Generosity Times Two

December 17, 2008

If you read my last post, I kind of left you all hanging about that the special surprise from my boss this holiday season!! Some might not find this exciting, but for Pat and I, this is such a treat!!

A handful of you girls that have followed my blog from the beginning, have seen first hand just how generous my boss can be.....You all remember that little vacation getaway to Sin City......it was such a great trip and oh man did we live the life of luxury.....a girl could quickly adjust to that kind of lifestyle......but because all good things must come to an end, the life of luxury ended the minute we stepped foot off the plane!!!!

As our company's fiscal year is quickly coming to a close, my boss decided to share with me how we faired this year!! Even in this terrible economy, we were able to achieve double digit growth due to our sales volume. He loves to reward people for a job well done, and add a little extra incentive so that I will repeat this performance next year.........so he decided to send Pat and I on another little trip!!!!!

Where you might ask????

I didn't think there was much that could have topped the Las Vegas getaway where we stayed at a posh hotel, took part in daily spa treatments, and had dinners in some of Las Vegas's finest restaurants, but I think this trip might give Sin City a run for their money......pun intended:)

We are spending 5 days, 4 nights, all expenses paid at this luxurious place..........

b3
the Atlantis Resort Paradise Island, Bahamas
b2
Pat and I are so looking forward to this time away!! With both of us working full time and two children that keep us hopping, there is little quality time for just the two of us!! A couple days of warm weather spent poolside with drinks in hand, and quiet dinners in some really nice restaurants sounds like heaven......it actually sounds like a second hooneymoon!!

Being that Pat works in the Mortgage Industry and we all know what has gone on with that industry this past year....some really scary stuff to say the least, we have had to take a step back and really be careful when it comes to our finances and money that we were spending frivolously! We would never be splurging on a trip like this if it wasn't given to us........we are both grateful for this man's generosity. I have worked for him for six years and he constantly amazes me with his random acts of kindness!

Since we are talking about random acts of kindness, I wanted to talk about one more person that has really touched my heart this holiday season. I think it is safe to say that most of you know I have an addiction to shopping for Sarah's clothes and although I have done some damage in the stores this winter season.....we have had someone supplement it greatly!!

About two weeks ago, I got an email from a very sweet bloggy friend who said that she had an entire winter wardrobe of size 2 clothes that her daughter had outgrown and she was looking to pass on. She instantly thought of Sarah, but thought because there were a couple states that separated us, I would not be interested. According to her, she had two very heavy, large rubbermaid containers filled. It only took me about 30 seconds to respond and say that we would absolutely pay for the shipping if she really wanted to pass them on!

Knowing her, there was no doubt in my mind that these clothes were in mint condition....and all clothes that I would hand pick for Sarah if I were shopping.

Without hesitation she packed them up and sent them out.....a few short days later two large boxes arrived on my doorstep. I could not believe what was inside!! She could have easily sold them and made a small fortune, but she didn't.....she passed them to a grateful friend and wouldn't take a dime!!

Words cannot describe how I felt when I opened those boxes.....I have to admit, I was crying as I looked at my kitchen island and saw the piles upon piles of beautiful clothes, some that still had tags on them and had never been worn. What a gift....to think that someone that I have never met face to face could be so generous and thoughtful.....it was rather emotional!!

I have saved all of Sarah's clothes in hopes that one day soon our China Baby will wear them....I know some of what is put away will never be worn again because they will be too small....I have containers upon containers of 0-3 and 3-6 Month clothes....I didn't think I was ready to let go of them just yet, but this sweet friend has truly inspired me. I want to touch someone's heart the way you touched mine!! I don't need to mention your name, you know who you are....just know that you have blessed me with the GREATEST gift of all this holiday season.....the gift of giving!!

59 comments:

Jboo said...

Wow!! What an incredibly generous boss you have there! Could you see about cloning him and sending his clone to Nebraska?!! :)

And what a sweet thoughtful gesture by your blogging friend!

Hope you all have a wonderful Christmas!

Janet

a Tonggu Momma said...

Wonderful! My BIL works in the mortgage industry, so I truly understand.

Kathryn said...

