Last month in my column I mentioned a story I would share once I
recovered from the shame. I haven’t
recovered. But I am going to share anyway. As you know, I am a huge proponent of shopping local and shopping
at home.In fact, I recently had a
fellow magazine publisher contact me, and in our conversation he said, “You
know you could get your printing done a lot cheaper elsewhere.”He was referring me to an out of state
printer, and I said, “I know you probably think I’m crazy, but I am going to
choose to support a Texas business over one who prints out of state.”Note: He didn’t say it, but I think he
does consider me a little crazy. I also tend to never buy anything off Facebook unless it’s a local
business or marketplace item where I meet a neighbor to purchase.In fact, if there is ever anything that gets
my attention, I make sure there is an actual website, and I search that to
locate a phone number, an address, and find out the story of their business.
Technically, I really just want to know I can drive to that place of business (if
there is a problem) and talk to a real person. Back to the shame.During
the holiday season, I was incredibly busy, and I did not follow my self-set
guidelines. TWICE. I saw a very cool holiday wreath made with a wagon wheel.
They had photos of it hanging on a front door, as well as on a gate. I could
envision this on my daughter’s door and my mother’s gate. So, yes. I bought
two.Shortly after, I saw a very unique
bell with DEEP tones. They even had a video of it, and it was beautiful! My
mother has lots of wind on the prairie where she lives; I knew both of these
would be perfect gifts, and I was excited, so I ordered.And I waited. And waited. The two packages finally arrived, neither as large as I
expected.The wagon wheel was
approximately 12” across. It looked like a miniature version of what I had
ordered. And the bell. Oh, the beautiful, resonant bell with the deep
tones.I don’t know what they videoed,
but the metal pieces they sent me clang like a cowbell. Did I mention I ordered
three?What a dope. Sometimes what we
think will be more convenient in the moment, ends up being a hassle and wasted
expense. So if you hear a cowbell around you, look for me. I might be
wearing it as my self-punishment for being so gullible.Another reminder that hometown shopping is
always best! Until next time,