For men, sports and their hobbies like cars, motorcycles, golf are often what they think about all the time. For women, it’s simple, shopping is our big escape. (Women aren’t simple, it’s shopping that’s simple). Nothing wrong with shopping (thank goodness). But the real question becomes, when does shopping become too much!? And too shallow?

As with most things, there are two extremes and usually somewhere in the middle is the best balance. For me, I know that when I wear a top or pants that fits well or an outfit that is very stylish… or even better, a new outfit… I feel prettier about myself. It goes beyond the clothes. It’s like when you put a little bit of blush on, it just makes you feel prettier and more alive. Hey, my thoughts are this: if you can feel better about yourself without causing harm to others, then why not?

Shopping can be addictive…would you agree? Especially in Raleigh and metro areas where there are so many shopping malls and outlets. Buying things can be an endless cycle. Many of us have to fight to beat the shopping and buying systems.

The best example I know of beating the system is my dog Apollo. He knows exactly how to get the best reaction from me and my husband. He’s learned that for my husband to react to take him for an extra walk or a pet, he has to whine loudly and quickly. For me, he knows he has to test the waters a bit. He starts with a soft half whine, and then progresses to a loud one if he isn’t given a “ssh!”, which by the way does work. He’s a good guy. He just has needs like all of us.