had a fun experience today in ontario. guy i sing with was asked to put together a small group to sing christmas music for the annual benefit get-together for the assistance league in that area. they're an organization that does terrific things helping kids in financial need with school supplies, dental care, transitioning from foster care into adult life, etc. They raise thousands of dollars every year and do a ton of good work. the singing went well, but that's not why i'm writing.
they had these Christmas tree showcases that you could enter to win by putting a numbered ticket you purchased into a box, and then they'd pick a winning ticket and if the number matched yours, you won. they had a silent auction, a live auction, and some cash give-aways. the grand prize was a 5 day trip to maui at the grand waialean hotel/resort. bought a ticket for the hawaii trip ($50!) but since they only sold 200 tickets, i liked my chances. well, i won! pulled my numbered ticket and announced my name, and i won! was looking forward to telling my wife the exciting news until one of my singing buddies said to give it to her as a Christmas present. this is the perfect solution as i really didn't know what to get her this year. it's a trip for two with 5 days of hotel, 2 $500 visa gift cards (which i'll use for the air fare), and pure relaxation. looking to go next summer as these tickets expire the end of next year - there are also some blackout dates like Christmas, new years, thanksgiving, and spring break. will be asking you for some advice on things to do and see on maui as it'll be my first time there. i can hardly wait to have her open this present. think i'm going to pack a box with some leis, a grass skirt, and a coconut, then put the tickets at the bottom of the box for her to find.