Thursday, October 28th 2010
Whenever someone is entering an establishment at the same time and they hold the door open for you, it's usually nice to offer to let them go ahead in line. That's what I did today. The only thing is, it can tend to turn out with an awkward moment...
"Since you let me in, why don't you go ahead?" I asked.
"No, you go ahead."
"Are you sure?"
"Yes."
"Ok, thank you."
Are typically the words exchanged. And by that point, I realize the cashier is anxiously waiting to take my order and get the line moving!
Peace :)
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Tip on Full Price
Wednesday, October 27th 2010
After a long, busy day we ended up going out for our favorite $1.99 breakfast for dinner! The beer we ordered was on the happy hour menu, so we ended up having dinner for under $10!
Rather than tip on the special or coupon prices, my dad taught me to tip as if your items were at their full price. I will admit that I don't always follow this kind rule, but tonight I did!
Peace :)
After a long, busy day we ended up going out for our favorite $1.99 breakfast for dinner! The beer we ordered was on the happy hour menu, so we ended up having dinner for under $10!
Rather than tip on the special or coupon prices, my dad taught me to tip as if your items were at their full price. I will admit that I don't always follow this kind rule, but tonight I did!
Peace :)
Man in Wheelchair
Tuesday, October 26th 2010
On my way down the street, I came across a man in a wheelchair who was just about to cross the street. He said, "Excuse me. Would you be able to do me a favor?"
I said, "Uh, yes..." with slight uncertainty because I didn't know what he would be asking for and I don't like saying yes at first with a no after. If he wanted a dollar or directions, sure. If he wanted a ride to another town or $3,000 like someone else asked once, then I'd have to change my answer to "No".
He said, "Can you push me up to that place right there under the sign?" As he pointed 1/2 block up the hill to a pub sign.
"Sure. I can do that". I answered as I grabbed his wheelchair handles and began looking for cars before we crossed the intersection. I pushed him up the sidewalk to the bar entrance. It had a pull only door and a ridge to go over just to enter. I don't usually think of how difficult little things like that can be if your in a wheelchair. He pulled the door open, then we backed up as it started to close on us but we caught it just in time.
He thanked me and offered to buy me a cup of coffee, but I had to get going. He said the food there is good and he can get home easily since it's downhill all the way. I hope he enjoyed his lunch and made it home simply.
Peace :)
On my way down the street, I came across a man in a wheelchair who was just about to cross the street. He said, "Excuse me. Would you be able to do me a favor?"
I said, "Uh, yes..." with slight uncertainty because I didn't know what he would be asking for and I don't like saying yes at first with a no after. If he wanted a dollar or directions, sure. If he wanted a ride to another town or $3,000 like someone else asked once, then I'd have to change my answer to "No".
He said, "Can you push me up to that place right there under the sign?" As he pointed 1/2 block up the hill to a pub sign.
"Sure. I can do that". I answered as I grabbed his wheelchair handles and began looking for cars before we crossed the intersection. I pushed him up the sidewalk to the bar entrance. It had a pull only door and a ridge to go over just to enter. I don't usually think of how difficult little things like that can be if your in a wheelchair. He pulled the door open, then we backed up as it started to close on us but we caught it just in time.
He thanked me and offered to buy me a cup of coffee, but I had to get going. He said the food there is good and he can get home easily since it's downhill all the way. I hope he enjoyed his lunch and made it home simply.
Peace :)
White Mocha
Monday, October 25th 2010
They accidentally made me a white chocolate mocha this morning at the coffee shop instead of the regular mocha I usually order. It was no big deal and I would have gladly accepted the mistake, but by the time I realized it, they had already made a second drink. So, the barista asked if I'd like to take both and find someone to give the other mocha to and I said "Yes, of course. Thank you!"
I got to work and asked one of the new girls if she'd like it and she seemed excited to be getting a free white chocolate mocha on a Monday morning, so that was great. I love it when opportunities like that arise out of nowhere.
As I sat down and took a sip of my regular mocha, I noticed it tasted a little off. That was because it was the white mocha! After all that, I gave her what was supposed to be mine and I ended up with the wrong one! Oh well. I didn't mind trying something new and I hope she liked the regular one :)
Peace :)
They accidentally made me a white chocolate mocha this morning at the coffee shop instead of the regular mocha I usually order. It was no big deal and I would have gladly accepted the mistake, but by the time I realized it, they had already made a second drink. So, the barista asked if I'd like to take both and find someone to give the other mocha to and I said "Yes, of course. Thank you!"
I got to work and asked one of the new girls if she'd like it and she seemed excited to be getting a free white chocolate mocha on a Monday morning, so that was great. I love it when opportunities like that arise out of nowhere.
