December 28, 2009
Random Acts of Kindness Contest, Week 3
I hope you all had a wonderful holiday and weekend! It was good to have a few days off with family and friends. We read books, watched movies, did some knitting, and enjoyed big fat flakes of snow on Christmas Day, and through the weekend at different times. It was great! This photo is from our Christmas Eve Service at church. I love the oversized words formed with photos from nature. (click photos to enlarge) Although check out this second one. For the entire month of December, I thought it said GRACE, 
even though it was obvious that they kind of messed up the “G” photo. How do you get a “G” out of that? Each week I’d ponder it again and wonder what that photographer was thinking. It wasn’t until we sat in a different spot this weekend, that it became glaringly clear to me that it says PEACE, not GRACE. (Hello?) Funny how a change of perspective can change something like that. (Maybe I was personally in need of more Grace than Peace this season, and I saw what I needed to see? Anyway – great words.)
Thank you again for sharing all of the wonderful things that you have been doing for others this season. I think I just need to come back and re-read them each month, to keep the ideas fresh in my mind. I always get so inspired to go and do likewise, when I read about the things that you’re doing. Today is our last week in this contest. We’ll again be randomly drawing a winner next week (from today’s comments) for a $50 Loopy Ewe Gift Certificate. Congratulations to Robin from Kentucky, who won last week’s contest! Share with us what you’ve done this past week (or go find something nice to do in the remainder of this week and come back and post).
For those of you with a Loopy Ewe Gift Certificate burning a hole in your pocket (or for those of you who didn’t get one and are not going to let that stop you from shopping), we have a whole bunch of things just up: Louet Gems, Malabrigo Worsted, Malabrigo Silky, Malabrigo Sock, Madelinetosh Worsted, Claudia Hand Painted, Shibui Knits, Hand Maiden Mini Maiden, String Theory DK, Perchance to Knit’s Midnight Rainbow Lace, and Spirit Trail Fiberworks luxury yarn base, Sunna. And most of you have already seen the new Opal Antonia line that we put up last week, which is named after a Tyrolean Pop Singer. The labels are …. interesting. Come see all of the new stuff.
In-person hours this week: Remember, we’re closed on Thursday and Friday of this week for New Years, but we ARE open from 10 am – 1 pm on Wednesday instead. Next week, we’ll return to our regularly scheduled hours.
My brother was the recipient of the Never-Ending Scarf and he liked it. Knitting Daughter offered to knit me one for my birthday (because remember I said that I wanted one for my very own?) I picked cream (Natural) and tan (Baby Camel) for a subtle striping mix, and it’s looking beautiful so far. I think I have to re-name this the “Never-Ending, Warmest-Ever Scarf”.
Bad Mommy said,
December 28, 2009 @ 4:46 pm
This last week I tried something simple. Lots of 4-way stops in our town and people always seem to be in a hurry. For the last week, whenever it was a close call, I let the other person go first. So relaxing, and so easy!
L-B said,
December 28, 2009 @ 4:47 pm
Hi, Sheri!
I’m sharing a RAOK from my office! The night before our large, catered office holiday party, the snow began falling and continued through the night and all the next day and night; 16 inches in my yard!
Of course, the party was cancelled, but my employers delivered the food to a homeless shelter which was brimming over with people seeking refuge from the deep snow!
Patty L. said,
December 28, 2009 @ 4:51 pm
We have gotten a lot of snow since yesterday and it’s still snowing..helping my neighbors shovel is fun for me
Camilla said,
December 28, 2009 @ 4:57 pm
A friend of mine had to be out of town dealing with some major personal issues. I took over the care of her elderly diabetic cat (who is on medication) for a few days in order to relieve the stress on my friend’s mother-in-law. I think he was very happy when mom came home and picked him up (she had been out of town for a long time and the kitty missed her very much)
Seanna Lea said,
December 28, 2009 @ 5:06 pm
Wow. I didn’t really think of socks and cleavage as going together, but obviously I was mistaken!
Bev said,
December 28, 2009 @ 5:08 pm
None of us like to stand in the long holiday shopping lines, but I saw something twice that brought a smile to my face. The first, a lady let the man behind her go first at the check out counter because he had just a couple items and she had half a cart full. The second, a young man (early twenties) let me go ahead of him in line because I had fewer items. At both instances, the lines were very long and we had been standing there for a while. It’s nice to know that chivalry is not dead.
This is one of my favorite ROAKs, this time I got to receive one. Happy New Year, Everyone!!
