For some people its shoes at Payless, for others it's powertools at Home Depot. Big boxstore shopping, while prompting some angst about not supporting small store owners has its few charms. Yeah, price is one, but in my case, its the total numbers of my interest that boggle the mind. Homer Simpson may sigh, "Donuts..." but I exhale in satisfaction when I see the rows upon endless rows of stationary, pens, printing cartridges and post-it notes at the local Business Depot.

I don't know what happened to Grand and Toy since the BD came to town, and frankly, I don't give a damn. Grand and Toy sucked in comparison. Maybe I feel this way just because the whole store seemed like a St.Paddy's Day theme. I like BD because its bright and big and I don't get jumped the minute I walk into the door by some overanxious salesperson. Maybe because BD is so big, all the employees are busy stocking shelves, but I like the fact that I am never bothered when I am there.

That's important, because, it's hard to get away with the line, "No thanks, I'm just looking." and truly mean it. Who goes to BD to browse? I DO. I can't help myself. I like checking out the new pen of the season... felt tip, rollerball or metallic? I love buying journals and sketch pads. I'm not a great artist, but there's nothing more promising than a new workbook. What greatness will be produced this time?

BD, I'm on my way...