Unpacking
Monday, May 1 2006
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Jon and I returned from San Francisco late Saturday afternoon feeling about a decade older than when we'd left. I have grown to love that city even though I swore I never would the first time I ever drove across the Bay Bridge. I was being held prisoner inside a car with an ex-boyfriend from college who was a little too proud about the fact that he never ate anything other than Twinkies or pizza, that type of ex-boyfriend, the exact one who should never be allowed to introduce you to anything of value because you will forever associate that beautiful thing with the fact that he drove a car with both hands gripping the wheel like a 90-year-old woman whose support hose are cutting off her circulation at the knees.
We tried to spend Friday visiting our favorite places in the city but instead we battled public transportation half the day -- an hour and a half waiting inside a MUNI station and then another 45 minutes for a bus that never came. There seemed to be a serious lack of pride in the system, and for a city known for its progressive politics it felt really hypocritical that we were basically forced to take a cab to get anywhere. After the last cab ride we took to the airport I added up in my head the staggering amount of money we had paid to subsidize the Bay Area taxi industry and I felt a profound sense of sadness that I couldn't have used that money to buy another sewer pipe.
Last week as we were making plans for this trip Jon asked if there was anything I really wanted to do or see, and since I knew we were only going to have one free day I sort of shrugged my shoulders. He then asked, "You know what they have there, don't you?" And I was all, "Men in sandals?" And he was all, "Yes, but what else?" And I was all, "Organic toothpaste?" And he was all, "You're getting closer." And I was all, "I'm pretty sure that you're about to blow my mind because the fact that San Francisco has those two things alone is enough to make it the greatest city on Earth."
"Shoe Pavilion," he said and then ran over to catch my body before it hit the floor.
He couldn't have said two more delicious words except maybe BOURBON I.V. Other than running naked down the cereal aisle at the grocery store or curled up in the deep curve of Jon's neck there is no other place I'd rather be than knee-deep in a wonderland of well-crafted, affordable shoes in all the colors of the rainbow. Shoe shopping in Salt Lake City is enough to make me want to end it all so that I don't ever have to see another inoffensive brown loafer, so knowing that our hotel in San Francisco was only two blocks from a Shoe Pavilion made the plane ride out there as exciting as if it were a shuttle to the moon.
We hadn't been in the city for more than a half-hour before I dragged Jon straight to that store, and the instant I saw the first row of colorful heels I whipped around to him and said, "You must leave me alone now." I felt reverent and peaceful like I do when I'm visiting a cemetery, and in many ways that comparison was appropriate. I couldn't help feeling that I was there among those thousands of flirty shoes to give my respects to the life we used to live, to a time when we rented an apartment in LA and the biggest worry we had about our property was whether or not we could find a parking space within two blocks.
Having just spent the Gross National Product of a small third-world country on a new sewer line I knew I couldn't buy anything, but that didn't stop me from rubbing up against an open-toed leather heel or pressing a blue slingback to my chest like a hungry infant. And then I saw them, the perfect pair of shoes, the ones that have called to me in my dreams, the shoes that have often whispered in my ear when I'm having a rough time to say that I should endure if for no other reason than the fact that such a pair of shoes exists in this world and what a wonderful world to live in.
These:
Can you hear their siren call?
How about now?
Yes, I bought them even though they weren't in the budget. I rationalized it in a pretty standard way, that if I didn't buy them the voices would continue to clamor in my head until it reached a pitch that I would have to seek professional help and it'd just be cheaper to hand over the credit card right now. That and I'd be a much more fun person to live with. And a better mother. That last one especially.
1. Me said:
Huh.
Pink.
I didn't really have you pegged as a "pink" kind of girl.
But they are very nice, in retrospect. Just very. very. very. Pink.
2. Chloe said:
Oh, I HEAR the siren call. It is loud, and... siren-y. From whence came the Shoe Pavilion? And why is it not in the midwest?
3. Carli said:
Power of cheese my ass, it's the power of beautiful shoes! Excellent score, and happy return to your newly functioning home!
4. carrisa said:
Very lovely shoes. And I totally understand your reasoning behind purchasing them.
5. Sunni said:
MEOW! LOVE them, completely justified purpose.
6. Lanna Lee Maheux-Quinn said:
I think they are pretty damn cute. Flirty, and they have kisses and hugs on them. Sweet!
7. micahmaranda said:
Cuh-yooote!
I can't believe you have a husband who would bring up the SP knowing full well the inevitable consequences!
8. trublu76 said:
oooooo-lala, senorita!
Talk about the hotness that is dooce! I love them. I, too, partake in shoe therapy and just might have purchased the same shoe to make myself feel like all was right in the world! Did they have other colors? I would have bought one of each... you just never know...
9. The Mighty Jimbo said:
that's the same way i feel about spending what's left of my money on hookers and booze. i'm just way more fun to live with.
10. shopgirl75 said:
Had to be done.... no question.
Pink + a T-strap?!?!??!?! I mean, really.....
11. Bruno said:
It would have been wrong NOT to buy the shoes.
12. Molicious said:
Holy shit, those are adorable!
13. wordnerd said:
OM MY OH MY....If you are going to cheat on the budget you better cheat with some DAMN FINE SHOES!
They are FAB!
14. Jezzie said:
FIRST OF ALL THEY ARE CARNATION, AND A-DOR-A-BLE. SECOND, GET THE OUT TO A FANCY DANCIN JOINT QUICKLY! AND C, ....ZAPPOS, .COM
AHHHH THE HEAVENLY CHOIR SINGS.
15. MontanaJen said:
HEAR the siren call?
I freaking OWN that siren call, sistah.
Yes - I have the shoes. No, I didn't buy them in Montana, Utah, Idaho, Wyoming, the Dakotas, or even Washington State (although I probably could have in Seattle).
I, too, found them in San Fran, that city that makes me forget that I'm about to return to a climate with a 59 day growing season and snow in June.
Oh, SF, you wretched bitch, I love you.
16. lyssann said:
Omigod, I want those shoes. How adorable!!
17. Annie said:
Those are some seriously cute shoes. And I bet they were way cheaper than a drinking binge. Enjoy!
18. vonny said:
May you dance all day and night when you put those adorable shoes on.
19. Abbey said:
It's sad to say, but it's almost better to rent a car here in San Fran (and surrounding areas). We live south of SF, but suggest to anyone that comes to visit to rent a car.