Can I hide in your suitcase, dump me by the pool and I promise I won't bother you!!!!!!!!!!!!

Leslie said...

What Special gifts you have been giving Lisa. Acts of Kindness always helps us all. I'm glad there's a shinning light for you this Holiday Season. So much to look forward to. I'm sure Sarah is going to look so precious in her new clothes.

Jodee said...

Holy cow! That resort looks like heaven to me too! You are going to have a blast!

I can't wait to see all of the hand-me-downs! Bloggy friends are the best!

Amy said...

I am all covered in goose pimples here! Those are wonderful gifts from your boss and your bloggy friend.

God is SO good! I love when we see Him through the actions and generosity of others.

God Bless,
Amy:)

Lisa said...

Oh Lisa, I am so happy for you and your hubby! Now, I hope you'll update us like you did in Vegas, it was so much fun following your daily posts, but if you don't I understand too! It's your get away time with your hubby. Yipee!!

What a great friend to give you so many nice clothes! I am so happy for you!

Marla said...

That is awesome!! What an incredible thank you!! I'm sure you'll totally enjoy Atlantis, my dh has been there for a work trip (I had just given birth and sadly, had to skip it) and he LOVED it!

And yay for your sweet friend! Can't wait to see pics of Sarah in her new treasures!

Marla said...

Oh, and another thing, I just wanted to say thanks for all the sweet comments you leave on my blog and many others that I read. You are always so cheerful and kind! :)

Anonymous said...

Oh, I'm jealous. Can I come?
But seriously, this is wonderful for you and Pat. Matt and I took a trip to the Dominican Republic last year, just the two of us, and it was great. Every couple needs to do this.

ZONE F DG TEAM said...

Think I'll fir in your carry on???

Kam said...

How wonderful, Lisa! I'm stoked that you get this time away! Jase and I really try to do this once a year. Just go be a couple. It's so nice and so good for our marriage. We have a great one...no problems at all. But you need time sometimes...just to be together!
And how sweet about the clothes! You are being blessed and on the receiving end of such thoughtful generosity...just what this season is all about!
Enjoy!

Casey said...

This is absolutely a second-honeymoon!! You will have the time of your lives!! So happy for you...

BTW- Is he hiring anyone new?? HAHA!!

And what a wonderful friend... I just love clothes and there are no better ones than free ones from friends!

Gail said...

You have an awesome boss AND blog friend!

That resort is amazing, I have a dear friend that has been there and loved it. Enjoy!

4D said...

That is so generous! Lucky u!

We stopped in the Bahamas on our cruise a few years ago and visited the resort.

Insert mega envious Canuck here!

Keep smilin!

Kim said...

HOW WONDERFUL...
Like I said in my email.. I am hiding in the suitcase..
And as for the AMAZING blogger friend..
It truly amazes me how the blogging world is soooooo AMAZING...
I know that once Isabella has grown out of clothes I will be passing them down also..
LOVE IT..
Hugs to your friend..
Love ya girly..
Have a Great Week..

Briana's Mom said...

Oh my word. I cannot believe that vacation! You and Pat won't mind if I tag along with you - do you? ;)

And what a sweet friend you have!

fleur de lis cottage said...

Oh your post brings back such sweet memories to me. That's where my husband and I went on our honeymoon. I love Paradise Island and the Atlantis. The grounds and pool are breathtaking. Have a guava daiquiri while you're there:) What a sweet bloggy friend....so many sweet folks in bloggerville.

Patricia said...

Wow!! You have an amazing boss with such a generous heart!! How wonderful for you both to look forward to such a great & well-deserved trip!

And what a blessing to have received those clothes for Sarah!!

What fabulous Christmas presents/blessings you have received!

Aspiemom said...

You must have an incredible boss. What is it you do for a living- if I look back I may find that, but I don't really have time.

That is so generous and the pictures look so enticing. Congratulations on earning this fabulous trip!

Congrats on Sarah's clothes, too! What a blessing!

Shari said...

WOW! 2 totes of clothes! That is spectacular - hopefully you'll have 2 girls who can use them:)

Your boss is amazing - does he need anyone working for him in Iowa? That sunny beach is looking REALLY good!

