Nostalgic Places, Gifts To Share During Holidays - Christmas Flowers Mexico

In last week’s Savvy Shopper article, I listed some places and products to trigger an appreciation of the past and how far we have come in some areas. Among many possibilities, I thought I would offer a few more with christmas flowers mexico in mind. Since many are traveling and shopping during this time, nostalgic destinations and gifts offer unique ways to enjoy this time of year with family and friends

Theaters

In another era, theaters were designed to mirror the glamour of the movies they showed. With financial pressures ushered in by television and movie rentals, theaters have slowly transitioned into highly functional multiplexes with minimal grandeur. While most old theaters are torn down or no longer used to show movies, there are a few exceptions. The National Theater (http://www.nationaltheatreofgraham.com/) in Graham and the Paramount (http://paramount-abilene.org/) in Abilene are two traditional theaters and are restored to their original condition.

Soft Drinks

Back in the day, Cokes were served in glass bottles. The fact that glass does nothing to interfere with drink flavor makes it taste best. Coke in glass bottles is available at many grocery stores and Cracker Barrel restaurants. For maximum authenticity, avoid Cokes from Mexico. They are formulated with more sugar and less carbonation than the American version.

To learn some history you may not want to repeat, try Tab. In case you haven’t heard of it, Tab was one of the first diet soft drinks. Even with the introduction of drinks like Diet Coke, a loyal fan base has kept Tab on the shelves at select retailers like United. In addition, aside from a tweaking of sweeteners, the formula is the same (or close to it). Although it isn’t very good, I believe experiencing a valley can bring an appreciation for a peak.

Stuckey’s

Anyone who traveled on an interstate in the 1960s and 70s should remember Stuckey’s. Up until the mid-70s, gas stations sold fuel and performed repairs. Although most stations had a vending machine, it always struck me as something that station owners tolerated more than wanted. If it weren’t for Stuckey’s, a traveler who wanted quick refreshment would have had highly limited choices. Actually started in the 1930s in Georgia, these stores served as a precursor to the travel centers we see everywhere today. Although it is difficult to describe, they were a convenience/fast food/souvenir/fuel establishment. On top of that, they served renowned pecan rolls. By the 1980s, these stores largely disappeared. However, there is a Stuckey’s in west Texas, a well preserved example of what they were like in previous eras. On Interstate 40, you can find it at Exit 18 in Adrian.

Internet Wayback

Machine

Is there an Internet site you remember that is long gone? All is not lost! There is a good chance the Internet Wayback Machine (www.archive.org) can take you back. If you remember the address, enter in the search function, and it may just show up.

Vinyl Records

In the 1980s, there was a T-shirt with the caption “Stop Digital Madness!”. At the time, I was sympathetic to the message because it seemed like the rampant digitization happening everywhere was overkill. Fortunately, the T-shirt failed in its mission, and we can reap the benefits in photography, music, and other media. Nevertheless, I suspect that there are some (like me) who still have a soft spot for the vinyl records (LPs) predating MP3s. Although LPs have made a slight comeback among audiophiles, they can be hard to find. One exception to this is The Record Shop in Big Spring. If you want to see and select from a variety of unused vinyl records, this is a good place. Call ahead to verify business hours (432-267-7501).

Retail

In an economic sector where consolidation and centralization rule, there are holdouts who exhibit the best qualities of “Mom and Pop” including service, knowledge and dedication. An example of this is Davis Furniture & Hardware in Lamesa. This 85-year-old family-run business sells hardware, plumbing and electrical supplies. In addition, they are known for stocking the hard to find products. If there is an item you have been looking for but haven’t found, your search may be over!

Ultimately, I hope you can enjoy at least a few of the things detailed in the past two articles. All are available in Lubbock or in West Texas. I also hope that readers will let us all in on similar treasures that may be unknown to most of us.

If you have tips on such things or other ways to connect with our history, please visit our Facebook site (Log on to Facebook and enter “Lubbock Savvy Shopper” in the search tool) or write us at SavvyShoppers@lubbockonline.com and let us hear about it. Our community keeps growing and we are hearing great things. Don’t miss out  christmas flowers mexico blogs !

SEAN FIELDS is one of The A-J’s Savvy Shoppers. Read his columns Wednesdays, and catch Rachel Hardy on Sunday.