Day 125: Lamenting Over Pechin's

"For those of you who have never been to Pechin's Market in Dunbar, PA, you really owe it to yourself to check it out. It not like any store you've ever been in.  I remember going with my mom back in the 70's. We went twice a month.  We would fill two carts. Or as my mom called them "buggies."  The front of the store had a cement floor. In the back, at the meat department, the floor was of wood. On a rainy day there would be buckets sitting around to catch the rain as it entered through the roof. I can remember that there was this man who pulled a meat wagon to the meat department. And the women would be grabbing meat off it as he pulled it.  Food was very cheap at that store. It still is. After we checked out, getting to our car was a trip dodging cars and the dips, bumps, and potholes in the parking lot. One time my mom almost spilt her whole cart in a pothole. Also I forgot to say, that the store is right next to a train track. When a train would go by, you could feel the vibration in the store. Also treat yourself to the cafeteria. Its not the cleanest looking place, but you can't beat the prices. The last time I was there, the hamburgers were 19 cents, a cup of coffee was 5 cents..."  --Source: Review from  http://www.connellsville.com/guest/page11.php

THIS is the story of my life growing up in Western Pennsylvania. 

While I didn't write it, it's exactly as I remember: bucket filled aisles, holes in the floor, women fighting over pork chops. To beat the rush, my Mom would plant me near the swinging door that led to the butcher's area. "When you see the meat wagon, get in there and grab," she'd coach.  My assignment?  Get the T-Bones; I was very good at my job.  My reward?  Unlimited fried dough from the humble cafeteria.

Being raised that way taught me a few things about life: to be less fussy, to value a good deal, to appreciate the hunt, to reward myself with sugar.  What I never learned, and what I am struggling to learn now, is to value QUALITY; including wholesome/nourishing foods that are going to fuel my body.

As I added up this month's grocery bills, I cried when I saw the final total:

-$600 at Whole Foods
-$200 at Publix
-$150 in supplements

It goes against everything I was raised to believe in (ie: cheaper is better, more is more, reward yourself--you deserve it).

It's tough business getting well:  eating right and struggling internally. I miss my health, but I also miss those elephant ears.  Or, better put....I miss simpler days...especially those filled with roof leaks, crowded parking lots, and potholes.

Altered Today: Realizing how much being sick is actually costing me.

Comments

[Joe Peters]

OMG Kathy --- I remember Pechin's too. Just last summer my sister & I were explaining it to her neighbors. We laughed & laughed --- everything you described is on point --- but I think there was a bridge too that when over a creek IN THE STORE! Beside the grocery store --- wasn't there a store with cheap shoes / golf clubs too? Crazy!!

I have been following your blog --- I love you so much. Western PA made us friends --- a friendship I hold very dear to my heart. If you ever need to get away --- you are welcome here anytime!!!

Thanks for making me smile today.

Love you,
Joe Peters

[Kathy Tagudin]

Funny the stuff you appreciate when you grow up. Are we getting old? Love you buddy...almost as much as Ice Castles, The Dairy Barn, Midget Football games, Ms. Pac Man, and McDonalds Soft Serve.

[Alan]

Hi Kathy!

I want to say that your blog is addictive and is inspiring me to think about writing my own - not sure what I'd say, but I'm sure it would come to me. I've spent several hours today trying to catch up, and I almost fell off my seat when I got to this post. Only a few hours ago, I was telling Cara and some friends today about Pechin's and the fun we used to have going there. Especially the time we embarrassed your mom! :)

I'm off to read some more...

Love ya,
Alan

[Alter Everything]

LOL Alan...Are you gonna feed me tonight, Mamma??? I was thinking of you when I wrote this. Thanks for reading. Miss you and hope that you are well.