This is Day One of the rest of my life without Walmart. I'm taking the cure. I've had it. The company is distinctly unethical, unAmerican, and uncaring, and unshopper-friendly.
There are so many reasons why I'm fed up to here with Walmart, I just don't know where to start--or even if I want to start.
I remember Sam Walton's Buy American campaign. What happened to that? Do me a favor; try to find something in Walmart that was made in America these days. Check Walmart labels, and you won't have to wonder where the jobs are; THEY'RE IN CHINA!
And try to get down those maddeningly narrow aisles. A mouse in a maze has more room to maneuver than Walmart shoppers. And there must be something about being in that store that causes a person to turn into a donkey's orifice. I stood in an aisle yesterday for a full five minutes while some woman studied the doggie treats. Or maybe she was in a trance, I'm not sure. She didn't move, blink, or breathe the whole time; and her buggy coupled with her ample frame took up the whole aisle, and then some. People will plow right into you and keep going without so much as a pardon my stupidity. And I have waited at the end of an aisle, trying to merge into oncoming shoppers for longer sometimes than I wait at the traffic light at the intersection of 280 and 119.
And do you know anyone who works at WalMart? Do you realize how they treat their employees? Like paid slaves. Not to mention how the animals and plants from which their groceries come are treated.
And now the bribery charges. That, along with my latest sojourn into the swamp that is WalMart yesterday, brought on a resolve in me that I haven't had since I made up my mind to quit smoking. I'm not going back, not ever. At least, that's my plan.
I know there was a time when I got along just fine without every-other-daily trips to Wally World. But just like when I decided to stop smoking and couldn't imagine life without a cigarette hanging from my mouth, it's difficult now to see how I'm going to carry on without the goods and services offered by that definitely un-august establishment.
But I'm making a plan. We have two small grocery stores in Leeds that are very nice. And there are two Publix, each about 15-minute drive away. There are pharmacies and dollar stores and farmer's markets. And there's always the thrift store. I think I can do it. Wish me luck.
Meanwhile, for your viewing pleasure, below are a few scenes you might encounter while shopping at Walmart.
I don't believe that's how it goes, M'am.
Too big for her britches?
Who knew Cousin It shops at Wally?
Something is definitely backwards here.
Applying for a job as greeter perhaps?
Why are pants made in China always too little?
I'm too sexy for my shoes.
There are more, but I think these should suffice.
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On 04/24/2012, Debra said ...
I can't remember the last time I was in WalMart, thankfully. I'm living a fine life without it. You can too.
On 04/24/2012, Ree Bolton said ...
Good article!
So many people rely on WalMart because it's convenient, one-stop shopping. I don't EVEN mind going to several locally owned, friendly stores and markets to shop.
Susan, this is probably about your 10th step on your 12-step no-walmart program! Keep up the good work!
Ree
On 04/24/2012, terry cortez said ...
Recognized the behinds in your photos - saw them at my local Walmart, which is in California, just the other day. I thought are the fashionistas oblivious or is it just me - apparently my pants are worn way too high to be in style - but are in good taste.
Thanks for the laugh.
Terry
On 04/24/2012, Barbara Anne said ...
I'd be ROTFL if those photos weren't so tragic. Where to these folks keep their self-esteem???? I know there's an equally tragic website where The People of Walmart photos can be seen by the thousands. Shudder!
The tiny aisles, rude customers, increasingly junky merchandise, and immense parking lots keep me away from Wally World at all times and the issues stemming from management are a horror. Poor Sam Walton must be spinning in his grave.
We're doing just fine without Walmart and you'll be just fine without the hassles, too, Remember the Little Engine that Could: I think I can, I think I can!
Hugs!
On 04/24/2012, Joan said ...
I cut off WalMart years and years and years ago. I've always known they belonged in the Axis of Evil and spent my life telling others. You'll be just fine without it - and spending your $$ at locally owned and operated businesses will help things to grow and flourish IN YOUR COMMUNITY, where you live and breathe and will continue to do so thanks to your new wisdom!
On 04/24/2012, Kai said ...
