Well I know you are all savvy enough to know I am not STILL stuck at the store. I believe I left off with my oh so daring decision to get behind the people with the overflowing cart.
I wheeled my cart behind their's and made a comment about how others were too intimidated to do the same. The owner of the cart was a Father/Daughter team. The father just smiled at me and said, “We are fast. We have a system”.
“I knew it!” I thought, rewarding myself. “My powers of deduction are fierce!”
Oh, but not so fast. The Dynamic Duo, had the same challenge as everyone else in line, waiting for the fools in front of them to get through the checkout process in a reasonable amount of time. By the time the people in front of Dad and Daughter pair were unloading their cart, I had used up every patient molecule in my body.
Those people, THOSE PEOPLE, the ones in front of the Dynamic Duo, DID NOT have a system. I watched as they sat their child on the belt (reminiscent of Maggie on the Simpsons intro). His mom then handed him each item, which he would place gingerly in front of him, ONE BY ONE. At first they were all rainbows and kisses. It would've been cute if the rest of the population hadn’t been in line with me for two weeks already. Eventually, the mom and the grandma started fighting over whether or not they should buy sour cream. REALLY!?! You waited in line all this time only to realize you don’t agree on the items to purchase once you are AT the register, with your child ON THE belt having already handed it to him for his delicate placement.
This is when the Dad of the dynamic duo looked back at me and said, “Well, not everyone has a system”.
It was then that I decided I love them.
When the crazy people finally left, I got to see “the system”. It was as quick and coordinated as you could imagine. Not only did they have their own bags, the cart was already organized for bagging. The Dad scanned his credit card and headed to the bagging area. The daughter, obviously a skilled accomplice, started unloading the cart onto the belt in a pre-determined order: Boxes, bags, canned items, other, eggs and bread. Once the daughter was done unloading the cart, they switched places. She started bagging and the Dad came back to take care of the bill. The millisecond the last item was rung through, the stack of coupons was handed to the cashier. She swiped through all of them in what felt like one motion.
He signed for the purchase and looked at me to say “I told you we’d be fast, and she (nodding to the cashier) is the fastest there is”.
Of COURSE they picked the lane with the fastest cashier! I’m sure it’s part of the system. After they left, the cashier looked at me and said, “I love when they come through my line”.
That, my friends, is what I call grocery store love.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Stuck at the grocery store...
The holidays, a new job, excuse a, excuse b, and etc. Yes I know it has been a while. The good news is that I got a moleskin from Biscuit for Christmas so I can keep track of story ideas even if I don’t have time to publish.
This is one of those stories.
If are one of the million people that leave in my metropolitan area, chances are you were at the grocery store with me between 3 and 6PM on New Year’s Eve. I don’t know if it was because it was NYE or because the Rose bowl game was the next day, but the grocery store was beyond approved capacity. The parking lot should have been my first clue as I scoured each lane for a parking spot, finally stalking person walking to their car. Once I found someone loading their car, I waiting patiently with my blinker on, effectively marking my territory.
Once in the store, there were no carts. No biggie, I could settle for a basket. Nope, none of those either. There were about ten of us wandering around looking for baskets. Once the guy with all the carts brought some more in, we descended on him like hungry vultures.
I walked in through the produce section, glancing to my right at the checkout counters. There were so many people waiting, it gave me an early indication of what I was in for. I weaved in and out of each aisle, dodging carts, children and grumpy shoppers.
Finally, I had collected the items I needed, and a couple others I picked up as I avoided the checkout madness. By this time, the lines for the checkout lanes extended back into the aisles. The only way to pick a line was to go back by the dairy section and walk down the aisle. So I did, resigned to wait a long time. I know better than to pick a self checkout lane. I know what happens there...
Those lanes are for the people that think they are fast. Instead, in those lanes, you find yourself behind people buying only the items that actually need a cashier, like gift cards or alcohol. They always have produce that needs looked up. So it rang up your peeled white onion as a Vidalia onion, WHO CARES! Just when you think that slow-as-molasses person is ready to checkout, out come the coupons. They scan each coupon individually, pausing to confirm that each coupon registered for the correct amount. Inevitably, one coupon is expired. You are waiting once again first for the cashier to first NOTICE the blinking light, second while they discuss WHY the expired coupon will not register......
So there I was in line, about 8 carts back, where an experience cashier could check me out. I waited, observing the madness around me. Eventually, I noticed the line next to me was considerably shorter. I checked out the contents of the last cart in line. I can see why no one was behind them. The cart was literally overflowing. Perched precariously atop the groceries was a clipboard with a list. That clipboard gave me an idea. "These people know what they are doing, I bet I’m going to get through this madness faster if I get in that line. One big cart HAS to be better than a lot of small carts, each going through a long process of unloading, scanning, paying and bagging." I decisevly whip my cart over into the other lane.
Was my logic sound? Was it a good choice? Did I ever see the end of that grocery line? Did I get a smartphone from Christmas allowing me to blogging all this right now from the same grocery line where I’ve been stuck ever since NYE? Come back tomorrow to find out my fate…..
This is one of those stories.
