Ordinary Gratitude

Blushing tulips

I got out of the house early this morning and headed for the grocery store. On my way from the entrance to the produce department, I walked past the bunches of flowers on display.

I gasped when I spotted the most beautiful tulips I had ever seen! They were the palest pink, almost like they were blushing.

"Too expensive," I told myself.

I continued with my shopping, but I just couldn't stop thinking about those tulips. My mom loves pink, so I knew she'd appreciate them. And I hadn't bought fresh flowers for months. How could I walk out the door without taking a bunch home with me?

As I unwrapped the bundle at home, I realized that every blossom was a little bit different from the others, but perfect and beautiful just the same. I arranged them in a lovely lavender vase and found a place for them in the living room.

Now I see them every time I walk through the living room. They make me smile. They remind me that spring is on the way. 

Flowers are Nature's way of letting us know that we are loved.

Lindt Chili Dark Chocolate

I don't ordinarily focus on a particular product in my posts, but this time I just couldn't resist. I am so grateful for Lindt Excellence Chocolates, especially the new chili dark flavor. But I'm not the one who likes this item; my husband really does.

I happened to discover Lindt Chili Chocolate on a recent trip to the drug store. I picked one up and brought it home for my husband, who devoured it. He loved it! So today, when I was at the same drug store, I looked for it again. With all the chocolates on display for Valentine's Day, I had a little trouble finding it. When I finally did, I grabbed the last two bars they had in stock.

Needless to say, my husband was ecstatic when I got home with his special treat. When I gave it to him I said, "This is just a token of appreciation for all the wonderful things you do for me and my family." I got a great big kiss in return (which I am also grateful for!).

It's nice to have a list of little inexpensive things you can pick up for others. It's a great way to say "thank you" or "I was thinking of you." My husband and my mom are pretty easy because they always want chocolate, but if I can find a favorite chocolate, that's even better. One of my grandsons loves books, the other loves puzzles, so when I find them on sale, I grab them to share with them at their next visit. My old business partner loved flourless chocolate cake, so I would bring a piece for her to our one-on-one meetings along with something like cheesecake or scones for me. 

When someone tells you something they like, make a mental note or write it on a list to carry with you. Then when special days come around, or you just want to give them a treat, it will be easier to  choose a gift that really says "You're special."