" Anyone who lives within their means suffers from a lack of imagination." ~Oscar Wilde

What is it about boutiques that are so much fun? They are a grown-up girl's version of a candy shop... Fine stationary, eclectic books, hand dyed scarves, gardening goodies, exquisite soaps, one-of-a-kind dresses, original displays, and inspiring decor. This filled my day in Oak Park. What began at a Resident Student Association trip to a nearby resale shop ("Green since 1919") became a day of exploring the cute shops and galleries of downtown Oak Park, Illinois. Perhaps the joy of the day came from the adventure. There was no need to buy anything, but the boutique workers didn't need to know that! My roommate and I even tried on matching dresses... oh, so tempting. It's a fun challenge: resisting the temptation of buying all the fabulous, fun things! I enjoy looking for potential gifts, deals, and most of all just seeing what is out there. There's no need to fret over the price tag if you're not going to buy it-- you can still admire it!

So here is my simple living, little things in life advice of the day:
Go ahead and "just look." Don't be afraid to admire the beautiful things a shop may have, just be respectful of the merchandise and other people there. Smile as you enter a store and respond with " I'm wonderful, how are you?" when the worker behind the register asks how you are today. Ask questions about the products-- the people who run the shop are usually passionate about the things they sell. Try things on-- fall in love with a perfectly fitting dress and then leave it there. If it truly is perfect for you, you'll just have to work for the money to but it. There certainly is something fulfilling about buying something you've had your eyes on for a little while. The key is not to attach your own value to the things you own or desire. Remember, as they say in this week's Gospel reading: "You can't serve both God and mammon" (mammon=riches). If the shop owners/workers treat you in a snobby manner then perhaps you wouldn't want to support their business anyway. After all, some day you might return as a millionaire...