SOLS #28 Free Stuff

"You can't say, I won't write today because that excuse will extend into several days, then several months, then… you are not a writer anymore, just someone who dreams about being a writer."  Dorothy C. Fontana  Well, I thought posting during spring break would be easier.  After all, I'm constantly out and about with plenty of possibilities for writing.  However, it's actually a bit tougher than I anticipated.  Carving time for writing in the middle of fun is a bit of a challenge.  

My family just loves free stuff.  My grandfather used to joke the best way to get everyone together was to offer a free meal.  Of course, who could resist a meal cooked by grandma?  My dad is a champion at managing free coffee at Starbucks.  I'm not sure how he does it really.  It seems they are always waiting on a new pot to brew when he arrives.  I myself just managed a free oil change at my service station.  Free makes everything more enjoyable.

A few years ago my husband and I went with my brother and his wife to Charleston.  It was a beautiful city rich in history.  Quickly I learned my sister-in-law, Lisa, had a special gift.  It seems she was the champion of the free sample.  She'd go into candy stores, bakeries, ice-cream shops and practically fill up on the free sample.  Actually it got a little funny as we went into a candy store and I was making a purchase that was smaller than her free "sample."  I realized it was a bit of an art, enough interest combined with a little small talk seemed to score the best free samples.

This week my brother and his wife went back to Charleston for a few days.  Of course, I'm getting constant updates on the free samples they are finding:  cobbler, cookies, fudge, ice-cream and free breakfast.  It seems Charleston is full of free finds.

While they are off in Charleston, I'm visiting with my mom.  I'm taking this contest to heart.  I've responded with a picture of free raspberry cheesecake, free evening entertainment (my brother's kids who are staying here too), and free Jerry breakfast (which is an omelet that is to die for).

Free is always better.