Like you, I have sworn off Wallyworld! I HAD it with them 3 YEARS ago & have never set a foot in a WalMart since. Luckily, Target is VERY near our house. I can buy what I need (including groceries which are fresh & reasonably priced) plus everything else I need. And SHOULD some item need returning, I do NOT have to be grilled by a former executioner for Saddam, AND have my cheek branded with a big 'R' which stands for RETURNER.' I can't STAND WalMart. As for the ... ummm ... attire for lack of a better word, I have to say I've not felt so great about myself lately, but those photos make me feel CONSIDERABLY better. At LEAST all my body parts that SHOULD be covered, ARE! Good grief. How sad that they obviously feel they look appropriate to be in public. Finally, I almost fell O.V.E.R. to learn that you are a former smoker. I would NEVER have tagged you for a smoker. I used to be a stripper. BWAHAHAHAHAHA .... not!!!!! Just thought I'd stir stuff up! LOVE YOU!
On 04/24/2012, Deb Price said ...
I knew WalMart was evil many years ago, when I didn't even live in this country! I live where there is a large Amish/Mennonite population. They have stores that they own (which are wonderful!). One day,when I went to one of these self-owned stores, and the doors were closed, they had a sign saying they could no longer stay in business because everyone was using the new WalMart! I cried over that little store and knew WalMart was evil! I use the local grocers, Aldi's and sometimes Target. I buy fabric at JoAnn's or Hobby Lobby. I get my yarn at Michael's or my LYS (local yarn shop). There are ways. Our country has been fooling ourselves for too long about WalMart. Guess I ranted just about as much as you!
Hugs...
On 04/24/2012, Gretchen said ...
Great post. I haven't shopped at a walmart since 1993 because of how the company treats its employees (a majority of them women) and because of how they destroyed small businesses. I shop locally when I can and Target when I can't. I spend the extra money to shop only at Whole Foods & farmers markets. It's a small thing but important to me that I choose to live as wisely as possible.
On 04/24/2012, Bonnie said ...
Good for you. Shop locally, and tell the owners you've made that decision. Everybody needs to make a living, and I like being fair to my neighbors.
I have learned to avoid lots of "big box" stores over time, because I've found I get overwhelmed by the STUFF in those stores and can't make a decision. I'm so glad to support the little guy, and Target, etc. will never miss my small spending.
On 04/24/2012, Judi said ...
Congratulations and welcome to the club. I have not shopped at Wal Mart in over 10 years, and I am still alive. Believe me, you can find whatever it is you are looking for somewhere else!
On 04/24/2012, Aunt Marti said ...
Good for you! I made a New Year's resolution several years ago not to shop at "that store," and have never looked back. I never miss a chance to harry my friends and family about shopping there -- "that store" is BAD for America!
On 04/24/2012, Vickie said ...
Oh my! Once I wondered is it the lighting in Walmart that makes everyone seem so ugly. Am I ugly when I am in Walmart?
On 04/24/2012, Lisa said ...
I made a decision over a year ago that I would not go more than once a month. I was tired of going and waiting forever in line. I have maybe gone in 6 times since then and each time I find lots of items I could get at my new regular stores for cheaper. It's just not worth it any more. Good luck on your resolve!
On 04/24/2012, denise copeland said ...
Susan, Good for you! I’ve been in a Walmart twice, and absolutely will not shop there because of their ethics/actions related to the treatment of employees as well as animals. Shopping there is just out of the question. I really don’t think you will miss it at all.
On 04/25/2012, Robbin said ...
Much like the photos, I believe Walmart has gotten to big for it's britches! I'm in total agreement and try to avoid it at all cost. There's a will, there's a way.
On 04/25/2012, CarlaHR said ...
My gosh this post got me out of my "lurking mode". I am proud (lol) to say that I have only been to Walmart a couple of times and am living my life just fine without them. I tend to shop in my small town even if it is more expensive - I get my exercise (I walk or cycle to the shops) and show my support for the local merchants. I only wish that more people followed my example as the big box centers seem to be taking over which hurts the smaller shops which in turn gives us all less choice.
I may be elitist but I sure wouldn't want to shop in a place where the people you pictures go - although it might cut down on my appetite which wouldn't be a bad thing.
On 04/25/2012, Wendy said ...
