Slice of Life Writing Challenge – March 25, 2021
“I can tell you’re walking. You sound out of breath,” I noticed. “It must not be raining there like it is here.”
“Yeah,” she went on to explain, “I just walked past some Girl Scouts selling cookies, but I didn’t have any money with me, so I went home and I’m walking back there now. I’m trying to hurry. I’m craving Thin Mints.”
“It’s that time of year,” I agreed. “Grab an extra box for me please and I’ll pay you back when you come home for Easter.” I feel grateful just being able to say it now that five of the six family members have been vaccinated and we can look forward to gathering safely for a holiday meal.
Our phone conversation continued along for a few more minutes at a pace to match her own, rapidly touching base on how her week was going until…
“Oh no! They’re gone!” she cried out. The sweet taste of mint, with a delicious chocolaty coating, disappeared from our thoughts as fast as the two girls selling cookies. I could hear the disappointment in her voice. It wasn’t so much the cookie, but the thought of a rare treat available only during Girl Scout cookie season. A little round delicacy you don’t get often, to help push through that last long week of virtual teaching before spring break. I consoled her through the misfortune and ended the call.
I had forgotten completely about our conversation until the door bell rang today. There stood two Girls Scouts eager to explain how they were selling cookies drive through style with a virtual cookie booth. All I had to do was scan the QR code on the flyer they handed me from a safe distance, select and pay for my cookies online, and pick them up at a location just one block from my house on April 3rd. Seemed simple enough.
“This is so crazy!” I said and mentioned what had happened to my daughter the day before. “Now I can surprise her and get the Thin Mints she craves.” I thanked them for stopping and wished them good luck with their sales.
As the older of the two girls walked away from our porch, I couldn’t help but notice that her entire Girl Scout vest was nearly covered with earned patches. She’s a go-getter I thought to myself. She’s also a terrific role model for the younger scout tagging along. She reminded me of a particular former student who always came up with unique and creative sales pitches during cookie selling time. I bought cookies from her for many years because I admired her drive and ambition. As a result, I have come to enjoy Thin Mints like my daughter, although my favorite is the discontinued fudge dipped shortbread Thank You cookies. I was disappointed to see they were not available on the flyer, however it didn’t deter me from scanning the QR code.
A confirmation email arrived. Your Girl Scout Cookie request has been received. I know where I’ll be on April 3rd, just in time before my daughter arrives home on April 4th.
Growing & Learning 
Your post was in a word – yummy. 😉 I hope you enjoy those cookies!