something I am grateful for today

[johncomic]

A little plaza downtown (which includes this store).

The plaza has about half a dozen shops in it total, most of which have been there for decades. They are all kept regulary freshened and renovated so that none of them look tired, though. They all seem like labours of love. They all look professional, but none of them look corporate -- because all of them are independents. There are no chains, no franchises, no names that mean anything outside of this place itself.

I love places like this, that restore the human element to shopping. I recognize the advantages of big corporations, and often avail myself of those... but none of them gain my heart the way places like this do.

Comments

[ginsu.livejournal.com]

Shopping and food seem to be held to different standards.

[johncomic.livejournal.com]

If you mean I'm not an epicure, then true enough.

[ginsu.livejournal.com]

I mean that in shopping, you value unique local businesses and offerings; but in food, you prefer Starbucks and chain pizza. (Quality is a more subjective area.)

[johncomic.livejournal.com]

Ah. Sometimes my wallet overrides all other concerns. :P

[ginsu.livejournal.com]

Chain pizza's cheaper, but I think Starbucks is the most expensive coffee I've ever had. Here, at least, I can hit an upscale local place like this and still pay about 25% less.

[johncomic.livejournal.com]

At *$ I buy the cheapest thing they offer (short brew - not even listed on the menu) which comes with a free refill -- ends up making it cost-effective. Ish. Plus the main reason I go there is it's a nice place to work -- comfy chair and table, good music, and they don't nag me about how long I sit there.