I guess I really should have titled this post "The kindness of movie theater employees".  This past weekend we were invited to take part in a special sneak preview of the new 3D flick, Rio, before it hits theaters this Friday, April 15 (which is also my William's 5th birthday!). 

At first I was afraid we weren't going to be able to actually attend because my older two boys were going to a Boy Scouts campout on Saturday afternoon.  But, my husband told me they weren't due to leave until around 1 p.m., so that meant that we actually could make the 10:30 a.m. showtime.  I was excited to tell the kids we'd be going and they in turn were excited. My kids LOVE movies.  Well, I think they just love all the wonderful movie snacks, but eating snacks with nothing to watch would just be boring.  Hence, the movie-loving.

So, we get to the theater around 10 a.m. to claim our seats, when lo and behold I discover that our seats are actually already reserved!  Sweet!  After checking in at the front of the theater, the woman confirms I am on "the list" and the kids and I grab some glasses and make our way to our seats. 

 
Of course, right about this time the kids start asking about popcorn.  I grab my purse and head for the concession stand which has gotten an amazing transformation at this particular AMC theater.  Now instead of walking back and standing in a long line where people are waiting to order their popcorn and candy, there is simply a back counter where you can pick up your desired size of popcorn simply by asking.  Then, you make your way to the beverage station, which is an entire nook of ICEE machines and soda fountains.  Grab the size cup you want, a straw, lid, and napkins.  THEN, you make your way to a line….. a line to pay for your goodies.

So there I was standing there and as I step up to make my way to the register after the person in front of me finishes up, I realize the unthinkable.  My debit card is in my jean pocket.  AT HOME!  I instantly felt a sense of panic set in as I stood there in front of Brandon, the concession stand employee, and I could feel my face turn hot and red.  I let out an "oh, no! I left my debit card at home.  My kids are going to kill me!".  I fumbled for a few seconds, trying to think of what I could do.  I did have my Target check card and could, in all reality, make my way over there to buy something and get cash back.  But that would take at least 15 minutes and I seriously doubt the kids would want to be yanked out of the theater and miss the first few minutes of the show. 

At that point I looked at Brandon and said, "I'm sorry.  I don't know what to do since I don't have my card.  I feel awful about this!".  He then replied, "It's ok. …..I got you."

Excuse me?

I couldn't believe what I was hearing.  He was literally waving his hand, motioning me to move on and just take my large popcorn, Diet Coke, and lemonade back to the theater so he could help the next person in line.  I was in utter disbelief!

After letting it sink in that he was actually serious, I walked away — so very GRATEFUL!  I thanked him profusely. 

Can you belive it?  I once had a similar thing like that happen to me at Starbucks, but this was a movie theater – these people are all ABOUT money! 

I vow to pay it forward some way.  I'm just not sure how yet.  At any rate, the kids and I really enjoyed the movie and thought it was super cute, especially for summer!  The music in the movie will have you wanting to get up and shake your booty!  And, I loved all the vibrant colors reflected throughout.

One thing's for sure. Next time I am at the movies, I think the person behind me in line to pay for their concessions will be in for a real treat!