“Nah, this is perfect. Seriously, I never get to be this relaxed in my own bed. And I’ve never had a better New Year’s.”
Maybe not.
Dear Penny-Pinching Fashion,
Was your New Year’s resolution to spend your life savings on clothes?
I thought the purpose of your blog was to highlight steals and deals?
That’s what it says on yourABOUT USpage. I must be confused, because today’s post is about a Tory Burch ensemble that costs enough to feed a family of twenty for a month.
I know, you said it’s a one-off, a unique opportunity, but really? At first, I thought you were highlighting the Tory Burch outlet stores. Is this outfit going to be there soon?
I didn’t think so.
I’ll just head to Marshalls or TJ’s and check what they have, and see if you have any deals next week. My guess is you’re rebranding, now that you built your numbers, and next up is a glorified fashion blog for you ... Am I right?
Peace out, Penny!
Affectionately yours,
The UnAffectionate Blogger
P.S. Need a coupon code for Marshalls? Check back later today for a separate post featuring my latest haul from a big-name, even-bigger-discounts store.
I take a big gulp of my coffee and check the time. Almost noon. What day is it?
Thursday, right.
I have a call at two before Gabby comes home, the one with Universal, and I decide to run now. After changing into lined leggings and a thermal shirt, I slap on some deodorant and put on my shoes. Standing by the door, I slip on my hat and tighten my laces, and as I grab my gloves, I’m hit with a bout of nostalgia.
It’s only been five days since New Year’s Eve, but I haven’t seen Reid all week. My “work” has kept me busy, and he’s tied up with a new semester, sorting out his classes and a new TA. Plus his blog, which he openly talks about. He made beef short ribs last night. My mouth salivated while I watched his video. I even printed the recipe. What the heck? I’m never going to make beef short ribs.
Good thing Reid had a shirt on since it’s winter, or Gabby would have had to call an ambulance.
We’ve texted and even called one night. He misses Gabby, and me even more. We have plans to see a movie on Saturday, and I plan to tell him about UAB after Gabby goes to bed that night.
I think.
I push it all out of my head as I start to run, sticking to the street because not everyone has salted their sidewalks. As I settle into my stride, I begin to map out what I’m going to say to Universal. A series of videos of attractions, funny bloopers, no Gabby or me, but perhaps some quotes? I don’t know if I want to expose myself like that.
I’m not paying attention to my route, and then I hear, “Hey, Andi!”
I turn my head, realizing for the first time that I don’t have my earbuds in. What is happening with me?
“Hey, Reid.”
I slow and catch my breath. Taking a look around, I see I’m on the edge of campus. Reid is standing there in an oxford shirt, jeans, and dressy boots. A young guy, kind of cute if you like that type, is next to him.
“Where’s your coat?” I ask, unable to drop the mom role.
“Back in my office. We stepped out for some lunch. This is Greg, my new TA. Greg, this is Andi, my lady.” I love the way he doesn’t saygirl.
Greg looks at me sheepishly, and I know he knows who I am—Reid’s girlfriend? My pulse quickens, and I’m not even moving.
I wipe my glove on my shirt and extend it. “Nice to meet you.”
“Likewise.”
