That day after morning mass, I noticed my worn-out pair of black-colored flat shoes (or ‘pumps’). The top had what appeared to be scratches but I paid little head; for they were the most comfortable shoes I could find from Payless ShoeSource.
They felt more like slippers than for dress wear, which was why I’d always wear my favorite shoes to work and to mass. And for whatever reason, I find the cheaper stores are more comfortable than the higher end establishments. Plus they were dirt cheap for around $15.00.
As far as I know, I’ve had them for over 5 to 7 years. Now after taking a closer look, I saw the sides were already split. The material was not real leather but soft vinyl. And I love soft shoes. There was an almost spring-like bounce with each step I took. But as the years wore on, the heel portion of the shoes stretched out to the point where my feet would not stay inside.

At least I had bought a spare long time ago at the same store but probably for a slightly higher price. So I brough those out and tried them on. I knew they hurt because the material is much tighter around the sides and the soles were not as padded. I didn’t suffer as much now that my feet felt much smaller due to the cold weather and maybe from exercising or whatever, like old age.

I’m not too thrilled about this new pair, even though it does sport a couple of golden buckles on top of the shoes. The velor material is already wearing off a bit. But at least it doesn’t have cracks, slips out or look too basic, like my former shoes.
I can’t seem to get rid of my old pair because it had a classic look, perfect for any occasion. The toe area is WIDE enough for my toes to wiggle around and not pointed for entities with sharpened-claws. The length is, however, best at 9.5 inches. And I’m sure I’d leave behind large footprints on the beach sands.
And I couldn’t just throw the old one away because I could donate it to charity and someone else might benefit from this ragged looking piece of prized possession. Right now, it’s hanging with the rest of shoes that aren’t worn as frequently due to heels higher than 2.5 inches and the fact they feel too tight to wear for everyday wear.
R.I.P old timer!
Copyright © 2009 by Fluffy von der Flynn. All rights reserved.
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