In the midst of the uproar of a prospective Trump presidency,
our lives go on. Yesterday was the 33rd anniversary of our marriage. So, my wife and I, as we always do, went out to a slightly fancier restaurant than the usual place we go. We've done that on our anniversary since the very first one. Since it happens on the Winter Solstice, it's also close to Christmas. We don't give each other gifts for our anniversary, but we do have a gift for someone.
We put on our nicer clothes and head for the restaurant, where we order a nicer wine than usual and some entrée that we'd normally look past. We enjoy our meal and are always in a good mood. We have never had a bad time at our anniversary dinner.
Eventually, the wine is gone and the meal is eaten. Our server presents us with the check. We pay for the meal with a credit card, as we always do. When the server brings back the card and check, I sign it. Then, my wife quietly hands the server the folded $100 bill we brought along. That's our anniversary gift to whomever helps us have a lovely anniversary dinner. That's what we do each year. Reactions vary.
Anyway, if you can, try that as a gift for some date you celebrate. It makes a great tradition. No matter how troubled we are by the political goings-on, we can still find something to give us some joy,
= new reply since forum marked as read
That's beautiful, MineralMan....Happy Anniversary....
I tend to tip pretty well having waitressed back in the day, but I have to tell a story on myself involving a generous tip. Maybe if I look at it from the perspective of your story I can face going back to that place. I had gone to a great little family pizza place to pick up a pizza and a salad. check was maybe $25 at the most. I fumbled around and put a $5 in the tip jar while waiting. Woman asked if I was sure and I said "Of course!" It was folded and I was not paying attention. It was a $50 (for take out!!!). I always make someone else go in now, but maybe they have either forgotten or my explanation (mentally) is that it was a special occasion. 
I love your idea, may have to do it. If I ever go out to a decent place for a special occasion again.
