Another simple pleasure.

Standing about 20 people back from the front of the line I regret my decision to buy a book at Borders so close to Christmas. "Dang holiday shopping" I think to myself. But just before my thoughts swirl into dismal pondering of the materialization of Christmas I spot him. Checker number 2. Dark hair, about 20-22, great smile. Quickly I do the math - I have a one in 6 chance, not good, but I'm not going to let that get me down, there is always hope. Slowly the line progresses. Now I am the 2nd to next in line, nervously I calculate the time remainders of each of the six chashiers with their customers. It's not looking good, he's finishing up with his costumer, handing her her reciet, the 40 year old lady in front of me is going to beat me to him. But wait, his costumer is asking a question... he's checking... now I worry it will take too long, the lady in front of me is called to register 4. Checker 3 is quickly finishing her tansaction. Hurry! I think. And then he's done, looks up "Next costomer please." He smiles at me as I hand him my book, he really does have a lovely smile. We banter mildly over the transaction. "That'll be $12 even", I reach for my check card then remember and say "No wait, I have money." "Yes, money will be good... you'll need that." I smile and hand it to him. He smiles and hands me my change. "Have a nice day" he says. "You too" I say, with all the sincerity and friendliness I can muster. And then it's out the door and to my car. Triumph. 1 in 6 chances and I won the draw.

Haha, sorry if you don't understand that story. When one spends an entire weekend doing pretty much nothing but studying one must glean all the enjoyment one can from every daily transaction.