Coffee and hot peanuts

Freebies for anyone who wanted to hang out at dad's hardware store

My dad’s store was larger than mom’s. It served mainly farmers, oilfield workers and light manufacturing. Near the checkout counter was a 20-cup coffee pot and a peanut warmer, and anybody could help themselves. (No purchase necessary!)

This was the place where retirees and other folks who were “off the clock” gathered to shoot the breeze. Somehow, every conversation started with talk of the weather. Back then, weather was a big deal because McPherson’s economy was fueled by agriculture. Today, we talk about the weather because it’s a “safe” topic (mostly) to bring up with strangers and casual acquaintances.

As I write this, I can look out the window and see that rain and chilly temps are in the forecast. Excuse me while I grab myself a cup of coffee.