Doris said,
December 28, 2009 @ 5:08 pm
i spent christmas day at our local animal shelter. i had so much fun feeding & playing with the animals. we even had fun when it came time to clean the pens. those animals are so greatful for everything that you do for them.
Liz G. said,
December 28, 2009 @ 5:14 pm
My hubby and I went to a local resort for a night away from home. the place is so decorated for Christmas and winter holidays – and people were snapping pictures all over the place.
Whenever I’d see a couple who were taking pictures of each other, I would offer to take a picture of them together. Each and every time they’d say, “Wow – thank you so much!”
Joannah said,
December 28, 2009 @ 5:17 pm
I guess this is my season of scarves. I’m about to finish scarf #3. They all will be donated to a charity. Not very random from my end, but I hope they will feel like a RAK to the the people who get them.
Ruth said,
December 28, 2009 @ 5:18 pm
My RAK was very simple. My husband’s grandmother is in the hospital. Her daughter, B, is taking care of her, making arrangements for nursing homes, etc. I told B what a great job she was doing and how much her efforts were appreciated. She started to cry on the phone and told me that she doesn’t ever hear that from anyone.
It’s such a simple thing, telling people that you sincerely appreciate their efforts. I’m going to make it a point to do that more often, all year long.
Jo Anne said,
December 28, 2009 @ 5:21 pm
I was about to buy some oranges for my family…and saw an elderly woman trying to open a grocery produce bag….she was desperately trying to split apart the bag from the top…but just couldn’t find the opening. I ripped off my bag from the roll…picked my oranges and filled my bag…then walked over to help the woman. I “licked” the tip of my finger and rubbed the bag so I could separate the opening and as soon as the bag was open…I handed it to her. She then replied to me that the reason she doesn’t do that (lick her finger) was because she was afraid of catching H1N1! I apologized and kept reassuring her that I am healthy and clean…and that I do not have H1Nl!
JenL said,
December 28, 2009 @ 5:24 pm
My RAK was on Christmas day. I went to the supermarket that morning for last minute provisions (and donuts) and saw a gentleman standing near the driveway to the parking lot with a handwritten sign that just read, “Hungry.” I didn’t have any cash on hand, so when I went into the store, I got the largest size hot soup I could find (plus spoons and napkins) and added it to my cart. I then drove up to where he was and simply asked if he would like some soup. He look stunned – since I guess a lot of people don’t actually stop and speak with him.
Then I went home, wishing I could have done more.
Maria said,
December 28, 2009 @ 5:31 pm
I went through my warm clothing and donated what I realistically won’t wear or use to a shelter. It made me feel better to get rid of stuff in really good condition when I new it was going to someone who would really need it. I also donated some games, puzzles, and books, because being homeless can be really boring. It’s very small, what I did, but I do hope it makes someone feel a bit better.
Kat Jorgensen said,
December 28, 2009 @ 5:39 pm
My RAK was actually performed by my dh. We had quite a snowfall here and the sister of one of our neighbor’s got her car stuck. Jorgie grabbed his shovel and went to help out. Not only did he get the car unstuck, but he taught the neighbor’s 9 year-old son how to break up ice and shovel. The parents seemed so happy that Jorgie had taken the time to teach their child something.
They ended up doing a RAK and made us a delicious coffee cake. YUM.
As for me, I’ve been doing some charity knitting and packing up warm clothes for charity.
As my son says, “No one should be cold.” So true. If we could each just donate an unused coat or a blanket, it would make a HUGE difference.
Joanne said,
December 28, 2009 @ 5:44 pm
Saturday and Sunday I cared for the 13 special cats at the local Humane Society Care Center to allow their normal caretaker a couple of days away. They know me because I go in weekly to do some special clean up for them. These are animals that would have been put down for one reason or another in the local pound if we had not taken them in. They just need a little more time to find their forever home!
Bobbie said,
December 28, 2009 @ 5:47 pm
I also helped two elderly neighbors dig out after our Christmas day snowstorm. I even managed to get my 20 year old college student son to skip a chance to sleep in and help.
Heather said,
December 28, 2009 @ 5:53 pm
Last week and this one have been spent designing and knitting a mitten pattern. When complete, sales of the mitten pattern will go to a local Veteran’s organization. The mittens were originally knit for my father, a Vietnam vet.
Glad you had a terrific holiday. HAppy New Year!
