I took the girls shopping this evening, just for the pure fun of it. There is a new accessory store in our favorite shopping mall; “Charming Charlie’s” and we were able to get lost in there much like at an amusement park. The jewelry and assorted items were sorted and categorized by color and finish. It was a veritable treasure trove of accessories, and it was completely overwhelming.
A jeweled chandelier hung from the high ceiling. Display islands sparkled with spinning racks of dangling necklaces, shimmering rhinestones set in rings, bracelets, and tiaras. Cubbies filled with designer handbags and dressy shoes lined the walls and below the islands. Pretty blouses tucked in among the racks. Watches, broaches, arm cuffs, dangling earrings, jeweled hairclips…more girlie things than I could process no matter how long I spent amongst the inventory.
We weren’t the only women in there with glazed expressions from the sheer volume of sparkly items. It was like being in a liquor store filled with alcoholics.
I was personally drawn to the watches. I have a fixation with clocks, and the large face watches pulled me in like a hypnotist dangling a gold pocket watch in front of my face. I barely noticed the shoes, or bedazzled blouses, or sparkly rings. I didn’t take a second look at the necklaces, or bracelets, or handbags. I did try on the most chic hat I’ve ever seen. It was a very large brimmed hat that had me thinking about Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s. In fact, the entire store was a throwback to Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
At more than one point the girls and I got separated, and I was forced to track them down by the sounds of their voices calling my name. Or rather calling “Mom” throughout the boutique.
The problem with the name “Mom” is that it’s not overly unique. I wasn’t the only person in the store with that name, but every time I heard it, I turned to see if it was meant for me. In all honesty, it was usually for me. The girls were like cats chasing string as they zipped around the store, unable to decide which bauble they wanted me to buy them. We went in with the idea that everyone would get one, but narrowing the search down to just one was a near impossibility considering the amazing variety of choices.
As the store began the nightly ritual of shutting down the music and dimming the lights, the girls were forced to make a choice. They chose wisely, if I’m any judge. I have a feeling I’ll be back to Charming Charlie’s again…and again…if they have any say in the matter. And honestly, I don’t mind. I had as much fun as they did, and the prices were actually pretty reasonable.
The more I think about it, the more I think I may go back for that wide brimmed hat. If I’m not mistaken, it would go nicely with my crazy pink sweater.
Until the next time…I’ll be making a mental shopping list.