Alright, so yesterday morning I woke up thinking about needing some new stuff for the apartment. Nothing fancy, just everyday things – maybe a lamp, some kitchen bits, or even a shirt if something decent popped up. Remembered driving past the Ross store over in New Bern a bunch of times and figured, “Why not today? Heard people find random deals there.” So, grabbed my keys and headed out.
Got there around 10-ish. Pulled into the parking lot – man, it was already kinda busy for a weekday. Found a spot way out back, walked across the hot asphalt feeling that Carolina humidity stick to me already. Pushed through those big double doors and boom – cool air hit me first, then the noise. Place was packed, I tell ya. Shoppers everywhere with carts stacked high, kids trailing behind moms looking bored, staff scrambling to put out more stock.
Starting the Digging
Decided to just wander and see what jumped out. Headed straight for the home goods section ‘cause my lamp idea was still stuck in my head. Aisles were crammed, shelves kinda messy like someone had a fight with the merchandise. Saw piles of:
- Throw pillows – tons of these, chevron patterns mostly, bright colors flying off the racks faster than staff could refill ‘em.
- Kitchen gadgets – silicone muffin trays, big plastic mixing bowls, stacks of plates. People were grabbing these like they were giving ‘em away.
- Cheesy wall art – you know the type, “Live Laugh Love” stuff? Yeah, boxes everywhere, but folks were snatching ‘em up quick.
Moved over towards clothes next. Racks tight together, had to kinda shuffle sideways. Tried flipping through some men’s polo shirts, but sizes were all mixed up – found an XL, then a Small, then nothing but empty hangers. Grumbled to myself, “Typical Ross.” Noticed packs of plain cotton tees flying out though – folks grabbing multiple packs at once.
Spotting the “Hot” Stuff
Took a breather near the shoe section, leaning against a pillar. Watched people moving past. Really paid attention to what was in carts most often. Besides the pillows and tees? Noticed:
- Kids’ sneakers – saw at least three carts loaded with ‘em. Bright colors, cheap prices.
- Beach towels – big stacks near the front, picked over fast. Folks heading towards the coast grabbing armfuls.
- Body wash sets – fancy bottles bundled up with lotions near checkout. People tossing ‘em in without even looking at scents.
Wondered if I should grab a towel myself, but nah. Instead, eyeballed a decent little ceramic table lamp tucked away in a clearance corner. Almost missed it behind a stack of blenders.
Wrapping Up
Took my time deciding on that lamp. Checked the plug, the base for chips – seemed okay. Made my way up front. Line for checkout snaked halfway through kids’ toys. Stood there shifting weight from foot to foot, listening to conversations around me. Heard “great price on towels” from the lady behind me and another grumbling “couldn’t find my size anywhere.” Took about twenty minutes just to pay. Felt the ache in my feet as I finally walked back out into the heat, lamp in hand. Didn’t find my dream shirt, but left knowing exactly what that store’s big draws are right now. Simple, cheap, kinda chaotic shopping – just like always.