Diane said,
December 28, 2009 @ 6:01 pm
My son and dil just started teaching jobs recently……and mentioned that some students don’t have hats and mittens….so I sent a few pairs with each of them to pass out to the one’s needing them the most…..I already starting knitting more for them to bring when they return from Christmas Break…
Suna said,
December 28, 2009 @ 6:13 pm
I wanted to say how much I enjoyed reading about that scarf you made. I made one just like it, only in Harry Potter’s colors, because a young friend of mine, pregnant and with a toddler to chase, really had wanted to make one for her favorite cousin, but didn’t realize how much knitting one of those scarves would be. I had some car trips to take, which meant I could make stripes as fast as I could. Still, wow, that is a lot of stitches, especially since she had bought, um, shall we say “mass market yarn” for the project. UGH. It sure makes me appreciate nice quality wool!
I know I don’t get to post much any more (too much technical writing to do), but I still read your blog and wish you a very good new year. I know a couple of my friends will be happy–they are going to Spring Fling!
Janine said,
December 28, 2009 @ 6:33 pm
Many of the stores we go to during the holiday season have the Salvation Army kettles to collect donations. A lot of the bellringers are just so cheerful, even in the cold and rainy weather we have been having here in St. Louis. I remembered to go to my coin jar a couple of times a week, pull out the quarters and have enough change in my purse to put in a dollar or so in each kettle I encounter. It isn’t a lot but I am sure it helps.
Diane said,
December 28, 2009 @ 6:42 pm
very small act – drove 1 1/2 hours each way to the airport on Boxing Day at 11pm so that daughter didn’t have to turn out to collect a friend whose flight was delayed as she was working an early shift the next day. Meant a lot to her to get a few hours extra sleep.
TeresaNC said,
December 28, 2009 @ 6:47 pm
My sister-in-law and I decided to take the money we would normally spend on presents for each others families and give it to our local Hospice this year. On Christmas eve we went over and took the money as well as 2 cakes for the caregivers to share during the holidays.
They seemed to really appreciate it.
Susan/knitsnknishes said,
December 28, 2009 @ 6:51 pm
I have 3 RAK’s to report this week: (1) I was at the grocery store Thursday afternoon (yes, Christmas Eve), and of course the place was mobbed. I had a moderate-size load, and had just finished placing all my items on the conveyor when a woman got in line behind me with just one item. I told her to please go ahead of me, and told the cashier to take care of her before ringing up my purchase. The woman was very pleased, and actually looked quite surprised. (2) On Wednesday, one of my coworkers got into work a bit late, and seemed a bit frazzled. I was about to go to get coffee for myself, and treated her to her usual latte while I was at it. (3) Then today at Starbucks, I paid for the person behind me in line.
Josiane said,
December 28, 2009 @ 7:13 pm
My brother became a vegetarian a few months ago, and he was a bit nervous at the perspective of going through the holidays as a vegetarian for the first time. To help him (and his wife, who already has to cook separate stuff for their eldest child, who has multiple food allergies), I made sure to cook vegan delights for every family gatherings we had, and to make enough of every dish for him to feel like he could indulge as much as he wanted (and there was more left for anyone who wanted to partake in the yumminess!). He really appreciated it, and I came away with the idea of cooking and sending delicious veggie meals his way truly randomly throughout the year – considering how busy he is with his business and his family, I’m sure that would come in very handy for him!
Doris said,
December 28, 2009 @ 7:26 pm
We had a large snowstorm last weekend and I baked extra Christmas breads (family recipe) and gave them to some people I normally wouldn’t give a gift to, so they could enjoy something homemade in the snow. While I was baking,. myhusband and sons helped neighbors get their cars dug out. No more snow!
Kathleen said,
December 28, 2009 @ 7:46 pm
I was able to give an extra donation to the Salvation Army.
Helen said,
December 28, 2009 @ 8:10 pm
Leaving church on Sunday, I noticed that a fellow parishioner seemed to be a bit hesitant and slow to clean the snow off of her car. It was because she was parked along a main street with traffic. I did the job for her and she was most appreciative. Made my day.
I read in the church bulletin that a group has contacted our church for gently used children’s winter coats. It seems there are some children that only have hoodies and no coats. My daughter was lucky to receive two new coats this year. As she has grown quite a bit, today I dropped off her barely used (and cleaned) coats and threw in two scarves and three pairs of gloves.
BFF Liz said,
December 28, 2009 @ 8:14 pm
I paid a couple’s taxi fare Christmas night, then tipped the driver almost 100% of the fare.
The couple hugged me (note that these were complete strangers) and the driver’s eyes almost popped out of his head.
Jen said,
December 28, 2009 @ 8:56 pm
I love when people smile or are kind on the subway. I try to treat everyone with kindness, even when it is hard for me to do. When I encounter someone nice or smiling on the subway, it makes me happy. I hope I do that for someone.
