serving grace." 

I think it was a Valentine's Day gift.  It's never been opened. Might be a good reference book for a history course.  You never know. 

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So I decided to take pictures of my recent purchases for my blog and left the man in charge of watching the chilli on the stove.  He "lost track of time" (more like was SO enthralled with his war movie), that the chilli burned.

"Honey!" I cried as I entered the kitchen, "the chili is burning!!!"

"I didn't realize it was on so high" he says.

"It was on low, but you still have to stir it!" I reply.

"Oh" he says.

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The Superbowl just started.  I think it's a football final or something.

I'm taking my box of wine downstairs to study and leave the man to his burnt chili and football.  He seems content.

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