Have you been to a Wal-Mart lately? It seems like the local Wal-Mart has become not only a place for great bargains on everything from honey roasted peanuts to contact lens solution, but also a complete zoo.
I went to Wal-Mart on Sunday for some basic necessities: shampoo, razors, etc. You could not turn around without bumping into someone. The line at the returns/exchanges counter was 5-10 people deep at all times, and there were at least three people rummaging at each discount/sale bin.
Some people I know love the action - hence shopping for anything in Chinatown or going to DSW. I hate shopping with so many people around. I like to take my time, compare prices, examine the quality and craftsmanship of each and every bobble-head, without the worry of being run over by shopping carts.
The worst part was that the two things I was really hoping to get were both out of stock. Who knew Clear Care and Neutrogena Hand Cream (fragrance-free) were so popular?
Monday, January 30, 2006
Monday, January 23, 2006
It's all the same?
I like to save money as much as the next guy. In fact, some people I know even describe me as frugal. Personally, I don't think there's anything wrong with frugality, it's just smart not to throw your money away. So for many things, I tend to buy generic, especially consumables. I'll buy generic glass cleaner, toothbrushes, etc.
But, there are some things for which the generic version just doesn't cut it. Here are some examples:
Toilet paper. Generic toilet paper is often micro-thin, and only comes in packages of 20. You may as well use your fingers... for a long time.
Cereal. This really should be the bread and butter of generic purchases, but "toasty o's" and "cinnamon square crunch" just doesn't taste the same. Not even close.
Contact lens solution. Even though I know that the generic version has the same formulation, I just don't trust it. I'll take generic aspirin, ibuprofen, etc. But somehow, I just can't bring myself to put generic solution in my eyes. My favorite so far: Clear Care by Ciba Vision - I don't think there's even a generic version of this yet; it acts like the old AOSept system that really cleans your lenses well. Try it if your contacts feel uncomfortable.
Peanut butter. Only JIF for me. Maybe it's the marketing, but I really think JIF tastes better. It tastes more peanut-y and smoother, and doesn't taste as sweet as generic peanut butter.
Interestingly enough, the generic version of honey roasted peanuts that Wal-Mart sells actually tastes better than Planters. I like to get the 2 lbs. value pack. Mmmm mmmm.
But, there are some things for which the generic version just doesn't cut it. Here are some examples:
Toilet paper. Generic toilet paper is often micro-thin, and only comes in packages of 20. You may as well use your fingers... for a long time.
Cereal. This really should be the bread and butter of generic purchases, but "toasty o's" and "cinnamon square crunch" just doesn't taste the same. Not even close.
Contact lens solution. Even though I know that the generic version has the same formulation, I just don't trust it. I'll take generic aspirin, ibuprofen, etc. But somehow, I just can't bring myself to put generic solution in my eyes. My favorite so far: Clear Care by Ciba Vision - I don't think there's even a generic version of this yet; it acts like the old AOSept system that really cleans your lenses well. Try it if your contacts feel uncomfortable.
Peanut butter. Only JIF for me. Maybe it's the marketing, but I really think JIF tastes better. It tastes more peanut-y and smoother, and doesn't taste as sweet as generic peanut butter.
Interestingly enough, the generic version of honey roasted peanuts that Wal-Mart sells actually tastes better than Planters. I like to get the 2 lbs. value pack. Mmmm mmmm.
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