As I sat down and took a sip of my regular mocha, I noticed it tasted a little off. That was because it was the white mocha! After all that, I gave her what was supposed to be mine and I ended up with the wrong one! Oh well. I didn't mind trying something new and I hope she liked the regular one :)
Peace :)
Bottle of Wine
Sunday, October 24th 2010
On our wine tasting tour yesterday, we bought a nice bottle of Pinot Noir that we took over to D's parents house tonight to share with them since they love this wine. They were delighted when we handed it to them and quickly opened the bottle so it would be ready to drink asap!
We told them all the details of the best weekend ever and enjoyed the evening all the while. I'm looking forward to work tomorrow when I can tell all of my coworkers the exciting news!
Peace :)
On our wine tasting tour yesterday, we bought a nice bottle of Pinot Noir that we took over to D's parents house tonight to share with them since they love this wine. They were delighted when we handed it to them and quickly opened the bottle so it would be ready to drink asap!
We told them all the details of the best weekend ever and enjoyed the evening all the while. I'm looking forward to work tomorrow when I can tell all of my coworkers the exciting news!
Peace :)
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Spanish Coffees
Saturday, October 23rd 2010
Wow! I kept waking up in the night to realize what happened last night wasn't just a dream. How exciting! Today, we had a great day filled with good food, wine tasting, laughing a lot and talking about some wedding ideas too.
We went to dinner and sat up at the counter where we could watch the chefs in action. It was almost like a tv show, but better! There was a lot of drama, stress, mistakes and beautiful plates of food all being prepared at once.
A friendly couple was sitting next to us, so we offered some of our wine for them to taste. They really appreciated it and ended up buying our dessert as a "congratulations and thank you" at the same time.
Then we felt like doing something more for them because they just got engaged a couple months ago. So, on our way out we ordered 2 Spanish coffees at the bar and watched as the server delivered the surprise to our friends.
What a fun evening! It's great meeting such friendly people like that.
Peace :)
Wow! I kept waking up in the night to realize what happened last night wasn't just a dream. How exciting! Today, we had a great day filled with good food, wine tasting, laughing a lot and talking about some wedding ideas too.
We went to dinner and sat up at the counter where we could watch the chefs in action. It was almost like a tv show, but better! There was a lot of drama, stress, mistakes and beautiful plates of food all being prepared at once.
A friendly couple was sitting next to us, so we offered some of our wine for them to taste. They really appreciated it and ended up buying our dessert as a "congratulations and thank you" at the same time.
Then we felt like doing something more for them because they just got engaged a couple months ago. So, on our way out we ordered 2 Spanish coffees at the bar and watched as the server delivered the surprise to our friends.
What a fun evening! It's great meeting such friendly people like that.
Peace :)
Engaged!
Friday, October 22nd, 2010
D and I were planning to go away today a weekend of wine tasting, relaxation and to celebrate my upcoming 30th birthday. So this morning I made sure everything was packed, filled up the gas tank (and tipped the attendant), and hurried off to work.
As soon as I got to work, I felt myself become giddy and very happy. On the way in, a coworker told me about a local women's sailing club that I can join if I want to learn how to sail. Then, 5 minutes later another coworker told me about a safari-resort in California where you can stay amongst a safari of African animals and go on wine tours at the same time! Then, I opened my email to find an email from my mom who said some of my old clothes went to a girl at her work who was wearing one of the sweaters today.
A couple hours later, another coworker told me about a new waterpark that's opening soon nearby! I couldn't believe all these awesome things I was hearing- all in the same day!
Then the greatest thing in the world happened next. We arrived at the hotel, and as soon as we walked in the room, I was surprised to see D get down on one knee and propose to me!!! I said, "Yes!" I was so excited I didn't know what to do with myself. It felt so unreal. We kept laughing and hugging and laughing some more. The most wonderful & positive emotions were spinning throughout every cell of my body.
We are engaged and I couldn't be happier :)
Peace :)
D and I were planning to go away today a weekend of wine tasting, relaxation and to celebrate my upcoming 30th birthday. So this morning I made sure everything was packed, filled up the gas tank (and tipped the attendant), and hurried off to work.
As soon as I got to work, I felt myself become giddy and very happy. On the way in, a coworker told me about a local women's sailing club that I can join if I want to learn how to sail. Then, 5 minutes later another coworker told me about a safari-resort in California where you can stay amongst a safari of African animals and go on wine tours at the same time! Then, I opened my email to find an email from my mom who said some of my old clothes went to a girl at her work who was wearing one of the sweaters today.
A couple hours later, another coworker told me about a new waterpark that's opening soon nearby! I couldn't believe all these awesome things I was hearing- all in the same day!
Then the greatest thing in the world happened next. We arrived at the hotel, and as soon as we walked in the room, I was surprised to see D get down on one knee and propose to me!!! I said, "Yes!" I was so excited I didn't know what to do with myself. It felt so unreal. We kept laughing and hugging and laughing some more. The most wonderful & positive emotions were spinning throughout every cell of my body.
