I’m not your quintessential Texan if the word conjures up images of oversized trucks, colorful cowboy boots, ten-gallon hats, or belt buckles the size of a license plate. No, I prefer compact cars, solid patterns, high heels, and I listen to jazz, pop, classical, rock…pretty much everything except for country music. But when it comes to food, I’m a southern girl all the way, and no Fourth of July celebration would be complete without barbeque.
My husband and I like to try different barbeque restaurants, and we’d heard about a good one just north of where we live so we made the trip a couple of weeks ago. I cringed when we pulled into the parking lot, my OCD kicking in at the sight of the gas pumps. In my experience, gas stations and restrooms always equaled nightmares. So, gas stations and restaurants, was he kidding?
The first words out of my mouth were, “No way,” my arms crossed like a temperamental child. “I’m not eating here.” My husband assured me it was worth it, but I had my mind made up otherwise. I coated my hands in sanitizer, hoping it would serve as a protective barrier from the world of germs awaiting us inside.
I reluctantly followed him to the entrance, and when he opened the door I was hit by a gust of sweet, smoky goodness rushing to greet me like an old friend I hadn’t seen in a while. To my surprise the place was clean and open with family style seating, picnic tables and folding chairs. The staff was very friendly and gave us so many samples I could hardly finish my meal.
So, on July Fourth we went back and took my mom to experience this awesome gas station/barbeque wonder. As you can see in the photo, we ate our fill of chopped and ribbed meats, and not on plates mind you, but on strips of paper that had a wax coating on the back to prevent seepage. They even provided bread for you to sop up any extra calories you might have missed.
We left happy hearted and sticky-fingered, and I’d go back again a hundred times over to pay homage to the restaurant that broke through my image of what dining should be and made me eat my words.
Am I the only one? Or has anyone else had the opportunity to do something they thought or said they would never do? Or maybe it was something that challenged or pushed you forward. If you have, I’d love to hear about it.
Thought for today: Be adventurous, and don’t be afraid to try something new.
I need this advice all the time.
ReplyDeleteAt 54.5 years old, I relish trying new venues and adventures. Sometimes I am dismayed, but more often than not, I am delighted. Our world has so much to offer. I hope I never grow too old to enjoy the turns around the bend. I firmly believe that, when you cease to be willing to experiment, a part of you dies. Oh, and that apple didn't fall far from the tree. That bottle of santizer rests in its own private place in my car. And I think I've seen those folded arms before . . . signed, mom
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