My life in shoes... say what?

These Mia brand shoes were pre-frayed on purchase.  
All-time faves, I wore them endlessly for at least 10 years.  

What do I mean, "my life in shoes...?" 

Let me explain. 

I'm starting this blog to remember. And ideally, to be helpful. 

I remember shoes. 

I've loved shoes all my life, and many pairs have special meaning. Sometimes, when I think about certain shoes, memories blocked or long-forgotten return. So many of my early memories are foggy. Not because I've lost my memory; more likely, I've blocked what I don't want to remember. 

Shoes from significant life moments stand out. Now, I want to remember more clearly those good times, and I'm ready to remember the less-than-stellar things. 

While no match for Imelda, I currently have about 100 pairs, from flip flops and runners to over-the-knee boots and 6" heels. Some I've had for decades. I'd have more if my shoe size hadn't expanded (I have a lucky friend who wears the same size). And I sadly threw out a plastic tub of basement-stored boots when they grew mold one soggy summer.

Shoe shopping is my shop therapy, with new shoes a fleeting panacea, a coping mechanism I learned as a kid. It's also a habit. And sometimes, I actually need a pair for a purpose or desire something fun.  

We all have our quirks. This is one of mine. Why should you care and why does it matter? 

As a coach and communicator, sharing my story by writing about shoes comes with a whole lot of life experience, and thankfully, some wisdom to show from it that I hope makes a difference. With any luck, it'll even be fun.  

Shoe posts won't be in any certain order. Instead, I'll write as memory serves them up. In coming posts, you'll see pumps, platforms, slingbacks, sandals, climbing shoes, loafers, lug-soles, oxfords, rain boots, mules, wedges, and so much more. When I no longer have a pair but they show up in mind (like the mules I bought in England, the sandals from Brazil, or my first pair of platforms), I'll look for a similar pair online or, in at least two cases so far, on someone else... 

Shoes are part of my creative expression, and sometimes, my rebellion. Those blocked memories? I'm ready to be brave, dive in, and explore.  

Meanwhile, I have a corresponding Instagram page. Onward!