We are engaged and I couldn't be happier :)
Peace :)
Neighbors
Thursday, October 21st 2010
Last weekend we had a few friends over to watch a football game. We weren't very loud and everyone was gone by 10:30ish, so it wasn't like we were throwing an all night party or anything.
But, unfortunately, our neighbor came over Monday to let us know we might be getting a call from the property manager. He said, "I think there is something wrong with the insulation but only in this one spot. I can't hear anything throughout the whole unit, except this one place where the noise travels through the walls in particularly. They might send out an engineer or someone to see what the problem is."
Is that a polite way of saying- Don't have any friends over because you are too loud and disrupt us at 7-10pm on a Saturday? Hmmm. I'm not sure. We haven't received a call yet, but we'll see what happens.
So, this morning on my way out, our neighbor was leaving at the same time. Should I hurry and close the elevator door before he sees me? No. I held the elevator open for him and I waited an extra 30 seconds for him to hop on. He was carrying a bouquet of balloons which I complimented him on too.
I hope they realize that we are nice people and we rarely have parties ever! And they've all be during the day or ended before 10:30 at night to be sure we weren't breaking any quiet hours rules (even though there aren't any that I'm aware of).
Hopefully it all works out. They are our neighbors and it would be much better if we could have a good relationship with them.
Peace :)
Last weekend we had a few friends over to watch a football game. We weren't very loud and everyone was gone by 10:30ish, so it wasn't like we were throwing an all night party or anything.
But, unfortunately, our neighbor came over Monday to let us know we might be getting a call from the property manager. He said, "I think there is something wrong with the insulation but only in this one spot. I can't hear anything throughout the whole unit, except this one place where the noise travels through the walls in particularly. They might send out an engineer or someone to see what the problem is."
Is that a polite way of saying- Don't have any friends over because you are too loud and disrupt us at 7-10pm on a Saturday? Hmmm. I'm not sure. We haven't received a call yet, but we'll see what happens.
So, this morning on my way out, our neighbor was leaving at the same time. Should I hurry and close the elevator door before he sees me? No. I held the elevator open for him and I waited an extra 30 seconds for him to hop on. He was carrying a bouquet of balloons which I complimented him on too.
I hope they realize that we are nice people and we rarely have parties ever! And they've all be during the day or ended before 10:30 at night to be sure we weren't breaking any quiet hours rules (even though there aren't any that I'm aware of).
Hopefully it all works out. They are our neighbors and it would be much better if we could have a good relationship with them.
Peace :)
Sunshine Division
Wednesday, October 20th 2010
After a near-13 hour work day today, I was exhausted. I almost stopped to pick up fast food for dinner, but then I found a tiny bit of energy to stop at the grocery store to pick up the items needed to cook a nice meal at home.
Sometimes that's my favorite way to unwind after a long day. Chopping veggies and sauteing is all it takes. So that's what I bought.
At the checkout line was the Sunshine Division donation box so I dropped in a couple quarters on my way out. Soon they'll have the annual food drive and I'm really looking forward to that! $5-$10 brown paper back full of groceries to go to families all around.
Peace :)
After a near-13 hour work day today, I was exhausted. I almost stopped to pick up fast food for dinner, but then I found a tiny bit of energy to stop at the grocery store to pick up the items needed to cook a nice meal at home.
Sometimes that's my favorite way to unwind after a long day. Chopping veggies and sauteing is all it takes. So that's what I bought.
At the checkout line was the Sunshine Division donation box so I dropped in a couple quarters on my way out. Soon they'll have the annual food drive and I'm really looking forward to that! $5-$10 brown paper back full of groceries to go to families all around.
Peace :)
Dented Carton of Ice Cream
Tuesday, October 19th 2010
We were at the store tonight trying to pick out a flavor of ice cream to make ice cream cones at home later. Do we want chocolate, marionberry pie, rocky road? What a tough decision! There was a dented carton of the marionberry pie (my top choice tonight) which I wouldn't usually go for in case of a health hazard.
"Let's get this one." D said.
"Really? It's dented though." I replied.
"Yeah, but no one else will ever buy it, so we should." He suggested again. What a great idea I realized. There was no opening or anything wrong with it. And we'd probably put a dent in it ourselves soon after anyway!
So we bought it and happily left the store. It's nice knowing it won't be going to waste because of a little cosmetic imperfection. A tin can might be a different story however...
Peace :)
We were at the store tonight trying to pick out a flavor of ice cream to make ice cream cones at home later. Do we want chocolate, marionberry pie, rocky road? What a tough decision! There was a dented carton of the marionberry pie (my top choice tonight) which I wouldn't usually go for in case of a health hazard.
"Let's get this one." D said.
"Really? It's dented though." I replied.