Pam said,
December 28, 2009 @ 9:20 pm
Flying a lot this season. But what’s better than giving up your aisle seat to a grandmother (non-English speaking Chinese) and her translating 8 year old so they could sit together? We’re getting there the same time anyways, right?
Kathy said,
December 28, 2009 @ 9:28 pm
on Christmas eve I brought a tray of cookies to the 24hr emergency vet, a place I know too well from my late cat Piper’s illness in 08. The overnight staff tends to be overlooked during the holidays,and if anyone deserves a truly Silent Night, it’s them. I always joke that I hope not to see them anytime soon, but it is great to know they’re there.
Susan said,
December 28, 2009 @ 9:32 pm
I’m running all my mother’s errands because the roads are icy more days than not, and parking lots are like skating rinks. (Not a good thing for a 75 year old who walks with a cane.)
On a more knitterly note, I am knitting (almost finished!) a sweater-tunic for my six-year-old grandniece, just because she’s cute, and because I think she’ll appreciate it. (She asked me to teach her how to knit last summer, which I did.)
Elizabeth D said,
December 28, 2009 @ 9:49 pm
I didn’t even think of this as an RAOK until I read some other entries. Yesterday I took our Old Faithful Computer in to get repaiired (we hope). While at the computer store, I picked up a few things. The line was long, and apparently had been long all day. The person at the cash register I got to was a small woman, invisible to the line, who had to shout “I can take the next customer at register 4″ over and over and over. I commiserated with her, and she told me it’s the people who actually talk to her that get her through. . . such a small thing!
Alice said,
December 28, 2009 @ 10:15 pm
One day while out doing some last minute Christmas shopping my daughter(10 yr old) and myself were eating lunch at Chick-fil-a. While eating our meal we noticed an elderly man sitting by himself. He looked so lonely sitting there. I went to the counter to purchase a Gift Card for him and told him Merry Christmas. I think it warmed his heart and it definitely did mine.
Also continued to put monies in the Salvation Army Kettles as I came upon them.
The parking lot to get out of Walmart was horrendous just before Christmas and I allowed several people to pull out in front of me.
Lisa said,
December 28, 2009 @ 10:24 pm
I love your RAK’s! I’ve been trying to do them as often as I can, since I had asked my mom’s friends to celebrate her memory and her birthday by doing an RAK and thinking of her.
I belong to a sock yarn cinema, and the December movie was a Christmas Story. A friend from online has MS, and is disabled from it. That is her favorite movie of all time, so I asked the dyer to make a special skein for my friend (in worsted, not sock since she has problems knitting smaller yarns), and it shipped today! I so wish I could see her reaction when she gets it!
Charmaine said,
December 28, 2009 @ 10:43 pm
When I went to the trash, our neighbor had their’s sitting on the stoop so I picked it up & threw it in the dumpster. Love the new yarn.!! whoo hooo
My sister is coming to visit in a few weeks…wish I was coming:(
One day I will.
Sarah F. said,
December 28, 2009 @ 11:14 pm
Snow, Snow Snow… we’ve had alot of it, so I helped out an elderly neighbor and shoveled her walk. She is elderly, but VERY independent, so I was actually a little nervous shoveling her snow… she has a snow-blower and is usually first one out there with it, and she’s proud of it. However, this year I haven’t seen her yet, so I’m thinking she isn’t feeling well. Hope she feels OK, and doesn’t mind my un-asked-for help… to my mind you shouldn’t have to ask for help, right?
Elise said,
December 28, 2009 @ 11:36 pm
I had to take my 2 year old to the ER b/c of a bad infected cat bite from a friend’s cat. When the triage nurse called us I told her to take a boy that was clearly much more sick then my daughter first even though it meant a longer wait for us. On Xmas day my husband and 2 daughters volunteered at the local Jewish old age home so the Christian staff could have the day off. I was home cooking for our family who was coming to visit – sil, bil and 2 cousins – my sil is pregnant with #3, so any break she gets, is needed. Happy Holidays!
turtle said,
December 29, 2009 @ 12:02 am
glad your holiday went well! i feel like a fish out of water, hubby spoilt me and got me a new pc, i had one of the slowest laptops in the world before, about 5 yearsold. So i luv this new one (so cute and pink) but am adjusting to windows 7. (plus needing to grab all my favorites from the old pc still!!!)
