Viva Seattle!

So...the girls and I went to Seattle to do our annual school shopping. Whew!

For years we have done this together. Something I remembered telling Reed that I would most look forward to and enjoy when the girls were old enough. Oh, I remember the first few years and they were so ready to go. They would clean out their closets and try on old clothes and then we would all go, set on a mission knowing what they needed and taking into account that we would inevitably be buying things that were, "oh my God, soooo cute" but, what we we didn't need. (or would sometimes never even wear). I loved these days and still do, but throughout the years, our shopping "system" that I thought was working so well, has some how changed.

Old shopping system:

I would sit on their beds while they try on old clothes to see how they fit.

They would make a list early (with colored markers) on what they need.

We would chat all the way to Seattle, so excited. Planned the stores.

In a full sweat, I would lure them around the stores, pulling out options.

We would try on everything as I bounced back and forth between rooms.

I would usually make the final decision. They were thrilled. All smiles!

I would pay. Load the car. Giggle. Call Daddy quick and say we love him.

Drive home talking about all the combinations we could put together.

New shopping system:

No sitting on beds. Remind them to try on old clothes. Tried a few.

No lists. Just quick notes whipped out that morning(pencil) Wish items.

Starbucks start. Little chat. Tired. Music. Texting and snoozing.

No sweating for me. We separate in stores. Find things. Eye rolling. Fun.

Little bouncing mostly for different sizes. Actually got to sit in rooms!

Still asked for my opinion. Didn't always take it. Hesitation. Still smiles.

I still paid. They help load the car. Tired. Hot. Almost home, call Dad.

Drive home. Music on. Texting and napping. Asking, "what's for dinner?"

So.. there you have it! Another successful school shopping day in Seattle. Still love it. Love my girls. Love their independence. Love that they will still shop along side me.