Ross Stores reported today that its earnings went up 40% in the second quarter, compared to the same time last year. Let me repeat that: 40%! That is outrageously high for a retailer in these tough times.

It follows my recent story about people who are strapped for cash are looking for bargains.

It also illustrates the effort people will make to get a discount. I always think of shopping at places like Ross, Marshalls or T.J. Maxx as a hunt. You know, digging through racks of dresses packed so tightly your arm muscles get a work out. Then there's dodging women in the shoe department who are hopping wildly on one foot in skinny aisles because there's so few places to sit (especially since Marshalls recently tripled the size of its shoe departments).

It may not be for everyone, but judging from Ross' sales, plenty of people are willing to brave it.