Meandering Through the Store
Posted
Fri, 10/24/03
I've never been one to like shopping, unless it's for the purpose of buying a new book or computer program. Big department stores and malls give me the creeps. I even try to avoid larger grocery stores if at all possible. However, near our home is a small, family-operated grocery that I don't mind frequenting. The selections aren't as varied, but I'm much more comfortable with the surroundings and lack of heavy human traffic.
The store is actually called Bargain Giant, but around here we've dubbed the place the "Russian store" only because many Russian immigrants in the area shop there. Lucky for me Wilbert loves shopping, so when we need major items he makes the trip to more common stores such as Fred Meyer and Safeway.
This morning I loaded Foofer in the van and made the two-minute trip to Bargain Giant. Getting there right at opening time is ideal. Since the weather is much cooler, I don't feel apprehensive about leaving Foofer in the van with his coat of fur. Upon entering the store, there is only one way in: through the produce section as the cashier stalls block the other side. Even if you don't need fruits and vegetable, it's the only entry-way. Past this, the freezer case and soup aisle has quite a nice selection of foodstuff. Then it's straight ahead to the butcher's counter. There is an old-fashioned air about the counter, including the number-taking system when it's busy. There isn't sawdust on the floor mind you, but the aura is from another age just the same. The butcher is also where we buy Ruiz tamales.
Past the butcher there are four more aisles: pasta, canned meat and vegetables on one; baking supplies, breads and spices on another; pet food and storage items (baggies and trash bags), and canned beverages with dairy. That's the scope of it, and I love it. No hassles or fuss, although at peak times there may be a long wait to check out as there are only two cashiers. I went in today just for milk and bread and came out with $20 worth of goods. That's the way of it because the prices are also very reasonable.
My grocery experience was almost perfect this morning except for one thing. As I was making my way to the cashier aisles, two Russian ladies with scarves on their heads nearly bowled me over with their shopping cart. Barely noticing the close call, they glared at me and continued on with their indecipherable chatter and grocery list penned in Russian.
Tags: Grocery Stores
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