One track mind

I love a challenge. I love to start something and see it to the end. I can make a list and run to every store with all the kids in tow, dragging them to the 7th stop and not even slow down when they are crying as they exit the car once again just so I can have that sense of accomplishment in the end. There is real joy knowing I totally finished a task and won't have to think about it tomorrow.

I know I can be a bit obsessive, but when put to good use, I think it can be a helpful tool in my life. If you ask Rich, he might not give you the same answer. He usually just says I should have gone to business school because I love the hunt and a good deal and will go to great lengths for both.

A new problem was set before me just three days ago. My mom called and casually asked me to keep an eye out for Postum in the grocery store. Kraft food had decided to stop producing it at the end of 2007 and Utah was sold out in days back in December. We have had Postum in the cupboard my entire life. While I never acquired a love for the taste, my mom loves to warm up milk on cold mornings and slowly sip a cup while she reads the newspaper. She only had one can in her cupboard thinking she had years to refill her supply since it's been around since 1895, but that was not the case.

I have been a woman on a mission these past two days. Once I the boys were back in school, I was ready, willing and excited to search near and far for jars of this instant hot drink. It didn't take long to formulate a plan and I was up for the challenge. I went with my two best shopping pals Brynn and Kaitlyn and hit five stores just yesterday. I only found three jars at my very last stop. I was disappointed, but not done. I called around last night and found a Super Wal-mart on the other side of town that said they had it. I saw a glimmer of hope. After lunch with the boys today, we made a mad dash to see if the report was true. I had struck gold! Eight jars were waiting for me. I was beyond excited. I ran into another Kroger and walked out empty handed. I knew there was only one more good possibility. So into my 5th Wal-mart in 18 hours we did go and found another six bottles. I was on cloud nine. I was like a little girl waiting in line for a ride at Disneyland and all because I had six more precious jars of Postum in my cart. Yes, this might qualify me as a freak, but I knew I had more than enough, and that made me ecstatic.

So, I am now the proud owner of 17 jars of Postum. I think it's enough to last my mom through her life since she said she goes through one jar in two years. I know she appreciated my efforts, and that made it even sweeter. Rich just rolled his eyes when I proudly announced how many jars I bought today. He wasn't surprised, he knows me too well. Now I can let go of the hunt and focus on new tasks, like getting our van's brakes fixed, calling my supervisors about visiting teaching and tying to find a basketball league for the boys. But I'll think about that tomorrow. For today I'll just be pleased with my very good day of shopping!