There is no real shopping in my small town so we are forced to travel to Little Rock or Branson Missouri. Neither fosters impulse buying for both are a 5 hour round trip. I stay away from Little Rock but Branson is usually a fun, all day trip which my support group loves to take. We shop, eat and giggle all day.
My everyday shoes are sneakers or walking shoes for comfort. I have to wear orthotics so there has to be room for them and the shoe can't have arch supports which will mess up the orthotics. Yeah, I know--- picky.
I get black for winter and white for summer. Thinking I was out of shoes and on my last pair of white, a trip to Branson was called for. Most of my support group was doing something else for July so I decided to go alone.
I enjoy the trip. It really is quite a lovely drive and Branson is a fun town with a couple of outlet malls. I was delighted to find my shoes had not been discontinued so I bought 4 pair. Then I saw the Skecher store and decided to try on those “shape up” shoes I had seen advertised. They have a banana shaped sole.
These shoes are entertainment in themselves. They remind me of when I was a kid and we would jam our shoes on a tin can, hammer the ends up to attach to the soles, then clomp up and down the streets feeling tall and being really noisy. Ah, good ole low tech fun.
Like the tin cans, with Skechers, there feels like a big wad is under your arch and rocking backwards has to be guarded against. As advertised, it truly is an instant posture adjustment primarily to maintain your balance. Wow, I was sold. When you have been a runt all your life, feeling even a little taller is wonderful. Pretty sure in Skechers, I am back up to my preshrinking height.
So I packed up my 5 pair of shoes and after hitting a few other stores, took my treasures home. I was really feeling pleased with myself till I started to put my shoes away in the closet. I have a tiny closet that I have to slide in sideways to get my clothes. I keep my extra daily shoes in the boxes, against the wall beneath the hanging clothes.
As I pushed clothes aside and bent down, I was stunned to see I all ready had 5 unopened shoe boxes. Oh I really was out of the white as I thought , my mind didn't go completely off track. However I still had 1 black pair, 1 tan and 3 off white, in unopened boxes that I had no recollection of even buying. I now have ten pair of single purpose shoes. At my age, they will probably become part of my estate.
As you can see, I now have them pulled away from the wall and very visible. Try fooling me again you rascally mind. Looking at my collection, I was feeling a bit like I did at Christmas when I decided I did not recognize my own glasses and refused to claim those butt ugly frames. A little better this time however for while I am still embarrassed, at least I am set for shoes. Mostly likely, when these are gone, I'll just be shuffling around in bunny slippers all day anyway.
So it appears my mind has played with me again. It knows me so well and fools me at its leisure. Fortunately I am still able to chuckle as I shake my head in wonder at my decline. The aging process is definitely not boring.
QUICK PLUG HERE FOR SKECHERS TONE UPS
Sadly they do not come in widths for my scrawny feet so I have to double sock it. They are wonderful if not particularly flattering. Think clunky. However, besides making you walk with perfect posture and improving your balance, they work a whole new set of muscles.
Walking up hill is a real challenge. Just taking a step is no longer automatic. Perhaps in time that will change. They are quite heavy and the rolling motion really works out your calves and butt. I see killer calves and buns of steel in my future.
One really good thing is that I had been at a weight loss plateau and just in two days on the Skechers, I have dropped another pound. I do caution that you don't try a 5 mile walk the first time you put them on. They recommend only using them for a half an hour or so at first to get used to them. I dropped to a 2 mile walk for a few days and am now ready for my 3 mile walk. For those of you who don't like sneakers, they do come in sandals.
For some reason, I noticed I unconsciously sucked in my stomach as I stretch taller and straighter. Another big plus. The computer has turned me into a real sloucher and the good thing is that the effect of the posture adjustment lasts a while after the shoes are put away.
Main draw back I can see, besides fashion statement, it that I'm pretty sure running would be impossible in them. If anything sinister approaches me on my walks, I'm resigned that it will just have to catch me. If it is a bear or dog, I hope they choke on my buns of steel.
