Brian

Sam's birthday is quickly approaching.  Don't tell.....I got him a family swing. He has always loved to swing, but we had to give up the full playset.  First, because it didn't fit in my backyard.  Second, because at 15 you are too big both chronologically and physically to still being playing on a playset meant for children under 10. 

I put this one together myself.  Of course, I couldn't just leave it like this or he wouldn't have anything to open on his birthday.  I knew before I built it, I would have to go to the hardware store to find a tarp to cover it up.  I told Sam to put on his shoes, we were going out.  He asked for his weekly Saturday stop for a Diet Coke @ McDonald's and I said, "Sure!  Get your wallet."  I forgot to tell him McDonald's was neither the only or first stop we would be making.  When we got to Home Depot without stopping for a drink, Sam was a little put out.   I was unsure where the tarps were and asked a very nice man who worked there, Brian, if he could help me.

Brian walked around with us to find the tarps.  He moved a little faster than we did, because the store was pretty busy and a lot of people needed help.  Sam was not in a mood to be rushed.  So I asked Brian to slow down and he did, which was very thoughtful considering the circumstances.  When we got to the tarps, I explained to Brian what I needed and why.  I did it in code because I didn't want to spoil the surprise for Sam's birthday.  Brian was very nice in making sure I got exactly what I needed because, as he said,  "birthdays only come once a year."  He even walked us to the front of the store to make sure we got checked out ok.  GREAT  customer service.  Much appreciated since Sam was not in a shopping frame of mind.  And he's right, birthdays are only once a year and Sam looks forward to them as much as Christmas. 

Brian, thank you for being so helpful and going above and beyond to make sure Sam's birthday is a good one!