LOVING the shoes...and if you really do love to find amazing shoes for low prices, you should try out DSW. Now I have no idea if this is only a west coast thing, but next time you come to SF, drive down to Stevens Creek in San Jose and enjoy the shoe orgasm that is DSW.
Lastly...bourbon, huh? Grew up in KY...Bourbon capital of the world. You need to try bourbon slush. Yes, it's just as amazing as it sounds...slushy bourbon goodness! It's a family recipe...my mother-in-law would kill me if I handed this thing out to just anyone...which is why I am not just typing it here. Contact me if you are interested.
Yowza...sorry for the super long comment!
20. doctor tongue said:
Lemonheads!
http://blogs.usatoday.com/popcandy/2006/05/notsodistant_fl.html
21. jolie said:
ooooh I covet those. shoot. stop making me break commandments, heather.
22. Nothing But Bonfires said:
Sometimes I worry about the fact that I'm moving to San Francisco in December with no job, no apartment, no contacts, and no car, and then I make myself repeat a mantra that goes a little something like this: "Trader Joe's, In & Out Burger, The Largest Old Navy In The World." It's a little clunkier than "Om" but it gets me by. Now, apparently, I'll have to add "Shoe Pavilion" to the mix too, and that could get long-winded.
23. slackjaw said:
I miss those adds...
'Come to the ChooPa-billion"
where did they go?
24. Mrs. Ricardo said:
If you ever find yourself in Massachusetts you will equally enjoy DSW (Designer Shoe Warehouse). Cute shoes! I would have done the same.
25. scoxsmith said:
Shoes are one thing in life that can make everything ok. It doesn't matter that I have clothes of every size in my closet, my shoe size remains constant and even if I only ever wear that pair of YSL spectator pumps with the four inch heels one time, they were perfect for that one occasion and were definitely worth every painful moment, because they were just right... I stood taller and looked better because of it... and I got them at 70% off. Even my kids have never made me feel that good.
26. Jenorama said:
Of course you bought them. Not to buy them would be a SIN.
27. Pepius said:
I love your totally good-humoured, politically progressive, gay-friendly shoes!
By the way, due to a broken connection I hadn't say nothing about the Sewer Disaster. I'm many, many, many kms away, but I hug you three all the same.
28. scoxsmith said:
Shoes are one thing in life that can make everything ok. It doesn't matter that I have clothes of every size in my closet, my shoe size remains constant and even if I only ever wear that pair of YSL spectator pumps with the four inch heels one time, they were perfect for that one occasion and were definitely worth every painful moment, because they were just right... I stood taller and looked better because of it... and I got them at 70% off. Even my kids have never made me feel that good.
29. Pepius said:
I love your totally good-humoured, politically progressive, gay-friendly San Francisco shoes!
By the way, due to a broken connection I hadn't say nothing about the Sewer Disaster. I'm many, many, many miles away, but I hug you three all the same.
30. wen said:
Alas, my GF also heard such a siren's call after a large home improvement bill, only hers came at the Santa Cruz Shoe & Sockshop. (Their shoes are great, but their website only shows theif Hippie Homeland Organic Hemp and Free Range Leather shoes, which she most certainly did not purchase, even if we do take men in sandals and oragnic toothpaste for granted.)
Anyway, her siren sung. To the tune of over $200. But the shoes...They were red. And white. Together. And they had a cool heel. And a toe a lot like the one in your photos. And they weren't Fluvogs, which, although nice, everyone has, except for me, because they don't make girl shoes big enough for me, and you also need to know how to spell "Fluvog" before they'll sell you any, and I'm not sure I do.
Anyway, those shoes travelled in the carry-on luggage on vacation and were stored, in their little bag, near the life vests in the cabin on the cruise. Just in case, you know.
31. wen said:
Oh, I saw someone recommended DWS. They have those in SF too, no need to travel to SJ unless you want to. :)
32. nahanni said:
those are SO CUTE!! and a completely understandable and necessary purchase :)
33. Star Shine said:
I love that Jon knows you so well and that the Shoe Pavillion was HIS idea! He's a total keeper...but I guess you already have that figured out, what with marrying him and all! Congrats on a LOVELY pair of pink lady-shoes!
34. Star Shine said:
I love that Jon knows you so well and that the Shoe Pavillion was HIS idea! He's a total keeper...but I guess you already have that figured out, what with marrying him and all! Congrats on a LOVELY pair of pink lady-shoes!
Oh! And I realized today that I am a truly committed Dooce reader when I looked at the little box at the top of the page that you click on to see the photo of the day...and I assumed it was two strands of spaghetti hanging off of Chuck's snout!!!
35. Sabine said:
Super cute! If only they were red...
36. Dana said:
I love your blog...and I wanted to ask...what KIND of shoes were they? They look AMAZING....I love them!
37. clara said:
Those shoes are extremely cute!! Good choice.
--Clara
38. Lane Meyer said:
The shoes kick ass.
But one begs to ask the question....
Did Jon sneak off and buy clogs??
39. Varla said:
Wonderful choice. I would say after the week you've had, you deserved a little treat.
Now just don't "accidentally" flush them like that beach towel.
40. babbling said:
I just think, on Jon's behalf, that the most PERFECT outfit to wear with those shoes, the "be still his beating heart", leave him breathless, knock his socks off, mouth agape outfit to accompany those shoes, is your BIRTHDAY SUIT.
41. Urs said:
very cute!
42. Chloe said:
worth every cent.
43. karyn said:
Oh, I love them. I'm glad you bought them - otherwise you would be sitting there in a nursing home someday wondering what could have been.
Wish I could wear heels like that...thus is life married to a Short Man.
44. JustLinda said:
Here, let me introduce you to my husband, the shoe-fetishist. The first thing he ever bought me was a pair of shoes and he hasn't stopped since then. I have approximately 100 pairs of shoes that will never likely see the light of day. Why? BECAUSE THESE DEATH-CONTRAPTIONS WERE NOT MADE FOR A 200+ POUND WOMAN TO WALK THE STREETS UPON!! Oh, sure, maybe they are street-walker types of shoes but you know what I mean.
I do not share your shoe fascinations. Maybe I should come up to SLC to do my shoe shopping. I *LIKE* the brown loafers. hahha
(Pssst... if you wear a dainty little size 10 like me, I know where you can get LOTS of never worn or hardly worn shoes cheap cheap cheap!)
