The Gift of Free

To be free is to live. To live is to be free. 

I am referring to free samples, of course!  This past week I have received many free gifts, and gifts of freedom.  Record breaking in inches of snow, and more delightful clutter in my room. 

This past Sunday I received many fascinating books from a book-swap in the Alumni Memorial Union including The Great Gatsby, Slaughterhouse 5, Leaves of Grass, The Princess Bride, Yoga for Life, and lastly the gem of Cesar's Way: The Natural, Everyday Guide to Understanding and Correcting Common Dog Problems.  While adventuring in Milwaukee a kind barista at Border's gave me a free and delicious  baby smoothie.  Later in the week a male friend passed on a collection of free samples of beauty supplies,chocolates, and candles.  I might as well be Prime Minister of a foreign country that people feel obligated to give free things to, but have no idea who I am. 

Also due to atrocious Wisconsin winter the gods have sent to the Midwest Marquette University granted all its students a Snow Day!  Apparently a Snow Day in college does not mean playing outside in the snow, but rather staying in and drinking copious amounts of alcohol while playing video games.  Currently as I'm typing this while I was supposed to be attending a Psychology Research Methods and Design class.  Instead I've been shot with the "Ping" of another luck arrow and the class was canceled for the day! 

I am certain I get my love of free things from my Grandmother and my love of freedom from my Father. My Grandma has instilled in me stealing free samples from restaurants, and carrying a large purse to stuff things in.  My Maw-Maw has introduced the world of resale stores to me before all the hipsters started doing it.