Chasing Dreams Photography said...

Lisa your boss is awesome and you will love it there. Ken and I have visited the Atlantis but it was on a cruise so we didn't stay but we plan on taking the girls there for a get away...you are going to have a wonderful time....
You know I just adore you, you so deserve this get away. Thank you for blessing me with your friendship.

Jill said...

Wow! I am so envious!!!
ENJOY your trip! I am sure you both deserve it!!
Go have some fun in the sun!

Shell in your Pocket said...

OH..my goodness...what a wonderful place...I know so many people who have been there! ME? NO! But, I have never heard a bad experience yet!! The pools are beautiful...I have seen friends pictures...what a wonderful boss you have!

-sandy toes

Shell in your Pocket said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Kerry said...

Wow, Lisa- a must needed and deserved vacation. Sounds wonderful. Have a fantastic time. We have been to see the resort and stayed nearby- it is lovely!

And so fun to receive once loved clothes.

Love this giving time of year!
Hugs

Robin said...

Oh my the trip sounds wonderful!!!

And the clothes...that is too wonderful for words too!!!


Blessings,
Robin

3 Peanuts said...

I am so happy for you. this sounds like a dream vacation!!! You are being blessed with exactly the kind of kindness you show to others.

Kim

Michelle R Photography said...

Tis the season for giving and I am so glad to see that you are on the receiving end, Lisa. What an amazing boss you have!! Atlantis looks so beautiful. Oh, you must blog it all!

And what a generous gift to receive all that clothing. I can't wait to see pics of her in all of her adorable new outfits.

I hope your wonderful week continues!!

Hugs,
Michelle

day by day said...

Oh, my goodness...what a wonderful man to work for! Does he need any help? lol! I'll even wash windows. hee hee!

How nice to have been blessed with so many new outfits for Sarah!!!!

CC said...

I am BEYOND jealous of your upcoming trip. forget trip, I haven't had a DATE for more than a year!

And what a wonderful, wonderful gift that blogger has given you!!!! may it be perfect for Sarah and your next miracle too.

cherry said...

Congrats on Atlantis! I have been there...on our honeymoon...you will have a blast. They have the coolest cave aquarium! Very coool on the clothes too! RAKS rock! cherry

Kate said...

Ahh...yes...can you see my face??? Green with envy I am sure!!!

That is great news and it is so nice that your boss rewards a job well done!!! I am gld you got the time off...and that you have such a fun trip to look forward to.

I also received a box of beautiful clothes from a blogger over the summer...and it really touched me as well....REAL friendships are being made in blogland...and I am so grateful you are one of mine!!

Denise said...

Ok, I am jealous twice, first for the vacation and second for the 2 big boxes of clothes...seriously, can't wait for you 2 to enjoy some time away with eachother. And what a wonderful gesture for someone to do for you!

Hope you are having a great week~

kerri said...

Woo hoo!!
Enjoy your well deserved vacation!!
What a special present to be delivered to your door, blessings to your bloggy friend..

Tisha said...

Lisa,

I didn't realize that you had a full-time job outside of the home. Wow, my friend, you really have it together! How do you find the time to do all that you do!?!? I need to take notes. :)

This trip sounds like a very well-deserved one. What a blessing! Can't wait to see the pics.

Cheers,
Tisha

elliotts said...

How wonderful!! You have an absolute awesome boss! My husband is in the mortgage industry and thankfully things are picking up...Happy Holidays!!

redmaryjanes said...

All I can say is WOW! Have a wonderful time!

Please come and take the Christmas award at my blog, you definitely have a lot of Christmas cheer here!

Buzzings of a Queen Bee! said...

How touching, on both counts. I can't believe that gift from your boss!! It is so generous and I just love that you will get some much-deserved time away. And the box of clothes...well, you don't have to tell me how wonderful that is! It is so tempting not to spend all our grocery budget at Janie and Jack or Gap Kids! Those clothes should keep you busy for awhile! :)
Carrie

Keisha said...

