Michelle K.

Woodmere Elementary School

My daughter is finishing up kindergarten here. She loves it. The classes seem decent-sized, there's lots of teachers and teacher aides to help out...too bad it's on the closure list.

Eco Car Wash

I usually go to the one on 82nd near Holgate. $3 car wash, or you can splurge and pay for the more expensive one and get a "free" vacuum token. Vacuums always work, car is always clean.

Art Media Inc

This store has some high-end, expensive stuff, of course, being a specialty art supply store. But they also give you some excellent ideas, and a very wide selection

PROS: selection
CONS: prices

Linwood Animal Clinic

I was very impressed witth their customer service, or should I say bedside manner? Very straightforward, caring, and informational. My dog is 13, and I have to say, this is the best veterinary experience I've had (and maybe he'd agree!)

PROS: friendly, straightforward
CONS:

Learning Palace

This is a great store for teachers, parents, or anyone who loves kids. They've got great posters, books, educational toys, art supplies, stickers, small incentives...I could spend hours looking around!

Peanut Butter & Ellie's

This restaurant is excellent. Very child-friendly, and a great place to go with your children. Don't expect a quiet, calm, or relaxing atmosphere. It's always been busy and raucous.

Powell S Books

This place is AMAZING. I'm sure everyone already knows all about it, but if there's a book you want, go to Powells. Hey, if there isn't a book you want, you'll find several here. There's no way to leave without spending way too much money, so be prepared!

Mr Plywood

My husband absolutely loves this place, and I'm fairly sure that we go at least 3 times a month. They have the best plywood prices and selection in town. Paneling of all colors and styles (really), foam board, lauan, baltic birch, oak, all sorts of trim and a decent selection of related building supplies. If you're building a fence, you have to check their prices out first.

WalMart

I beg my husband to come along just to block for me. So, the employees are no happier to be there, and the store is quickly ending up worn out like the other one down the street. But I can't stay away! I love Wal-mart, but please don't tell anyone. I know that it's not politically-correct, but I go back for the prices and the huge selection. I don't expect to get great customer service, I don't expect the other customers to avoid me with their carts, and with such low expectations, it's hard to go wrong.

Finnegan's Toys & Gifts

This is the greatest toy store. Sort of the "anti-chain" store, if you know what I mean? So many fun discoveries, and you seem to be welcomed to explore with so many of the toys...makes the trip downtown worthwhile for my kids!