45. LeafGirl77 said:
Not a shoe person myself, I can see the appeal of these very cute shoes.
I can see you Swiffering your house in them, for sure.
46. Brian said:
As a man, I could go either way on the shoes.
The fact that you did not make your husband shoe shop with you? Impressive.
47. Heather Barmore said:
Funny because I just spent the GDP of a small third world country on five pairs of shoes. I have huge feet, so I like to justify buying many pairs of shoes by saying that if the shoe fits, buy it or else I may not find another pair in my size for-freaking-ever.
48. gusgreeper said:
fantastic shoes.
i, like many women have a thing for shoes and now im using this an excuse to buy a new pair.
thank you kindly.
49. JnJ said:
So, Dooce, I have to ask you what size shoe you wear. Because whenever I go to Shoe Pavilion (which will actually be in about an hour because they are oh-so-conveniently located right next door to my dentist where I'm going to get my teeth cleaned...)they never ever have my common size 9 in any but the ugliest shoes. So it's actually a form of torture for me, seeing all these shoes I CAN'T HAVE because my foot isn't tiny or gigantic.
50. rockr girl said:
"she who dies with the most shoes wins."
words to live by, swear on my manolos. what does she win? who knows, and really, who cares? she just DOES.
and i now have gone from "girl crush" to full-out "woman love" for dooce. seriously. i. adore. you.
51. spinsteraunt said:
O pink. O fluted detail on lovely closed toe. O t-strap. I am not worthy.
52. Mell said:
I have this posted on my office wall, "Give a girl the correct footwear and she can conquer the world!", Bette Midler
Here's to better parenting through cute shoes!!
53. Thérèse said:
Ooooooh Heather. Those shoes are... are... are... impossibly cute. I need a moment.
And we're back. Okay. Yes, definitely would have regretted it. So glad you ignored that stupid voice, the one people call "sensible" and has stuff to do with "budget" and what one can "afford." That's all crap.
The shoes of your dreams? It is in fact a need. And your family will love you more. And you'll be in a better place to understand your lovely daughter when she is older and is hit with the same shoe-fevah. So yeah. Better mother, and you're happier and have gorgeous shoes.
This is the post I never knew I always dreamed you would post. *wipes tear* I'm just so... it makes me want to be friends with you.
In the strictly non-creepy way, of course.
Well. (pause) Mostly.
54. Sara said:
Oh, but have you seen the beauty that is a DSW? One just opened in Portland and when I walked in, I thought I'd never leave again. It looks like they have a few near San Francisco; when you travel again, you should take a look.
55. cagey said:
When I was in SF this last February, I didn't even KNOW about Shoe Pavilion until I saw a commercial for them the night before I left. Even though I am not usually a Shoe Girl (I am a Purse Girl), I think I may have a drooled a bit. I am still very sad that I didn't make there. Thanks, THANKS for reminding me. sniff....
56. Jennifer said:
Those shoes make me salivate. A totally necessary purchase.
57. Thérèse said:
Did I mention that the shoes themselves are divine? Okay, but did I mention it at least three times? They are. Adorably divine.
58. Thérèse said:
And for three. Beautiful shoes.
Ahem. Sorry. Fantastic shoes just get me very excited.
59. dehb said:
I am Candy-colored pink with jealousy.
Cute shoes like these are a necesity, not a luxury.
60. moose said:
My office is in the same building as that store. I visit those very shoes on a weekly basis. I have friends I don't see that often. All the will power I have employed in not buying those shoes has just been shot straight to hell because after seeing your pictures, I know that I will be buying a pair after work today. Rampant justification is commencing. If you got the last size nine, I will have to cry.
I'm glad you bought them. A girl needs new pink shoes when sewer lines bust.
61. Joyous said:
Hello My Name is Joy and I am addicted to shoes!
I once went into my shoe sanctuary here in Albuquerque and there sitting on a pedistal, illuminated by the light of God, was the most beautiful pair of Candy Apple Red, Patent Leather, Stilleto Pumps - I capitalize to pay respect to these delectable shoes. The angels sang as I approached these wonders that were meant for purchase by me and only me. I wore those shoes with everything and eventually wore them out.
My only regret was not buying an additional pair, or three, because apparently they weren't meant for purchase by only me. They sold out and never made another. Whoa to me! I still have them in their box all worn out in my closet. I keep saying I need to take them to the cobbler for repair but haven't gotten around to it. I may ask Santa to have them repaired for Christmas.
62. Megan said:
Stylish footware make better parents and all of us better people.
Good call.
63. honey bunny said:
those really aren't my style, but they are pretty. and i wanted to say that you know it's True Love when your husband suggests shoe shopping. mine hasn't done that yet. i'm hoping he will by our third anniversary :)
64. choice said:
And there I was, crying on the couch, because I am miserable and have just broken down and made my first appointment to meet with a therapist. Then I saw prettty pink shoes with a T strap and accompanying story from dooce. Does not cure all, but certainly makes me smile. I'm going to put on my favorite heels and walk around the living room for a while.
65. lawyerish said:
I am clutching my monitor and weeping.
I am very un-girly in every respect except for an utter and inexplicable weakness for retro-40s-ish, round toed, t-strappy and/or spectator-y heels. I recently found a spangly red patent leather pair on sale in NoLiTa for which I would have sold my ovaries; but, as proof that the universe is harsh and unforgiving, they did not have my size.
Congratulations on your purchase. You might want to make sure your doors are locked and your burglar alarm activated tonight.
66. Danielle said:
I'm weeping. For you, because you found those beautiful. For me, because I want them. BAD.
67. Nifle said:
I knew it! Business trip to San Fran is really code for shoe shopping, now I just need to learn how to decipher what "going to the lawyer" means...
They really are beautiful, but now the REAL question, can you where them all day without screaming in pain at the end? That is the the true test, readers (female and drag queens) want to know!
68. Shalini said:
i just got a pair of the best sandals. Ann Taylor Loft.. and they are copper colored... Pink isn't my thing, but they sure are cute! Enjoy!
69. Nifle said:
OMG...I ment wear not where! Someone please take one of my college degrees away from me. Also, female should be plural.
70. jes said:
those shoes! so pretty! i want to lick them!
