And I don't mean the weather. Actually, the weather is changing a bit. Today's breeze actually feels a bit cool, but I know we still have weeks of summer left.

The change I'm talking about is in my purchasing habits. Today I put down a chunk of change for a work bag. It was a "need," but I hadn't given too much thought to what I wanted. Normally I agonize for days over purchases above a certain amount and feel a pit in my stomach at the register. But today was different. I walked into the store, I identified the style I wanted, I picked 5 possibilities in different sizes and price points. And then I bought the one I liked the most even though it was by far the most expensive option. And I feel great about it!

I was raised to get a high from a bargain, and I'll always enjoy calling my mom and telling her about a great deal. So this is me excited that I bought a beautiful bag of great quality that is perfectly appropriate for my needs. And I will use it for a long time and not wish I had held out for better six months from now. Thanks for listening, because my mom won't get it.