Wednesday, May 28, 2008

Fuel for the Memory

It's no secret that gas prices are rising. I filled my tank last Wednesday at $3.79 a gallon. Two days later, the price had risen to $3.97. In an effort to pinch a few pennies, I've limited my driving to only include work, school, or church. If an errand is en route I will stop but otherwise, I bike or walk.

Friday evening after dinner, I cleared the table and set my books out to study.

*Please stop reading if you are looking for an adventurous post. Friday night - studying for a test? My life doesn't get any more exciting. I hope you can handle the adrenaline rush.

Still here? Okay, but I warned you.

I got my books out to study. Then the craving came. Chocolate. I needed chocolate to study properly. I knew I didn't have any stashed away. I clearly would need to make a quick trip to the store.

Little Boy Blue seemed bored so I asked if he wanted to ride his bike next to me as I walked. He was so excited and quickly put on his boots. Right as we stepped outside, a few rain drops fell. Little Boy Blue groaned and asked, "What will we do if it rains?" I replied, "I guess we will get wet." "Really?! You are the coolest sister ever!" (I know.)

So we walked. And it rained. And we got wet.

And I haven't had that much fun on a Friday night in a long time. We talked about school, and bugs, and books, and camping, and candy, and games, and friends. Eventually we arrived at the store. I got my chocolate and he got some gum.

And then we were home. The event was so simple - just a walk with my brother - but the conversation and laughs we had will always be a fond memory.

Yes fuel prices are rising but I'm not worried. I saved 18 cents to the gallon by walking and was rewarded with an experience worth much more.

Turns out walking with a loved one is priceless.

13 comments:

Shankar said...

I wouldn't take a younger sibling's encomiums for granted, if I were you. Still, I wish I had a sibling who thought me the coolest brother ever.

shauna said...

Ah - that is a great post Charlotte. I loved it. I need to be reminded every once in awhile how important those "seemingly" little things in life are. Thanks for sharing!

ME said...

What a great time! I'm sure he will treasure that memory for years to come! Ya know, in thinking back, I also have some wonderful memories of playing in the rain.

Coordination Queen said...

how fun! i wish i lived less than 7 miles from a grocery store... then maybe i'd walk or at least realize i don't need chocolate.

Amber said...

You're such a wonderful big sister!

And thanks for the hilarious comment....it made my afternoon at work a little more enjoyable! I think I might have even laughed out loud.

RED MOJO said...

Simply wonderful.

Unknown said...

No way, man. I totally would have brought an umbrella. Actually, I wouldn't have done that at all because I don't have a little brother. Kind-of wish I did, though.

Beth said...

We often tend to look for excitement, adventure and good times "out there" when they can all be found so close to home.
Wonderful post.

(Hope you stocked up on the chocolate - you must always have a hidden stash on hand.)

Melissa said...

That is so cute! I love it!

Anonymous said...

Its always the simplest of things that create the best memories

Mary Mitchell said...

I love walking in the rain - just wish it would happen a little more often these days. Next time it does, call me - I'll get wet with you.

Julia Gulia said...

I'm pretty sure Christian didn't say you were the coolest sister. Clearly, that's me!!!

Jared and Katy said...

That is so cute! I love walking in the rain when convienent (spelling)