The idea of "paying it forward" is by no means a new concept. Story after story has been shared lately about someone paying for the drink of the person behind them in line at Starbucks. I had my first "pay it forward" experience recently at a local grocery store. As I was walking to grab a cart, quarter in hand, a nice gentlemen hollered out to me and gifted me his cart with no expectation of getting his quarter back in return. I sincerely thanked him and began my shopping. After my shopping was complete, I noticed two gals were walking into the store as I was walking out, so to continue the forward motion of this current "pay it forward" act I offered them my cart. They sincerely thanked me, just as I had thanked the man I got it from, and they offered to help me carry my goods to my car.
With all the strife and heartache in the world, most currently and close to home is the battle in Ferguson, it is these small acts of kindness that give me hope. People really are capable of good. I will take kindness, no matter how small the dose, to challenge myself to be optimistic and forgiving of people as a whole.
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
The One with North Carolina
A number of months ago I booked a plane ticket to North Carolina where I planned to see a Nickel Creek show with some good friends. Last week when I hopped on the plane to embark on said trip I opened the book The Giver and ended up getting to the last page as my plane landed in Raleigh. It was a fun reread before seeing the movie adaptation a couple of days later.
Catching up with my friends was wonderful and relaxing. Day one was filled with cuban sandwiches for lunch, naps, and the Nickel Creek/Josh Ritter concert at Koka Booth Amphitheater in Cary. Both Josh Ritter and Nickel Creek were phenomenal. Nickel Creek performed every song that I had hoped for... and then some. You had better believe that I clapped and sang along to my heart's content. We were all definitely on a massive bluegrass high for a good 24 hours after the show had ended. I immediately regretted not also purchasing tickets to Nickel Creek's show in Kansas City.
Day two consisted of spending part of the day on the Lanier Homestead/ "the farm". We shucked corn, ate peaches and ice cream along with an array of other tasty foods, went on a trek through the woods, stopped to pet the animals, and spent a fair amount of time talking about farming and farm life. I learned a lot and I cannot wait until I can grow colored cauliflower in my own garden someday.
The third, and final, day was all about the beach. We all woke up early, some of us earlier than others, eh hum... I was just so excited that I had to set my alarm to make sure I did't miss waking up for the beach! With the car packed and ready we all piled in, even the dog, and settled in for the two hour drive to Surf City. Even after arriving in Surf City the beach was hidden behind the dunes and the ladies in the car were getting a little anxious to see the water. With the car parked we got out to stretch and gather our gear. We made our way to the beach where we first walked along the water's edge and I picked up a few shells. Eventually we claimed a spot and took turns swimming in the salty ocean, walking, resting in the sand, chatting, snacking, and applying sunscreen. The beach is my sanctuary, my Heaven on Earth. The crashing of the waves creates a deafening silence that comforts my soul. Being in the company of such adored friends in such a sacred place made for a wonderful day, even if I did gain a sunburn and eat hotdogs for lunch instead of seafood. 
Monday, August 4, 2014
The One with the Book List: The Magicians
After fighting against the Harry Potter bandwagon for many years, I gave in and read the series a couple of years ago. As if a spell had been cast, I was then a fan. I was nervous and excited to see a book paired with J.K. Rowling's series and did not immediately add it to my "to read" list. It wasn't until I was ordering a different book online that The Magicians was suggested to me at checkout and I lost self control and added it to my cart for checkout.
It took me awhile to read this book. One reason was that I did not identify with or fall in love with any of the characters. I also was not entranced with the story or the writing style. Another reason was that I took an extended vacation during this time and did not often find myself wanting to spend my precious days away with my nose in a book when I can just as easily do that at home.
The Magicians was a fine read although I doubt I will finish the series.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)