In the end, only kindness matters

The girls and I went searching for pumpkins. The first place we stopped was a stand that proudly proclaimed they donated 50% of their proceeds to the National Habitat. Unfortunately, the cheapest pumpkin in the lot was $15, which times four, was simply just out of our pumpkin budget. We moved on to a local Sunflower Market that opened last week. After spending a great deal of time allowing each girl to pick out their "perfect" pumpkins, we made our way to the end of the line. Twenty minutes later the cashier gave me our total of $10.40 and in return I handed him a twenty dollar bill. With a look of distress and a long line behind me he announced that he did not have change for a $20 and informed me that I would need to pay the $.40 so that he could give me an even ten back. I explained that I did not have $.40 but I could pay with my card or he could give me quarters for change. Confused he called out for a manager and the manager told him to wait and he would get him some one dollar bills and some change. At that point the older woman behind me reached into her purse and handed the cashier $.40. I told her it wasn't necessary, but thanked her profusely when she insisted. In short, she was probably tired of the stupid cashier and didn't want to wait any longer in line, but her kindness stayed with me. It never fails to amaze me the impact of a complete stranger's kindness.

Fall Break

Rarely does life manage to slow down. The girls have been on "Fall Break" and will return to school on Tuesday. Regardless of the fact that we haven't really done anything, they've enjoyed the time at home.

In other news, Ian and I are in the process of car shopping. Ian's car is in dire need of being replaced, before it blows up...or worse! Yesterday we went to a dealership and he picked out an Outback that he really likes, and the sales man offered a good deal. Tomorrow he'll take the day off work to sort out the financing and hopefully be able to pick it up. I'm grateful, there is absolutely no way we could manage being a one car family.

Bigger news: Hallie is completely potty trained! I was wondering if this day would ever come. Most things seem to be a power struggle with Hallie and this was no exception. She does things on her own time, it seemed that we made little influence with the process. Well she's finally decided that she's NOT a baby anymore, and big girls use the potty! With a new assortment of panties, we've managed to get rid of the pull-ups!