As I was traveling a few months ago I began my usual exit looking. There are so many that look inviting. On this particular trip I had already passed some good ones. The easy on, easy off ones. Feeling a headache coming on, along with my stomach growling I also knew a potty break was imminent.

I started looking for a McDonalds, an order of fries and sweet tea would hold me for several hours if not days. I have learned the hard way that the Golden Arches near the interstate are just a lure. Once you bite, it pulls you far away onto a very busy, congested road. All the fast food restaurants look alike to me. It’s kind of like being color blind. There was a Waffle House right next to McDonalds and all I saw was yellow and red. Also I’m over due on an eye exam.

Whipping my car into the parking lot I realized my mistake and there was no way in back to maneuver over to the next restaurant. I had to pull my car out with oncoming traffic and almost got mowed down by a large duelly that was showing no signs of slowing. I wish this was the end of my story but it’s only the half of it.

This McDonalds was very crowded with one single register open and a midget working it. There was a group of men wearing suits that were either going to church or coming back and they all looked very religious. Next was a tattooed woman ahead of me along with a boy who had sores on his nose.

Last but not least was a man next to me with a rather large belly who became a little too friendly. He asked, “Are you just riding around today?” I replied nicely but in a cool voice, “I have a destination.” This didn’t satisfy him and he continued, “Are you getting yours to go or sit down at a table?” I replied again, “I’m in a hurry, it’s to go.”

It took forever to get my order, the tea container was empty and sore nose tilted it for me while I garnered the last two sips. By this time I didn’t think, I knew, this is the Twilight Zone. Grabbing diet Dr. Pepper and my Happy Meal I left that place in the dust. There just has to be a lesson here. Next time I pull into a Waffle House it will be my destination.

Kaye Ella Steadman lives in Chickamauga. She is a storyteller, published writer and author of the book “The Girl in the Mirror.” She can be reached at kayesteadman@aol.com or follow her on Facebook or Twitter.