Misadventures of a Shoe Shopper

I was thrilled when a shoe store ordered a pair of shoes for me that actually fit. However, after I wore them once I noticed a black mark on the side of the sole. I contacted the manufacturer before trying a fix that didn't work. They suggested to clean it off with alcohol. Unfortunately, alcohol not only made the black mark bigger but also removed the outer layer of the sole. I had to send the shoes back to the company, which confirmed what I already figured: The black color is the original color of the sole and the shoe color was just painted on. Since this model was the only stylish shoe in the catalog I do not want an exchange but would prefer to get a refund. Will I get it? Doubtful. They'll probably try to send me a granny shoe - in black!
Meanwhile, I am still looking for summer shoes. I am currently awaiting a shipment of a model in different colors. At least the outlet offers free shipping. I am puzzled why my size is only available in ugly styles. There must be others like me - women under 90 - who need shoes but are not employed in the health care or funeral industry. Customers usually complain about a lack of colors. Will the manufacturers ever listen? They could sell a lot more shoes if they offered choices.

Back from the Pennwriters Conference

Another fabulous Pennwriters conference ended yesterday. The food was great, the keynote speakers were awesome and the workshops covered everything I wanted to hear. The best part, though, was networking with other writers and the wonderful support we all give and receive in this organization.
Since I only attend the conference when it is held in Pittsburgh, this was my fourth conference. Every time, I have submitted a nonfiction essay in the "In Other Words" contest, which is decided by popular vote. The first time I won Second Place and the second time I also won Second Place. I was beginning to feel like the proverbial bride's maid when I did not win any awards two years ago. However, I won a huge gift basket with books. Yesterday, however, a wonderful thing happened: I won FIRST PLACE for my humorous essay entitled "Confessions of a Baseball Wife." What a wonderful ending to a great conference!