"Made It Inside Wally World - Finally!"

Dear Reader (s),

Okay, so out of the parking lot & into the store - took awhile, didn't it!

Your mission is to skillfully navigate the aisles of Wally World, with a minimum of back-tracking & cross country shopping. 

This requires two skills.  First, you need to know what you are looking for, and stay focused on that.  A mental or written list is most helpful at this point.  Second, you need a mental map of Wal Mart's layout.  Fortunately, most Wal Marts are laid out in exactly the same pattern, except some of the newer stores.  In an attempt to be more upscale or perhaps "innovative," some store layouts are being changed up.  Most people would appreciate this, but those of us who are true devotees of Wal Mart appreciate being able to "drop in" to a store anywhere & know where, for instance, those plastic tubs can be located, without having to wander aimlessly around, or, horror of horrors, actually find a store "associate" and ask for directions.  One does not usually engage "associates" in conversation - this is a treasure hunt for those who value independence & reliance on oneself!

Suggestion - know your needs, stick to them, and know your store plan!  This will enable you to cruise the aisles quickly & efficiently and arrive at the check-out line with a minimum of time invested (so far).  Easiest plan - start in the garden/pet areas & work your way across the store.  The grocery areas should be reserved for last, as they will take the most time (also, more shoppers to try to dodge). 

After you've taken care of garden & pets, work your way past the health aisles so you can pick up any necessary items.  Stay by the front of the store as you cross over - there are usually clearance baskets which may contain "treasures" you absolutely didn't know you needed until you see them.

Plus, that will allow you to avoid the clothing section, which is very large & unnecessary unless you are in search of a particular item.

Final destination - the grocery section.  Start at the front of the store with the deli/veggie section.  Then, work your way to the back of the store.  This allows you finish with the beer, freezer, refrigerator sections.  Rationale - they will be colder as you approach the check-out lines.  As you will soon understand, this will assume huge importance as your time in Wal Mart ticks by! 

Next post - parts of Wal-Mart that one should avoid at all costs!