About five weeks ago I wrote a post entitled, Home Shopping Parties—Love ‘Em or Hate ‘Em, in which I decided to throw one of my own. Having very little free time and even less time to socialize with my friends, I actually enjoy the occasional home shopping party. The problem is, I don’t really need much stuff…so even though I once sold Tupperware (and maybe because of that), I really don’t need any more. Ditto knick-knacks; although my home really isn’t fully furnished or decorated, so I might be persuaded. Pampered Chef, sorry, I don’t need any more kitchen gadgets.
I am partial to CAbi (Carol Anderson by invitation) because , similar to the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, in which one pair of jeans fits four very different teen bodies, CAbi designs are highly tailored to fit in each and every size they sell them in. So, no, my friends and I can’t trade around the same pair of pants, but we could each buy them in our own size and look just as nice in them. So, I was excited when my friend invited me to a CAbi party…but it turned out to be the day before my Silpada party. I just had a home shopping party weekend!
When I went to the clothing party, I knew I would like more items than I could afford, but that’s normal. The thing that bothered me most was that I wanted to buy something that would fit me now and still fit me as I continue to lose weight. I’m doing well with my weight-loss, but I still am not down an entire size. So, what do I do? I’m currently in-between sizes. I’ve often bought clothes that “almost” fit with the intention of losing weight and wearing them, only to fail. This time, however, I know I am on the right path and I am losing weight and will continue to do so.
As I watched the presentation, I wondered what would fit me. I wasn’t too happy…more like depressed. After the presentation I found several items in the size down from what I’ve previously bought in this brand and headed to a bedroom to try them on. To my surprise, the smaller sizes either fit or were only a bit snug. My depression lifted instantly! I judiciously added a few pieces to coordinate with pieces bought over the last two years. I can’t wait for them to arrive and for them to fit my newly slimmer profile!
As for my own party, I did not end up doing a massive de-cluttering of my home nor any minor home improvement projects. As a matter of fact, I didn’t even plan out the menu until I got to the local market a few hours before the party. I ended up buying fresh spinach, dried cherries, crumbled blue cheese, and freshly sliced mushrooms. With some bacon and hard-cooked eggs, I had a spinach salad bar. I got a chunk of cheddar and another of Guda and some crackers. I picked up some cashews and chocolate covered pretzel bits, and then turned to the wine. It turned out that the market had their own, branded wine; a red and a white blend made in-state of wine from local wineries. I’m happy to support my local economy, so this was a great fit. My older daughter had picked up some spinach dip and red peppers, and got them ready.
After a long walk and a shower, I got out an old dress-up outfit…a sleeveless black tunic and matching black pull-on pants. I was surprised that they fit, but they did. I thought this was the perfect backdrop for a few pieces of silver jewelry. When the consultant arrived, with a very extensive collection, I picked out a few pieces to wear to show-off the line. It is my hope to get enough orders to allow me to afford a really nice piece to donate to my favorite charity.
My friends arrived. We all looked at the beautiful, sterling-silver jewelry. One friend thanked me for offering healthy, tasty food. I laughed; when I’m on a diet, so is everyone who eats at my home! Meanwhile, my younger daughter ate about half of the hard-cooked eggs and a goodly portion of cheese. She also ate two servings of spinach salad…I guess she’s still growing. She is within a hair of being taller than her big sister, and I always knew she would end up taller than her.
My guests slowly left…my oldest friends last. I put away the leftover food and my daughters and I talked about what a lovely quiche we could make from the remnants.
Find the Joy in the Journey…find your own way to stay connected with, and enjoy time with, your friends!
Laura's Adventures After 50! 