Never been in WalMart even though there's one in shouting distance from our house. Happiest shopping experience this past week...bought a new mailbox at Home Depot that was made in the USA. Keep looking for those labels!
On 04/25/2012, Debra said ...
I was surprised to read Susan was a smoker too. Glad that is ancient history.
On 04/25/2012, Jan Maniatis said ...
OMG -- I have tears streaming down my face from those pix. ugh and oooo and yuk - come to mind!! You are so right. I always get in a bad mood when I go to Walmart and yet, until your post I didn't put my finger on why! Now I know. You are 100% right and I like your stand. I think 'ol Sam W is turning in his grave. Good girl and I love your blog. I don't quilt but I want to in the worst way! I sew, cross stitch, scrapbook, make cards, work full time and dream of retirement. :)
On 04/25/2012, Sharon M. said ...
Those must come from the website "People of Walmart". I think some people deliberately just dress as weird and obscene as they can get away with, hoping they'll wind up having their picture on that site. Why? Some of them almost seem to violate some public indecency laws.
I won't shop in Walmart - too crowded, too noisy, as well as for some of the other reasons offered already.
On 04/25/2012, Nancy said ...
Wow Susan, I understand completely what your saying and I am also not a big (no pun intended, LOL) fan of their establishment. However, hubby and I live within a 3 mile radius of 5 grocery stores, including the Walmart. We shop the ads for the things we need for the month, making the loop. We are big comparison shoppers because we are both retired and living on an income cut by 2/3 what we made when both working. We manage just fine...however, Walmart is our last stop in the loop and that is for paper goods only. To be very candid, I buy a ton of incontinence pads every month...what can I say, Scleroderma has taken a toll on my insides. I have priced them everywhere, even online and I just can't afford to pay the price it would cost me to go to a Target or other store. So, much as I regret it, I do go to Walmart once a month and until others bring their prices for the paper and personal items I need, I will have to continue to do so. I do think it is very sad that at this point in time, you can't throw a small pebble without hitting a Walmart! There are three within walking distance for us if we so chose. Talk about Monopoly...but, when you are pinching pennies, you do what you have to. Especially when our prescription meds, between us take a full 3rd of our monthly income. It is a sad day when you have to shop in a place you despise, but it is the nature of the beast for us. As for the photos, I can't help but thank the sweet Lord that the woman in the fourth photo down, had her back turned. Thanks for the opportunity to add to your venting, though I know I go against what your standing for, I do agree with you. Thanks also for the comic relief in the photos. Oh, and the picture of the couple applying for a job...I was thinking more along the lines of a plumber or a repairman perhaps! Don't these people know that "We say NO to crack???" Hugs...
On 04/25/2012, Rose said ...
From the "home" of Walmart.......I agree!!!
On 04/26/2012, sharon bull said ...
You right about Wal-Mart... I've given up shopping there and May be giving up my Sam's Club membership for the same reason.. Nothing made in America..
On 04/26/2012, Patti J said ...
You go girl, I know you can kick this habit also. I too, do not shop Walmart. I stopped going eons ago. I only go if I absolutely, positively, can't find it anywhere else, or my son gets a gift card. Yuck. That was an awful visit. I use Magic Sizing on all of my fabric and the only place I can find it is Walmart. But NOT anymore....I heard Target carried it and they DO!!! So now I don't ever have to go in there again for my precious Magic Sizing.
On 04/29/2012, Connie said ...
I gave up Walmart at least two years ago. Love Target. Do not miss Walmart!
On 05/07/2012, Sharon Penney-Morrison said ...
hahahaha love the Walmart blog. I agree with you, and have been in one time in the last year. I shop Target, or the dollar store as well. Walmart does not need my money.
On 06/27/2012, Linda Volz said ...
I hate WalMart with a purple flaming passion. I'd rather get beat up than go to Walmart. The only semi-worthwhile thing they ever had was a small fabric/sewing/patterns dept. and they stupidly took that out about 4 yrs ago. Since then they have nothing that I want or need that I can't get elsewhere with less aggravation. And what rocket scientist thought it would be a good idea to have check-outs where you buy food products and clothing items. Nothing like putting clothing items up on the belt that the customer ahead of you just laid their nasty drippy chicken parts package. Great idea Walmart!
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