Yesterday, I decided to take a little adventure down memory lane — straight to Sam’s Club. I saw an ad for 50% off senior memberships, and since I’m well past the qualifying age (thank you very much), I couldn’t pass up the deal. $25 for a membership? Yes, please. I even got a card for Ken. He’s already a Costco Club member through his daughter, but I figured it was time to give Sam’s a spin — especially since I used to be a loyal member back when I lived in California.

First impressions: the building here is a bit smaller than what I remembered from the old days, but still packed with all the necessary goodies. We wandered happily up and down the aisles just window shopping — that is, until we hit the food section. That’s where all restraint went right out the automatic sliding doors.

We got a sample of these chocolate caramel candy squares — you know the ones — with a gooey center that pretty much melts into happiness. The gal handing out samples had a little jingle she sang about them, and dang it if I can remember how it went, but it was catchy enough to stick with me just long enough to get those treats into my cart. They came home with me, of course. Resistance is futile when caramel is involved.

What really surprised me was how calm and uncrowded it was. Tons of parking outside, and room to actually read product labels inside without bumping elbows. Even checkout was a breeze — no long lines, no chaos. We figured maybe it’s because the Snowbirds have flown back to their home states, but honestly, this Sam’s isn’t in a typical Snowbird area. I guess we’ll find out come fall whether that theory holds water.

And let’s not forget the highlight: the chocolate muffins. Yes, Costco has them too, but I swear the ones at Sam’s just have a little extra magic. Maybe it’s nostalgia. Maybe it’s chocolate. Either way, I’m smitten.

In the end, Ken spent $136, and I clocked in at $99 — not bad for a day of spontaneous shopping, tasty samples, and reliving my California Sam’s days. So far, this membership is off to a sweet start — literally.

Stay tuned for the fall update… and maybe a few more muffin reviews.

Where do you like to shop and why?

Eydie