71. the niffer said:
Awesome shoes. Not only will you be a better mother NOW, Leta will just kill to inherit those some day.
72. kerri said:
Those shoes are great! But I have to say that I am SO glad we have no such pavilion in my city. I have what some would call a "problem" purchasing shoes. Basically, I need a twelve-step program. ;)
73. kalisah said:
I always knew in my heart that such a utopia as a Shoe Pavilion must exist else why would we all be here?
74. apuraja said:
One sentence sums it up (combined with the heather pics on flickr)..
"heather is a MILF!".. Those shoes, even though I'm firmly entrench hetero male, are tasty..
Jon.. Lucky SOB you are..
75. MelanieinOrygun said:
Upon seeing the pretty pink t-strap shoes, I actually hummed a little bit under my breath: "mmmmmmmm"
And then I tried to remember where the nearest SP is to me.
Did they have them in any other colors?
76. Jonniker said:
I wish I were the type who could wear pink shoes. I am the gutless footwear sort, who sticks to basic colors and worse, usually Reefs. I can't even wear pink REEFS, for chrissake.
77. Renae said:
Heather, next time you're in San Francisco I'd recommend taking BART. I'm a native, and I have no confidence in Muni, so I either walk, take BART or take a cab, I rarely drive because parking is a pain in the ass. And the Shoe Pavillion is just 3 blocks or so up from the Powell Street BART station. OMG I love those shoes! I think I need them in every color I can get my hands on!
78. Blogdor said:
So hey- while you were enjoying your sinful shoe shopping in SF (nice reddys by the way), I was finding out that my mom is in a sex cream commercial.
http://blogdor.jharding.com/2006/05/your-mom-goes-to-college.html
Can I shoot myself now?
79. Domestic Chicky said:
Ooh...Loving the pinkness. Sooo jealous. Like candy for your feet!
80. marymuses said:
I think it must be something about those shoes, because I have the same ones in black, and I bought them when there was no room in my budget. I love them, and I'm so glad I bought them, budget or no budget. I had no idea they came in pink (which: even cuter than black!) as well. Excellent choice!
83. Cool Honey said:
Man, those shoes are fierce! You west coast girls are so lucky.
Huzzah! Pink is the new black.
86. d-mode said:
Hey Blogdor, I'll pray for your mom...and for the Armstrongs.
Peace and love,
D-mode
87. latchkeymom said:
WILL WORK FOR SHOES
Sassy! Great color.
88. mainegirl said:
Sassy mama!
New shoes=happiness.
89. DottyDi said:
I was just in San Francisco for a week, so why did I not learn of this Shoe Pavilion?!!! WHY?????
90. Matts said:
Hey now - I don't see any problem with gripping the steering wheel with both hands.
Though I do thrive on twinkies, pizza, and beer, so I suppose I'm the epitome of a bad boyfriend.
Either way, those ARE truly great shoes.
91. OTRgirl said:
A husband who informs you about a SHOE store: priceless! At least those shoes would prevent the question, "Why do you need another pair of black shoes?"
92. crzylady said:
OF COURSE you'll be a better mother with these shoes. You'll feel the goddess that are you in those shoes. Leta will forever remember your gorgeous legs ending in the most perfect pair of pink divinity.
93. Velma said:
I would leave a long comment detailing all the things that are great about those shoes, but instead, I'm using them as inspiration. I'm gonna try to run out to DSW real quick in the 55 minutes I have free until I have to meet the bus. Later, dudes!
94. Deb Sawyer said:
They are perfect in every way! So perfect that I am compelled to comment. I never do that.
95. KristieD said:
I usually rationalize those sorts of purchases in much the same way. It is something good for me which will make me happy,therefore it is good for everyone !
those shoes are awesome btw. i am jealous.
96. Kerri said:
Don't we get to see you IN the shoes? It's kind of tough to know how cute they are without feet in them.
Oh who am I kidding, they're adorable!
I am a tall woman too, and I wore the heels-I-couldn't-resist to my niece's christening yesterday and was taller than the parents, the priest and the godfather and I DIDN'T CARE.
97. The Bold Soul said:
If it makes you feel better or helps to justify spending the money on those sweet shoes, think of it this way: when they are calling your name like that, NOT taking them home with you would be the equivalent of NOT adopting a dog or even child after you know you've already spiritually bonded with them in your soul. It would be a crime against nature for you not to own those shoes.
Or at least that's the rationale *I* used last Friday when I bought 3 pairs of shoes at my local DSW (Shoe Pavilion sounds similar)... and as I was driving home in a blissed out state, my car started making horrible noises and I had to spend another pile of money on an emergency brake job for the damn car. In retrospect I was glad I bought the shoes first, or I might not have had the cajones to buy them after spending the equivalent of a car payment on a car repair.
Enjoy your new shoes and strut them proudly!
98. startledmeercat said:
*Wow* Those shoes are SOOOO Sexy....the most fun you can have in a store with your clothes on
99. kim from germany said:
hey, anything that makes you feel good can't be bad. it's for the kid anyway. leta needs to have a happy mom = mom needs purrdy pink shoes (that i could never, ever walk on...) to be a little happier. so it's all good.
100. Rebecca said:
Since my feet are size drag queen I have learned that most siren calls just don't apply to me. Often my experiences in shoe stores are something like Cinderella's evil step-sister's attempts to squeeze her big toe into the glass slipper.
But, no doubt those shoes are cute. After all you've gone through in the past week/weeks you deserve a little something to make you smile. And as the old saying goes, if the shoe fits...
101. Ter said:
From a certified shoe freak:
Those are the BEST shoes ever.
Not just the color but the cuteness as well.
For real.
102. dre said:
They are ADORABLE - and you deserve them!!
103. kendall said:
I.love.those.shoes.
men never understand the importance of a really really cute pair of shoes.
104. Cindy said:
Cute shoes!
I bought a very similar pair, except in white, for my wedding. They're comfortable, sexy, and won't fall off by stepping wrong. For a gal who's lost more shoes by stepping out them than Cinderella, that's an important feature.
I'm glad the Shoe Pavilion and the shoes made your trip better.
Glad you're back! :-)
105. gingermog said:
Those are magic shoes and honey you deserve them.
I visited San Fransisco in 98, my first ever flight out of the UK and I just adored that city and Ocean Beach in San Diego too.I hope I get to go back there some day soon. I recollect that the buses had some trouble getting to the top of the hills and the passengers sometimes had to get out and walk to the top then get back in the bus to complete their journey!
