I should have known...

I have a tendency to get lost in places I am unfamiliar with
(that's why I usually study a map before I visit a new place).
I once got lost on the circular road that goes around the Paradise Valley Mall in Phoenix .
A lot of visual stimulation can give me a headache.

While the IKEA in Draper has been there for probably 2 years I had yet to visit it.
That was until yesterday.

I was going to Salt Lake anyway and I've had a list of things I need to get at IKEA so I figured I'd run in on my way home and pick them up.
(Why are you laughing at me?)

I'd been to IKEA in Sacramento with Amy last summer.
We strolled through the store, enjoyed the displays and ideas...
all in all an enjoyable afternoon.

I was prepared.
I knew what I wanted.
I got online, wrote down the aisle and bin numbers of the things I needed - of course there were a few small things that didn't include isle and bin numbers...

I was limited on time so I walked in the front door and straight to the information lady. I showed her my list and she smiled, complimented me on my necklace, gave me a map and instructions.
(The last part made me a little nervous.)

I was relieved that I didn't need to walk through the whole showroom to procure my items.
I squared my shoulders, when through the double doors as instructed and stood there - hmmmm this looks like the showroom only on a little smaller scale...
cool dishes... I wonder if they have that print in red...
placemats... maybe they have something cool I could use for a runner like Kirsten did...

NO NO NO!!!!
FOCUS!!

Find a cart... yes... good... there they are...

Now where was that short cut she told me about...
Where is my map...
Where am I on the map?

Well, needless to say, I did make it out of the store...
eventually
(bless the person who suggested they paint arrows on the floor otherwise I may still be there... good thing they sell food too)

I even found what I needed... eventually
and a few things that were not on my list but that were also needed,
wanted, useful... whatever!

One more thing I forgot about.
How to get my purchases into the car...

Luckily a nice man took pity on me and helped me load my car.
(It seems it's easier to find someone to help you
in Home Depot than at Ikea.)

I am happy with my purchases.
I'll post pictures as soon as I find my camera
and take a nap...