Something New

So, I tried something new this week. I wore high heels for the first time. Not what you were expecting, huh? Well, when moving to Baku, I had absolutely no intention of ever doing such a thing. Ok, so during my childhood I used to try on my mom's high heels to play dress up (is there a girl is hasn't done that at least once?), but that's about the extent of it. Boots, when going barefoot  or wearing flip flops weren't possible, were more my speed. Today, those later choices are still my preferred foot attire.

However, in Baku, most women wear heels. Usually black, though they can be worn in other colors. Heel height varies from practically flats to the triple threat (tall, pointed, and spindly). Flats are also quite popular (and growing in popularity), but heels are definitely the number one shoe choice (especially for any kind of dressy occasion). I have often been amazed when riding the bus or metro at how some of these women are able to stay vertical. So, after two years of resistance, I finally broke down. Wearing heels must be a kind of "right of passage" thing, right? A part of adapting to the culture, right? So this summer I bought a pair, and then my sister gave me a second pair (which she says are only about an inch high. I, however, know they have to be at least 2 inches, probably higher!). This week was the first "run" (hah!) in them. Check them out.

Ok, so mine weren't quite that tall, but it sure felt like it!

From this experiment I have hit upon two important truths:

1. Heels were invented (most likely by men) so that the wearers would not be able to sneak up on anybody. It is impossible to walk without making noise if you're wearing heels! Trust me, I tried. In fact, while at school, walking up the stairs with my kids, one of my girls noticed that each time I stepped up, the heel part of the shoe was hanging off the back of the step. She asked why, and I had to admit that my shoes clicked when I walked, and that was the only way I could avoid clicking. She laughed.:)

2. It is impossible to move quickly. Assurances have been made that it is possible for some to master this art (They do it all the time in the movies! And I've seen some women really book it.), but I was not able to do so. Faster movement only caused greater discomfort and louder clicking.
I was actually only able to make it to lunch before I had to change my shoes back to flats, so my experiment only lasted about 5 hours. It was enough for me. If you are a person who is able to rock the heels, you have my utmost respect! I had two massive blisters to show for it. Let's just say a repeat experiment will not be happening for some time. . . my feet need time to recover.:)

In the meantime, I am oh so thankful for flip flops and flats: the next best thing to going barefoot.:D