If are one of the million people that leave in my metropolitan area, chances are you were at the grocery store with me between 3 and 6PM on New Year’s Eve. I don’t know if it was because it was NYE or because the Rose bowl game was the next day, but the grocery store was beyond approved capacity. The parking lot should have been my first clue as I scoured each lane for a parking spot, finally stalking person walking to their car. Once I found someone loading their car, I waiting patiently with my blinker on, effectively marking my territory.
Once in the store, there were no carts. No biggie, I could settle for a basket. Nope, none of those either. There were about ten of us wandering around looking for baskets. Once the guy with all the carts brought some more in, we descended on him like hungry vultures.
I walked in through the produce section, glancing to my right at the checkout counters. There were so many people waiting, it gave me an early indication of what I was in for. I weaved in and out of each aisle, dodging carts, children and grumpy shoppers.
Finally, I had collected the items I needed, and a couple others I picked up as I avoided the checkout madness. By this time, the lines for the checkout lanes extended back into the aisles. The only way to pick a line was to go back by the dairy section and walk down the aisle. So I did, resigned to wait a long time. I know better than to pick a self checkout lane. I know what happens there...
Those lanes are for the people that think they are fast. Instead, in those lanes, you find yourself behind people buying only the items that actually need a cashier, like gift cards or alcohol. They always have produce that needs looked up. So it rang up your peeled white onion as a Vidalia onion, WHO CARES! Just when you think that slow-as-molasses person is ready to checkout, out come the coupons. They scan each coupon individually, pausing to confirm that each coupon registered for the correct amount. Inevitably, one coupon is expired. You are waiting once again first for the cashier to first NOTICE the blinking light, second while they discuss WHY the expired coupon will not register......
So there I was in line, about 8 carts back, where an experience cashier could check me out. I waited, observing the madness around me. Eventually, I noticed the line next to me was considerably shorter. I checked out the contents of the last cart in line. I can see why no one was behind them. The cart was literally overflowing. Perched precariously atop the groceries was a clipboard with a list. That clipboard gave me an idea. "These people know what they are doing, I bet I’m going to get through this madness faster if I get in that line. One big cart HAS to be better than a lot of small carts, each going through a long process of unloading, scanning, paying and bagging." I decisevly whip my cart over into the other lane.
Was my logic sound? Was it a good choice? Did I ever see the end of that grocery line? Did I get a smartphone from Christmas allowing me to blogging all this right now from the same grocery line where I’ve been stuck ever since NYE? Come back tomorrow to find out my fate…..
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Happy Cat
Picture 051
Originally uploaded by marci.terrett
Christmas is his favorites. So many boxes to lounge in, so little time.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Merry Christmas
I love Christmas. The anticipation is half the fun. Today is a special day. One that I share with Biscuit. Husband even asked me last night, "are you going to call her, or wait for her to call you?"
I know right now, at 9:30AM, she hasn't even cracked a crusty eyelid. I'll have to wait to call her. When we do finally talk to each other, the conversation will go something like this.
"Do you know what today is?"
And then in highpitched unison
"IT's THE DAY BEFORE THE DAY BEFORE CHRISTMAS"
It reminds me of when we were little and the anticipation of the big day was so much, your heart could explode just from thinking about all the posibilities of what Santa would bring.
My wish for you this christmas, all the heart-bursting anticpation you can handle and a christmas full of possiblities.
I know right now, at 9:30AM, she hasn't even cracked a crusty eyelid. I'll have to wait to call her. When we do finally talk to each other, the conversation will go something like this.
"Do you know what today is?"
And then in highpitched unison
"IT's THE DAY BEFORE THE DAY BEFORE CHRISTMAS"
It reminds me of when we were little and the anticipation of the big day was so much, your heart could explode just from thinking about all the posibilities of what Santa would bring.
My wish for you this christmas, all the heart-bursting anticpation you can handle and a christmas full of possiblities.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Poultry Fodder
On my way into work this morning, I was hurrying to get inside and out of the cold when I heard a noise. I did a double take as I saw a big bird walking alongside the building. It wasn’t the typical duck or goose that you see frequenting the office park, but a giant turkey!
I almost wanted to stop and ask him how he survived thanksgiving in THIS economy when I saw someone in my periphery. The guy behind me didn’t even look up at the large bird heading our way. In an attempt to seem as un-phased as he was, I continued into the building.
I don’t know about the rest of you but I’ve NEVER seen a TURKEY wondering around in the city. Once in WV, on a farm, yes. But seeing them as I walk into the office??
I asked the guy incredulously, “was that a turkey?”
He confirmed and proceeded to tell me that usually there are a group of them. -----Side note, that got me wondering what you call a group of turkeys, a brood, a cackle? Any guesses without googling?
He offered his opinion on the matter, which validated my initial reaction since he has also pondered their presence. He thought they were drawn to their reflection in the side of the building.
This reminded me of when Franklin was a kitten. I lived in an apartment at the time, so I had no control over some things. In particular, those lovely mirrored sliding closet doors. Well Franklin would run like a crazy cat all through the house, literally bouncing off the walls of each room, until he caught a glimpse of his reflection. He would stop abruptly, staring at the stranger cat, immediately puffing up and arching his back. In the puffed up, arched back state, he assumed the stranger cat was in the same defensive state. He would hiss at the stranger cat, who refused to back down, and run through the rest of the house.
