Natural Food Store Visit

So...while running errands today, my mom and I decided that we would stop at the local Natural Food store to check out their salad bar. A co-worker eats there regularly. I commented that the store has all sorts of unique things (I had heard) and it would be a fun stop for Friday. We both agreed that we needed some fun (after the elections and Eli being sick).
So...in we go to the fresh produce. First, while the fruit looked yummy, there were all sorts of vegetables (roots and stuff) that I had no idea what they were or what I would do with them. We did stop and browse the fresh bread offerings (like good McDaniels) and selected a Cranberry Pecan bread for Dad. Anyhow, there were samples of some sort of cracker with seeds on it and organic dark chocolate for baking. We took a brief look at the salad bar and decided to stop back by after we browsed thru the store.
After walking down several aisles, I told Mom that I felt very out of place. I didn't recognize half of the items or ingredients on the shelves. (Remember, we live in WalMart world and are well exposed to the world of grocery stuff) I felt that people looked at us and chuckled, knowing that we had no idea what was going on. As we rounded the dairy section, Mom commented that she felt like she was in Costa Rica - and I agreed - where the products looked vaguely familiar, but a selection of anything would be a guess. It was definitely a cultural trip.
So...on to the salad bar. They did offer baked potatoes and soup too. The soups were Miso (who eats this outside of a sushi restaurant???), a corn chowder, and something with Barley in it. Again, I was at a loss. I decided to peek at the salad offerings before building my salad. I'm a cheese, boiled egg, bacon bit, sesame seed, crouton, Ranch dressing kind of salad eater. Don't think any of that was offered. I could not bring myself to get a salad when Ranch dressing was not available. Mom laughed at me. I couldn't do it. It was like my mind would not let me consider such a thing.
Mom encouraged me to get something from their grill. But, everything was organic and vegetarian. The longer we were in the store, the more I wanted a bacon cheese burger and coke!
Plus, the bread we bought Dad (which was great!) was super expensive. It was nice that the tag next to the price read, "Support your local economy." We were definitely doing that!
So, now I'm back at work enjoying an ice cold Dr. Pepper (not purchased at the Natural Food store). Mom did get a salad...but didn't eat it...she had to buy a sandwich from our in-house cafe (another story for another day).
We definitely had an experience together. That's the best part of working at the same place as Mom. We get to go discover things...just like we did in Costa Rica! Sometimes it's a success...sometimes not. I think next time, we'll stick to Jason's Deli or (the always awesome) Sonic!
Have a great weekend!