I am participating in the March Slice of Life Story Challenge. Thanks to the co-authors of Two Writing Teachers for creating this supportive community.
I shop at several different grocery stores depending on what I need, where I am, and sometimes the time of day. Each has its pros and cons. The one closest to me is not my favorite, but it’s fine, especially if I want to get in and out in a hurry. That is, of course, if I can find a place to park. This particular grocery store is in a very busy shopping center where there are many eateries and small businesses whose customers all vie for the best parking spaces. So you can understand my frustration yesterday when I was continually blocked from parking by a reserved sign! This particular store seems to boast quite a few that you don’t even notice until you have already pulled in!
I totally understand parking spaces that are reserved for people with physical disabilities. When I had knee surgery last year I had a temporary permit which helped tremendously. I’ve come to accept spaces reserved for “Expectant Mothers” and “Customers with Small Children.” They weren’t around when I was eligible to use them, but I know I certainly would have appreciated them. But it’s the other reserved spaces that I just don’t always get. Associate of the Month? Employee of the Year? I’m sure these people would gladly give up their spot to make a customer happy. After all, good customer service is probably how they earned the title in the first place.
How about reserved spaces for:
Grandmothers
Parents With Teenagers (they have enough stress)
Preschool Teachers (or teachers in general)
Surgeons (surely they need to get in and out quickly)
Cars with Dogs
People Who Love Books
Customers Buying 10 Items or Less
We are all special in some way and we all deserve a good place to park.
Imagine the Possibilities 
I can relate! And so many of the reserved spots sit carless while the ‘regular’ people have to walk what feels like miles when carrying lots of groceries or pushing a cart thru the rain. And doesn’t always seem like there’s no convenient place to park on the days when you’re crunched for time? Thanks for your post!
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Oh, gosh, I am going to share your post with Ralph. He gets totally frustrated by parking lots – movie, markets, school – he hates trying to find a spot when the lot is crowded. I love your addition to the reserved spots. I could add “People Who Have Had a Very Bad Day” and “People Who Will Write a Bad Review of Your Store If They Do Not Get a Good Parking Spot.” I laughed out loud, Rosie. Great post!
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Ha.. this is great. I would add a parking spots for People that have company for dinner and need a last minute item. Thanks for the chuckle this morning.
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Living where we do I don’t usually have a problem finding a parking spot. I like your list of other possible reserved parking spots, Rose. I am all for a spot reserved for people who have pets.
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Great parking suggestions! This is a frustrating thing for many, no doubt. My current peeve is that so many close spaces are reserved at our grocery for online shoppers to come and pick up their purchases. This is a convenience only for the employees, because the shoppers never leave their cars. I am not opposed to online shoppers, just don’t give them all the good spaces.
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Thanks for sharing. It sounds like an excellent (persuasive) writing prompt: Why do you deserve the best spot?
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Preach! Unless someone has a legit handicap sign for use in that spot, all bets are off. I’m not above parking in the carry out space at Olive Garden or any of the other special spots. That’s how I roll.
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Haha! I’d take a “Hates Shopping” spot anytime.
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Oh, and I use the expectant mother space when I’m alone with my toddler and preschooler. I’m sorry, but getting shopping and two small kids kids in and out of carseats requires space and is a lot harder than when they were in my belly. Just my opinion. Haha!
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