Fast-forward several years. Unless you are a patient or family member, time spent seated in a hospital is minimal and short-lived. After a full day of standing, your feet and lower back hate you. Slowly but surely, the idea of a blissfully comfortable (albeit, ugly) shoe (that is approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association) starts to sound pretty darn good. 

Goodbye attractive footwear. Hello Dansko. Their slogan reads "Millions of Dansko fans can't be wrong." Next time you are in a hospital, take a look at the footwear worn by the medical professionals. Millions is right.

I am now the proud owner of these beauties... 

Don't get me wrong, it took a long time before I was ready to jump on the Dankso boat. Should one shoe be functional enough to be worn with scrubs, dress pants, skirts AND dresses? (At this point I am only on board for scrubs and pants. Hopefully I will never stoop to the level of wearing them with skirts and dresses, although I can't make any promises). 

Even after the point where I realized they were an inevitable purchase, it was still difficult to take that final leap. Due to an amazing deal on them at Sikes & Kohns Country Mall, my financially responsible husband insisted that I do my emotional grieving quickly for the sake of the budget. Now, my feet long for their presence. Never have I worn a shoe that so wonderfully supports every aspect of the sole of my foot. No more low back pain. No more blisters. They don't even need to be worn in. Even the most trendy of my classmates have caved. Unfortunately for my fashion sense (but fortunately for my feet), I am one of them.

(For some good entertainment and laughs, check out Dankos line of sandals. 

That's right, sandals. No worries, I will not take it this far.)