The Container Store

What a great store - everything you could imagine to get yourself and your home organized. They've got a million types of storage boxes and bins, that range from your plain cardboard box to leather, suede, plastic, and cloth covered. There is travel gear, kitchen and closet organizing stuff, shelving, you name it. With so many attractive and ingenious items, it's very hard to walk out without something you didn't even realize you needed. I love the store because it seems like anything I buy there and put into my daily routine can get me ready and out the door just a few seconds faster - and it all adds up. The staff is super-friendly and helpful, even advising you where you might find the rare item they do not carry. My only complaint is that at checkout it's frustrating to always be asked my telephone number. When I tell them I don't give it out (this is the age of identity theft, after all) I always get the same rehearsed speech about how they don't use it to call their customers, just to identify them ... I get tired of hearing it and having to defend my choice to not give it out. Still - a small price to pay for great service at a great store.

I was so thrilled when this store went up. I am not an organization and storage fanatic, but I'd like things to be neat and tidy...unfortunately that doesn't always happen. I need to shop here more. I bought some great "take out" containers that acted as holiday gifts filled with home made cookies. I also found some great things to use for gift containers. They have some great storage options to the local box stores. Give them a try.