Sunday, October 9, 2011

Sweet Treats

One morning while in Monterey I went to this little French bakery called Parker-Lusseau Pastries and got two of the most delicious pastries and some yummy little cookies. These pastries were so sweet and wonderful for two reasons. The first is because they tasted so good and are probably the best pastries I've ever had. The second reason is how I came to get them. Here is the story...

Saturday Morning Rich got up early and went to his medical conference. I on the other hand enjoyed the morning and relaxed. When I was ready I decided I needed to get some breakfast. Last time we were in Monterey I wanted to try the Parker-Lusseau bakery, but it was closed. This time I checked their hours and was determined to try it out. So, on this morning I headed out for the 8 block walk to the bakery. It did not take me long to get there and I was excited when I saw the pastry display. I picked the almond crescent and then debated if I should get anything else. The brioche looked so good I just had to have it and of course I had to sample the shortbread cookies. The owner was friendly and bag my goodies with a smile. As she told me the amount I owed I pulled out my credit card and I heard her say, "we only take cash or check." My heart sunk as I told her I didn't have either with me. I explained my situation and that all my cash was back at the hotel. Seeing that I was flustered and unsure what to do the kind lady had compassion on me. She let me take the pastries back to the hotel with an IOU. I couldn't believe it and was so grateful for her kindness. I walked back to the hotel and indulged myself. I wasn't a complete pig and saved some to share with Rich. When he was done with is conference we immediately drove to the bakery and I paid my debt.

This was such a wonderful experience. I don't know many people that would trust a stranger to come back and pay the IOU. It taught me a good lesson to have more faith in the kindness of others and also to be willing to extend compassion towards others. So, if you are ever in Monterey, CA I would encourage you to stop by the Parker-Lusseau bakery. Not only are their pastries amazing the people that work there are too. I plan to go back again and again to show my appreciation and support a good business. Plus, I have been dreaming about these pastries and just looking at the pictures I start to drool.

Almond CrescentBrioche with vanilla bean custard

1 comment:

Steve and Sherrie said...

How wonderful to share that kind experience. People are so often ready to share the bad and complain, but forget to share the good. Your encouragement is an excellent excuse to enjoy a tasty treat next time we're in Monterrey!