Happenstance

So far, I have not mentioned names of people, places, or things that would require permission or cause problems for anyone. But I received permission (sort of) from the waitress, Nikki (with two K’s) so here goes…

Leaving Corpus Cristi and heading North I chose the less-traveled path. For some reason, Google usually defaults to the way it thinks best but this time it went the way I wanted so JoJo and I set off on what turned out to be, or what I would call, a Happy Happenstance. The road was definitely not a “regular” route and we were soon out in the country. I saw ranches and farms and ranches and more farms as far as the eye could see. It wasn’t like California where the farms are visibly adjacent to the road. Like the rest of Texas’ long highways, there was a line of trees on each side of the road, not hiding, just separating each landowner’s portion. This went on for hours with only occasional tiny towns for gas and food; you know, the kind you blink and miss. This highway road, in the land of nowhere, was smooth and driveable, as most Texas highways are (California, please take note). Also, like most Texas highways, There are the pockets of slowdowns for the sections of ongoing road work, to keep those roads nice and smooth. But they are well controlled and navigation is also smooth and temporary. As long as my air conditioning works, it is all a nice change on a long, straight road. This was a shorter drive, only about four hours to my next hotel on my way to Missouri.

Finally, Google said, “Turn left” and I did. As I did, I took in a breath and said, “Oh, Wow!” In front of my motel was a diner. It was like the Lone Ranger had dropped one of his silver bullets and, true to the Texas spirit, it had blown up to the size of a train car. For me, it was like a glittery gem lying on top of the Texas soil. On the front it proclaimed, “Penny’s Diner” – open 24 hours. I can’t explain how the glow made my face smile all over. I only wish I had taken a photo then but, being the whimp that I am, in the heat of a Texas day, I hurried on to the motel, going from air-conditioned car to air-conditioned room. I knew I would be there bright and early, in the cool of the morning (Ha Ha) for breakfast and to take pictures.

The next morning around 7 AM I walked on over in the cool 80-degree weather (felt like 90) and into the diner. By the picture here you can see the answer to the promise of the outside. 50-60’s decor, clean and shiny. As I stood and looked toward the back the waitress, Nikki, saw me, well, I was hard to miss, standing there gawking. She said, “Our menu is just above”. I looked up and there it was. I decided what I wanted and chose a booth where I could watch. Just so you know, despite the look, they are in the 21st Century. There was a QR code at the table that would show the same menu.

Since it would probably be my only real meal that day I chose the Chicken Fried Steak, eggs over medium, hash browns, and one pancake filling the separate plate arriving at my table. The gravy was the best I have yet to taste. Nikki looked at me with a puzzled stare and said, “It comes in a bag and we just mix it up, heat it and serve it.” Maybe it’s the magic that is Penny’s Diner but it still tasted amazing.

As someone who grew up in the restaurant business, I watched the (female) cook working efficiently and quietly. I didn’t ask but I’m betting it is a woman-owned place. In my mind, I can see a strong, capable Texas female owner. You go, girl! Apologies if you are not.

So, if you ever have a reason to pass through Hearne, Texas, be sure to stop at Penny’s Diner. Just tell Google and it will have you turn left. Your eyes will be met with a reason to smile.

Nikki, if I spelled your name wrong just comment and I will fix it here.