It’s rare that I encounter a retail store that’s not Goodwill that will inspire an actual blog as most retail stores (Melrose Kroger, ahem) bring out my “I will smack you in the face with a hand mixer if you don’t back away from me quickly” attitude that’s not so hidden beneath my easily-angered surface. While I’ve certainly had several, “Um, what the hell just happened?” moments at Walgreens, they are quickly eclipsed by the “I just bought a camping chair and a pair of underwear for $8.97” feeling of bliss. And so, the reasons I adore Walgreens.
They’re everywhere. In college, there was one exactly one block from my house. While I’m sure they tired of me dragging myself into their establishment in what would barely pass as pajamas, this store, within stumbling distance to my house, started the love affair. I quickly found out Walgreens provided the basics to get you through college: aspirin, Powerade, and the occasional Lunchable. While the older lady at the counter cast disparaging looks in my direction, I would peruse the aisles in search of Band-aids and cherry Coke, the cornerstones of any good party. And occasionally they would have knock-off tote bags that were perfect for carrying a change of clothes, extra shoes, and a toothbrush in your car. Just in case.
After graduation, Walgreens and I did not part ways. In fact, our relationship only grew stronger as I discovered that Walgreens is not only a great place for mixers at night and hangover cures in the morning, but for EVERYTHING ELSE. In need of a laser level and picture wire? Check. In search of a composition notebook to send to a friend going back to school? Yep. Want to stumble across a roll of caution tape to toss into a care package for a friend with a broken arm? You bet your non-broken arm Walgreens has it. Whether it’s a Glee coloring book or a ladybug-shaped Pillow Pet, this little oasis of randomness is like a thrift store with better lighting and worse music. You just never know WHAT you’re going to find!
Let’s just take a moment to reflect on not only the selection, but the fantastic deals you can get in this store de wonder. Last week a co-worker and I got Sharpie markers for $.40 each. Forty f’ing cents apiece. These things are usually in the $1.00 range, making this a 60% savings on markers which will be decorating meeting notes and greeting cards with fanciful colors for days and days to come. And the fact that I got free moisturizer the other day thanks to the clearance aisle and coupons? That makes me a non-ashy, protected-by-the-sun-by-all-15-SPF’s beacon of happiness.
Go in some time and see for yourself the glories that Walgreens has to behold. Get your passport picture taken. Grab “Gettin’ Tipsy in Nashville” shot glass. Peruse the rack of sundresses. Just take in all the wonderment while closing your eyes and letting the generic overhead music take you to a better place. If one existed, that is. If only one existed.
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