I just linked over from Betsy's blog, Joyful Reflections. Anyone who has an ample supply of shoes, no matter why she made the purchase, is A-OK in my book! "If the shoe fits...buy it in every color" is my motto!
ReplyDeleteLove your blog and I'll be back when I'm not already late for work. Looks like my kind of blog. :)
A lady can never have too many shoes, especially sneakers to keep her feet comfy.
ReplyDeleteI do not like shopping in Little Rock, as a matter of fact I avoid Little Rock as much as I can. Sorry you have such a long drive to shop.
I loved this post, it made me giggle. Enjoy your shoes. Hugs
WOW Branson shopping--my second favorite shopping trip....to outlet malls.
ReplyDeleteThe style of Skechers reminds me of a pair of Easy Spirit walking shoes I bought although their selling point was more like AIR JORDAN. The wedge like heel probably adds and 1" to my height but doesn't make up for the 3.5" I've lost.
My everyday walking shoes are now my shoes for everything after knee surgery--not that I every wore stiletto heels
I love going shopping with my best friend, but now that she is working full time the enjoyable laugh and giggle trips are few and far between. But she retires in 3 years, I think.
I may have found one in my housekeeper, but having been in the workplace, I am wary of too much fraternization amount employees. Guess I am treading unknown waters. She was a bundle of fun on the recent trip where there was the usual banter of two men vs. two women (maybe 3, if we include Luckie, who played neutral).
I will have to join you in forgetting what I have. This usually happens to me in areas of food supplies and certain computer items. By the time I duplicate an item, the original is out of date, which begs the question" Do I really need to stock it anyway??????????
Hi Patti, Well--look at the bright side... You won't need new shoes for a very long time... ha ha
ReplyDeleteI have never heard of Skechers... I hope you enjoy yours... I probably need some too --at my age, since my posture isn't the greatest...
Have a wonderful day there in gorgeous Arkansas... A blogger friend posted some pictures from Blanchard Springs Caverns... VERY pretty. Have you been there?
Hugs,
Betsy
One can never have too much of anything..and certainly not shoes Patti !! :) I went shoe shopping too recently ;) Btw your collection reminds me of my dad. He has a trunk full of new pairs too.
ReplyDeleteWonderful boxes, Patti!! I keep many of my old shoes including my weddingshoes from 1963
ReplyDeleteHi Deb and welcome to TNS. I do that every color thingy with clothes, this is my first time with shoes.
ReplyDeleteGlad you like my blog and thanks for following. Will check your blog now.
Mumsy,
Sure glad I found your funny bone. I really don't like Little Rock to shop either. Don't know my way around. Not having convenient shopping is kind of good on retirement income. No impulse buying, just in my case, forgetful buying.
Nitwit,
Shopping can either be a chore or a lot of fun depending on your partner. When I have specific items on my mind, I really prefer to go by my self. Other wise the more the merrier.
Betsy,
You have no choice with Skechers to improve your posture. If you don't you tip over backwards losing your balance. Feels good though.
I would check with a doctor first but they are supposed to be good for our joints.
lostworld,
Ah but you are young, you will get to wear whatever you stock up on. The joke here is that people my age shouldn't buy ripe bananas. He he
Reader Wil
That is wonderful. Do you ever wear them again or are they for sentimental reasons? I keep clothes a long time but am rough on shoes.
Hi Patti,
ReplyDeleteJust sent you a reply to your Email, this comment is a back up... in case my reply is lost in space somewhere! I am So sorry I made a mistake in the address I gave you originally, I am so silly. Thank you so much for sorting the muddle out and managing to establish communication! A quick summary of my reply is that I think it best if we visit Arkansas on the way back to NZ. Anyway, if you don't receive my email, send smoke signals via my blog!
Hugs and apologies, P, L, NS & G
I had to laugh at 10 pairs of shoes (unworn) and count myself lucky that I haven't done that same thing.
ReplyDeleteMy daughter wears the Skechers and recommended that I get a pair. I don't wear sneakers often, so I am thinking about whether I want to get a pair or not. You may have convinced me by saying you lost weight and tuck your belly in. I certainly need to firm that up - as well as my buns!!
