Just a little recessionary encouragement for all of you! David and I went into Costco today and discovered that you can buy $100 worth of Starbucks gift cards (5 $20 cards) for $80. I like the sound of a 20% disccount! If only there were discounted Barnes and Noble gift cards, too… Oh well, it’s not a perfect world.
We are in Boston for the weekend, doing a little business and picking my mother up to bring her back to Florida. I’m pretty sure the leaves would be really pretty, if only the sun would shine through them. They are past their peak, of course, but there is still something beautiful about them fluttering down through the wind and carpeting the grass.
We also went to one of my new favorite restaurants for lunch today. It’s called Stone Hearth Pizza, but they offer more on their menu besides pizza. Several things make them unique. First, they source as much of their food locally as possible. I know that environmentally speaking, this is huge. Second, because of that local sourcing the food is of high quality. Even where it isn’t local, it’s organic or all natural. Even simple dishes (or maybe especially simple dishes) taste better with the freshest food. Third, their atmosphere is warm and cozy and welcoming. Artwork by a local sixth grade class hangs in front of stone wall insets, the lighting is nice and the colors are so appropriate.
All the things that make me enjoy going there could — should — apply to our churches as well: It’s a local part of our community, its message is simple and life-changing, and the atmosphere is welcoming and appropriate to the message. That last one seems to be a sticking point for a lot of churches, who seem to go for the corporate mold rather than a reflection of their community.
Just a few thoughts for a rainy day!
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I had no idea you could buy $100 valued gift card for Starbucks at Costco for $80.00!!! I’m going share this information with all of my coffee-loving friends! Thanks for the tip!