Frannie

Yesterday I stopped by Ann Taylor Loft just to look (famous last words). I don’t do Ann Taylor often because of the cost but I had a 30% off coupon and thought I might find something on clearance.

I found a lovely taupe lined pencil skirt. It’s been a long time since I’ve worn a skirt but it fit me beautifully and I felt good in it too.

I said to myself, “Self, because of the coupon, if it’s less than $40, you’ll treat yourself.” You can imagine the smile on my face when I looked at the ticket and saw it was on clearance for less than $20!! OMG!! Then I remembered…in addition to the coupon, I also had a store credit so it was like getting it for nothing.

I left the store very happy, swinging that little Loft bag….

I’ve already got the boxes of cards out. Got the stamps.
Just need the friends!

Last month when I sold my old car, I realized the money I received was in large part due to my parents generosity. I had bought the car from them in 2007. The purchase price was actually just the cost of some needed repairs. I decided that I wanted to show my appreciation for my small windfall and for their generosity in general.

But what to get? My folks are almost impossible to buy for and they don’t accept gifts well. “Why did you do that?” or “We don’t need anything, save your money” are typical responses.

I racked my brain for days until an idea came to me – a gift card to Shop Rite grocery store. My folks are hosting Thanksgiving again this year. I don’t cook but I could surely contribute this way.

I got them a cute card and put the gift card inside. They smiled at the card and even the gift card, until they they turned it over and saw the amount – $100. My mom’s face turned from a smile to stone. They didn’t surprise me by their response but I held up my hand and said “Just listen…” briefly telling them why I was doing it. I kept repeating “please accept it and just say thank you”. Mom just kept on arguing. Every time she said “Thank you BUT….” I stopped her. No buts. Thank you was all I wanted. Eventually, they both stopped, hugged me and said thank you.

I know I can never give back what I’ve received from them. But each time I give to them, maybe they’ll see that it’s OK to accept a gift and to allow others to be generous as well. I also know it feels good to give.