"Yeah, but no one else will ever buy it, so we should." He suggested again. What a great idea I realized. There was no opening or anything wrong with it. And we'd probably put a dent in it ourselves soon after anyway!
So we bought it and happily left the store. It's nice knowing it won't be going to waste because of a little cosmetic imperfection. A tin can might be a different story however...
Peace :)
Donation Website
Monday, October 18th 2010
Happy Monday to all! Don't forget to Click to Give! Hunger, Breast Cancer, Child Health, Literacy, Rain Forest & Animal Rescue. Click on the link below and explore the opportunities:
http://www.thebreastcancersite.com/
Peace :)
Happy Monday to all! Don't forget to Click to Give! Hunger, Breast Cancer, Child Health, Literacy, Rain Forest & Animal Rescue. Click on the link below and explore the opportunities:
http://www.thebreastcancersite.com/
Peace :)
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Lemon Cookies
Sunday, October 17th 2010
It has been way too long since I've seen my mom so I couldn't wait until today when she was coming up to visit. Funny enough, I had a box of lemon cookies to give her which I picked up on the same aisle I had the experience with the lady on at the store yesterday. My mom loves lemon flavored treats so I think she'll like these.
We shopped, walked around in the sun, and had a splendid lunch together. There couldn't be a better way to spend a Sunday afternoon than with my mom.
Peace :)
It has been way too long since I've seen my mom so I couldn't wait until today when she was coming up to visit. Funny enough, I had a box of lemon cookies to give her which I picked up on the same aisle I had the experience with the lady on at the store yesterday. My mom loves lemon flavored treats so I think she'll like these.
We shopped, walked around in the sun, and had a splendid lunch together. There couldn't be a better way to spend a Sunday afternoon than with my mom.
Peace :)
$1.29 Cookies
Saturday, October 16th 2010
I was at the grocery store this afternoon when a lady grabbed my attention on the aisle.
She didn't say anything, but somehow pulled me aside and started pointing to something up on the shelf.
I thought she wanted me to reach for something high up for her, but then she was only pointing to the price tag and began asking me which price belonged to the box of cookies in her hand. She was asking this without words because it was clear she didn't speak English.
I found the price which was $2.99 for the cookies and she put them back. Then she pointed at a price tag that said $1.99 and was motioning with her hands to ask me which product matched that price. It was a cheaper box of cookies but she quickly decided she didn't want those.
Next was a price tag for $1.29 which she pointed to and sort of giggled at the same time because this was turning into a game of some kind. I've never done this before, but I will say that it was just the sort of thing I like to do. I was so pleased that I was the one she stopped for help.
She thanked me for my assistance by smiling and nodding graciously. I smiled back and continued down the aisle. I'm thinking she's enjoying those $1.29 cookies right about now...
Then just as I made it home, my younger brother and his girlfriend arrived. I haven't seen them in months, so this was a real treat to get to see them. They spent the summer backpacking through Peru & Ecuador so we had a lot to talk about and I loved hearing their travel stories. We had lunch on an outdoor patio, talked, laughed and walked around eating ice cream afterwards. So fun!
Peace :)
I was at the grocery store this afternoon when a lady grabbed my attention on the aisle.
She didn't say anything, but somehow pulled me aside and started pointing to something up on the shelf.
I thought she wanted me to reach for something high up for her, but then she was only pointing to the price tag and began asking me which price belonged to the box of cookies in her hand. She was asking this without words because it was clear she didn't speak English.
I found the price which was $2.99 for the cookies and she put them back. Then she pointed at a price tag that said $1.99 and was motioning with her hands to ask me which product matched that price. It was a cheaper box of cookies but she quickly decided she didn't want those.
Next was a price tag for $1.29 which she pointed to and sort of giggled at the same time because this was turning into a game of some kind. I've never done this before, but I will say that it was just the sort of thing I like to do. I was so pleased that I was the one she stopped for help.
She thanked me for my assistance by smiling and nodding graciously. I smiled back and continued down the aisle. I'm thinking she's enjoying those $1.29 cookies right about now...
Then just as I made it home, my younger brother and his girlfriend arrived. I haven't seen them in months, so this was a real treat to get to see them. They spent the summer backpacking through Peru & Ecuador so we had a lot to talk about and I loved hearing their travel stories. We had lunch on an outdoor patio, talked, laughed and walked around eating ice cream afterwards. So fun!
Peace :)
Miss K's Engagement
Friday, October 15th 2010
One of my best friends, Miss K, is engaged to be married! I was so excited for her when I found out, I nearly cried. She is thrilled and already starting to make plans for the big day next summer!
So tonight I had Miss K, Miss K, and Miss A over to celebrate her engagement and hear all the details of how he proposed, what she said and all the other little stuff that has happened these past couple weeks.
I left work on time, cleaned up the house quickly, made hors d' ouevres, and got the wine out and ready for when they arrived. The 4 of us shared old memories, laughed and talked for hours. It was a wonderful evening with the girls.
