A Successful Shopping Trip

I don't usually share photos of items I've picked up while shopping - unless said items are old and beautiful and found while antiquing, but yesterday, after way too long - probably Christmas - my sister and I got out for a morning of shopping the outlet malls. We had three handsome little men in tow, and this required an abundance of packed snacks and a few breaks on the outdoor playground. All things considered, they did well!

I had so much fun, and found some really great things that I couldn't help sharing.

First, we all know how much of a sucker I am for packaging... pretty packaged cleaning supplies is like a whole new level. I picked up these common good items from Marshalls. I kind of love that store. I couldn't resist them for $6.99.

I find Homesense, Winners and Marshalls are the best places to stock my "gift drawer". You know, that drawer or shelf that is stocked with random items for gifts needed at a later time? Whenever I'm out, if I come across something great, that's a great deal, I tuck it away for a time when I need something. A favourite item I keep on hand? When I come across the most precious little baby outfits I grab them. There is always a friend or someone at church who's having a baby. (These ones won't even make the drawer as they're already wrapped for a friend.)

I also can't resist the gourmet food section. There are always a few things I have an eye out for - great coffee, favourite teas, and shortbread biscuits. This time I grabbed some old fashioned sodas for the boys, some good tea, my favourite chocolate chunk shortbread from Scotland, and even these amazing sea salt caramels - dangerous, dangerous aisle.

I also picked up the glass canister for q-tips, the small white cake stand and the set of marble coasters - each under $10.

Another favourite shop is the J Crew outlet. I love this store!

All of their accessories were 50% off, plus an additional 15% off. I grabbed these lovely tortoise shell sunglasses, a simple gold clip, and pretty little earrings, as well as something for Ryan for Father's Day.

And while unrelated, I had to snap a photo of the last of these gorgeous peonies Ryan brought home from work. A customer had dropped them off as a thank you. He got quite excited when he saw they were peonies and roses, and couldn't wait to bring them home. It was a lovely, thoughtful surprise.

Tomorrow I head out for another weekend of shopping - this time at the Country Living Fair!

Hopefully I'll be just as successful there too.