No Clever Title

This week I had my annual performance assessment with the federal contractor I do most of my work for. It went well and I received a small increase in my compensation.

I finally caved and went shopping at Dress Barn. I have avoided the place for eons, despite the fact that the answer to the question I've posed many of my well dressed friends ("Where did you find that beautiful dress?") is often "Dress Barn". It's all about the name. Why would I shop in a venue that infers all of its clients are barnyard animals? Regardless, I saw yet another stranger beautifully attired in Dress Barn apparel so I felt I owed it to myself to take a look at what they have to offer.

I fell in love instantly. Dresses - beautiful dresses- as far as the eye can see. I picked up 6 on sale for 60% off. A parade of dresses. My dream is to have so many dresses that I never have to wear pants ever again and this store may actually make that possible. My purchase was limited only by my budget and not at all by their selection. So many dresses that fit and looked fantastic.

To me, dresses are the epitome of femininity. The sashay of the material, the softness, the grace and beauty of it all. I pity men at times - their gender roles are much more rigid. To be female is to enjoy mucking it up in grungy cargo pants when the mood strikes but also to present oneself with grace and sophistication in the loveliest of satin and silk fabrics.

Life is good. I am looking forward to my birthday and putting together an indulgent "me" day complete with a spa visit, shopping, dining at my favorite cafes, and a toga party to cap the entire day off.

In stock market news, CBI is continuing to perform well. Abbott labs is down $50 since I bought it last week on the news that a major competitor won a patent infringement lawsuit against them. Ugh. Hopefully the price will bounce back and climb higher during the year. Today I purchased shares of Glaxo Smith

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