Could it be that I traditionally only buy those "frequently purchased" ingredients that take up the middle real estate? After all, I don't recall stooping very often, even if I do find myself on my tip-toes more than the average person. But never had I completely been unable to at least touch my object of desire.

Or maybe this store suddenly added a new shelf up high. That's the ticket. Perhaps they felt threatened by the new store in town, so wanted to carry more.

I used my sunglasses to swipe down some color-catcher wipes. But the other thing I really wanted was garbage disposal cleaner. The packages were neatly arranged in a box way up high.

Had the packages been outside their box, I could have used my sunglasses trick. But I didn't want to risk pulling the entire box down. That would make quite a scene.

I looked around to see if there was anyone who could help, and yet I really didn't want to rely on someone else.

I hate the "May we help you, ma'am?" queries that are intended to be... well... helpful, but just make me feel inadequate.

But in this case, I was inadequate.

I wasn't going to actively search for an employee or fellow shopper, so I tried a few more times to nudge the box. Perhaps someone will see me and offer assistance?

But my pride won out. I was too shy to ask for help, and so I went home without the cleaner.

Perhaps next time I'll bring an umbrella or a back-scratcher.