I’m sure by this time you may have been affected by the disruption in our country’s supply chain. If not, you could be affected, since the news media predicts shortages of toys, Christmas decorations, and turkeys for the upcoming holidays. Unfortunately these predictions often contribute to hoarding which increases the problem and perpetuates the cycle.
Even so, the shortages are real. Who is to blame for the problem? The crisis is a result of Covid-19 disruptions paired with an increased demand for goods. Yes, Covid-19. The gift that keeps on giving. (Or taking… depending on how you look at things.)
I need a new pair of athletic shoes. I like to try on shoes before I buy them, so I shopped at a local sporting goods store. I found a pair in my size, but I didn’t like the color. The salesperson checked the warehouse inventory and told me I was in luck. The warehouse had one pair in stock to fit my size in the color I wanted. I paid for the shoes at the checkout and was told to expect my delivery in two to seven days.
To my delight the package arrived in two days! I tore open the outer wrapping, eager to see my purchase. When I took the shoes out of the box, my excitement changed to shock. The left and right shoe were different sizes. On closer examination I realized size wasn’t the only issue. Each shoe was a different style. But I did get something I wanted. Both shoes were black and white.
The moral of the story: “If the shoes don’t match, don’t wear them.” The next day I returned the mismatched pair to the store.
The manager shook her head. “Someone sure made a big mistake.” She apologized and refunded my money. Consequently my search continues.
I admit for most of my life I’ve been spoiled by the abundance of material goods our wonderful supply chain has supplied. The supply chain crisis is something new to all of us. In the midst of everything, let’s try to not let our patience grow short as well.
How about you? Are you keeping your cool in the midst of the shortages? Leave a comment. You can cry on my shoulder. I don’t have all the answers, but I’m a good listener.
debbieburton.blog 
YIKES!! Two different sizes and two different styles!
In that same vein, I found a style of sneaker that I really like and determined the correct size (half size larger than dress shoes to allow for athletic socks). Fortunately, they are available on Amazon in a variety of color combinations. So now I order 2 – 3 pairs at a time in various colors so I’m ready to switch out when the current pair gets too worn. I discovered this during the height of covid shutdown when I needed new sneakers, but couldn’t go in store to try on lots of styles. Bingo! Hope they never discontinue this style. 🙂
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Smart idea, Mary. I won’t accuse you of hoarding, either. I finally found a pair of shoes today. Yay!
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