My rak’s this week, a lady at ww last a few weeks back hinted that she loved my hat i had knit, so i suprised her with one on xmas eve and she loved it. I only see her one day a week since november, but she seems like a nice lady,, big on family, so i wanted to knit her one. Also knit 2 other hats last week for daughters boyfriend and best friend, lol, they always appreciate my knitting!
On xmas we delivered three plates (one off app’s, one of main dinner, one of desserts ) to our neighbor. She was alone for the holiday, her hubby passed last december, ,and i knew she would not accept an invite over (though i had extended one to her) I knew she was borderline diabetic as is my father in law, so everything was good for them both. SHe got to enjoy something special for the day, relax at home, and even said she made two meals out of it! Hope everyone had a great holiday!
GinkgoKnits said,
December 29, 2009 @ 4:26 am
I received a beautiful handmade gift this year that made me feel like every minute of sleep I’ve lost finishing a knitted gift as a special surprise (I made a couple this last week). Recently, I feel like the best RAK I can give has been to tell people that I am thankful for all the help and kindness they give me. I try to let Christmas bring out the best in me rather than allow it to stress me out and I feel like that’s gone well this year.
Mizzle said,
December 29, 2009 @ 7:13 am
I helped someone turn the pattern she’d written into a PDF and make it available on Ravelry – not sure whether that’s a kindness to her or to the rest of us (or both! probably both!), but it was random, I guess it was kind and it sure felt great to help someone out!
Alicia said,
December 29, 2009 @ 7:58 am
It’s not much, but I was at our local aquarium yesterday, which was a madhouse full of cranky parents and children, and I spent the couple hours I was there finding children who were stuck in the back and inviting them to move in front of me so they could get a better view of the tanks. And I don’t even think that any of the parents thought I was creepy!
Kathleen said,
December 29, 2009 @ 8:19 am
The law firm I work for adopted three families through COTS. Each of our three offices bought gifts for the families. I helped deliver the gifts to the Ann Arbor office’s adopted family, a grandmother raising her 16-year old grandson. It was a heartwarming experience. Happy Holidays!
Liz in KY said,
December 29, 2009 @ 8:21 am
Here’s my RAOK for today: a person whom I don’t know wrote to a Yahoo group in an off-topic post that she had always wanted to learn to spin but didn’t know where to start. I searched out a list of fiber guilds in her area and emailed it to her privately along with a description of Ravelry and a suggestion that she join it. I hope she gives it (both spinning and Ravelry) a try!!!
MaryEllen said,
December 29, 2009 @ 8:53 am
My sister and her family were out of town for the holidays visiting her in-laws – so that they didn’t have to pay for airport parking, my husband and I drove them to the airport an hour away and picked them up last night, even though the flight got in very late. We also bought some bread and milk so that they could have breakfast in the morning without having to worry about running to the store right away…hopefully that will gave them a little extra time to rest after a long trip
Helena said,
December 29, 2009 @ 9:34 am
Late Christmas Eve, my SO and I decided to drive around town and look at the lights. The roads were horrible since we had two feet of snow on the ground a few days earlier. Everything was covered thickly with ice. Around midnight, we came across a car stuck in an ice bank. The elderly driver was out there alone, trying to get the car out. We stopped and tried for an hour to push the car out, the whole time slipping and falling. Finally, Onstar got back on the line and told him she found someone to come out from a few towns away to tow him out, but the price was hourly and really expensive. I asked the man if he minded if I called a garage in town whom might be cheaper and he agreed. I ended up finding someone who could be there in ten minutes and did it for a mere penny. It felt good to help someone, especially on Christmas Eve.
Alex said,
December 29, 2009 @ 10:02 am
I made rum balls for my office. FYI the typical rum ball has between 1/20 and 1/10 of a shot of rum in it.
Sue Apple said,
December 29, 2009 @ 10:14 am
My RAK belongs to my DH. Over Christmas weekend we had continuous snow starting Christmas Eve thru Sunday morning. DH not only kept our drive and walks clear, he also did our next door neighbor’s (who were out of town) so they wouldn’t come home and not be able to get into their drive, then he went over to my parents house several times and cleared theirs AND when he found out their neighbor across the street was having some health issues did his too.
Whitney P. said,
December 29, 2009 @ 10:15 am
The other day, I helped an elderly woman up the stairs at the subway station. The station isn’t ADA accessible, and she had taken the express train, which required her to struggle up 3 flights of stairs to street level. She had a walker, so I carried it up the stairs, and then helped her up from the express train to the street, which took quite a while, since we could only go one step at a time. I was a few minutes late in getting where I needed to be, but I would have hated to see her struggle for longer than she had to.
