Costco, Self-Image, and Body-Shaming: some thoughts

First off, Costco within walking distance - HOORAY!  So yesterday, Stephen and I did the long, walking-and-sampling lunch at our local Costco, and since we were really only out for the walk, we did not SHOP.  Well, er, we SHOPPED, in that we made mental notes of pricing on particular items, like the BOGO on Finish dishwasher tabs that was to end today ($14.49 for 220 total washes - that's like running the full dishwasher four times every week and only spending a quarter on detergent each week, for a year!), and the 1.5 pound package of Kerrygold grass-fed butter for $6.99, among other things.  Now, you may argue that the butter is expensive, and you'd be right, if you're comparing it to standard store-brand butter.  But if you've ever tried grass-fed beef, or grass-fed dairy, you'll understand one's need to stick to grass-fed.  So. Good.

Ennyhoo, while we were on our walk yesterday, Stephen pointed out that WALKING to our local Costco takes less time than it took to DRIVE in NC.  Today, I tested whether check-out time was a factor in driving vs. driving.  Since I needed to BUY things today (like that BOGO on dishwasher tabs), I timed how long my trip took.  I left the apartment driveway at 11:30 and arrived at Costco before most of the walking-and-sampling lunch stations had even set up, so I wandered the store for more SHOPPING - looking at things like booze and swimsuits - knowing that I'd pick up the intend-to-purchase items once I'd started my "lunch."  The entire trip, from driveway to driveway, including parking, leisurely shopping-and-snacking, and checking out, took 1 hour and 10 minutes.  If you're playing along at home, that's ten minutes less than just driving the round-trip in NC.  Woo Hoo!  We're Home!

Before I left the house, I determined that, since today is the official "end of summer" and with Labor Day tomorrow meaning "no more white until Easter," I would wear the cutest white top I own.  Upon donning it, I realized I'd need to cover my lower waist with jeans, because there's just a little more "pudge" around my middle than I'm willing to expose in anything other than a swimsuit.

Also, be sure to walk through the store with arms covering waist,
or at least push a shopping cart to "hide" behind.

Once in the store and snacking, I went to rescue the aforementioned dishwasher tabs, and I was eating a delicious broccoli salad while hiding behind my cart.  There was an oldish girl (or youngish lady) at the end of the aisle, and as our eyes met, I could feel disdain.  I determined to "hide better" behind my cart.

But LATER, at the gourmet cheeses station, there she was again, and we were having a delightful conversation about how easy it was to eat the marinated mozzarella buttons, and that that is what made them a dangerous purchase, etc. ... and she complimented me.  She had sized me up, earlier, and the disdain I felt coming from her stink-eye was, in fact, self-loathing.  What she said to me at the cheese demo was something along the lines of "I was admiring how cute you look.  I have a ways to go, etc." while indicating her dark, blousy top that was hiding her own body-shame.  I thanked her many times for making me feel so good, and because I refuse to return a compliment with a compliment, I neglected to boost her self-esteem in any way.  I regret that.  I should have said something like "not as far as you think" or "you'll get there" but I didn't.  I'm sorry, Young Lady.  You helped me up a notch in my self-esteem, and I did not reciprocate.  You look great.  You really do.  I wish I had said so.

Love me some Costco.  Have a pretty good self-image, most of the time.  Trying to be better about not body-shaming anyone.

Stand like a dancer.  Look like a dancer.  Feel like a dancer.
¡BAILE!

Your thoughts?