Those Skechers look like very interesting sneakers. I think may have to try a pair on and see how they feel.
ReplyDeleteOh no! You sound just like me. That is too bad can you take some of them back on your next trip.
ReplyDeleteI love skectchers too..have them on now.
So sorry but it is kind of funny too.
Love
Maggie
LOL... that makes me feel SO good! Thanks for sharing. Absentmindedness loves company even more than misery does. :)
ReplyDeleteI have some of the other brand (brain fart-can't remember the name) and for a wimp like me, going up a hill in those things makes my calves scream. Five miles in them? Holy crap! I'm awed.
I too love sneakers ..or Trainers as we call them ...I live in them...very envious of your collection. How I wish I could do a 5 mile walk ...nothing to do with age and my back ...I never have been fit enough lol xx
ReplyDelete"I hope they choke on my buns of steel!" Thanks for the much needed smile.
ReplyDeletePatti, as usual, loved your post. You sound like me when it comes to shoes. I believe you'd have to be pretty steady on your feet to master those shoes. I weave around standing on flat ground, I'd be a real sight weaving around on those shoes trying to keep my balance.
ReplyDeleteSooo funny Patti!
ReplyDeleteYou are set for life! I have condidered getting those banana boat shoes, you've convinced to do so, I could use them going up and down my long drive!
Upi are just too funny. I would say, you are set for some time with shoes. I doubt I would like your Skechers. I have a hard enough time balancing on flat surface, I would probably fall down and not be able to get up with those on.
ReplyDeleteWhen in the house, I run around a lot in house slippers. Have an old pair of shoes I wear when mowing, mostly wear loafers other wise. Would have loved to have seen your face when you went to put away the new shoes.
Peter,
ReplyDeleteThink we are connected now. Got your email. Doing some checking now.
Kenju,
It really does help everything. Boobies are proud, stomach sucks in and you stand tall. Wish I had these years ago. I had my doubts but am now convinced.
robin,
Not sure how good they would be on the hikes you and roger take. I don't have any where to try off roading. So far, they have been pavement sneakers.
Grandmayellowhair,
Sure am glad you were laughing. I figure if I laugh at myself, then if others do-- they are laughing with me, not at me. Self defense.
marylee,
I fear have been vague. That 5 mile mark was for you young and adventerous types. I just walk 3 miles per day and the ole calves do get used to that uphill grind.
Angie,
Now I am convinced I was unclear. Like I said to marylee, I don't do 5 miles, wish I did. I'm a 3 miler type since half is uphill. Like the work Trainers better. Sneakers sounds so --- sneaky.
Smartmouthbroad,
Well I guess my buns of jello would choke as much also incase they catch me before the steel sets in. There is no way I can run in these.
Linda,
They do require balance but they also will improve balance. Still, if you are a "weaver", you might want to wait till you can pass that Wii balance board thingy.
Wanda,
The thing I like is that we take walking for granted, it is not a thought process. With these, you do have to think. Only get them however if they DON'T prohibit you from taking all those lovely pictures.
Patty,
I was totally stunned and really didn't believe it till I opened each box. Some are Rockports which discontinued my style two years ago. Hopefully I can use them up unless a giant growth grows on my feet that won't let me wear my current size.
Peter,
ReplyDeleteThink we are connected now. Got your email. Doing some checking now.
Kenju,
It really does help everything. Boobies are proud, stomach sucks in and you stand tall. Wish I had these years ago. I had my doubts but am now convinced.
robin,
Not sure how good they would be on the hikes you and roger take. I don't have any where to try off roading. So far, they have been pavement sneakers.
Grandmayellowhair,
Sure am glad you were laughing. I figure if I laugh at myself, then if others do-- they are laughing with me, not at me. Self defense.
marylee,
I fear have been vague. That 5 mile mark was for you young and adventerous types. I just walk 3 miles per day and the ole calves do get used to that uphill grind.
