Ever since my first breakfast on June 26, 2010, my breakfast bunch has been pleading with me to start a tip jar of some kind so they could contribute a few bucks to help defray some of the grocery expense. And, every time they asked, the answer was the same -- no, no, no! I felt like if they started paying for it, then I wouldn't feel the joy I get for doing this for them. They graciously, yet reluctantly, said OK...but the subject would always come up. They simply didn't feel right about it and wanted to help.
So in January 2012, I emailed one of the morning Sergeants and surrendered the white flag. I knew I was out-numbered and fighting a losing battle, and I wanted them to feel good about coming to AHOP. My concession didn't come without stipulations though. I laid down the AHOP law (yeah, right....sounds funny, doesn't it...me telling the police how it's gonna be?) But it was important to me that they understood AHOP wasn't about the tip jar....and they knew that.
After conceding, I realized my joy isn't just in just buying the groceries. It's in the prep work the night before -- frying the bacon, setting the table, premeasuring ingredients, and remembering to take the butter out of the refrigerator so it has time to soften. And the day of -- waking up at 4:30 am, remembering to put the honey, ketchup and the Chipotle Hot Sauce (for Sgt. B) on the table, cracking those eggs and flippin' those pancakes.
My joy is in the anticipation of seeing my friends again.
After conceding, I realized my joy isn't just in just buying the groceries. It's in the prep work the night before -- frying the bacon, setting the table, premeasuring ingredients, and remembering to take the butter out of the refrigerator so it has time to soften. And the day of -- waking up at 4:30 am, remembering to put the honey, ketchup and the Chipotle Hot Sauce (for Sgt. B) on the table, cracking those eggs and flippin' those pancakes.
My joy is in the anticipation of seeing my friends again.
This past Saturday, Ofc. Greg surprised me with this cute little piggy bank for the table.
I love it!
I love what you do, you are a great person! Need more people like you in the world.
ReplyDeleteIn response to your question about the basket, I just used old wall paint I had laying around. I think it is satin finish. No sealer. But probably should, since I have it in the bathroom right now under the sink. Thanks for visiting me!!
Thanks for visiting my page also and for your nice comment. AHOP is an unexpected blessing in my life. As I type this, I have the first batch of bacon in the oven for tomorrow's breakfast.
ReplyDeleteWhat's so great about your basket is if it does get dirty, dusty or just worn out over time, there is virtually no cost involved to make another one -- and it's really cute! I hope I make you proud!