I'm a shoe gal

I collect shoes.

At one time, I owned more than 300 pairs of shoes. My collection has downsized to 40 pairs. All of them are safely kept in boxes with the exception of sandals.

If the proverbial money tree grew in my backyard, I would own a pair of Monolo Blahnik. I will one day visit New York City and shop on Fifth Avenue. Unless that money tree starts growing soon, I will only window shop in the Big Apple.

I am really not particular to any specific type of shoe - athletic, sandal, high heel or flat - I just love shoes.

For Christmas, my sister and I received some cash from our parents and grandmother.

We journeyed to Plainfield ready to do our part in stimulating the declining economy. Each store taunted us with spectacular sales.

It was the third store of the day where I conceded to my weakness. The shoes were marked 50 percent off. I quickly picked out two pairs and they became mine.

Upon our return home, I pulled my purchases out of the bags to show my mom. When I got to the shoes, she simply rolled her eyes. It told me she was not shocked I spent my Christmas money on yet another pair of shoes. My stepfather said he was certain I already owned similar shoes, which I don't.

Now my collection is up to 42 pairs of shoes.