Are we suckers for sales? Black Friday, Boxing Day aales and general
seasonal clearances held throughout the year draw customers to the stores.
           If going shopping at such times, do you come home with items that were not even remotely on your needs or wish list? You thought it was a good buy so you purchased it.
           At times I was drawn to these sales, but a few questionable experiences caused me to refrain from these busy times and making impulse purchases. I had items hanging in my closet and in my possession which were bad buys – after taking a closer, more judgemental look at the purchase.
           In a quick try-on in a busy department store, wise decisions were not made on the style, colour or fit. As you know, when you buy something on sale it is not refundable – so there it is, taking up space in your closet until you decide to give the item away to goodwill. The pocketbook takes a bit of a beating, but it’s a lesson learned.
           Then there were times when I purchased items to have on hand, especially for gifts for special occasions such as a bridal shower or birthday. When the event came along, either the colour was wrong or else it seemed unsuitable for the recipient. This resulted in some items cluttering up a shelf or drawer. Eventually these became new garage sale items. Now I buy things as needed. Some sales draw me when I am not rushed, but as a rule I do not go shopping just because some items are on sale. If it’s good, it is sold out when I get there.
           Every week a stream of flyers enter my home with the daily newspaper. I scan through them but pay the most attention to the ones where I shop regularly. These are usually closer to where I live where I can incorporate several errands when out and about.
           Going a further distance seems like a great chore which requires more time and more planning. I guess that is what city living does to a person—different than country life.
