Monday night, late. I wrapped my package up tightly, pushed it carefully into my bag, and got on my bike. As I rode down to Davis Square, I wasn’t sure if this was such a good idea. I’d never done this before, and was a little worried that something might not work out. But I just had to try.

It was 10pm and dark by the time I got there, but there was still activity in the square. Stepping off my bike, I looked around at the people sitting on the benches, enjoying the remains of the day. I could feel my bag get heavier as I wondering how many people knew what I was up to. They had to know, from the way they avoided my gaze. My pulse raced.

And then there she was. Shirt just like she’d said in the message. Our eyes met and we moved towards each other. Some small talk was exchanged and then she pulled the goods out and quickly handed them to me. I gave her my package, plus a little something extra, and stowed her stuff in my bag. Moments later I was wheeling home on my bike – I’d gotten away with it! When I got home, I resisted the urge to indulge right away, and put the goods away until the next day.

And so when it was snack time yesterday, I had some beautiful jelly donut cupcakes to enjoy, well worth the trade of brownies and a jar of fresh salsa. A successful baked goods exchange.