Congratulations Miss K!
Peace :)
Thai Lunch
Thursday, October 14th 2010
One of my old coworkers who I haven't seen in a couple months, another current coworker and I all went out for Thai food for lunch today. We had a fun time sitting outside in the sun catching up on all the office gossip and eating a fabulous lunch at the same time.
Since it is soon to be Miss N's birthday, Miss M offered to buy her lunch as an early birthday celebration. I hope I wasn't barging in on the deal, but I asked if I could also split the bill with Miss M and pick up half of the birthday girl's lunch. She seemed to be okay with it and I thought she had a great idea there!
Peace :)
One of my old coworkers who I haven't seen in a couple months, another current coworker and I all went out for Thai food for lunch today. We had a fun time sitting outside in the sun catching up on all the office gossip and eating a fabulous lunch at the same time.
Since it is soon to be Miss N's birthday, Miss M offered to buy her lunch as an early birthday celebration. I hope I wasn't barging in on the deal, but I asked if I could also split the bill with Miss M and pick up half of the birthday girl's lunch. She seemed to be okay with it and I thought she had a great idea there!
Peace :)
Mission Dinner
Wednesday, October 13th 2010
It has been about 2 months since I served dinner at the Union Gospel Mission so I was excited when the volunteer coordinator called me the other day to ask if I was available for tonight.
I hurried home, changed clothes and walked down there as fast as I could. It felt so good to be out of the office, getting fresh air and exercise on a sunny fall night.
There were 5 of us there volunteering which seemed like enough help, although we were scrambling around at times struggling to move the line through smoothly. We had a ton of food to hand out and a lot of people coming back for second and third helpings so I'd say it was a successful night!
Peace :)
It has been about 2 months since I served dinner at the Union Gospel Mission so I was excited when the volunteer coordinator called me the other day to ask if I was available for tonight.
I hurried home, changed clothes and walked down there as fast as I could. It felt so good to be out of the office, getting fresh air and exercise on a sunny fall night.
There were 5 of us there volunteering which seemed like enough help, although we were scrambling around at times struggling to move the line through smoothly. We had a ton of food to hand out and a lot of people coming back for second and third helpings so I'd say it was a successful night!
Peace :)
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Mentor Program
Tuesday, October 12th 2010
We have many new employees starting in our department who are going to need some direction and guidance. I was thinking to myself, how can we set them up properly so they aren't wondering who to ask and what to do?
I then sent an email to our manager to suggest & ask at the same time if we could set up a mentoring program where each current employee is partnered up with a new hire. This person will show them around, give them tips and answer any questions they have.
They approved the idea and we will implement it instantly!
Peace :)
We have many new employees starting in our department who are going to need some direction and guidance. I was thinking to myself, how can we set them up properly so they aren't wondering who to ask and what to do?
I then sent an email to our manager to suggest & ask at the same time if we could set up a mentoring program where each current employee is partnered up with a new hire. This person will show them around, give them tips and answer any questions they have.
They approved the idea and we will implement it instantly!
Peace :)
NW Children's Outreach
Monday, October 11th 2010
We found out very recently that today would be a paid day off from work! Talk about exciting news for all of us. The HR department also announced 4 volunteer opportunities we could sign up for and attend today in place of working.
I thought about which one sounded the most fun for a few days and finally signed up to help out at the Northwest Children's Outreach center only a mile from my house. It was a great experience, but hard work too!
There were 6 of us, plus the oh-so-sweet director lady. She was so passionate about the organization and told us stories the entire 3 hours we were there which kept us entertained as we sorted, folded and boxed up thousands of articles of children's cute little clothes.
I was pretty tired and sore from bending down into a giant bin, I don't know how many times, but it was worth it! Now I am hoping to go back soon to put together individual totes that the families come to pick up and give to their children. What a great organization run by volunteers only!
Peace :)
We found out very recently that today would be a paid day off from work! Talk about exciting news for all of us. The HR department also announced 4 volunteer opportunities we could sign up for and attend today in place of working.
I thought about which one sounded the most fun for a few days and finally signed up to help out at the Northwest Children's Outreach center only a mile from my house. It was a great experience, but hard work too!
There were 6 of us, plus the oh-so-sweet director lady. She was so passionate about the organization and told us stories the entire 3 hours we were there which kept us entertained as we sorted, folded and boxed up thousands of articles of children's cute little clothes.
I was pretty tired and sore from bending down into a giant bin, I don't know how many times, but it was worth it! Now I am hoping to go back soon to put together individual totes that the families come to pick up and give to their children. What a great organization run by volunteers only!
Peace :)
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Gesture
Sunday, October 10th 2010
Today is 10/10/10. I was hoping to catch the clock at 10:10 am and/or 10:10pm, but I missed it both times. I'm not sure what I was going to do, but it sounded like a good idea! Maybe next year on 11/11/11.
