No returns, exchanges or credits: the item is being sold "as is".

Learning how to shop is a necessary skill that women must learn. Whether we shop only for the most shi-shi of items or are a bargain betty - we all learn the skill of buying an item that is being sold "as is". You know the item that is marked down for clearance to be sold without any hopes of a return, credit or exchange. The one that says something is wrong with me, but you have to figure out what it is. Sometimes the flaw on the item is obvious; a broken piece, missing part or chip. Other times the the item looks fabulous and you ponder how the item ever even made it to the "as is" bin - a true bargain betty. Okay, so we are familiar with the process - but have you ever thought of your friends, husband, co-workers also as being things that come into your life "as is"?

As humans we are not perfect, we all carry a flaw. Yet our expectations of others is to be perfect. We dream of our mates sending flowers for no reason at all (yes, men we love this) or calling us at work to remind us of how great and beautiful we are (we really love this) - yet we don't get the flowers or the call and are disappointed. While we see our own flaws and expect others to be patient with our mistakes, we are quick to judge others on their imperfections. Divorce rates are high, affairs are happening right now - all because we are unhappy with our choice of the item we "bought" thinking it was bright, shiny and never opened, only to find that it was infact a piece in the back of the store for sale "as is" and we've just uncovered the flaw. Knowing that we can't return it or exchange it - we simply toss it, nevering spending the time to repair it.

So here's a thought:

Remember that your husband is "as is", he comes with flaws and the next guy would has his too. Be forgiving and look to the positive aspects he does have. That he is "as is".

Remember that the girl or women that you look up to be perfect has her flaws too. That she is "as is".

Remind your daughters that you are not perfect and have flaws on your own. That you are "as is".

Remember that your co-workers are not perfect and they too are "as is".

Even remind yourself that when your husband is rough housing with the dog and causing all kinds of commotion while you are trying to type a blog on an early Saturday morning that both of them are "as is".

Cheers to a happy weekend.