Shopping Without Surrender

I knew exactly the sort of gift I wanted to buy for my friend Deborah’s birthday on Sunday. Something like the little crystal salt shakers that are often in the shape of animals or flowers. Something unusual. I drove to Clarendon thinking I would find it at Bowhe & Peare, a gift store near All About Jane, one of my favorite clothing stores. But B & P was no longer, instead replaced by something like a Sprint store. Why hadn’t I noticed, as many times as I have been down that street to go to Whole Foods?

I figured I would just zip over to Pentagon City to As Kindred Spirits, a similar store where I have always been able to find interesting gifts. But it was equally GONE, replaced by a store called Lucy’s that sold clothing. Moved to Tysons, so the salesperson said. Or I could also go to National Airport, where I would pay a fortune for parking.

Today I opted for Tysons, not the old mall, but Tysons Galleria. I’m not all that familiar with this shopping center, so I consulted the mall directory upon entering. No listing for As Kindred Spirits. Could it be that I was striking out altogether? But no, after asking several people, I was able to find the recently opened store. I was so happy to see the colorful merchandise, including clothing, jewelry, hand-painted silk ties, ceramics, and lots of cards. I settled on a twisted copper and silver bracelet and a small angel charm as good luck for her upcoming surgery. I love the distinctive colorful raffia ties they use.

I’m glad I doggedly tracked As Kindred Spirits to its new location. I reminded the proprietor that they are not listed on the mall directory, hoping that perhaps that might help them stay in business. I’m fussy about the gifts I buy for the people I like in my life. It’s nice to have a favorite store and to be able to find it.