After a long 2.5 hour trip home, driving through rain and mountainous curves almost the entire way, we rested for a while and then headed out for a quick bite to eat.
A lady was standing outside a shelter and asked me for change. We kept walking a bit, then I reached in my pocket where I had $1 ready and went back by to give it to her.
"Oh, thank you. Thank you." She said, followed by, "Do you have more?"
"I'm sorry, but no." I answered, feeling guilty, sad and frustrated that it's never enough all at the same time. What's a dollar going to do? Even if it was $100, how's it going to help in the situation some of them are in?
I think it's more the interaction we have and the smiles that are exchanged that mean the most. Hopefully she felt like someone cares for her and wants to help, even if it's in a small way with only $1. And that's what it's all about.
Peace :)
Today is 10/10/10. I was hoping to catch the clock at 10:10 am and/or 10:10pm, but I missed it both times. I'm not sure what I was going to do, but it sounded like a good idea! Maybe next year on 11/11/11.
After a long 2.5 hour trip home, driving through rain and mountainous curves almost the entire way, we rested for a while and then headed out for a quick bite to eat.
A lady was standing outside a shelter and asked me for change. We kept walking a bit, then I reached in my pocket where I had $1 ready and went back by to give it to her.
"Oh, thank you. Thank you." She said, followed by, "Do you have more?"
"I'm sorry, but no." I answered, feeling guilty, sad and frustrated that it's never enough all at the same time. What's a dollar going to do? Even if it was $100, how's it going to help in the situation some of them are in?
I think it's more the interaction we have and the smiles that are exchanged that mean the most. Hopefully she felt like someone cares for her and wants to help, even if it's in a small way with only $1. And that's what it's all about.
Peace :)
Sunday, October 10, 2010
100% Tip
Saturday, October 9th 2010
We were out of town today for D's Aunt's surprise birthday party. It was so much fun, located way out in the country and in a barn! We don't get the chance to party in a barn very often, so this was a treat of an experience to say the least.
Luckily, the small town had a taxi service. The taxi driver who took us to the party, also came and picked us up when it was time to head back home. I ended up being the only person with cash in the car and although the charge was $10, I gave him all I had- which was a $20 bill.
"Why didn't you ask for change?" My friends asked me when I got out of the car. Part of me was too scared to ask for change and part of me just felt super generous and that it was worth it to have a ride to and from the barn in the middle of nowhere. I don't usually tip 100%. This is quite atypical, but I'll try not to worry about it because it's too late now!
Peace :)
We were out of town today for D's Aunt's surprise birthday party. It was so much fun, located way out in the country and in a barn! We don't get the chance to party in a barn very often, so this was a treat of an experience to say the least.
Luckily, the small town had a taxi service. The taxi driver who took us to the party, also came and picked us up when it was time to head back home. I ended up being the only person with cash in the car and although the charge was $10, I gave him all I had- which was a $20 bill.
"Why didn't you ask for change?" My friends asked me when I got out of the car. Part of me was too scared to ask for change and part of me just felt super generous and that it was worth it to have a ride to and from the barn in the middle of nowhere. I don't usually tip 100%. This is quite atypical, but I'll try not to worry about it because it's too late now!
Peace :)
Boxed Lunch
Friday, October 8th 2010
I attended the Women of Faith conference today, which was wonderful. There was music, motivational speakers, sad stories, happy stories, funny stories and plenty of remarkable information to absorb and try to remember as best as I can.
Included with the ticket was a boxed lunch- turkey sandwich, chips, apple, and a cookie. I don't eat meat, so I tried to hand my lunch to another woman who was waiting in line for her lunch. She gave me a look like I was trying to sell her drugs and shook her head "no".
So I bought a slice of pizza instead and carried the boxed lunch with me for the next 3.5 hours. I knew I'd be cruising through downtown on my way home and surely there would be someone willing to accept the meal there.
On my way home, I hopped off the train and began looking for someone who might want this perfectly fine boxed lunch. There was no one in sight for over 5 blocks! I couldn't believe it. I'm not usually downtown during the late afternoon, but it appears the people I usually see at night are somewhere else during the day.
I took the items out of the box and put them in my purse before I headed into the mall to look around. That way I could toss the box which was becoming a burden. As I came out of the mall, I saw a man asking people for money so I offered him the sandwich. He wasn't very excited about it but took it anyway and began talking grumpily to someone else.
I wanted to give him the rest of the food I had in my bag too, but he was too quick to go the other way. Oh well. I am hoping he found good use with the sandwich.
Peace :)
I attended the Women of Faith conference today, which was wonderful. There was music, motivational speakers, sad stories, happy stories, funny stories and plenty of remarkable information to absorb and try to remember as best as I can.
