There aren’t many people that have the opportunity to screw up my day like that of a fast food employee when I’m in a hurry. If I’m not racing somewhere to pick up a kid or drop off a kid or to pick up some groceries or to drop off the dog, then I at least want to get back to my office with enough time to enjoy my biggie size box o’ trans fat.

There are only two fast food venues near my office and they’ve long been a source of frustration for me.  I simply won’t go to the Taco Bell because it’s drive-through line is bordered by the building on one side and a tall brick wall on the other.  If it’s taking way too long to make my bean burrito no onions then I have no recourse.  The last time I went I suffered a panic attack and very nearly had to abandon my car.  The alternative is Wendys – insufferably slow, but at least I was free to bail.  Still, I’ll never forget the time they asked me to pull up to wait for mimi’s nuggets and then forgot about me.  I waited 20 minutes with a screaming 1.5 year old.  I didn’t want to park and go in because there was no way I was taking her out of that seat.  I didn’t want to drive around and wait in line at the drive through because I ALREADY DID THAT.  I didn’t want to just drive away because I had already paid.  I didn’t want to start honking madly because, though I was pissed OFF – I don’t like looking like one of those crazed mothers who is pissed OFF that her baby is not going to get her nuggets.  So, I called information, got the number, watched the teenage manager answer the phone and make faces to the other uniformed teenagers – trying to convey that he was being cussed out by some crazy lady who’s baby didn’t get her nuggets.  I think he pooped a little when I said “I’m watching you!”

Free coupons aside, I didn’t go back there for awhile. Then about a year ago, Wendys hired a very capable woman. It’s not an exageration to say that this woman has changed my life.  I don’t know how she does it but I barely have time to decide what I want before I’m at the mic and then almost never get a chance to get my money out before she’s handing me my stuff.  With a smile.  And a “How are ya?!”  The first time I experienced this miracle I cried.  Literal tears.  I thought maybe it was just a fluke, but when I went back the next day?  Same thing.  Only faster.  And friendlier.  A few months later I saw the regional manager dude who’s in charge of a bunch of franchises around here and I told him about her.  I thanked him for finding her and tried to convey to him what it means to me to not have to sit for 40 minutes behind an old beater chugging exhaust fumes into my window and ruining my appetite.  My husband had to drag me away from him.

I went back yesterday after a long time trying to avoid The Frosty.  I knew she was there even before I saw her.  This line is going too fast, I thought.  Surely she should be promoted by now.  After my glowing recommendation?  WTF?
Secretly though, I was glad.  After she gave me my food I told her how much I truly appreciate her.  She looked a bit embarrased but ultimately thankful.  Again with the tears.  And damn those fries were good.