Bright lights, Big....food

I love grocery stores.  Ever since I was a kid going to the local Almacs with my Mom, I have been drawn to them.  I vividly remember that Almacs too.  The first aisle had all the canned goods on the left.  Slanted shelves so the cans could be loaded from the back and move up when one was taken from the front.  Making that sshhh-klank! sound as they all rolled forward.

I always wanted to go when shopping day rolled around.  Even for the little in-between trips.  I would actually get upset as a kid if one of my parents went without me.  Once I learned to drive - although I didn't do the Big Shop - I could be relied upon for the quick trips.  When I was in college my dorm was two blocks away from a Star Market.  Sometimes I would go and just walk around the aisles.  Not a dime in my pocket, just window shopping at the grocery store.  I would inevitably feel cheered up when I left.

I can't explain the love, exactly.  I mean, I do love food - but it's more than that.  Grocery stores are always bright.  They are orderly and clean.  For the most part, the people are friendly. And you can find some interesting things on those shelves.   There's just something about crossing items off my list as I wander the aisles that satisfies me.  Looking at rows of colored fruit and vegetables appeals to me.  Seeing a good deal on a frequent purchase gives me a little joy bubble.  (Okay, that's kind of embarrassing to admit, but I'm leaving it in here.)

Has some of the happiness effect of grocery stores worn off over the years?  Well, I wouldn't be honest if I didn't make note of the fact that it's not as much fun with one, or two whining kids in tow.  And it was definitely better when it was my parents paying for it all!  But overall, I still love going.  Want me to pick anything up for you?