Robin said,
December 29, 2009 @ 10:32 am
I put together several boxes of cross stitch kits, books, and yarn to be sent to mission schools in South Africa and South America. It feels great to give! (…and to free up much needed space in my house!)
Debbie said,
December 29, 2009 @ 10:51 am
When I get off the Metro I often see people playing music asking for donation or people asking for change or selling something for charity. Even if you want to you can’t really stop because if you stop for as long as it would take to dig in your purse people would pile up behind you and you would get pushed or trampled. So I have started carrying a couple dollars and some spare change in my coat pocket so I can quickly drop something in without getting knocked down by the crowd coming behind me.
StephCat said,
December 29, 2009 @ 10:59 am
a small RAOK….
last week hubby, Rigel our dog, myself & my friend Tina were on our Wednesday a.m. run. We meet at the Hermosa Beach police station parking lot then head down Pier Ave to run north on the Strand (concrete path/sidewalk bordering the beach) to the steps (literally steps going up to the Strand at Manhattan Beach) & back. I always look forward to running back up Pier — it’s a decent small hill, maybe a quarter mile — and though I’m sucking wind at the top it’s wonderful just how fast you can run the rest of the way back to the cars once your quads realize you’re now just going forward, not up.
Anyways, I was in front (did I say I like this hill?) and Rigel was behind me, pulling Dave up the hill, and Tina a bit further back).
Across the street, also heading up the hill, was a homeless man in a wheelchair.
I ran across & asked if he needed help. He gratefully accepted, and I pushed him up the hill.
Lauren J said,
December 29, 2009 @ 11:01 am
My acts this week were simple, I shoveled or snow-blowed snow for my neighbors. We had so much of it that if you did not keep at it, it would overwhelm you!
Ardosa said,
December 29, 2009 @ 12:48 pm
It is not something new for me, but it is something i realized the other day. I went to the store on Saturday with one of my 3 daughters. She said “you have any change in your wallet?” I didn’t have much but i gave her what loose change i had to and she ran up to the salvation army can and dropped it all in. I realized that anytime i have loose change i try to grab it and drop it in some charity can.
When my kids would ask how little it could help, i said that pennies still add up.
I am glad i was teaching them even when i wasn’t realizing it!
just lori said,
December 29, 2009 @ 2:15 pm
Whenever I’ve gone out this week, when I’ve had the opportunity to pick where to park, I’ll not take the closest space to the shop, sometimes surprising the person behind me.
Lahodges said,
December 29, 2009 @ 2:35 pm
I did a Random act for my friend Dani aka Danirobins on Rav. She has become such a good friend and to think I met her on Rav in the TLE group! We found out we only lived 15 minutes apart and the friendship blossomed from there. Anyway, I digress. For as long as I’ve known her, Dani has wanted a skein of WM Frosch Lace. So I saw a fellow Raveler was destashing one from over in England. I contacted her and asked her if she would RAK it to Dani. It arrived on Dani’s doorstep yesterday. She was happy, tearful, stunned and overjoyed. I was glad I could do something to give her so much joy.
MsVicki said,
December 29, 2009 @ 2:41 pm
It’s a tough time to be a restaurant server – people tend to do more eating at home during the holidays. And people who DO tend to eat holiday meals in restaurants are not always … in an exuberant holiday mood. So I’ve been stopping in at my small, local “greasy spoons,” and ordering my coffee to go, and leaving tips that far exceed the price of the coffee. If I were going to get that coffee at , I’d be paying far more for the drinks, anyhow. So I feel better giving that money as tips to the folks who always try to smile and serve.
Deborah VonBrutt said,
December 29, 2009 @ 2:42 pm
Saturday my family flew out after the holidays and after dropping them off at the airport I stopped for a coffee at IHOP. It was a very slow night so when I left I left a 10.00 tip.
Debi
Nancy said,
December 29, 2009 @ 7:12 pm
As we do every Christmas season when visiting a local Mom and Pop Chinese restaurant, I found out how many employees were on the clock at the time of our visit and gave them each an extra $5 Holiday tip.
Rebecca said,
December 29, 2009 @ 7:25 pm
I have two:
I ventured out on Christmas eve morning to do a little grocery shopping so I could be a hermit for a few days. So many people were acting like jerks, including a Santa look a like who was screaming at other drivers in the parking lot that I took a deeeeep breath and just decided to do everything in my power to make other drivers’ lives easier. I must have yielded right of way 10 times on my one mile drive home just because it was the nice thing to do. And I made it home with a smile on my face.
