Sometimes life stops you in your tracks so that you have to take a break from your routines. Last week my Dad passed away and of course my regular life was put on “hold.” No matter how prepared you think you are, when someone near to your heart dies, the loss hits deep and hard. My family asked that I speak at the funeral. Although I write all the time and often give talks, drafting a eulogy for Dad was a challenge. I was told to have a copy of the text with me. That seems simple enough, except ...

I was out of town and had no printer readily available to me. I really didn’t want to walk up with my MacBookPro. As much as it’s my right hand, it seems a bit out of place at a funeral. I had only a couple hours to find a way to print a copy of the eulogy. I decided to try the (Cincinnati) Apple Store. (In retrospect I suppose I could have tried to find a Kinko’s but I didn’t think of that at the time and I have no idea where they’re located in Cincinnati.)

When I walked in I was immediately greeted by a very polite and friendly employee who asked if he could help. I admit I was feeling a bit awkward with my request, but I explained the situation. Without a moment of hesitation he assured me that they would most definitely print a copy for me. He proceeded to help determine the best way to access their printer and then had someone else finish the task quickly and discretely. Within moments I had a printed version and was on my way. I forgot to ask either of the employees their names, but I hope they read this and know how much I appreciated them going above and beyond for me. They made a very difficult day considerably easier for me, and I am very grateful.

Lots of time people complain about service, but what I experienced at the Apple store was exemplary. And I’ll add that when I’ve gone there in the past with a hardware issue, they’ve been equally helpful.

On another note, I decided to create a card in iPhoto from one of my images to send to those who make donations in memory of Dad. Having a preview in Aperture readily available of the image I wanted to use let me quickly create the card. (In iPhoto choose File >Show Aperture library.) And I was pleasantly surprised to see that iPhoto now has discounts for bulk card orders. That makes it a more attractive option for photographers looking to sell or give away cards as a promotion. They also have a postcard option that I hadn't seen before.