A Wintery Tip

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I think there is a missed part of Americana out there. Something that will take us back in time, to a time when we weren't so fast paced. When we could slow down, take time to soak things in. When was the last time you went inside a gas station? Do you just fill up at the pump and on your way? You are missing something, Mister. There's a world inside the gas station awaiting you like the emergency room after a ski day. It's warm, plenty to do and see, food, drink, music. And most importantly - Hot Chocolate.

That's right. Aside from the multi-vitamin packets, trashy magazines, pickled eggs, and "fresh" beef jerky - there's hot chocolate at the truck stop. Next time you fill up, take a mosey on in, head on over to the hot beverage bar and see what's on tap. I am telling you Stephen never had cocoa so good. The reason why? You may notice, and perhaps the reason you never had truck stop hot chocolate, it's right next to the coffee. And what's right next to that? Well, I used to be one that would get excited over the International Delight creamers in those little cups in various flavors like Irish Cream, Hazelnut, Cinnamon, etc. But now my wife and I drive across town for steamed milk, caramel chocolate syrup, and the like. If you are ever in the mood for a good cup of hot chocolate - this is the promised land! How did we come about it? Out to dinner with some good friends, we decided that we needed a little hot chocolaty warmth to top off the meal and headed to what we thought would be the perfect spot: Paradise Bakery. Maybe you've been there, it's the Louis Vitton of Bakeries. Panini's, sandwiches, gourmet cookies, soups and a high brow decor to boot. Well, we got there and it was closed, at 9:00. I thought I was small town. Once you have your taste buds set on something, it's hard to substitute something else. Taste buds do not like to be slapped. If you trick them they have a direct line to the stomach and they will trick you. So we decided to try the truck stop. I will never go back. All the mixins you want, and the price is ridiculously cheap! I haven't paid over $2 yet. So my advice to you? Next time you are looking to fill 'er up, or even if you are just driving by, don't pass the truck stop without stopping in for a hot cocoa, you'll thank me.

Oh, and another bit of truck stop advice - don't get suckered into the $2.00 shower, that money is better spent elsewhere.