She Strengthens

Pandemic Purchases: Hits and Misses

As I reflect on the past year, I’m reminded of the peculiar ways I coped with the uncertainty and monotony of the pandemic. While social media might suggest I spent my days perfecting royal icing sugar cookies and crafting intricate snowflakes, the truth is, I also indulged in excessive online shopping – particularly on ThredUp. It’s a habit I’m not proud of, but it did lead to some unexpected discoveries.

The Best of the Bunch

A standout purchase was my stand-up paddleboard, which brought me immense joy and a sense of freedom during a time when travel was restricted. With its ease of transportation, I could invite friends on spontaneous paddling adventures, sharing unforgettable experiences with loved ones. This $741.91 investment was undoubtedly the best money I spent in 2020.

Another ThredUp find was a pair of extra-long Athleta pants, which became a staple in my wardrobe. As a tall individual, it’s challenging to find comfortable, well-fitting pants, but these exceeded my expectations. I wore them at least three times a week, and their durability has been impressive.

I also stumbled upon several Athleta skirts on ThredUp, which have become a go-to for casual, comfortable outfits. The key takeaway? Tall women, don’t overlook ThredUp for great deals on hard-to-find sizes!

Lastly, my Diva Cup purchase was a game-changer. Initially driven by pandemic anxiety, it has become a trusted companion, offering convenience, sustainability, and peace of mind.

The Not-So-Great

On the flip side, there were some regrettable purchases. Who needs a blazer when working from home? Apparently, I did – or at least, my pandemic brain thought so. Thankfully, it didn’t fit, and I returned it, sparing myself from a potentially costly mistake.

A Modcloth sweater and wedge sneakers also made their way into my shopping cart, only to collect dust in my closet. In hindsight, these purchases were impulsive and misguided. While they might have seemed like good ideas at the time, they’ve proven to be unnecessary and unworn.

Lessons Learned

As I look back on my pandemic purchases, I’m grateful for the few life-changing investments that brought me joy and satisfaction. I’ve learned to be more mindful of my spending habits and to prioritize needs over wants. With a newfound sense of control over my ThredUp addiction, I’m confident that I’ll make more intentional purchasing decisions in the future.