There really are some benefits to living in a small town... it's more than just the family atmosphere and the traditional values. There are short lines at the stop sign; the lady at the coffee shop knows just how I like my morning coffee, and I'm on a first name basis with the Sheriff, the Chief of Police and the Mayor.
Of course I've heard there are a few drawbacks, like everybody knows everybody's business, but I happen to like that aspect of living here. I've never been good at keeping secrets, and I think it holds you more accountable for your plans and actions.
But this morning I got to experience one of my most favorite parts of living in a small town.
About a month ago, I was wasting time surfing the internet and I typed in the address of one of my most frequented websites - ebay - and proceeded straight to my preferred section, purses. My friends will all tell you that I'm a sucker for purses, watches and shoes. I can't help it - I'm fascinated with the accessories. Especially if it's a good bargain. I love trying to get fancy and 'expensive-looking' items for really low prices. I'm always amazed by what you can find at ebay!
Anyway, I found a couple of really great, cute purses that I instantly fell in love with, and guess the price? 99 cents each!
The disadvantage: they were from a dealer in China. I did "win" the items in the online auction for less than a dollar each, however, shipping from Asia was closer to $15 each. (Still a good bargain in my opinion though.)
But do you know how long it takes to get mail from China? I was prepared for the wait, after all, the purses were worth it. But everyday I would anxiously go home from work to see if my purses had arrived while I was gone.
Then today, Mailman Bob shows up at the Columbian-Progress with two packages in his hands. He said, "I knew you had been waiting on these so I thought I'd just drop them by your office."
How sweet is that?!?
Yes, it was my purses and I was so excited to finally receive them, but I was even more excited by the fact that my mailman had brought them to me!
Only in a small town will the mailman know where you live, where you work, when to deliver packages containing Christmas gifts and when not to (cause he knows you're trying to surprise your spouse.)
Only in a small town does the mailman know specifically about your spending habits on ebay.
And only in a small town does the mailman care enough to go out of his way to brighten your day through his small act of kindness.
Sure, he could've just left them at my house (it's where they were addressed to go) but he knew how eager I was to receive them, so he brought them to my work.
My mailman is the best, but so is living in a small town!
