Ikea Adventure

I rarely shop at Ikea but, every time I do, I quickly remember why that is. Sweden is one of the countries I haven't been to yet but, if it's run anything like their famous stores, it won't be near the top of my list...

My biggest problem with them is how they force you to go through every single section of the store, regardless of what it is you want. There are occasional “shortcuts”from one department to another, but I still never seem to be able to get where I'm trying to go.

And then there's the matter of how they classify certain items. I went there today to pick up some cups and saucers for a couple of gift baskets I'm making up for a silent auction for the Wildlife Center's fundraiser later this month. Silly me, I went looking for them in the Kitchen and Dining area. But, no, they're located in the clear-as-mud-named department, The Marketplace. Along with candles, baskets, planters, and pet-related merchandise—I can certainly see the similarities there!

Of course, my frustration didn't prevent me from picking up a few things while I was there (including the items I'd actually gone for). My favourite item was a complete impulse buy. It's a soft, fuzzy cat cushion and I just had to have it because it looks exactly like Tabitha, one of my own cats! I mean, check out these pics and tell me they couldn't have been separated at birth... :)

Okay, well maybe that's a bit of an exaggeration. BUT... I wasn't the only one who noticed the similarities. Upon seeing the new “addition,” to the family, both of my girls were VERY tentative in checking it out. It was quite hilarious watching them tiptoe forward and back, circling it cautiously, quite prepared to make a hasty retreat if need be. (Note to self: This is why you should always keep your video camera handy!)

So. Sweden. Well, I guess if they produced Bjorn Borg, they can't be all bad. :)

Blog of the Day

Leah Ingram is an author, spokesperson, and gift and etiquette expert. Last year, after she and her family moved into their dream house, they embarked on a mission to find ways to “live green and save green.” She now blogs about their experiences, sharing lots of useful advice along the way, at The Lean Green Family.

Comments

[Anne]

I LOVE the cushion! At first when I glanced down and saw the photos, I thought you had used the "Goo" plugin on Photoshop! LOL!

P.S. I've been to Sweden and I loved it! I think you would too. Don't worry, there are no arrows on the ground to follow. ha ha!!

[Elizabeth]

Don't get me started on Photoshop! :)

Yeah, it does kind of look like she's melted on the chair. You can't tell from this angle, but the cushion also has a tail. It actually startles me when I catch it in the corner of my eye sometimes.