106. CartwheelsAtMidnight said:
I have nothing to match those shoes.
Not stopping me from coveting them though.
Coveting and coveting like crazy.
107. KaraMia said:
ewww, round toes! You would LOVE My sister, she likes those kind as well... I just worry about your sanity...lol
108. lane said:
Our public transit has seen a serious decline in the past couple of years. Certain buses are still dependable, and BART is decent (although it's had a lot of troubles lately), but I have definitely taken a lot more cabs lately. And Zipcar.
I hope your visit here went well anyway. If not just for the hot shoes.
109. Melessa said:
Mmm...shoes! Nothing better than a little retail therapy to help recover from a domestic crisis the size of your most recent one. Even if it isn't technically in the budget.
In that vein, I thought you would be amused and proud to hear that yesterday I spent almost the entire time we were at church staring at the beauty and wonder that is my new pair of Easter shoes to the complete exclusion of anything any speaker or teacher had to say. I'm such a shining example to the youth I'm called to teach. Wait until they hear what's on my iPod on the drive to the temple this week.
110. Kassi Gilbert said:
I totally agree...and in addition, I have to say that the shoe therapy was completely necessary after the sewer fiasco. I mean...really, the cookie was only the beginning of the self medication cycle. Pink baby janes? really is there any question about whether or not you should have bought them?
111. Kira Martin said:
Lordy, I was afraid you were going to be ADULT and RESPONSIBLE about the shoes! *whew*
Oh yes, I hear the siren call.
112. sarandipity said:
Oh dear sweet lord.
The shoes... THE SHOES! With the PINK! Gaaaaaaahhhh I died.
Im in love. With the shoes, with your site, with you, with everything.
I HEART those shoes.
113. Jill said:
Holy Christ...you must be about 6'4" in those beauties. Sweet.
114. Elisabeth Fourmont said:
Came to pay respect to the shoes. So happy that they have gone to an even better place than Shoe Pavillion--your closet.
115. Teeny225 said:
Ooh I have red ones like those! Love the pink ones though. Nothing like a bit of shoe shopping to cure all ills.
116. Lilly said:
Ok.
I have been reading for some time. I have never even considered leaving a comment. . until I read that someone didn't see you as a pink shoe kind of girl.
I have always been a comfort kind of girl, myself. I am also quite tall, and those shoes look fan-friggin-tastic.
I can see them with a pair of jeans or long black pants.
Very funky shoes. .
I don't see you sporting a Ms.Utah glitter encrusted sash with these shoes. They aren't cute. . . .they are powerful. :) May they hold you steady after a few drinks. . . Cheers!
117. staceymay said:
So did not put you as the type of girl to wear heels. Let alone pink heels! I belong to the school of thought that the more shoes the better and even if you never wear them at least you have fun shoes! Very cute, but I found myself wondering how many colors could I buy them in? Surely one pair is not enough!
118. tryme said:
Love, Love, LOVE the shoes. As a matter of fact, I just went online and made them mine as well. Black for me! Yay!
119. VisualVoice said:
the kind of shoes, when heels click together, transport one to a place called home. marvelousness.
120. Daugher In Law said:
Those shoes are more 'justified' than timberlake will ever be.
121. Caren said:
Ohmygosh! They're BEAUTIFUL! I'm envious of women who can wear "girly" shoes, as I cannot and am stuck buying men's shoes my feet are so huge.
122. Kim said:
"I don't know anyone who could get through the day without two or three juicy rationalizations. They're more important than sex." I think that's from The Big Chill.
Love the shoes.
123. Msyvone said:
LOVE the shoes! DING! DING! DING! WINNERS!
I can relate, Where is all that free time one has when they rent? I own now, and every waking moment seems dedicated to chores. Thank god the Sewer Fairy has passed us by - THIS time.
124. Snickrsnack Katie said:
Those are some awesome shoes. I am actually quite jealous, especially since I have gargantuan feet and am usually hindered in my shoe shopping because of my unattractive and large bunions (TMI?) Anyway, these particular shoes of yours look really comfy and look as though they would cover my nasty feet quite well. I want to cry right about now. I love looking at shoes, but always want to throw those tiny size sixes that they have on display at the department store and scream "ARE THE SIZE TENS TOO BIG AND UGLY FOR DISPLAY?!?" It is a sort of foot prejudice, I think. Believe me, you will never catch a size ten on display. But these beauties of yours, while I don't know your foot size, surely would look good no matter the size.
I want your shoes - what is the brand name?
125. Shana Banana said:
Those are so darn cute... I think Im flying to San Fran tomorrow to git me some! heh Welcome home Little Dooce Coupe!
126. Amethyst said:
Oh, yes. I have them in black.
127. rivetergirl said:
Please, like you had any other choice but to buy the shoes. You would've been haunted by the perfect pair that got away, like I am by the two pigs humping salt and pepper shakers that I didn't buy at a truck stop somewhere between Austin, Texas and State College, Pennsylvania.
You did the right thing.
128. sarabellum83 said:
So I always thought your obsession with eating your child was a little weird, but after seeing those latest photos--I understand. She just screams, "Dip me in ranch dressing and take a nibble!"
129. Mrs. Mogul said:
Okay, so you bought the shoes which you deserve! I mean, we got to be a slave to fashion right? Just curious to see if you're going to curse if you get blisters because that always happens to me! I buy and then realize the heels are too high or something...NICE THOUGH!
130. TranceJen said:
Cuuuuuute. And I'm not even a pink person.
131. Tracy said:
Knock me down and Shoe ME!
132. Erika said:
Just curious, the building in the background of the Botanical Garden, is that the Conservatory? My aunt managed a building in San Francisco years ago that looked like that.
133. Lovemydox said:
Those are Fantazgreat! I have a similar pair sans the t-strap. The T-strap is awesome!!!
134. jagosaurus said:
Lord. Have. Mercy. To quote the Sweet Potato Queens, "Heeeey! Cute Shoes!"
135. Katie said:
Hello? Did you say someone was singing? A siren song? I can't hear a thing. But then I'm kind of a dysfunctional female that way. I like the IDEA of pretty shoes. Does that count?
136. bridgermama said:
Purty! However, you do know that your millions of followers will now be sporting this very shoe. Hey, what a great way to identify them!!!
