Shopping has never been one of my favorite things. When it comes to Christmas shopping I could usually buy practical gifts at Bi-Mart, such as flash lights, camping equipment or out door clothing for my kids or other family members in a timely manner. When I took up with Celia that all changed, as I learned men and women are not meant to shop together during the holidays. While living in Cottage Grove, a new store opened in town a week or two before Christmas. I don't remember the name of the store. It was mostly clothing and few other items, such as mantle pieces, small furniture and other items that women can spend much time looking at. Celia talked me into going with her for the grand opening of the store. As soon as we entered the building Celia was like a kid in a candy store and I realized nothing was going to happen quickly according to my shopping standards, which is find it, pay for it and get out. At first I followed Celia around the many aisles of merchandise, until I broke away to check out the men's section. After spending a few minutes looking over men's clothing I went back in search of Celia. When I caught up with her it took a few minutes to realized we were in the women's underwear section. Being surrounded by panties and bras, and not seeing another man in sight, I became paranoid that I would be looked upon by some of the nearby women as a pervert, so I returned back to the men's section. I started to imagine the store manager escorting me from the store. Finally, Celia could see I was getting stressed out and we made our escape.
Nowadays some of the bras look like harnesses, so men shouldn't be so embarrassed! Here in Carson City their is a program during the holidays called shopping w/a sheriff. Now that would be embarrassing seeing a male sheriff in the lingerie section!
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing! I can relate!! Growing up in Pullman Washington in the 70's, our big Christmas shopping spree was to Tri-State in Moscow Idaho. We three children would run around, being secret Santas; we grabbed one parent or the other when needed. Tri-State Outfitter is still there; but I think it has been modernized a bit. https://t-state.com/stores/moscow/
ReplyDeleteIt's also sad that the holidays have become so capitalistic and materialistic. Many kids just seemed focused on acquiring more stuffage and have "want, want, want" mentalities. Let's return to the reason for the season ... and put more emphasis on kindness, generosity, care and compassion to our family, friends and neighbors.
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