Such Blessings Girl!! I know your heart is so Full! What an Awesome boss you have & I can only imagine all the fun you and your honey will have!
I think your friend with the clothes... may just be an ANGEL!! I know how wonderful it feels for someone to give us some hand-me-downs! Those are certainly Blessings! Thnks for sharing your cup full of Joy!
Merry Christmas!
Keisha

Rhonda said...

I LOVE your blog.

We stayed at Atlantis for about 5 days a couple of Thanksgivings ago. Great place. Staff not the friendliest, but it was so much fun overall. My boys loved the breakfast paninis made at the bistro as you're walking out to the pool area.

Get great pix!!!

I'm jealous! Would LOVE some sunshine right now.

Blessings,
Rhonda

M,R,J1,J2 said...

Paradise Island-it is truly a Paradise! IMO, it tops Las Vegas. You will have a fabulous time!
Enjoy the last two weeks of 2008-think of me while you're off and I'm working :-)
Hugs,
Michaela

Our Complete Family said...

An awesome trip for an awesome job well done sweetie!
You and Pat will have a great time and it will be awesome for the kiddos, too, since you'll come back all full of life and invigorated from a fun getaway!
Have fun sorting through the clothing. It is very touching to read that such nice kind acts still do exist. Love seeing that!
Merry December hun~ Les

Special K said...

Wow! That's some trip. You're gonna have a fabulous time.

And what a sweet story about the clothes. Very generous indeed.

Sherri said...

You are one lucky lady! Your bloggy friend is very generous. I am often amazed by the friendships that develop through these blogs and I think that is one of the most touching stories yet.

Have a great trip to paradise. I will be soaking up the sun through your descriptive stories ;)
When do you go?

Jeni said...

I see that Atlantis on TV all the time and wish I was going. 2nd Honeymoon indeed.

Hand me downs are so great

I wonder where you work?

Lucy said...

What a post!!! That is so unbelievably sweet of that mom to send you all of those clothes! What a big heart! She does have the true spirit of Christmas!!! Amazing! Amazing too at the gift your boss gave you! Holy cow! I cannot believe it! You deserve it so much!!! Good for you, I'm so happy for you and can't wait to see all the pics. Merry, merry, merry!

Jennifer said...

Congrats on the trip! It sounds awesome. It is amazing how you can meet the most incredible people, without actually "meeting" them :)

What a blessed week you have had!

Jennifer

Anonymous said...

I am so happy for you about the trip and the clothes! Isn't it amazing ow sweet folks are in Blogland?!

Jenni said...

I am so excited for you! That will be so wonderful for you and your husband to get away to such a fantastic place for a few days. :)

I also wanted to say that I think that is so sweet what your blogger friend did! It does definitely inspire! :) I hope you have a great weekend!

Alyson and Ford said...

You are so blessed! Sounds like the trip of a lifetime! Enjoy!!
I love receiving "hand-me-downs" for AA too.

Merry Christmas,
Alyzabeth's Mommy of Three Months!

Steffie B. said...

wow....we have been there....you wil love it....every couple needs some time away.....can't wait to see pics! ;)

Lisa said...

I love your blog! What wonderful gifts you have been given. Your boss sounds awesome and incredibly generous.
Merry Christmas!

paige said...

oh my!!!!
merry christmas sweetie

Sharon said...

So when is this vacation? I'll have to have a drink in hand while I read your blog and pretend I am there with you ; ). I just had the opportunity to go to Hawaii last week with my husband (for his work), but felt I couldn't leave the kids so soon... Sigh....LOL. I can't wait to see some of the clothes your daughter received too! What nice gifts from such generous people.

Unknown said...

This post was so beautiful it totally made my day! I am so thankful that God has given you this blessing at work and then again with the clothes. Isn't God AMAZING! This made me thankful! Hope your trip is fantastic!

Jennifer said...

WOW!! I know you and Pat will enjoy that amazing trip!!

How wonderful that a bloggy friend passed on such wonderful clothes.

Bloggy friends are truely amazing!

Jen

Ivy Shaffer said...

HI LISA,
You will LOVE it there! We went there on our honeymoon. It's even bigger now, more water parks I believe.

Have a great time!

Hugs,

Ivy

jenbusymom said...

That is soooo amazing, good for you guys, I'm sure you'll enjoy yourselves, who wouldn't!!