$20.92

I went to Aldi yesterday to pick up the monthly supplies for daycare and managed to snag a few things for myself.  I did this knowing that I didn't have that much cash in my purse, and wasn't even certain on how much I actually had.  I figured I'd throw caution to the wind and use my debit card for anything I'm over.

Well, I got to the cashier, my total was $20.92.  In my wallet, I found three 5s and some singles...5 singles!  Okay - "Here is $20, let me see how much change I have, otherwise I may need to swipe."  I scooped up all the change in my wallet and much to my astonishment, it was 92 cents exactly!  I didn't have another penny to my name.  (Though I do have a lucky penny I picked up downtown on Monday with wonderful husband in my coat pocket)  The cashier and I both laughed.  I made a comment "If I had another dollar, I'd go play the lotto!"

I'm wondering what the people behind me in line's perception of me was.  Did they think that I shouldn't have bought the goat cheese topped frozen pizza if I didn't have enough money?  Did they think that I'd start taking things off to see if I could make the payment? Did they even care?  Did they even notice?

I ponder these questions only because after watching those "What Would You Do?" shows on TV, there was one of a mom who didn't have enough cash at the grocery store.  Some people in line gave her money, others just stuck their nose up in the air.  I remember that episode & wonder what I would do.  No matter how hard I try, it's hard not to review what someone has in their grocery cart when they pull out the Link card.  I try to take these moments where I hold up a line to fumble for change to imagine what it would be like in someone else's shoes...and remind myself that everyone is just trying to get by as best as they can.  Not everyone has the luxury I do, to know you can always pull out your debit card for those 'extras' we pick up at the grocery store.  Those people may have had to put back the goat cheese topped frozen pizza.  When I eat that pizza, I'm going to be extra thankful that I was able to buy it.