There really was no way I could have said no to this shopping outing. I have to admit I was afraid that had I not showed up in the hotel lobby at the precise time I was expected my chauffeur, the secretary, would have taken the stairs, two at a time no doubt, up to the third floor, not bothered with knocking, but pounded down my room door with ease, and ended up hoisting me over her shoulder, and running me to the shop herself. For those of you who are aware of my my corpulence I can only say that this woman could so have taken me. For those of you who have never met me, think of a female East German shot put champion, double that, add braids that probably weigh several kilos and voilá you got Mrs J. - a personal secretary extraordinaire and a woman who will probably inhabit my nightmares for a while (I only equal one East German shot put champion, and that's on a good hair day).
Mrs. J. waited in the car while I made my way hastily into the shop, probably ready to intercept any possible attempts at escape. She need not have been on her guard, you are locked into the shop after you enter. I think they might not let you out until you buy something. Anyway, I decided to play it safe and started to browse.
For some time I have been searching for a present for my friend in Denmark. I have long since given up trying to decipher her exquisite sense of style and just get her something expensive instead. Then at least I have a fighting chance of getting it right. At a glance, the products at this boutique seemed to fit the bill. Ended up picking a cute pair of earrings. Fighting chance...
And that is when I spotted it: Sell-your-soul-to-the-devil-and-throw-in-a-firstborn-or-two beautiful bracelet made of two kinds of Zambian stones and pearls, and set in silver. I had to have it. My credit card practically jumped out of my wallet. All of my fears seemed to melt away, and a sense of immense (rather orgasmic, but lets not go there this time) gratitude came over me. I, in my younger years somewhat prudent Finn, did not think twice, and I thoroughly believe what the hotel manager told me upon my return to the hotel: "In the future you will only regret that you didn't buy more." I might go back there on Saturday - with a different credit card, and yes please, when I die bury me with the bracelet, clothes and coffin optional. Thanks.
As I raced to my room to securely place my new investment into the safe. (Yes, otherwise it would have most likely spent the next couple of weeks in my Harry Potter-ish purse that could hold a cow should the need arise, to be taken out and fondled until some of the stones fell off) I found an invitation on the bed accompanied by two of the most awesome chocolates since Finland. Me and the hubby are invited for a networking cocktail party at the hotel pool tonight - an invitation which I decode to mean free booze for at least an hour. Oh, the hardship that is my existence!
New jewelry and free booze - what more could a girl ask for?
