The Unexpected

Today I engaged in two acts of kindness.  The first just happened in a spontaneous way.  Towards the end of the cool, summer, morning walk I noticed a woman gardening.  As I approached I was compelled to share a fact I think often but have never been able to share with her.  We made eye contact.  I said, "Good morning."  I went on to say, "I just have to tell you that I really really miss your bakery.  Do you miss it?"  You see, this family ran a local bakery in our neighborhood.  Evidently it existed for a long time in what was a neighborhood hardware store.  When I moved into the neighborhood nearly 6 years ago I saw the sign on this residential looking, odd shaped building that simply read "BAKERY".  On Thursdays the smells of cinnamon began to emanate out.  It was a Swedish Bakery known for all its delectables, especially the unique Swedish coffee bread with cardamom.  Oh their seasonal fresh fruit pies were delectable.  And, indeed, their snickerdoodles were the best I've had in a long, long time.  Ummmm ummmm good -- with a glass of cold milk!  When I asked if she missed the bakery she smiled and said, "Yes, sometimes."  They were open from Thursday through Sunday afternoon.  I let her know how much I missed the smells.  I really only went in the bakery a handful of times.  It was best for my health that way.  I loved taking their carefully made desserts to others to acknowledge celebrations, gatherings and the like.

So, the recollections of this friendly spot and the understanding that it is fun to give treats to the unsuspecting that lead to my next act.  I had errands to run prior to reporting to work.  Among them was going to the veterinary office to pick up my dog's and my cat's food.  Food is a universal expression of thanks, appreciation.  It can turn a mood from down to up.  Food can lead to purring utterances of pleasure.  So, while doing a quick grocery run I picked up a gorgeous bunch of strawberries, a package of freshly made chocolate chip cookies, and a bag of gourmet, healthy popcorn.  I felt the quantity was about right for the office personnel, vets and vet techs.  As I requested my animals' bags of food I presented a bag of treats with an upbeat, "For you all!"  Smiles happened.  Mission accomplished before the food was even sampled.

I had a duty to perform today.  I had a mission to complete the blog.  Out of the duty came two unexpected, unplanned acts which leave me feeling good, and I did not even eat any of the healthy or unhealthy treats discussed or given.  I really enjoy this undertaking -- the ABC's of Kindness!  Here's to Ur week!