Dear Publix,

Dear Publix,
Thank you so much for being a nice grocery store. I truly appreciate the fact that I can take my children there and they actually have fun (I don't kill them and they don't kill each other), nice people talk to them (not scary people that could possibly be on a wanted list) and I don't feel like they are being exposed to a plethora of germs (thanks to your antibacterial wipes in the front of the store). Oh, and I can get some grocery shopping done. Our Publix (Moutain Cove Crossing in Huntsville, AL) is out of our way- it was closer to our old house- but we drive the extra 2.5 miles to go there because they are the best in town (and I know where stuff is and my prescriptions are already there). It's a new-ish store, so that helps, too.

My experience at the grocery store yesterday was superb. We arrived to find new carts for kiddos where 2 children can face the front (vs. stare at me the whole time while I try to entertain them AND find the lowest priced olive oil) and "drive" as we go up and down each aisle (right to left like you're supposed to do it).

They got free cookies (I ate one for Henry), which distracted them long enough (through produce and bread) until we got to the free balloons. The balloons entertained them through the rest of the store (until they both- BOTH- lost theirs at the end of the trip- even though they were both tied to weights). The appeal of the new cart (with 2 levels for groceries/ stuff) cannot go unnoticed- a really great cart.

I also would like to commend you on a wide store-brand organic selection, hiring baggers with special needs, a great meat selection, the 2 for 1 deals that change every week and doubling coupons every day. Over and above all else, taking the groceries to the car is one of the best perks of shopping at your store. I always have someone help me to my car when they ask and by the time I've got my child/ children in the car, they've unloaded the groceries. That's the main reason I keep coming back. And the above mentioned reasons, as well, but that puts you over the edge on the mom-o-meter.

So thanks, Publix. Grocery shopping is a little bit easier because of you. I HEART Publix.

P.S. I am fully expecting a response from you folks in Lakeland, FL. Since I used to work in the marketing department in a big national company, I know that you get lists every day of what has appeared online with your name in it. So, e-mail or comment here to let me know you hear me and thanks!