May
3
2009
I didn't realize how accustomed I have become to the convenience of credit/debit cards until this week. We separated ourselves from all credit cards a while ago after being inspired by Dave Ramsey to "live like no other so that one day you can live like no other." We did, however, hold on to our debit card and mine somewhere, somehow disappeared from my wallet. In an effort to protect our great wealth (tongue in cheek) I called the bank and disabled the card. Unfortunately this also disabled Martha's card. The new cards would arrive in the mail in 7 - 10 days. No problem, right? Think again. We decided to end the week with a movie and a pizza. I had a whopping $10 in my wallet but I was sure I could make it work. The last thing I wanted to do was go out of my way and waste a lot of time in the bank drive through. With my tank on empty, I drove to McDonald's first thinking I might be able to use my ATM card in the Red Box. I came to my senses shortly after entering the building. What kind of fool would try to use an ATM card in a Red Box? And who wants to wait behind six people to rent a movie anyway! I decided to focus on the pizza. Surely $10 would get me eough pizza from Papa Murphy's to feed my family. I drove the 3 miles to their nearest location. The place was packed but it didn't matter. The menu said I would need at least $11 and change for a single topping pie. I could not longer avoid the ATM machine and my family was counting on me so I jumped back in the car drove 2 miles to the nearest ATM. Fortunately no one was behind me because it took at least 15 mintes to get my wallet out of my pocket. I'm sure I looked like an idiot twisting, turning, and contorting in my seat. For some reason my pants pocket just wouldn't let go! With a crisp new $20 bill I headed back to Papa Murphy's. The place was still packed. I waited while at least 5 customers placed and purchased their orders and forced a smile as I stepped up to the counter for my turn. Unfortunately, this was only an exercise in patience becuase I had left my wallet in the car. With a somewhat embarrased look on my face I headed back the car, retrieved the wallet, and entered Papa Murphy's for the third time. After waiting behind at 5 customers AGAIN I finally got to place my order. Wouldn't you know it. The final cost after tax -- $9.86.