137. cmvnapa said:
Just bought a pink bra and some pink panties after resisting the color for years. My husband is in heaven. There is just something about PINK!
138. Fluid Pudding said:
Dear God. I'd totally be a better mom if I had those shoes. I'd even change my neighbors' kids' crap diapers if I was hoofin' it in that kind of style. And that's a double plural possessive promise!
139. msadventures said:
Those shoes are so damn cute I just want to eat them. Why haven't I heard of Shoe Pavilion before? Must find one. Immediately.
140. Sandra Heikkinen said:
Scary thing: I was at the Shoe Pavilion on Saturday, staring at the very same pair of shoes...and was crushed beyond compare when I realized that they didn't have them in my size! Which I think is cruel and unusual.
141. MelissaJ said:
I understand about those shoes. They are absolutely adorable. I never picked you for a pink girl but I'm very glad to find out you are. Now I must find those shoes for myself.
142. napangel said:
You know your readers love you when your post about a pair of shoes elicits this many comments. :)
143. ctw1966 said:
Dayum. Those are some C-UTE shoes. Love 'em. Why have I not heard of Shoe Pavilion? Must. Google. Now.
144. Kerry said:
Damn it. Now I must have those shoes!!! Very very cute.
145. Kissyface said:
A guy who can bowl you over with delight, then catch you on the way down - well, you have found yourself the perfect man, haven't you? The shoes ain't half bad, either.
146. jenmarya said:
The two words I was hoping to hear were "bur" and "rito." I mean, you two are mere seconds from the Mission, and you go all Immelda on us. Maaaan.
signed-- Jonesing in Belgium, land of no frigging decent Mexican food.
147. vegasandvenice said:
Shoes are cheaper than crack too ... so there is always that ... considering that they are both equally addictive!
148. adiav said:
Those shoes are making me wonder if I can somehow fit a trip to San Francisco in my already-tight upcoming US itinerary.
...All because I've looked everywhere for a pair of t-straps.
Sadly, I think the answer is "no".
149. Shelley Bonnechance said:
It's good that you're hearing the siren's call for shoes.
Some people hear that call for insanely expensive jewelry, houses or vehicles.
Some hear it for other people's husbands.
So I think a jones for a new pair of shoes sounds very laudable, all things considered.
150. TeenSleuth said:
I was just daydreaming on my way home from work about new shoes. Now I have to go and buy some! I think apparel is my porn. It's like I just looked out the window and saw my sexy neighbors getting busy in their living room and I have to RUN NOW to the computer.
151. anneelizmary said:
As Leta would say, "Hello, Sooo Cute!!!!" These seem destined not only to make Mama very happy this spring, but in the future, to make someone's dress up box a very happy place to be.
152. margalit said:
I used to love Shoe Pavilion until I found DSW. Now my heart lives at DSW, especially the back racks where the sale shoes reside.
153. anneelizmary said:
As Leta would say, "Hello, Sooo Cute!!!!" These seem destined not only to make Mama very happy this spring, but in the future, to make someone's dress up box a very happy place to be. Plus, after all that sewage, they had to be had.
154. Peggy said:
Why do I not like them? Listen, I can totally understand the NEED to have them. I have my guilty pleasures also :)
I am a fan of the pinkness of them though, for sure!
155. whiterockgirl said:
How many ad clicks are those shoes worth? Start clicking girls! We need shoe joy when things get rough.
I can see you wearing your cute new shoes while standing in your front yard gazing at your churned up lawn or maybe dancing in your new shoes on your lawn.
81. The Aitch said:
I am experiencing serious shoe envy.
82. Tracy said:
Finding the perfect pair of shoes, especially in a discount store, is a religious experience and should never be forsaken.
I was in the City that day too - the only siren call I heard, though, was the one telling me to hawk a loogie on the ass of Sarah Brown's ex when I passed him on a sidewalk in Chinatown. Sadly, I didn't listen.
84. Tonya @ Kingfisher Cove said:
Oh, man! So CUTE! I am so glad to see rounded toes coming back -- those pointy things were godawful and made feet appear to be the size of snow skis.
85. KookieDangerous said:
So sexy in a funky, babydoll sort of way!
When it's not enough to know you've sunk a mint into being grown up and responsible (like the roof's sound, or the teeth are now OK for another 6 months, or the termites have been fumigated again)...
MUST.HAVE.CONSOLATION.PRIZE
156. KookieDangerous said:
It's like the butterscotch Dum Dum after the shot at the pediatrician. =-)
157. Tiggerlane said:
After all these months of reading, you affirm what I already knew. YOU ROCK!
Nothing, but NOTHING can heal like a fabulous pair of shoes.
158. LucyArin said:
LOL, this is too funny. Just came home myself from buying two new pairs of summer shoes, but they aren't ANYWHERE near as cute as those. Want them! If there was a 12-step program for shoes, my family would be trying to send me.
159. justmsme said:
I think it's now confirmed: I really am a lesbian. Those shoes do nothing for me. Do you have a picture of Jon's shoes? I bet I'd love them...
160. la_florecita said:
A couple of commenters mentioned DSW, my fave shoe store. Back when we only had one, I was returning a pair of shoes to Dillard's in a DSW bag. (I'd bought some shoes at Dillard's, found a cuter/cheaper similar pair at DSW a few days later and so I was returning them. It's logical.)
So I'm minding my own business when a lady chases me down and asks, half in a panic, "Where did you get that bag? WHERE is the nearest DSW?? Is there one HERE??"
I had to answer, "Oh no, its the store over on Dunvale . . ." She looked sooooo disappointed. The DSW was probably an hour away from where we were.
I quickly got rid of the bag so that other shoeaholics wouldn't twitch as I passed them.
161. minxlj said:
They're shoes. They're pink. You need them. You so don't need to rationalise ANYTHING :-)
162. Kala Lily said:
How to make the universe know that you needed those shoes and it was a good thing to do: eat nothing but chicken and pasta for the next month, or Ramen noodles if you're gonna be really cheap, forfeit all Doritos and other cheesy substances, give two trash bags full of clothes that you never wear anymore to the Salvation Army and give the kid all the TV she wants for at least a week. There.... feel better!
163. Patricia said:
Honestly, it should be shoes are a girl's best friends...at least we can have many of them that way :)I wouldn't try to justify buying shoes no matter how expensive they are. Ever.
