I love our tradition of spending a couple of days in the city during the holidays but if I’m not careful I can get sucked into all the commercialism. Before our trek to San Francisco I was completely content. There wasn’t much in terms of worldly goods that I wanted. Even when I mentioned driving up that I might look for jeans, Andie noted how many pairs I’ve accumulated recently (and she’s right).
So, I’m lacking nothing but amidst all the crowds and store hype, I start to find things. Retailers convince me I need this or that. Sales promise 50% off. And, suddenly interesting ‘stuff’ appears. Nothing that I need but suddenly there are new things to want.
This is why I’m a believer in the concept of “out of sight, out of mind.” Or, if I don’t see things, I don’t need them, I don’t want them; often I don’t even know about them! Hence, the less I throw myself into the retail world the less I know what I’m missing. Out of sight, out of mind!
We had a great time on our city adventures complete with an amazing meal at a new Michael Mina restaurant called Bourbon Steak and the San Francisco Ballet’s Nutcracker performance and a stay at the Westin St. Francis.
But, after a few hours of shopping in Union Square I’m usually overwhelmed by all the shopping madness. Still, I take part. Mostly, I have to, because it’s two days before Christmas and I haven’t shopped for my family. Because these days it’s nearly impossible to pick things out without their assistance. So, today it's Christmas Eve and ready or not, I think I’m about finished up with the shopping. Thank goodness!
