So Small Town

Each time we drive by our local Safeway, one of my daughter's will comment about the 'Banana Store'.  And the 'Banana Store' is unique - not only because it's tucked back in our lil' community of Vistancia but because it feels so small town.

Our visits to the store include the usual milk, eggs, fruit.....though they include MUCH more.  They include special samples in produce & getting permission by Mr. Rick to bite into most any piece of fruit (or veggie), which is difficult when your child is really not old enough to know that's not ok....it's only special permission right now.  Our visits also include stops in the Deli where Dad gets the usual premium peppered turkey and the girls get samples (again) of anything they please.  Ed, Bea and Lisa in the Deli will open packages & go out of their way for the girls.  And before every visit is complete, we must visit the Bakery.  The Bakery  is where Miss Jerri freely hands out cookies and sweet samples.  I love seeing the girls, arms stretched wide, running up to Miss Jerri to greet her with a big hug.  And there's always the debate if the girls can eat a cookie now or wait until after dinner.

Here's a recent example of the random fun we have on 'Banana Store' visits.  Last Saturday morning, before I know what happened, my girls were up behind the glass, above the ice of fresh fish, checking out crabs, tuna & the fish on special.  I was somewhat embarrassed when another patron walked up (nice looking lady that looked like she lived in Trilogy - active senior community).  I thought, "oh my, she's gonna freak out with these kids behind the glass."  I was pleasantly surprised when she laughed & seemed to be entertained by the lil' butchers.  My girls smiled, laughed & stepped down from their fish-post after a high-five to the butcher.  (If only I had my camera for a pic of that situation!)

The 'Banana Store' visit concludes with the check-out....where the girls always ask (please) for stickers.  Now realize, the stickers are nothing flashy - they are bright orange/red circles (I'm not really sure what they're used for) or they say something about flu shots.  Seriously, girls???  Every time, without fail, I hear the whisper when we get in line, "Mommy, can I ask for a sticker?"

Needless to say, I wouldn't trade my 'Banana Store' for anything.  It's a familiar place that isn't only for picking up groceries on the way home.  I love going in alone & people asking where the girls are....like my fixtures are missing.  I love that the market is so familiar & a constant in the growing up lives of my kiddos.  I love how small town it feels in our big world of these days.