164. lyndsey_elise said:
Is it just me or do you walk differently in your pink t-strap hot hottie shoes than say your $3 Old Navy flip flops. For me anything that's metallic with a heel sends me over.
165. Lobsterchick said:
You had no choice. None. Considering all the great stuff I'm seeing at the Shoe Emporium website right now (on the site they only have them in black, which -- I'll take 'em!), you really showed quite a good deal of restraint. I'm proud of you.
166. Lobsterchick said:
Oh, wait. I found the pink. Yes, they are mine as well. I believe XOXO owes you some sort of commission.
167. paper said:
ooooooHHH!!!!shoe porn!
sweetmaryandjoseph those are excellent shoes!
168. Lena said:
Ahh, I just moved to suburbia after being raised in San Francisco. And do I miss it? Uhhh, yeah.
I have to laugh at you though Heather. You're in one of the greatest freaking fashion districts in the world and you're excited about Shoe Pavilion? Bah-hahahaha!
I do love ya girl. And the kicks ARE hot!
169. jenlovely said:
a part of me is so jealous you can wear heels. i'm 6 foot and have a size 11 foot in womens shoes, heels do nothing flattering for me.
170. stella404 said:
I love them!
171. Gora_Kagaz said:
pretty shoes...they're really cute
172. Erin MJ said:
Those are some seriously cute shoes. I can only imagine how many thrilling adventures you will now have JUST BECAUSE you are wearing those shoes. Have fun! :D
173. ErikaG said:
*shrieeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeek* *SQUEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE*
*panting* Oh. My. God. Those shoes.
They took over my mind. They are fabulous. Love your blog, have been reading for awhile, but like you said, the shoe's siren song forced me to comment.
*scurries off to Zappos.com*
174. mystery mommy said:
I am drooling for those shoes.
175. Carla Beth said:
Is it just me, or are those shoes rather dull looking? I need context with shoes like that. Maybe model them with an outfit. Because I just don't get it. They look like faded Mary Janes with heels. That's the stuff of siren calls??? But I do have a love-hate relationship with you, Heather, so maybe I'm viewing them through a tainted lens? Although I must say you're being totally adorable about those shoes.
176. Jen said:
So stinkin' cute. Love pink. Love the T strap. Hate the fact that being 5'11" barefoot, these would make me 6'1" or better. DSW would send you over the edge. If you're ever in San Diego, visit Mission Valley and definitely go to DSW.
177. Heather said:
Very nice shoes. I think I would have had to break the bank for those too!!
178. Shanni O said:
Things that always fit so they must be purchased
!!! NO MATTER WHAT !!!
Because as any red blooded woman knows, retail therapy is much better then conventional therapy and you have "stuff" to show for the money you have spent "vs" sending someone elses children through college :>)
(and that can't be wrong...)
1. Shoes ~ a given at this point (delicious by the way)
2. Handbags ~ from Designer to Target
3. Any & All jewlery
4. Cosmetics
5. Fragrance
6. Skincare
7. Body Products i.e. ~ cream, gel, lotions
8. Candles
9. Home Decor
10.New flowers, plants, bulbs for the garden
11.Any online shopping
12.Tickets to Concert, play, movie, etc...
13.Luxury Auto
14.Fabulous vacation
15.Spa retreat in Taos
16.Oh, apparently I should be fixing Dinner...Damn I was just getting started.
Have fun wearing your new little slices of Heaven.
Will I go to Hell for that ?
And no, I am not a compulsive shopper, Why do you ask ?
179. gabbiana said:
Damn, those are cute shoes.
180. Jerri Ann said:
Oh no you di'unt...girlfriend, do you remember how tall you are without that big ol' hell on...those suckers were worth living with a bad sewer line!
181. Carla Beth said:
Wait one minute. Just wait. Okay, so I'm tapping in to the girlfriend vibe going on around here, and here's what I'm coming up with: the shoes, they're oozing that vampy retro thing, right? Sort of Betty Boop meets Melanie Griffith in Working Girl? Yes?
182. Rainy said:
Cute shoes, though I sadly don't hear the siren call (pink just doesn't go with a wide enough variety of outfits). I am more into the pratical loafer to wear with the boring work pants and polo shirt :o). Still, I hope to hear about you wearing them out to some exciting event sometime soon (or to change a diaper, why not?)
183. Workman said:
Never be allowed to introduce you to anything of value?
Never?
Now correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe I introduced you to one Jon Armstrong.
Should I have not been allowed to do that?
And I don't drive like a 90 year old woman.
85 maybe, but not 90.
184. Bird Lover said:
I'm rubbing my eyes to see if I'm reading some of the comments correctly because what female is not into shoes? I'm not what one would call a "girly girl" but I've definitely got a shoe thing. Loving the pink shoes by the way and there are plenty of outfits they could go with.
I'm trying to instill the shoe thing into my 9 year old daughter. She hasn't seemed to have developed a feel for it yet. Just today she wore a pair of black athletic shoes with white anklet socks and navy blue uniform shorts to school because "they are her lucky kickball shoes." I have a lot of work to do.
185. Little Package said:
oooh! my first thought: what size are those? (i.e., would they fit me?!)
186. kelli said:
Oh! I've seen those shoes online (there are 2 other colours available in case you're interested *grin*) but I could never find them in a size 5.
Apparently my freakishly small feet are impossible to shop for.
187. dooce said:
workman, sorry, that was a little harsh but you know every letter of it was true. i should give you credit, though, because you didn't ruin any of the food in san francisco for me seeing that we ate at Pizza Hut for every meal.
188. Minxy said:
I am so incredibly jealous of those shoes. It's hard to tell the exact pink without seeing them in person, but I have a great skirt that those shoes would go perfectly with. And several pair of jeans. And everything else because as you said, they're perfect.
189. Balefulregards said:
I rock those bitches in Black. They are great shoes.
190. kuccori said:
first comment - you articulated the inexplicable love affair that women have with shoes better than i've seen thus far. bravo.
second comment - i recently embarked on what was supposed to be a no-holds-barred, action-packed (as in, "you know that girl is gonna get some action...") trip to boston to visit a once-had and would-be paramour whom i met in costa rica a few weeks earlier. well, dude did an about face shortly after i embarked upon this 3,000 odyssey, and very sadly, little action was had. i took no photos of the lame-o "lovah"-boy...but i did take one lovely photo of the scorching pair of black and red cowboy boots that i wore upon reuniting with him.
third comment - DSW...'nuff said. next time you're in SF, you should check out designer shoe warehouse. DSW surpasses shoe pavilion...so cool we don't even have one in seattle.
