I wonder if it all started with fast food . . .

You want the works?   Try an apple pie?   Super size that?

I did a little shopping last week. I buy for the girls all the time, but this was a 'mommy' day (Thank you to my sweet hubby!) and I was really looking forward to it!
I didn't realize that being grilled for half an hour was now part of the sales girl routine!

After finding a couple of shirts at a favorite retail store, I went to the register to pay.
It started off with the normal checkout chitchat -
Did you find everything OK?
Yes, I did.
Can I help you find a pair of shoes to go with your blouse?
No, thank you.
Pleasant enough, I suppose, considering most customer service has gone the way of the Dodo.

Then it went on.

Do you have a blah blah charge card?
No.

And on.

Would you like to apply for a blah blah charge card?
No, thank you.
Are you sure? You get a 10 percent discount with approval!
I'm sure. No thank you.

Ad nauseum.

What is your phone number?
What is your zip code?
Would you like to receive our mailer?
Would you like to receive calls or emails about upcoming sales?
Would you like to donate 38 cents for breast cancer awareness - it will round out you're total to the nearest dollar amount!


I'd like my stuff in a bag please!!!

The grocery store wasn't much better!
Will that be cash or charge?
What is your zip code please?
Do you have a yada yada store card?
Would you like to sign up for a yada yada store card?
I couldn't help but notice that my few items were racking up a sum a bit higher than I expected.
I thought the items were the discounted price listed on the shelf tag?
Oh they are - if you have a store card!

Even the gas pump is in on it!
I swiped my debit card and prepared to pump my go juice.
Debit or credit? the screen asks with a beep.
Debit.
Enter your zip code please.
Seriously?!
Would you like to add a fuel injector cleaner with today's purchase?
A what?
Would you like to add a premium car wash with today's purchase?

Enough already! Believe it or not, what I got is what I want!
If I want more, I'll ask!

And of course I want fries with that!!!