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Are You Ready for the #TargetChallenge?
Hey there, fellow moms! So, let’s talk about something we can all relate to: Target. I’m just like you—a Gen-X working mom juggling two kids and life in general. And while I might not be able to bend like I used to, I’m diving headfirst into a new challenge that speaks to us moms who have a little too much love for that red bullseye.
I’m calling it the #TargetChallenge. Here’s the deal: I adore Target, and I know I’m not alone. I mean, who hasn’t spent a lunch break wandering the aisles, cart overflowing? But things took a turn when I got a REDcard to “support my school.” Huge mistake. It led me to where I am today—lost in the aisles of Target way too often.
So, I decided it was time to take back control. Armed with a car full of returns, I summoned all the willpower I could muster for what seemed like a simple task: make my returns and leave without adding to my collection. I steeled myself to not peek at the dollar section, and I avoided the jewelry aisle like the plague. I even took comfort in the thought that the home decor section was far, far away—thank goodness for that!
As I parked, I mentally prepared for this mission. I grabbed an empty cart and headed inside with my bag full of returns: a puddle jumper my daughter never wore, a mason jar I impulsively bought, an American flag shirt my son skipped on the Fourth, a too-big tank top, an Orla Kiely yoga bag I don’t even use, and two adorable Threshold throw pillows that I couldn’t sneak into the house without my husband noticing.
In line, I caught myself daydreaming about the cute floral lamp I had seen the week before. Then, I spotted a charming chevron ottoman on the return counter. It looked a bit off-balance, but I resisted the urge to inquire about it. Just look away, Kerri. Just look away.
Finally, it was my turn, and the cashier started ringing up my returns. I couldn’t believe how much I had spent! She commented on how cute my pillows were, and I thought, “Am I crazy for giving those up?” Yes, apparently I am. When she mentioned the new Threshold lamps that had just come in, I nodded politely, even though I hadn’t seen them. Should I go check? Nah, I better not.
She offered me a gift card instead of cash, but I turned it down. I was on a mission! I received my return receipt, and just like that, I felt a wave of relief wash over me. Despite the aroma of Starbucks wafting from my left and the sight of new striped notebooks to my right, I pushed my empty cart aside and walked out feeling like a free woman.
I even did a little happy dance in my head (it went something like this: “No bags, no cart, no bags, no cart”). With my limbs unencumbered, I quickly made my way to my car. There it was, right where I left it! Only four minutes had passed since I entered.
On my way out, I noticed another mom struggling with her trunk full of pillows and a cute suitcase covered in little cars. It was clear she was overwhelmed. I shot her a supportive smile, reminiscing about my own past struggles. But we don’t have to live that way.
So, all you moms out there, I challenge you to take the #TargetChallenge. Snap a pic of your empty cart and your smiling face, and share it with the hashtag. Go in, go out, and get on with your life. The choice is yours!
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In summary, the #TargetChallenge is all about reclaiming your time and sanity by resisting the urge to shop. Join me on this journey, and let’s show Target that we can walk out with our heads held high and our carts empty!