Stormeyes Enchanted

Tonight, Door Dashing with my husband started out like so many of our recent adventures—just a fun way to spend time together, crank some throwback tunes (Buffalo Stance, anyone?), and enjoy the cool breeze while helping people get their food. It’s become a weirdly therapeutic little routine for us: roll the windows down, blast the music, act like goofy teens again, and drive around rediscovering our own community.

And let me tell you—we’ve found places we didn’t even know existed. Small businesses we can’t wait to visit. Neighborhoods with house styles I’ve never seen around here. We’ve even reconnected with folks we knew from years back. It’s been good for the soul.

But then… came the order.

From Taco Bell on 21st.

Let’s be clear—this isn’t about fast food being fast. I’m patient when people are genuinely doing their best. I’ve worked customer service. I’ve worked with the public. I get it. But standing inside a completely empty store for over 30 minutes while staff stood around joking and ignoring not just one, but multiple Door Dashers? That’s not just a bad night—that’s a bigger issue.

It wasn’t just about the food delay. It was the total disregard for people’s time. The lack of respect for the job we’re doing on behalf of their customers. The manager refused to even check on the status of the order and insisted I cancel it—something we aren’t even allowed to do! (IF she was the manager, I can’t be sure.)

It was maddening. Frustrating. Disheartening.

And… it got me thinking.

---

What Are We Teaching Our Kids?

Back in our day (yes, I said it!), a job—any job—was something to take pride in. Whether it was slinging fries or bagging groceries, you showed up, did your best, and learned about responsibility and teamwork along the way. You waited on customers or loaded groceries in the car trunk, learning to speak to others.

I don’t know where we lost that. But I do know this: I’m proud of the work ethic I see in my kids. My 20-year-old busts his butt. Rent, utilities, car payments, and five kids to help take care of! That isn’t cheap and he works hard. My younger kids are learning that if something has your name on it, you take it seriously and you give your all and do your best. And they’ve watched me run a business from home while still juggling the chaos of mom life and grief. They see what it looks like to keep going, to show up, to do things with heart.

Tonight reminded me that these are the values I want to pass down. It also reminded me that not everyone has had someone in their life to show them the value of pride in your work. And maybe—just maybe—that’s where the kindness comes in.

---

The Real Takeaway

So yeah, I got mad. I vented. And that’s okay. I’m not perfect. But I don’t want to live in that space.

Because in between the waiting and the ridiculousness, there were also laughs in the car. There was music. There was my husband doing his ridiculous club moves. There were the stars above and the winding back roads. And there was a moment to say, “Hey—we’re still here. Still doing our best.”

Here’s the truth:
🧠 People are burnt out.
💔 People are hurting.
🌎 The world feels heavy sometimes.

But we can still choose to be kind. To teach our kids better. To treat others with dignity. And to be proud of the work we do—even if it’s just delivering tacos.

---

A Gentle Challenge

The next time you feel your patience unraveling—breathe.
The next time you see someone dropping the ball—respond with grace or walk away with dignity.
And always, always take pride in who you are and how you show up.

Because people are watching.
Especially the little ones riding in the back seat.

---

Let’s End With Light

🌀 What are your favorite ways to calm down after a frustrating night?
🛠️ What values are you trying to pass on to your kids?
💬 Or maybe… what’s your most ridiculous Door Dash (or fast food) story? I’d love to hear it. (maybe I need to hear it!) 😁

💜 Light and Love ~Mandy