Ugh. Today I drove to the Bay Area for work in the new-to-us car. Forgot that the other cars both have Fastrak, even though I was talking about it here the other day! I'm just in the habit of NOT thinking about bridge toll. I was already almost to the toll booth before I remembered, but it was too late to do anything. I didn't have any cash on me, as usual.

Bleh. So I got up to the toll booth and said (embarrassed), "Um. I'm a regular commuter. And I just got a new car, and I forgot to get a Fastrak. My other cars both have them...(stumble)...(mumble)..."

The toll lady wasn't really sympathetic. She handed me a "TOLL VIOLATION" card and told me to call the number. Grrr! Looks like there might be a $25 fine, but that I might get it waived by showing I have a Fastrak.

I stopped soon after at a Costco, and picked up a Fastrak. I won't be doing that again!

I went to CVS and did a little playing. I picked up a large supply of Claritin, some deodorant, a fancy razor, sunscreen, moisturizer and a handful of clearance Easter candy. The total was $83 something and I paid $34 and got $5.50 back in Extra Bucks. It took two transactions, but that was okay. The regular price for the Claritin alone was $24.99. And I've paid that before, when I've had a suffering swimbaby in need. Glad I didn't today!

A friend called and said she was going to a wedding and wanted my advice. It's a beach wedding, and she wasn't sure what to wear, both dress and shoes. After some discussion, I got some strappy black sandals out of my closet and took them to her so she can borrow them. She thought they were perfect. The receipt was in the shoe box, so I got to enjoy the bargain a second time. I had gotten them on a clearance rack in the teen section of Nordstrom in December 2000! They are a classic style, and I've worn them to many parties and weddings since then. I've definitely gotten my $27 worth, and I feel particularly pleased to help out my friend, who was considering buying new shoes just for the occasion.