I bought a bunch of Timmie's close to the beginning to get me over the 1000 item mark. I've been tempted to go for the 5000 too, but I have a bit to go still on the MPs to get back up. I just wish I had thought of it last week while I was busy buying tea and Afghanis for the 'Interview the Locals' mission as I know I went through lots then. Oh well, another time.
But yes, the game certainly makes you think and wonder too many 'what ifs' and 'if only I...'.