191. Workman said:
Mrs Dooce say:
"i should give you credit, though, because you didn't ruin any of the food in san francisco for me seeing that we ate at Pizza Hut for every meal."
and the long not-really-lost ex says:
While pretty much every letter was true, the above statement isn't.
We ate at a diner in the Castro (waiter was hitting on me), an ice cream joint in Santa Cruz (waiter was probably hitting on me there, too), and some other place (where I may or may not have been hit on by some guy).
There may have been pizza, but it would have been Blondie's. Despite my lifelong addiction, I don't believe there was any Pizza Hut on that ill-fated visit.
But there was lots of driving... slow driving. Yahoo!
192. Jessica said:
Cute shoes.
I'm an impuslive buyer... for some reason shopping online curbs my bad habit. When I saw these shoes I came so close to whipping out that credit card:
http://www.remixvintageshoes.com/decobrnchoc.html
The $188.00 price tag stopped me. They're so cute though!
193. dooce said:
workman, impending parenthood is eating your brain. we ate at Pizza Hut THREE TIMES that visit. which is three more times than I have ever eaten at Pizza Hut, three more times than any human with functioning taste buds should ever eat at Pizza Hut. that is the one thing I remember clearly from our relationship, that and the fact that the malt you ate in Santa Cruz gave you gas.
if there is a God he will make it so that one day your twins Google your name and find this comment thread.
194. Magellan said:
Those shoes? In the first picture, they just look like a pink gingerbread house. In the second picture, they are beautiful, but resistable. But in that third picture... the one where they're being worn by an invisible sexy person... that's just not fair.
195. Workman said:
Three times? Damn.
Impending parenthood is, in fact, eating my brain, so I won't argue that point any further.
If it is any comfort, I haven't had any PH in months (they're not good in Medford), but I did have a pulled pork BBQ sandwich for dinner Saturday, and some crab the day before.
As for the malt, all I can say is "sorry". I thought you were asleep when I let that go. I held it as long as I could. Really.
If there is a God, those twins will have eating habits just as picky as mine. Needless to say, I'm investigating Atheism.
Wish me luck.
196. Be Still said:
Love the new masthead. You are a woman of your word... hilarious!
197. wrensuicide said:
The shoes are very cute. I don't think I have anything that would go with pink shoes, but I sort of wish I did.
Your new masthead FUCKING RULES. I love it.
198. Nicole Peattie said:
Awesome shoes! I do not know you, but they seem to fit your personality. I am a native San Franciscan that has since migrated temporarily to the Silicon Valley, and the Franciscans have no idea how good they have it with MUNI and BART...There is a serious lack of pride in it! The cab drivers are quite a bunch of characters, but I love talking to cab drivers. And thankfully, somehow, shoes always make it into the budget!
199. MsMamma said:
HEEEEELLLLO, MS.PAIGE!
Sweet!
200. Alexandria said:
Can you hear their siren call?
No, not really. After all, they're pink, and pink is my Least Favorite Color.
No offense to pink or those that love pink (my 8 year old being one them, it being her color of choice).
On the other hand (even though I'd want shoes with pointier toes), I adore the ankle strapyness. Much adoration.
201. Carla Beth said:
Workman, I don't recall coming across a Pizza Hut in Medford. I'm in Ashland. Try Cozmic Pizza when you're next here. Organic and wonderful. And Dooce, all the men in Ashland wear sandals.
202. Liza Lee Miller said:
Those shoes -- divine. And, next time, check out DSW too. Wow!
203. blackbeltmama said:
I love the new banner. My God, you are a woman of your word. I adore the shoes-nice choice on the color too. I never would have picked you for the pink shoe type though. Food for thought. . .
204. shannon said:
the pink are definitely hot...much better than black or mink....
http://www.shoemall.com/ProductDetails.aspx?family_id=8598
205. bleeuw said:
I would sport those in a heartbeat.
206. danielle Brown said:
i am glad that i was not the only one who spent money that i didn't have to spend. this weekend i too spent saturday in the city. my best shopping buddy and i hit up the union square shopping smorgasbord. good for you for splurging...a girl's gotta do it now and then. especially if her basement is full of shit.
207. LisaG said:
Damn cute shoes. I have but one acronym for you: DSW (also in the SF Bay Area). Designer (Discount) Shoe Warehouse. Oh, yeah.
208. heathabee said:
They're gorgeous. And therefore, totally justified.
I would have bought them too. Even if I didn't have the use of my legs, I would have bought them too.
GOOD CHOICE!
209. seppukuqueen said:
It's nice to know I'm not the only one.
For me, that is.
It's probably disconcerting for others.
(I don't know about anyone else, but I think pink grows on you when you have a little girl. I'm now past absolutely not, never, abhorrent! to yea, not so bad, if they go with the outfit...I guess, do they make me look hot?)
210. John said:
Could you write this off as a medical expense? Make it so that the government knows if you didn't buy these shoes, which are indeed fantastic, that you would have a relapse into a deep depression. If you are to continue working at all, you need these shoes.
OH! You could make it a work expense! Your blog is your work and you wrote an entry in your blog about the shoes.
Ergo. Shoes needed to be bought for your job.
Tax right ooooff!
211. Impetua said:
Okay, so I'm a "sort of slightly girly but not a lipstick lesbian" lesbian, I have flat feet, my balance has never been good, and I don't generally wear a lot of pink. Had it been me shopping that day I'd have come home with a pair of enclosed-heel brown leather fisherman sandals, men's because they are wider and can accomodate my orthotics. And I would have been damned happy because I have been LOOKING EVERYWHERE for a pair to replace the ones I've been wearing almost DAILY for four years.
But I'm not bitter.
That being said, those shoes are hot and I'd wear 'em if I could. Rock on, hot mama.
212. tgears said:
I just don't see it. Maybe if one were naked in them and hanging upside down on a brass pole . . . yeah, I would love them then.
213. Shalini said:
nice MAY 2006 banner btw!
214. mom on a wire said:
Ok Miss Hea