RAOK!

Random Acts of Kindness!

I decided this summer was not going to be wasted. No way. Not if I had anything to say about it! I've planned multiple activities each week, making it a point to include weekly Random Acts of Kindness (ROAK). As my children age, I hope they find it makes their hearts happy to love and give to others.

I dedicated Friday's to be our ROAK day, and yesterday just got away from me. Between baking and taking care of the kids, I forgot to get out and do something kind for someone. This morning, I made sure it was our top priority. The kids look forward to it each week, this being week three, they decided it should be something extra special!

I'll admit, I'm a sucker for five-bucks (aka Starbucks). It's one thing I indulge in that I rarely have to share with anyone. Even though it costs an astronomical amount for a customized coffee (venti cafe mocha, whole milk, no whip, 2 pumps vanilla and toffee nut drizzle-just in case you were wondering), it's my husband's equivalent of flowers "just because". He doesn't bring me coffee often, and when he does, it's like he has moved mountains. I don't spoil myself with shoes or clothes, coffee. It's the way to my heart.

Now that I've moved completely off track in a coffee-induced daydream, I'm back to reality. Sorry.

Not sorry.

Coffee is definitely dream worthy.

So this morning. Coffee was an absolute must. Any time I'm up before 7 am it's practically a given. Yes, even 6:59am. I promised the kids chocolate milk and donuts if they got ready fast enough. Nothing like an ultra non-nutritious breakfast promise to light a fire under their butts. We decided to try the new Starbucks in Fry's since we frequent the one in Basha's at least twice a week. We grabbed a few things, fruit, cereal, and the promised donuts and milk and headed for the checkout. After paying, I separately purchased a $25 gift card to Starbucks and got in line to order. I ordered my drink and paid. Despite the rather unfriendly woman behind the counter, I explained I picked up this gift card and would like to leave it for the few customers behind me, but the deal was she could not tell them who paid for their drinks. Easy enough.

The kids were giggling and could hardly contain their excitement! My heart was pumping fast as we waited for my mocha (which, in case you care, tasted like burnt ass). I could hear the lady explain to the next person in line their drink had been paid for. The woman in line kept staring at me. I ignored her. I sat my kids at a table and got their so-called breakfast ready and pretended to be absolutely clueless.

We watched as another person came up and received a free drink. And another. And another. The girls were trying so hard not to stare, but watching the looks on the customers faces followed by a smile made it so much fun! I should have brought popcorn, it turned into quite the show! One lady told her daughter all about it. Another man told his son he couldn't believe it. My heart almost exploded right then and there.

It.

Was.

Amazing.

My hopes for the future are shiny and bright. I may not be able to do much. Some days more than others. But today, today was awesome. One day these sweet babies of mine will grow up. Move out. Move on. And hopefully these RAOK have not been lost on their hearts.

Until next time. All my love.