Trader Joe’s, Welcome Home

Trader Joe’s has opened a location in my city. After years of smuggling various nut butters and assorted treats home from other cities with a TJ’s, I can grab some Three-Layer Hummus on my way to my local Target. I’m a happy, happy gal.

I stopped in the day after it opened and was thrilled to hear all the positive buzz. Sure, it was crowded—it had just opened, after all—but despite having to play a bit of Frogger to get through the aisles, people were overwhelmingly happy. I caught snippets here and there of people saying how happy they were that the store had finally opened and sharing tips for their must-buy items.

As I filled my cart with fabulous foods and treats, the FBG in me got to thinking. I mean, of course I’m super excited about the produce section and Greek yogurt and nicely priced raw almonds and all the great deals on seafood, but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t just as excited about a lot of the not-so-healthy options. I mean, have you tried the White Cheddar Puffs? They’re like Pirate’s Booty, but in a much bigger bag. And the Cookie Butter? And the dark chocolate covered almonds with sea salt? And all that cheese? I picked up a wedge of Gouda with wasabi. WASABI, people.

What I’m curious to know is whether having a TJ’s in close proximity is going to be good or bad for my “all things in moderation” goals. It’s far enough away that it won’t be my regular grocery store, but I’m sure I’ll be over there every week or two, at least for starters. Will the novelty of having some of those treats so readily available wear off? Or am I going to have to be really, really careful about my shopping trips there?

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this, particularly if you, like me, are really drawn to some of the snacky foods at TJ’s. Did you find it challenging to avoid stocking up on junk foods? Did you do anything specific to buy—and eat—those items in moderation? —Kristen