My little red tether is my anchor in running with my friends. A beautiful guide dog has been my tether/anchor in mobility and independence for 17 years: 1. Pantera 2. Cricket, and now my beautiful 3. Georgina (Georgie). A life of family and friends is my joy and anchor in life.

The human spirit is stronger than anything that can happen to it. CC Scott

Sunday, December 4, 2011

Shopping for Shoes

Are you a shoes shopper? My shoes are generally pretty basic with comfort and ease at the top of the list.  This week we will be attending the GDB Holiday Luncheon and so we needed a nice, dressy pair of black shoes.

Circumstances changed last Wednesday and so our morning was free. We had planned to get together with some dear friends of 40 plus years but that didn't happen at the last minute so Cricket and I went to Gateway to do a little Christmas shopping before our afternoon/evening appointments. 

One of my colleagues asked -You seriously go to Gateway by yourself? Yes! How?

That seemed all I needed for a good blog post, right!

I love Gateway shopping for a few reasons.  Location. Steve works downtown so it is an easy place for him to drop me off when our schedules match.  This time they matched for a ride back to the office. I called a cab to Gateway.  I can asked to be dropped off at a specific location such as in front of Barnes and Noble and then tell Cricket to find the door and she will do so.  It is also an easy place for anyone that I may want to meet, a friend or a professional associate for lunch.  Familiarity.   We know the area well. Some would say we know our way to Ann Taylor Loft a little too well. I walked in and they said they'd missed me. Really? It hasn't been that long! But, you know how it is when a friend misses you - you try to go back and visit soon. Ben's Cookies also wondered about us so we checked in to see if they have their lemon cookies (yes, they do!) and diet coke. So my other shopping tip as a blind shopper is have a plan.  Its a little more stressful to wander - browse isn't a real great option so I like to be organized before I go.  My quest was to find something for Lisa for our gift exchange and also shoes.  Lisa loves notecards so I planned to stop in at Barnes and Noble.  They have a fun notecard section.  I had her business card so they could help me match up some fun cards.  We found a few other fun items.  The clerk was so helpful in trying to find a bag that would help me carry it easily over my shoulder. I told Steve another one of the blessings of a guide dog is one of my hands is full and can't carry as many shopping bags. I walked into Famous Footwear. I love how they are so friendly and say hi. This helps me know where they are at so I can talk to them and ask them specifically for what I am looking for.  So, I told them I was shopping for some black dress shoes.  They directed me to the area and helped me find two options in my size and then they left me.  I tried them on and got the giggles a bit as I asked Cricket to walk a little ways with me in both pairs.  They have to pass the Crickers test.  I then sent a text with a picture from my phone to my friend for her vote.  She is the friend that had found my dress so I knew she would know just which shoes would work the best.   She voted for these which was great as they were more comfortable, too. 

Sorry Cricket.  She didn't seem that amused that I was taking a picture as she was trying to have a nap!  Cricket, I wasn't that amused earlier when I was trying to take a nap and you came by the side of the bed to let me know it was dinner time.

When I get tired of shopping I set down and try on shoes. Unknown but a quote that seemed to fit :).

7 comments:

Lucent Imagery said...

My friend, so sorry to hear of the rough weather and am glad to hear your home is ok. Best wishes to all those who are affected. But oh, your wrist! I'm so sad to read that you've injured it again. Sending you lots of get well vibes. I too plan before hitting the shops, and send phone photos if I need a second opinion. I tend to stick to those stores in familiar locations and only those with helpful staff! I am happy to be able to avoid the christmas rush this year in the shops though. x

Beth Finke said...

I do love shoes, and, like you, I choose practical ones. But Im especially tickled if I find practical ones with some funk. Loved this post, and with your permission I may link to it from my own blog sometime soon -- great explanation of how we get things done with our guides.

Becky Andrews said...

LI - I need to order some more of your beautiful cards .. such a nice gift.
Beth - Yes you have my permission! Thank you!

Brandon - The dog with a blog said...

Shoe shopping is always fun, but my guide dog puppies don't always enjoy it!

3 labs 4 me said...

Cute shoes & if they're comfortable, that makes them more fun & enjoyable. Can't wait to see them with your dress. Don't forget to take a photo.

Raiser Erin said...

Lemon cookies and diet coke? Seems an odd combination, but one that I might have to try as I struggle through the last two weeks of class before winter break. :)

Browsing in malls at this time of year is always stressful! Haha! The shoes look great though! Have fun at the holiday luncheon. I'm looking forward to your post about it.

Shelly :) said...

I loved reading about how you get around at a mall with Cricket. :)

PS Love the the shoes! :)