05/29/2026
It’s a long story but I feel the need to share. And I promise it has a happy ending, despite some raw moments, and a message that will give you good feels.
On my ride to work this morning my husband and I caught up over a phone call. We haven’t seen each other for more than a couple hours this week . Our schedules, like always, are opposite so we squeeze in a connection where we can. I was feeling pretty low, sharing my worries about having to raise prices. I’m terrified that this charming little hot dog joint will eventually get swallowed up by this harsh world we’re living in. Doubly so, since my son is investing all his energy into a future in it. I cried a little as my husband reminded me how strong I am and that if anyone can figure this season out, it’s me.
I put on a brave face and joined my crew, being strong like I’m supposed to. But inside I was an emotional mess, knowing how many people rely on me. In true “PFrank customer” fashion, after a slow week due to high school graduation goers taking all our parking, the place erupted. Every seat filled, the grill sizzling, phone ringing off the hook, line out the door kind of rush. I kicked Liam out of the kitchen to go help my girls on the floor as I held it down on the grill, counting the seconds until he could come help me again. As I was plating a 6 top I made eye contact with 4 new faces sitting at Table 9. They looked lost, unsure, maybe even confused and intimidated by all the commotion. My thoughts? “Crap. They’re new. This is too busy to give them what they need. I hate that this is their introduction…”. I shouted “We will be right with you!” and all 4 new comers smiled and nodded and looked relieved. Their reaction brought tears to my eyes to the point where I couldn’t read my tickets and I reminded myself that this is all part of perimenopause 😅. Time went by and our crew survived the wave. Once I found my footing I was able to approach the table and thank them. I thanked them for their patience. I also wanted them to know that their smiles got me through the next hour of chaos and they gave me strength. I had to walk away because I started crying (🫣😅). Before they left, one of the ladies, Sandra, approached the kitchen and praised Liam and I on how well our team worked together. She shared with me (cue the tears, again) as she motioned to the pin on her shirt of a photo of her son, that she had recently lost him and had just returned to work. Her coworkers took her out to lunch to welcome her back. And they picked us. She assured me that they would be back more often and to keep up the good work. 💔 🥹
Moved, and still crying, I shared the experience with a couple, regular customers who we’ve come to adore over the years. More sniffles.. and then they shared their story with me. Five years ago their daughter was hit by a drunk driver and she suffered severe brain injuries. They used to bring her to Franks and now on sunny days they walk there and enjoy lunch together and spend some time in their Happy Place thinking about her. 😭 This little, happy, hot dog joint…
Through more tears, I saw Sandra pop back in. I hurried over to her curious about her return. She handed me a wad of money with instructions. “I watched you run around here taking care of everyone around you. I want you to use this to do something nice for yourself.” 🥹 I explained my Pay It Forward philosophy and that IS how I fill my cup, and together we decided to use the money to help someone in need. I promise I will inform you of the deed as soon as I sort it out. 💜
The power of positivity is unbeatable. A simple smile or supportive gesture can change someone’s day. Sharing personal stories and triumphs can provide strength to others when they may need it most. I encourage you to exercise the small but mighty actions that I was lucky enough to be a part of today. Count your blessings. Be a blessing. Shine bright enough to light up the room you’re in. How bright would our world be…
I needed a reminder of the reason WHY I do what I do. Why I push myself to my limits.. it’s not just about food.
My convo in the car with the hubs on my way home was much different than this morning. I shared the small moments that changed my day in a big way and cried the whole way through. 😅
Sandra and friends, thanks for the smiles. Thanks for the support, the encouragement, and the opportunity to do something good for someone in need. “Regular couple”, thank you for sharing your story of your beautiful daughter and reminding me to live life to the fullest. I admire your strength and am honored you continue to choose us.
Perfectly Frank is a special place and I hope you believe that I’m ready fight like hell to keep it around for my grandkids to experience one day. You have my word.
💜Tarah