My second was less a RAK and more of a neighborly thing to do. I was outside in my yard and heard a rustling noise. I turned around and in the wilderness that is my backyard, there was a ferret! Luckily, I knew my neighbors have one and went over to retrieve her before my dogs decided to turn her into a snack. My neighbors hadn’t even noticed that she had slipped out, but were very relieved to have her back, safe and sound.
Judith said,
December 29, 2009 @ 7:27 pm
Oh, dear. Well, I did something good for myself when I did something good for others. My niece made a huge (and heavy) tin of goodies — chocolate covered peanut clusters, peanut brittle, and more — which she gave to me on Sunday at our family get-together. I ate a piece, then put it aside. On Monday morning I took it with me to the hospital and gave it to the gals at the check-in desk (I was there for an outpatient procedure). They all wanted to adopt my niece! And then they wanted to adopt me when they saw the scarf I was knitting!
Kim B. said,
December 29, 2009 @ 8:29 pm
I donated some handknit hats and scarves to the Salvation Army. Also went through my closet and took coats and sweaters to a local shelter. There were 18 families burned out of their apartments two days before Christmas so the warm clothing was needed immediately.
Kathleen C said,
December 29, 2009 @ 9:49 pm
I’m mailing off three hats to a little girl, her doll and her brother this week. Her mom saw a picture of a hat she thought would be cute. But it was crochet and not a pattern, but a hat to purchase. I said, “I could make that!”, so I did. Then I made one sized for the girl’s American Girl doll. Since I didn’t want her brother to feel slighted, I knit a hat for him in red, as his mother suggested he’d wear such a thing, being 13 and all!
They’ll be entering the new year in style!
Heathar said,
December 30, 2009 @ 1:53 am
I love doing RAKs whenever I get a chance, and look for opportunities whenever I can. I usually don’t talk about it, though…it’s kind of fun being a “secret” do-gooder.
This year I was the recipient of a secret RAK. My hubby was laid off last month, and we’ve been tightening the budget to be able to do Christmas for the girls. When I got to work the other day, someone had left a $100 Target gift card in my box. I wish I could pay them back, but since it was anonymous, I’ll just have to keep paying it forward…
danielle said,
December 30, 2009 @ 10:50 am
Dropped off more food at the local pantry. Knitting baby caps for charity (great portable project with quick payback!). But I rec’d a simple one myself: I was at Borders, looking at their clearance gift bags. I picked one up – and the whole display of them fell down, including the sign! Of course I was totally embarrassed….as I was picking them up to put them back, a lovely young man nonchalantly came over and helped me – accepted my thanks – and jsut as nonchalantly left!
Jess' Mom said,
December 30, 2009 @ 4:04 pm
My daughter and I donned elf hats and took gifts to our almost blind neighbor friend and her son next door. They were so surprised! Then, when we got snow, hubby went to 3 neighbors and snowblowed their approaches to their driveways where the snowplow snow fills in. Yesterday, neighbor brought back the fancy Christmas plate I had put her cookies on. (She didn’t know she was to keep it, so I re-filled it for her!) She told me that she really hadn’t brought it back for a refill, but she’d be happy to have more cookies. haha…
Happy New Year to you and your family, Sheri! May the Lord continue to bless you in all you do!
Megan said,
December 30, 2009 @ 4:44 pm
Yesterday, I helped a kid on the ski slope who had fallen and couldn’t get up. I got my brother to lend a hand, and between us we were able to get the boy moving again.
Alison said,
December 30, 2009 @ 6:20 pm
I’ve been walking my parents’ dog in the crappy weather while they’re sick.
sue said,
December 30, 2009 @ 6:34 pm
One of my co-workers was bemoaning a travel mug she had just bought that wasn’t very satisfactory, the lid leaked and she wasn’t at all happy. I had gotten a set of two very nice travel mugs–with lids that don’t leak–and gave her one of them. She was very pleased (and is now drip free*g*).
Jeanne said,
December 30, 2009 @ 7:58 pm
Today, my children and spent a fun day shopping in a neighboring town much bigger than ours. While I enjoyed our time together, I don’t enjoy the traffic we encounter! I decided to just breath and to let people in front of me whenever possible. I think it’s nice for them and it helped to keep me calm too!
Wasie said,
December 30, 2009 @ 9:29 pm
The traffic by our Town Center gets horrendous the week before Christmas. Much to the chagrin of the car behind me, on several occasions, I let other cars in from other directions and just waited it out.
Melissa said,
December 31, 2009 @ 1:17 am
Dec. 23 was a wonderful day. I was fortunate enough to be able to give extra toys to the Salvation Army, and some cash to the Humane Society. I also paid the person’s bill behind me at the Chik-Fil-A drive through, and really enjoyed seeing the look on the young man’s face as I drove away.
