The Pefect Friday

I just wrapped up one of the most fun Fridays I can remember. It started with a hard calorie burning session at 6am. Then two of my best friends and I shared a sitter starting at 9am, and headed to the Raleigh Convention Center for the Junior League's "A Shopping Spree." If you live here, you know this event well. Basically, vendors from all over come and set up booths and sell their wares. It's mostly gift items - jewelry, clothing, kids stuff, accessories, etc. Lots of stuff that you convince yourself you need but which is actually quite unnecessary.

I am a Junior League dropout, which means that in past years, I have had to work at this fun event. But now that my League days are over, all I have to do is shop.

So, one sweet sitter graciously agreed to watch all three of our youngest hellions children, and off we went. Now, I'll be honest. I never really buy much at Spree. I didn't do much damage this year, either, but it was so much fun just being there and not having to worry about anyone else. I did pick up a few things.

I scored this cute Tracey Negoshian tunic for the bargain price of $24.99. It was reduced from $78. Cute for next summer with white jeans:

It was such a good deal that I got one for my friend Jill for her upcoming birthday. My generosity knows no bounds.

Next up for me was a new bag. Some vendor there was selling Big Buddha bags at a little bit of a discount. I've been eyeing this one for months, and there was only one, so it had to be mine. Obviously.

It goes with everything, and it was pretty reasonably priced. I was also in a bit of a competition with another shopper who also had her eye on it, so I had to grab it while I could.

My last purchase was a set of $35 sheets. We needed new sheets. And what a deal these were. I mean, according to the packaging, they are 1500 thread count Egyptian Cotton. Oh - but look closely at the packaging:

Notice that in very small print it says, "Compare the comfort and soft touch as a..." I didn't notice that until after I had already decided to purchase. And I haven't looked, but I'm guessing they aren't American-made, based on the bag grammar in that "compare to" sentence. But, they're soft, despite the fact that they are most likely synthetic . And really, soft sheets for $35 are fine. I needed a new set.

After shopping at Spree and eating a very light lunch, we headed over to Palm Avenue to check out their goods. They were offering 20% off the whole darn store with a $5 charity donation. Luckily for me and my checking account, I found that I was able to live without any of the cute new Lilly Pulitzer resort collection.Now, I did eye a few dresses and tops that would be perfect for the holidays. I just need to assess my need for holiday party wear against my need for more lululemon workout attire.

image via Lilly Pulitzer

Finally, we rounded out our fabulous day with a glass of Prosecco and a little dessert. Perfection. Then it was back to reality. Really, though, a good break like that makes the rest of the day so much easier. I feel rested and rejuvenated. At least for the rest of the day. Tomorrow is probably a whole other story. 

Hope everyone has a great weekend. Take my advice and go do something fun for yourself. You'll be so glad you did.