The Move (Part two of three)
A couple of hours and a leisurely lunch later and we had come to a ladies' agreement that had me starting a new job in two weeks…

Oh-my-gosh! What was I thinking?!? Obviously, I have lost my mind completely and am suffering from a case of mistaken identity. Have mistaken self for enterprising and efficient person with the ability to organize and pack several years worth of accumulated paraphernalia into a pathetically insufficient number of boxes. Must then move halfway round the world to a new time zone and unpack into an as-of-yet-to-be-located new apartment. All while starting (of course I'll start) new job with highly fashionable (and intimidating) new employer who is also under the mistaken impression that I am extremely enterprising and efficient person!

Must calm down. Deep breath. Am clearing mind, thinking calm thoughts, saying soothing mantra over and over (new job means new shoes, new job means new shoes) Lighting soothing aromatherapy candles There, much better now, am ready to be rational. All I need is a little organization—some boxes, packing tape and a fridge full of icy Diet Coke to carry me through. Not all that much to it, just notify my landlord, all utility companies, phone, postal service (must make sure all fashion/style/celebrity profile magazines are forwarded post haste), be sure to get haircut and highlights done (who knows how long it will take me to find the perfect stylist in my new life in my new city), schedule final mani/pedi (weepy over leaving T)…Oh dear, might cry…

New horrifying thought—how on earth am I ever going to be able to pack and safely transport painstakingly acquired shoe collection, some of which were a bit pricey (as I recall I ate only ramen noodles and free packets of soda crackers for a week to pay for one particular pair). Should I hire a courier? Do I dare ship them ahead on their own? Am in a quandary. Having nightmares about my tenderly-cared-for and individually labeled boxes of high-end footwear being whisked onto a moving/transport/freight vehicle, and then vanishing completely, possibly turning up on the doorstep of an unsuspecting retirement home in the middle of nowhere. Frightening flashes of geriatric-bunioned-yellow-toenailed digits being thrust into my prized Versace's and then shuffling off to the bingo parlor. Oh, there's the doorbell, Cute UPS man at door.

While signing for a package, I noticed a shiny red minivan stop across the street. Lightbulb idea: why not rent a minivan and transport the shoes myself? That way I can keep them within my sight at all times. But unsure of stylishness of minivan (am more of a Mini Cooper girl). Would instantly be labeled new single girl with minivan. Perhaps instead sexy SUV? All celebs drive monstrous SUVS. Executive chic, no? Although, to continue projecting executive image I would probably have to actually own the sexy little SUV and be seen driving it on a regular basis. (Note to self: check into the possibility of a signing bonus with new employer.)

Have solved my little shoe dilemma. Feel much better now. New purchase of intimidating-executive handbag has obviously worked its magic and I am up to any challenge. I must admit that I was completely freaked out about leaving dear Shop Girl and the thought of having to choose appropriate and stylish attire all on my own. I have a fear of sabotaging myself by attempting to look chic and professional while actually looking like an FBI agent on stakeout (You know how I love navy). However, Shop Girl has assured me that she will make it a top priority to keep me in top form through email and trusty camera phone. She has been very supportive and helpful reminding me that packing boxes is hard on your hands and nails and to make sure I use extra solar oil on the way there to remedy any cuticle strain. I think we've made an unspoken agreement to not say goodbye officially. Shop Girl hates to cry. Shatters her icy image. But I know she's broken up about it too. She thrives on being in charge and will miss managing my life. Can't think about Shop Girl now. Must think about new life, new possibilities and new boyfriends..

Onward and upward!...to be continued next week.

She She Me Sponsor:
La Redoute