Like many of us, I shop at Walmart.
It's cheaper, it's got a big selection and you can get your photos printed. Unfortunately, depending where you live, it's also a depressing place to go into. The one where we live is always crowded and the employees look (to me, anyway) dejected. I will also add, although it's horrible to say, that all elements of society go there, and, well, hmmph. Not going to proceed with that statement; it's too uppity:) Maybe it's just our city; in Missouri the local Walmart was a lovely place to go, the employees were bright and friendly, the place was clean and didn't make me cringe.
Anyway, we do have another option in Albertson's, another grocery store chain. The prices are higher and they don't have as broad a selection but it's clean, well-staffed and the lines are never longer than three-deep. It's pleasant to be in the store and the people that shop there are mostly retirees and the younger professional set (that sounds incredibly snobbish but it is a factor for me). I haven't shopped there, however, because of the prices. You just can't beat Walmart.
The past two weeks, though, I've found myself going to Albertson's, and I've discovered that it you shop the sales it evens out the higher prices. It's not just the over processed stuff that goes on sale; organic items go on sale as well. The fruit and vegetables look happier than they do at Walmart, like they're full of vitamins and minerals. So I think I've made the switch; it means that I can't really plan meals, because I have to buy what's on sale, but that fits our lifestyle right now. It's such a pleasant feeling, knowing that I don't have to go to Walmart. Now I'm just hoping that one day I'll live within range of an HEB (greatest grocery store in Texas). Seriously, I know people who would willingly drive a couple hours to get to one.
Note: While I was writing this we were watching Homeward Bound and I cried. I don't remember that movie being such a tear-jerker:)
Comments
Someday my wife and I will get into couponing and make a switch from Wal-Mart, in the meantime we mix and match our grocery stores.