May 06, 2001 07:33 AM
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I was literally raised on McDonald's food. How pitiful is that?! As a small child in New York, we actually lived across the street from a McDonald's! We visited the golden arches at least once a week for dinner. Back then, it was a big deal. Going to McDonalds was a night out with your family. It gave Mom a break from cooking, and gave the kids a chance to be kids. I even remember my father bringing me to McDonalds for breakfast Saturday mornings. Special family bonding time which I truly enjoyed.
As the times changed, so did our local McDonalds restaurant. Happy meals were introduced, and we couldn't get enough of those cool toys. Back then, the toys were actually toys. Big barbie dolls or hot wheel cars that couldn't even fit in the box! But alas, the times were changing. News reports were coming in about chloresterol, and high blood pressure. Then, my father was diagnosed with hyper tension. The Mickey Dee's we grew up with and loved was suddenly taboo in our home, and I was lost!
Where else could I spend $3.00 on a big meal, play with my friends all day, and stay out of my mother's hair? Newer fast food restaurants came to town, and we tried then all. But nothing could beat the taste of those fresh, crispy fries. So, when I was 16, the choice was made. I was going to work at McDonalds!
I think that the majority of teenagers here in the US work at some fast food establishment or another. McDonalds had flexible hours, benefits, and free food! I have to admit, the pay was terrible. But for a 16 year old, it was money. I was able to see the behind the scenes magic that made McDonalds famous. Sorry folks, no horror stories here. The one I worked at was clean, well run, and a positive experience overall. The only thing that suffered was my waistline!
Now that I'm a mother, we go to Mcdonald's once a week as a treat. Instead of those crispy fries, I'm eating grilled chicken fajitas, and salads. My daughter loves her happy meals, and my husband still enjoys a big mac sandwich. McDonalds has gotten a bad reputation as of late for poor food, and poor service. But, if you can find the right restaurant with the best crew, McDonalds is for you.
Twenty Five years later, another generation is beginning to enjoy the same McDonalds I did. Now that's a good thing!
