RAVE to spring. Spring has officially sprung itself from the deep sleep of a cold, wet, PNW winter. While I do not mind the sleepy gray of winter, I am of an age where the sweet song of early birds and the bright yellow of daffodils bring renewed hope to my tired soul. I am in the place where I feel the turning of the seasons in my previously broken and shattered bones, and I am filled with unmatched joy at the smallest of wildflowers pushing up through the soil.

RAVE to the wonderful box office staff at the Federal Way Performing Arts and Events Center on Sunday, Feb. 18. It was my first time buying tickets for an event there. I misunderstood the seating plan and I bought tickets that couldn’t work for us. I went to the box office and the staff there quickly helped me, found fabulous seats for my small group and turned a bad situation into a great evening. They even checked back once before the show began and once during the show to make sure the seats were working for us. They pointed out great seats that could work for us in the future. Great customer service. We’ll be back soon for another show. 

RAVE to the doctor who luckily was visiting the Queen Anne Beerhall the other afternoon. My daughter was choking and the doctor saw the procedures happening were ineffective. They quickly took over and used the new choking procedures and the Heimlich maneuver. Their quick actions saved my daughter. A reminder to get up to date on the new procedures and kudos to all who in a time of need rise to the occasion and utilize them.

RAVE to the Paramount Theatre for providing a sensory-friendly matinee performance of “Aladdin.” These types of performances provide many families a rare opportunity to enjoy a show in a nonjudgmental space. Thanks to the Paramount for providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all!

RANT AND RAVE Rant to grocery stores for their digital coupon savings that many people cannot access. This is clearly discriminatory. Rave to the cashier who bravely bypassed the system and allowed us to buy strawberries at the digital savings coupon price!  

RAVE to a neighbor’s simple yard sign that says, “Don’t Give Up.” And a newer sign with huge, colorful, handmade letters spelling out “HOPE” on their window. Your encouraging words have buoyed my spirit every time I pass by. It warms my heart and even though I don’t know you, I wanted to thank you for your thoughtful care. Your kindness is so appreciated, and the world can certainly use more of that!

RAVE to the kind and generous person behind me at the Roosevelt Safeway who, upon seeing that I forgot my wallet, paid for my medications plus some bananas and milk! So kind. Will look for an opportunity to pay it forward!  

RAVE to the young person at a Trader Joe’s who was pushing a string of shopping carts back to the storefront. As I drove slowly behind them, they began to skip! I laughed and clapped my hands. They turned, smiled and waved. What a rare and lovely moment of joyfulness between strangers.

RAVE to the amazing person who found my wallet on the bus and turned it in to Metro’s lost and found. Everything was still inside, including my driver’s license, which is incredibly important to have on me. Your honesty and kindness truly reduced the worry and hassle of canceling my cards. A big thank you also to the Metro service for promptly notifying me that my wallet had been found. Your efficient and helpful process is greatly appreciated.