Kt said,
December 31, 2009 @ 5:11 am
Its been snowy here so we cleared my grandpa’s car and helped my gran through the snow. A girl dropped an earring in the snow when we were in town, loads of people must have seen and just walked by, we picked it up and returned it to her, much smiles.
ikkinlala said,
December 31, 2009 @ 12:06 pm
I haven’t been around other people outside my family very much this week, but I did help a neighbour shovel her walkway.
Kathryn in Minnesota said,
December 31, 2009 @ 12:53 pm
Thanks to everyone who’s been posting RAKs. I was in need of inspiration. Turns out I’d been doing RAK without knowing it — this month just seemed like a good time to let other people go first, especially when they’re in a hurry. We’ve collected two bags plus a down jacket for Goodwill. And shoveled the sidewalk at the elementary school. Happy New Year — may it be full of RAK, both given and received.
allison said,
December 31, 2009 @ 5:45 pm
I was on a plane coming home from Chicago last night and the woman sitting next to me was a mom holding her 6 month old sleeping baby in her lap. She couldn’t move much due to the newborn in her lap and as the drink service came around, she realized she couldn’t put her tray table down. I let her use mine and poured her pop from the can into her cup for her since she would have had to contort in an odd position just to do it herself. It was a small thing, but I just couldn’t stand to watch her struggle.
Connie Benotti said,
December 31, 2009 @ 9:06 pm
I was aware as the holidays progressed that one person on my list really loved a bag that I had for several years. It was very expensive and I carried it a total of 5 times. It was a “Carpet Bag” by Brighton and made from tapestry. I was unable to use it due to damaged rotator cuffs in both shoulders, as well as osteoporosis. Every time the person was at my home she offered to buy it but when I told her the price she backed away from it. Being the season of beginnings, love, sharing, kindness, and genuine caring of others, I wrapped the bag very fancy and gave it to this person. Do I miss it, yes. That’s how I know it was the right thing to do. I’m very pleased to have made somone else feel special.
Michelle said,
January 1, 2010 @ 8:45 am
Hi! Hope you had a Happy New Year.
I took the neighbors trash out to the road for them. I was taking mine and heard the garbage truck coming early, and theirs was not out yet, so went ahead and took it to the road, and then put the garbage can back after it got picked up.
Brianna said,
January 1, 2010 @ 1:34 pm
This mostly wasn’t me, but there’s been a terrible snowstorm passing through the area. Someone put their car off the road right across the street (literally outside our door), and myself, my husband, and my brother and his friends went out and dug/towed his car out of the snow. A great team effort
Sittinknittin said,
January 1, 2010 @ 5:19 pm
My random act of kindness isn’t something that I did, rather it is a report on someone else’s.
My friend in Finland gifted me with the lovely book Haapsalu sall. It was a complete surprise and I think she should have a chance in your contest because of this. Happy New Year to all!
Paulette said,
January 1, 2010 @ 6:21 pm
I made chocolate chip cookies today (New Year’s Day) and brought some to two elderly neighbors; they each have an adult child that lives with them also. I meant to do it before Christmas, but got too “busy”. I didn’t want to just forget it, and took care of it today. They were warmly received! I must remember now to do this again during the year.
Thank you for encouraging us to do RAKs—it’s so easy to get caught up in our “busyness” that we can miss opportunities to do something special for other people. There are SO many ways to do that. I felt so good and thankful for the smiles I was given in return! So, thank you~
Joanna in CA said,
January 2, 2010 @ 8:36 pm
We go to our local farmer’s market every week and have become friendly with many of the vendors. One vendor in particular has become special to us and we now “work” the stand for him so that he can take a break, etc. The best part of this is not only has he become a friend, but many of the regular market goers always stop by to check in and it has become a great place to make friends and meet some very interesting people. ;D
What started as a RAK is now a very necessary part of our week!
Heather said,
January 3, 2010 @ 10:19 am
I have two Raks for this week. 1. Since my sister has been having a rough time lately, this week I started a scarf for her that I know will cheer her up as it is in her favorite color and the pattern is beautiful. Her scarf has taken precedence over the other items on needles, including late Christmas gifts since I want her to have it as soon as possible so that she will at least smile once during this difficult time. 2. Hubby and I went out to a restaurant right after Christmas and left a large tip for the waitress as a nice Christmas gift-she waits on us everytime we go and I wanted to give her a little extra for being so kind to us.