Angie,
Now I am convinced I was unclear. Like I said to marylee, I don't do 5 miles, wish I did. I'm a 3 miler type since half is uphill. Like the work Trainers better. Sneakers sounds so --- sneaky.
Smartmouthbroad,
Well I guess my buns of jello would choke as much also incase they catch me before the steel sets in. There is no way I can run in these.
Linda,
They do require balance but they also will improve balance. Still, if you are a "weaver", you might want to wait till you can pass that Wii balance board thingy.
Wanda,
The thing I like is that we take walking for granted, it is not a thought process. With these, you do have to think. Only get them however if they DON'T prohibit you from taking all those lovely pictures.
Patty,
I was totally stunned and really didn't believe it till I opened each box. Some are Rockports which discontinued my style two years ago. Hopefully I can use them up unless a giant growth grows on my feet that won't let me wear my current size.
I have a pair of those Shape Ups. I have a lot of problems with staggering from side to side. The shape Ups seem to help with that problem. They made it a struggle to keep from staggering front to back. A whole new set of things to concentrate on...
ReplyDeleteI've had Skechers for several months now and love them! I walk in them every day and have gotten used to the rolling walk. I can tell my calves have shaped up but alas, my behind fell too many years ago for it to be helped. :) blessings, marlene
ReplyDeleteThis interested me because a shoe was recomended to me about 4 years ago or so--A Very Costly shoe, I might add...And it had the uniqueness of this rolling motion thing. It was supposed to work miracles on your back ane posture, ets...And they warned also to just start out wearing them a half hour a day. There were even excersizes that went with these instructions---things you did while NOT wearing the shows....I bought one pair and I did get used to them, up to a point---But found the rolling motion got in the way of my balance while taking pictures---a very important part of my life. At that time, this compazny--it begins with an "M"..(talk about the aging process and menory...lol) were the only ones who made a shoe like this. It's nice to know someone else is doing it now. That one pair that I bought four years ago cost $250....!
ReplyDeleteI love that you now have enough shoes to last for a very very lomg time. And I am glad you got 4 pair, because as sure as I am writing this, they WILL discontinue them...LOL!
I've been tempted to try the new shape up shoes from Skechers. I may try a pair on next time I go shopping.
ReplyDeleteAt least you're not going to be shoeless anytime soon.
4th Sister,
ReplyDeleteHa, you must be either fun or scary to walk behind :))
They really do take the automatic out of walking don't they?
Stichinbythelake,
That rolling walk is how we are supposed to walk anyway. Too bad these came in my 70's.
What I like is even after you take them off, you can feel your calves working.
My buns of steel is really wishful thinking.
OOLOH,
You got me curious and I looked up your former shoe. Pretty sure they were MBT shoes. They are expensive. The Skechers are over $100 but not as expensive as the MBT's.
You are right. Everything I really like seems to get discontinued the quickest.
Sweet Virginia Breeze,
You bet, I will probably be homeless before I am shoeless.
Be sure you walk around the store a lot to be sure they fit and track right.
Hi Patty! No, I don't wear my wedding shoes any more. I think they don't fit any more.
ReplyDeleteThanks for your comment. You are right in the narrow streets there is no traffic possible. But outside this area there are main streets and there is a lot of traffic.
I just can't resist .... your humour is so irresistible!
ReplyDeleteYou have been mentioning about the mind ... forgetful mind ... I uncontrollably laugh because you put me on a remembrance test. Just how much I have forgotten to send you the postcard I promised.
No wonder, while I was in the shop and have posted the mail ... something was nagging behind my back. Oh, you forgot something. And I couldn't figure out what it was.
Sign of time for me.
Pray, yours will be included in the batch.
Keep us all updated on these Skechers, inquiring minds want to know you buff little chick you!
ReplyDeleteYa'll have a terrifically blessed Thursday sweetie!!1
Bonnie,
ReplyDeleteAw don't feel badly. A post card would be nice but don't beat your self up about it. A comment like todays is just fine.
Nezzy,
Thanks lady. So far they have been fantastic.