How Could I Help Myself?

Fig and I left home @ 8:26 A.M. this morning and we were in the Ocean House lobby by 11:30ish. This is one of the most beautiful places I've ever been, right on the water. I had a Hot Lobster Roll for lunch, and we shared a Fresh Fruit Salad, too,which was delicious with a dollop of minted yogurt.

But here's the clincher. As soon as you step into the lobby, I kid you not, your eyes fall on a rack of beautiful little Lilly Pulitzer dresses, cashmere sweaters and glamorous beach cover ups, even Tory Burch tunics, all for sale at the very tastefully edited Ocean House Boutique. When I went down to check out the afternoon lemonade and cookies right before 5, I sifted through the rack [the long turquoise cashmere sweater was lovely, but almost $300] and then popped into the boutique. I saw a gorgeous silk aqua and coral peasant top with slender coral ribbon tie at neck and a scattering of discreet little coral sequins on the flowy, feminine sleeves. Miraculously, I found a size XL.

Can I try this on? I asked.

Yes, you can take it right up to the your room and try it on there. We'll charge it to your room. What is your room number?

Before I knew it, it was wrapped in tissue in an Ocean House shopping bag.

With the understanding that I could bring it right back if I wanted to, I took the turquoise bag upstairs to wriggle into the top and show my fashion consultant, Fig, who said she loved it.

I'm wearing it to dinner tonight, with my knee-length white denim skirt, the only suitable bottom I have. I was planning to wear a dress, but not a dress I love.

My nose has been running like a faucet all day. Going to rest a little bit..