McDonalds

McDonalds is such a hot button topic in the parenting world that I feel slightly scandalous even bringing it up. Oh yeah, and judged, I guarantee I have been judged, and I haven't even told you the story yet.

First the facts:

1. My family eats at McDonalds (more than we should)

2. McDonalds is affordable (like 5 people for under $20 and then some affordable!)

3. McDonalds is unhealthy (even the "healthy" options)

4. We own a lot of happy meal toys (we don't buy happy meals, but I am obsessed with collections so...)

Those are the facts. Take them or leave them. This is the story.

Last night I was exhausted and I didn't want to make dinner (and yes I understand that I feel this way every night so it's really no excuse). My son asked for McDonalds and I was riding this adrenaline high from managing to run 3 errands in under 1 hour with a 4 year old in tow, so I agreed.

We picked up the younger twin from Aikido, drove towards home on accident, circled back and found a McDonalds that we don't usually go through.

I ordered a cajillion plain cheeseburgers and some fries and we drove up towards the window where you pay. As we got close an attractive young asian man stuck his head out the window and waved both hands at us enthusiastically saying, "Come! Hello! Welcome to McDonalds!"

I was thoroughly impressed with the service with a smile that I was receiving. After handing him my money, he counted my change. As he was handing it back, he grasped my hand in his and said wholeheartedly, "Thanks from China for coming to this McDonalds." I am from China and China thanks you!"

I drove off grinning from ear to ear at his enthusiasm and at the conversation that had begun in the back seat of my van.

"I'm from McDonalds thanks for coming."

"I'm from China, thank YOU for coming."

" My McDonalds thanks you."

"My Chinese thanks you."

and so on and so forth. all the way home.

I realize that when you just read the text it looks like my sons were mocking the kind man. In reality they were emulating him. My heart was bursting with pride as I listened to them try to get the enthusiasm and genuine thanks that we had heard in his voice just right. They were taking this impressive example of someone being positive about the work they do and trying their hardest to replicate it. They were succeeding and to hear the kindness, energy and wholeheartedness coming from my sons made my night just a little more outstanding.

this blog has been brought to you by another satisfied McDonalds customer.