Included with the ticket was a boxed lunch- turkey sandwich, chips, apple, and a cookie. I don't eat meat, so I tried to hand my lunch to another woman who was waiting in line for her lunch. She gave me a look like I was trying to sell her drugs and shook her head "no".
So I bought a slice of pizza instead and carried the boxed lunch with me for the next 3.5 hours. I knew I'd be cruising through downtown on my way home and surely there would be someone willing to accept the meal there.
On my way home, I hopped off the train and began looking for someone who might want this perfectly fine boxed lunch. There was no one in sight for over 5 blocks! I couldn't believe it. I'm not usually downtown during the late afternoon, but it appears the people I usually see at night are somewhere else during the day.
I took the items out of the box and put them in my purse before I headed into the mall to look around. That way I could toss the box which was becoming a burden. As I came out of the mall, I saw a man asking people for money so I offered him the sandwich. He wasn't very excited about it but took it anyway and began talking grumpily to someone else.
I wanted to give him the rest of the food I had in my bag too, but he was too quick to go the other way. Oh well. I am hoping he found good use with the sandwich.
Peace :)
Shopping Cart
Thursday, October 7th 2010
I found a great parking spot at the store and as I swung to the right to pull in, I realized why it was available. There was a shopping cart in the way. Ugh. Ok, I'll park over here instead.
So then as I was walking by, I figured I should move the cart up by the entrance along with all the others. This way, the next driver coming in won't have the same experience I did and, perhaps, many others before I got there also had. And it took 5 seconds! No big deal at all.
Peace :)
I found a great parking spot at the store and as I swung to the right to pull in, I realized why it was available. There was a shopping cart in the way. Ugh. Ok, I'll park over here instead.
So then as I was walking by, I figured I should move the cart up by the entrance along with all the others. This way, the next driver coming in won't have the same experience I did and, perhaps, many others before I got there also had. And it took 5 seconds! No big deal at all.
Peace :)
"Good Morning"
Wednesday, October 6th 2010
On my way out of the coffee shop this morning, I surprised myself by saying "Good Morning" to an older man as he was walking in. I don't usually speak up to strangers unless I make a conscious effort to, but these words came out without thinking. That's why it surprised me. And it was kind of fun!
Peace :)
On my way out of the coffee shop this morning, I surprised myself by saying "Good Morning" to an older man as he was walking in. I don't usually speak up to strangers unless I make a conscious effort to, but these words came out without thinking. That's why it surprised me. And it was kind of fun!
Peace :)
Favorite Magazine
Tuesday, October 5th 2010
My friend usually likes it when I bring magazines to work and she always wants to read them before they go to the break room, so today I put one of my favorites on her desk so she'd see it when she arrived.
I hope you enjoy reading it Miss M :)
Peace :)
My friend usually likes it when I bring magazines to work and she always wants to read them before they go to the break room, so today I put one of my favorites on her desk so she'd see it when she arrived.
I hope you enjoy reading it Miss M :)
Peace :)
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Brownies
Monday, October 4th 2010
I made brownies last night and this morning I cut them up into small squares, arranged them on a paper plate, wrapped it in foil and found some orange napkins to go along with them. I was early to arrive so I set them on the table and watched throughout the day as people grabbed one at a time.
I didn't really want anyone knowing I made them, partly because it's fun to be anonymous sometimes and partly because they weren't as good as the ones the girl who always brings brownies to our potlucks makes! More weight is placed on the latter reason, however, they did get eaten fairly quickly.
Peace :)
I made brownies last night and this morning I cut them up into small squares, arranged them on a paper plate, wrapped it in foil and found some orange napkins to go along with them. I was early to arrive so I set them on the table and watched throughout the day as people grabbed one at a time.
I didn't really want anyone knowing I made them, partly because it's fun to be anonymous sometimes and partly because they weren't as good as the ones the girl who always brings brownies to our potlucks makes! More weight is placed on the latter reason, however, they did get eaten fairly quickly.
Peace :)
Monday, October 4, 2010
Goodwill & Soles for Souls
Sunday, October 3rd 2010
Happy Birthday Miss C! I hope you enjoy the Pinot Noir :)
This morning I pulled out my "Winter Clothes" box from storage and sorted 3 piles out. 1-donate to Goodwill, 2- keep and wear this year, 3- wash and fold before taking to Goodwill. Then I did the same with my summer clothes straight from the closet.
4 hours later, I had 2 bags of clothes and 1 bag of shoes ready to give! The clothes will go to Goodwill and the shoes will go to a donation box I saw the other day called "Soles for Souls" (see website link below). I'm hoping it's still there this week, but since it's right next door to Starbucks I can easily look for it whenever I stop for coffee ;)
www.giveshoes.org
Peace :)
Happy Birthday Miss C! I hope you enjoy the Pinot Noir :)
This morning I pulled out my "Winter Clothes" box from storage and sorted 3 piles out. 1-donate to Goodwill, 2- keep and wear this year, 3- wash and fold before taking to Goodwill. Then I did the same with my summer clothes straight from the closet.
