I've got a bit of a love/hate relationship with REI.
You see, I really love this place. They've got great products. They have sales all the time on things which are already very fairly priced. They always have what I need. And I've become friends with a lot of the staff, because... well, they're just awesome people and I see them outside all the time, using and abusing the very gear that they're selling.
So why do I hate this place? Because I spend way too much money here. Seriously. I have to force myself to stay away. It's rare that I'll walk out of here spending less than $100. I see one thing that I need... then think of something else... then see another toy... and before I know it, I've forgotten what I originally came for and picked up 10 other things.
So I guess what it comes down to is, this place is almost too good for its own sake.