Helpless in Hancock

It’s not that I’ve ever wanted to know how a “fish out of water” feels, but that was the phrase that came to mind as I walked into Hancock Fabrics one day last week. I tend to stay out of such stores as they always make me feel woefully inadequate. However, searching for something we need for a Christmas project for our daughters drove me to throw my inferiority complex to the wind and enter unfamiliar territory.

All around me, smiling, creative-Cathy types strode confidently from department to department, carrying various tools of their trade, mostly mysterious objects to me. I was a wanderer, aimlessly searching the aisles for what I hoped to find. I was too intimidated to ask one of the cheerful, apron-clad workers for help. I could picture her look of disdain – or worse, pity – as she silently scoffed at my lack of expertise.

So before long, I headed for the exit empty-handed, briefly wondering why a fabric store carried giant bags of Tootsie Roll pops and Ghiradelli chocolate. I guess all that crafting can cause even the sanest person to need a chocolate fix.

Next stop? The Dollar Tree. Now that’s right up my alley.

photo courtesy public domain pictures