NOT ABOUT SHAVING!!!!!

Dear Readers—is it really Wednesday?

There is so much left to say about shaving—in particular, the origins thereof—which thanks to Carole's comment on yesterday's blog, we began researching.  We can't say we're happy about it, but we need a break from it, so we're moving on for today with someone else's pet peeve.

Don't be the cause of this sad and often destructive practice...

Dear Masters of CoNUNdrums (aka Mik Chiks),

My CoNUNdrum  seems miniscule on the coNUNdrum scale.   When I shop at our local grocery store or any large discount store, it irritates me to see people leave shopping carts strewn across the parking lot (especially when cart return areas are strategically placed). 

We live in an area with seasonal winds.  I've witnessed, more than once, carts careening into cars.   What is so hard about returning a shopping cart?   I've heard the reasoning that it gives someone a job, but doesn't it also make our prices higher? 

I can't help but wonder, do your readers return their shopping carts?    Is this a social disorder?  Does it have a name or a classification?   It just seems like it is your duty (and even patriotic responsibility) to return your shopping cart.

Signed,

Irritated over irresponsibility (especially during inclement weather)

Dear Irritated,

We could tell you were irritated because you italicized your entire letter.  While we aren't sure that the non return of shopping carts is a bona fide social disorder, it does lead to social disorder—get it?  Anyway, we're just happy not to be talking about shaving. 

We at Connecting Now FIRMLY believe in the return of carts to a properly allocated spot.  This is one reason we enjoy shopping at ALDI.  They pay you a quarter to return your cart.  Of course, they charge you a quarter to obtain the cart, but it's orderly, and we like that.  Many times shoppers who are finished with their carts give them to those shoppers who are on their way to get one.  It's a small thing, but because of it, ALDI shoppers tend to smile.

Now I (Lisa) know of one person who used to be a non-returner of carts.  It must have prickled at her conscience, because in the fall of 1995 Mona P. made a New Year's Resolution to ALWAYS return the cart to a cart return area.  She has never once broken this resolution. 

However, Irritated, like the ancient Chinese proverbs say; "Eh, maybe it's a bad thing, maybe it's a good thing.  I dunno!" (paraphrased by Maddie).  Perhaps there's a reason behind the existence of humans who have not evolved to the point where they can put away their carts:


Spencer Miks Health.


Yes.  Maddie's brother, Lisa's son.  He works at the local Lowe's, been there for over two years.  One of his jobs at the end of the day is to round up all those carts in the parking lot.  Sometimes they don't give him much time to do this, so he has to grab a cart, and ride it like a skateboard over to the other carts.  I'm not sure how many Spencer can move at once, but I'm sure it's impressive.  

This job has undoubtedly been one of Spencer's better calorie-burning experiences.  Way better than that trampoline.  Although he comes home and complains about it, as he drips in sweat, I (Maddie) can't help but thinking that it's good for him.  

So, Irritated, while we are not suggesting that you stop your fastidious cart etiquette, I (Maddie) would invite you to sate your conscience with the knowledge that perhaps there's a "Spencer"  at your local grocery store who needs those carts.  (I, Lisa, say let him get his workout at the gym--RETURN YOUR CARTS).

So what about you, Readers?  Do you ALWAYS return your carts?  If not, would you consider making this a New Year's Resolution? Do you have an idea for a witty name we could coin for this disorder?  Have you shaved today?    What are your New Year's Resolutions?  

All in Goodwill,
Lisa and Maddie