18 Months

18 months is the gestation period of some species of whales.  18 months is the maximum COBRA continuation period.  18 months is the length of the Executive MBA program at JOHNS HOPKINS.  Apparently, 18 months is also the period of time necessary for me to no longer recall the consequences of my previous foray to WALMART.  If you care to enjoy the details of that fiasco they can be found in this blog.  The post is dated Sept. 17, 2011.

However, let me share my current experience with you.

In March of this year I was in the market for a new camp stove.  I did my research both on line and at brick and mortar locations of several different venues.  I decided the best value was a dual fuel, 2 burner, Coleman stove available on line and at their store.  The description of this product, which I do recommend, was incomplete.  Therefore I asked Walmart, via email, what was the capacity of the fuel tank for this item. 

On May 7 this year I received a response to my question.  Fortunately, I had waited for the response to make my decision regarding my purchase.  In large, bold print the response claimed, 

Your question has been answered! 

But wait, there's more.  According to their response:

 

Great news! VivaLaWally has answered your question. Ask, and the community shall provide.

 

Well, certainly not a timely response but what did VivaLaWally have to say?  I was not amused when I was referred to the product description which had necessitated my original question.  So, it took 2 months for them to fail to answer my question.  At least until the time I received a response I could believe someone was diligently researching my query.   True, I may have been deluding myself, but I prefer to think I just have a generous spirit.

 

At this rate I figure I will probably have another comment about Walmart in November of 2014.  I look forward to sharing it with you then.