Moscow consignment store stocks retro threads

A day well spent is often a day well adventured. In this same endeavoring spirit, Rylie and I thought it might be wise to hop on the Wheatland Express and explore Moscow once more, so we met up in the morning and got on the bus just in time to leave Pullman.

Because our stomachs were getting the best of us, we made an unplanned stop at Moscow Bagel on Main Street to refuel before continuing our browse of the city.

Upon being greeted by the aromas of steamed bagel concoctions and fresh ingredients, my thoughts were consumed by the prospect of an "Egg McMahon" feast, loaded-up with scrambled egg, sausage and choice American cheese -- all sandwiched on an everything bagel.

When we went to check-out, one of the guys working there asked me where I procured my ancient Wrangler western shirt. He asked if I made the purchase at The Storm Cellar, as he thought he'd seen the shirt there recently. I politely replied that I had found it at a second-hand store in Walla Walla over the break...but "Storm Cellar? What's that?" I asked. The employee told me that it was a consignment store and to go and check it out. Located near Sister's Brew, it wasn't more than a 70-80 second stroll away, so Rylie and I made the small trek.

When I first set foot in there, I was greatly blown-away. Maybe it was the fact that everything I ever look for in a reasonable thrift store was all that was available there and in good stock and condition, or possibly it was how clean and orderly the store was, but overall I made an instant connection with the store. Imagine the best finds you've ever uncovered in a second-hand store or consignment store. Now imagine that all of those finds were centrally located in one store -- a store featuring hand-chosen items that are all worthy of garnering your attention. Maybe it's odd to compare a consignment store to an album, but The Storm Cellar is basically the 'greatest hits album' of second-hand stores without a doubt.

And, to complete that thought, just as I had picked out the shirt I was wearing in second-hand store as one picks out a diamond in the rough, I found what was basically the cousin to what I was wearing (a quick peak to the right in this photo might explain that one a bit better.) Point proven, I think. This store basically has it all -- Vintage SLR cameras, folk instruments, retro house-ware type stuff, hats, shoes, boots, local goods and crafts, and other desirables. If you get a chance, stop in there. The prices are really affordable and the amazing finds are abounding.

After taking it all in, Rylie and I headed over to Sister's Brew to sit, relax and drink coffee. Nothing beats unwinding from a week than chilling in a coffee shop on a rainy afternoon with good coffee and good conversation. Overall, the trip was good and an ideal, fun and inexpensive way to spend a Friday.

A Commuter's Perspective

When the stress of school begins to set in and the idea of spending nearly every waking minute on campus seems to be less of a threat and more of a reality, the best remedy to this dilemma can be found none other than in a quick trip out of town—specifically to Moscow and, of course, when the chance opportunity arises. Fortunately for WSU and U of I students, accessing free transportation to and from Moscow/Pullman is as easy as simply waiting for the bus with student ID card in hand.

The Wheatland Express offers commuter transportation between Moscow and Pullman; it’s free fare, part of the transit fee paid before the start of each semester. With several stops in Pullman and more than a few on the U of I campus, the Wheatland Express is both a resource for those looking to be commuters and those looking to find a free ride and a potential means of adventuring across the border.

Maybe it's the draw of being able to lounge on the way to an afternoon of strolling through a scenic downtown, or just the prospect of not paying to get to Moscow and having a full day to spend doing unplanned activities that is the attraction of riding the bus. If you're interested in being random, enjoying a day outside Pullman or maybe just both, the Wheatland Express is certainly a recommended option for getting you there. Few things come as close in satisfaction to good traveling than riding a free transit with good company and the intention of having enough fun to fill a couple of days, and all the while not breaking the bank.

You can catch the Wheatland Express commuter bus Monday through Friday, with the exception of on holidays. To learn more, visit http://www.wheatlandexpress.com/commuterbus.html for information about stop times and places.