4 hours later, I had 2 bags of clothes and 1 bag of shoes ready to give! The clothes will go to Goodwill and the shoes will go to a donation box I saw the other day called "Soles for Souls" (see website link below). I'm hoping it's still there this week, but since it's right next door to Starbucks I can easily look for it whenever I stop for coffee ;)
www.giveshoes.org
Peace :)
Piano Bar
Saturday, October 2nd 2010
I woke up this morning feeling compelled to cook breakfast for D while he got ready to go to work. I made scrambled eggs with melted cheese & toast on the side- a standard in our house.
Then while I was at work, I told my manager about a new piano bar in town that we went to last night. I don't know her well yet, but I think she likes music a lot so I wanted her to know about this place she might want to check out.
"I haven't heard of that. Where is it? I think I'll tell my girlfriend and maybe we'll go there tonight!" She said in response to my suggestion. She sounded really excited, so I hope she goes and has a great time.
Peace :)
I woke up this morning feeling compelled to cook breakfast for D while he got ready to go to work. I made scrambled eggs with melted cheese & toast on the side- a standard in our house.
Then while I was at work, I told my manager about a new piano bar in town that we went to last night. I don't know her well yet, but I think she likes music a lot so I wanted her to know about this place she might want to check out.
"I haven't heard of that. Where is it? I think I'll tell my girlfriend and maybe we'll go there tonight!" She said in response to my suggestion. She sounded really excited, so I hope she goes and has a great time.
Peace :)
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Pinot Noir
Friday, October 1st 2010
What if Miss C doesn't like Pinot Gris anymore and prefers red wine? I can't ask her because she doesn't know I'm going to her surprise party, so that would be an odd question out of nowhere. So I emailed her sister and asked what her favorite wine is. She said Pinot Noir (red)!
I'm not upset about this one bit because the Pinot Gris I bought yesterday will not go to waste. I'd rather be sure to get her what she really likes, so I stopped off at the store and found a Pinot Noir with a pretty label :)
Peace :)
What if Miss C doesn't like Pinot Gris anymore and prefers red wine? I can't ask her because she doesn't know I'm going to her surprise party, so that would be an odd question out of nowhere. So I emailed her sister and asked what her favorite wine is. She said Pinot Noir (red)!
I'm not upset about this one bit because the Pinot Gris I bought yesterday will not go to waste. I'd rather be sure to get her what she really likes, so I stopped off at the store and found a Pinot Noir with a pretty label :)
Peace :)
Pinot Gris
Thursday, September 30th 2010
My friend has her 30th birthday this weekend and I'm going to attend her surprise birthday party tomorrow! What kind of gift would she want?
I thought a nice bottle of wine would be entertaining and appropriate for a sophisticated age like 30. So I decided on a Pinot Gris, and found a nice bottle with a pretty label :)
I found a sweet card that made me tear up in the grocery store and headed back to work. I think she'll like this.
Peace :)
My friend has her 30th birthday this weekend and I'm going to attend her surprise birthday party tomorrow! What kind of gift would she want?
I thought a nice bottle of wine would be entertaining and appropriate for a sophisticated age like 30. So I decided on a Pinot Gris, and found a nice bottle with a pretty label :)
I found a sweet card that made me tear up in the grocery store and headed back to work. I think she'll like this.
Peace :)
Girl On The Steps
Wednesday, September 29th 2010
After dinner, D and I went to rent a movie from the McDonald's Redbox (our usual spot). There was a girl was sitting outside on the steps who asked us for change on our way in. At that moment I gave my typical hesitation and said, "We might on our way out!"
Sometimes I need to think about it for a minute before I instantaneously open my wallet out on the street. But then after I walk past, I decide how much I want to give and how I'll do it before I go back- not all the time, but I find this is the common action.
We found a movie and on our way back down the steps, I gave the girl some change right as she was saying something ill toward someone else. I was caught off guard and thought should I pull my hand back and keep the money? Nope. Maybe this will do some good somehow for this girl. And she quickly took the money from my hand.
Peace :)
After dinner, D and I went to rent a movie from the McDonald's Redbox (our usual spot). There was a girl was sitting outside on the steps who asked us for change on our way in. At that moment I gave my typical hesitation and said, "We might on our way out!"
Sometimes I need to think about it for a minute before I instantaneously open my wallet out on the street. But then after I walk past, I decide how much I want to give and how I'll do it before I go back- not all the time, but I find this is the common action.
We found a movie and on our way back down the steps, I gave the girl some change right as she was saying something ill toward someone else. I was caught off guard and thought should I pull my hand back and keep the money? Nope. Maybe this will do some good somehow for this girl. And she quickly took the money from my hand.
Peace :)
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