Franklin was only about 6lbs when he would do this. Harmless compared to the rafter of giant turkeys. (did you notice I just gave away the answer to my question? Real subtle, I know.)
I almost wanted to stop and ask him how he survived thanksgiving in THIS economy when I saw someone in my periphery. The guy behind me didn’t even look up at the large bird heading our way. In an attempt to seem as un-phased as he was, I continued into the building.
I don’t know about the rest of you but I’ve NEVER seen a TURKEY wondering around in the city. Once in WV, on a farm, yes. But seeing them as I walk into the office??
I asked the guy incredulously, “was that a turkey?”
He confirmed and proceeded to tell me that usually there are a group of them. -----Side note, that got me wondering what you call a group of turkeys, a brood, a cackle? Any guesses without googling?
He offered his opinion on the matter, which validated my initial reaction since he has also pondered their presence. He thought they were drawn to their reflection in the side of the building.
This reminded me of when Franklin was a kitten. I lived in an apartment at the time, so I had no control over some things. In particular, those lovely mirrored sliding closet doors. Well Franklin would run like a crazy cat all through the house, literally bouncing off the walls of each room, until he caught a glimpse of his reflection. He would stop abruptly, staring at the stranger cat, immediately puffing up and arching his back. In the puffed up, arched back state, he assumed the stranger cat was in the same defensive state. He would hiss at the stranger cat, who refused to back down, and run through the rest of the house.
Franklin was only about 6lbs when he would do this. Harmless compared to the rafter of giant turkeys. (did you notice I just gave away the answer to my question? Real subtle, I know.)
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Traditions
This year with Thanksgiving so late, Christmas arrived like an impatient party guest. I’m answering the door with a towel covering my wet head and appetizers still in the oven. Um, go ahead and make yourself at home, but I’m not READY.
It’s been about 7 years in the making but Husband and I have set expectations with our families. Christmas Eve belongs to Husband’s Mom and extended family, Christmas Morning along with the champaign breakfast belongs to my family, and Christmas night belongs to Husbands dad’s family. Somewhere in there, we exchange our gifts and take care of Sammy.
In years past, Christmas Eve has been at Husband’s Mom’s house. It is always a great time. This year, we get the opportunity to host it at our house. It will be an open house of sorts, where people come and go at all hours of the evening. We’ll have food and drink for all. Husband is most excited to make a Wassail (a warm spiced alcoholic drink). I was looking on my grocery list this morning and it says “wassail makins” followed by the ingredients with exact measurements. Also on the list, exactly as written: *Need reusable tea bag HA! (Cheese Cloth?).
Let’s hope it tastes as good as he expects. We can raise a glass to a new tradition.
It’s been about 7 years in the making but Husband and I have set expectations with our families. Christmas Eve belongs to Husband’s Mom and extended family, Christmas Morning along with the champaign breakfast belongs to my family, and Christmas night belongs to Husbands dad’s family. Somewhere in there, we exchange our gifts and take care of Sammy.
In years past, Christmas Eve has been at Husband’s Mom’s house. It is always a great time. This year, we get the opportunity to host it at our house. It will be an open house of sorts, where people come and go at all hours of the evening. We’ll have food and drink for all. Husband is most excited to make a Wassail (a warm spiced alcoholic drink). I was looking on my grocery list this morning and it says “wassail makins” followed by the ingredients with exact measurements. Also on the list, exactly as written: *Need reusable tea bag HA! (Cheese Cloth?).
Let’s hope it tastes as good as he expects. We can raise a glass to a new tradition.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Busy December
Yes, it has been awhile. I'm all a mess because I don't have a routine right now. I'm officially through day two at the new job.
It's crazy to think that there are only two weekends until Christmas. I'm lucky that the time off between jobs allowed me to get the majority of my christmas shopping done.
The new job has a 'white elephant' gift exchange on Thursday that I'm little hestitant about. I mean, how funny can you be when you don't know anyone that well? What's funny to me, may be deamed inappropriate to some (ok to most). Right now, just trying not to make any waves, so the big phalic shaped ornament will have to wait till next year.
So just know that the posts will be a little light this month, until I find my new rhythm.
Side note:
I just discoverd that the new christmas saying Husband has been trying to make trendy "sooo Tinsel" was STOLEN from a disney tv show.
It's crazy to think that there are only two weekends until Christmas. I'm lucky that the time off between jobs allowed me to get the majority of my christmas shopping done.
The new job has a 'white elephant' gift exchange on Thursday that I'm little hestitant about. I mean, how funny can you be when you don't know anyone that well? What's funny to me, may be deamed inappropriate to some (ok to most). Right now, just trying not to make any waves, so the big phalic shaped ornament will have to wait till next year.
So just know that the posts will be a little light this month, until I find my new rhythm.
Side note:
I just discoverd that the new christmas saying Husband has been trying to make trendy "sooo Tinsel" was STOLEN from a disney tv show.
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