Tea Time

Leaning on the order bar in my tea and coffee shop I sighed as the last of the morning rush was finished. Hearing the sink in the kitchen running I walked in and said to my assistant Cathy, "Just a few more days and the dish washer is going to be installed. I am also going to go get more dishes as well so we do not have to worry about running out."

Cathy looked up and said, "Make sure you get the dish washing pods that way we can toss and start instead of measuring."

"Add it to the list on the fridge," I said.

Hearing the door open to the shop I walked out to see a man in a business suit waiting. Walking up I smiled and said, "Welcome how can I help you?"

"I want to buy your building," He said.

"It's not for sale," I said. "So unless you want coffee, tea or food I would ask you to move aside as you have a line forming behind you."

"Your not going to see what I am offering you?" He asked.

"No way this building has been in my family since the town started," I said. "Besides its a prime location and I love that I live upstairs and I have tenants in the other shops in my building who are thriving. Why in the name of the gods would I want to sell?"

"I want your building that you own," He said. "That's why."

"Well-" I said.

"Matthew," He said. "Here is my card."

"Matthew," I said. "I would ask you leave now. Thank you for your card since I have your name your curse is incoming."

"Oh a curse," He said. "Some hick town cafe owner is going to curse me?"

The man behind him said, "Hick town? Buddy you have it wrong this girl owns the national Blog called Tea Time. I bet you gave her some Tea to spill when she updates later today."

Looking at him I said, "It says on the door coming into this shop gives me permission to post about you if you are to be a reason for gossip."

"I will sue you," He said. "That sign will not hold up in court."

The woman sitting at the counter said, "Yes it will. Especially since you have to see it as you open the door."

"Lady," He said. "Keep out of it."

She stood up and said, "My name is Katherine and I am a state prosecutor. The sign will hold up in court as it also is stated right next to her register. Oh Angie you attached it to the register didn't you?"

"I sure did Katherine," I said. "No more Karen's throwing it across the room."

She stuck a five in the tip jar and said, "Well Angie thank you for the entertainment as usual. I will be looking forward to todays interaction. Michael I would suggest you leave. You are only going to add to what she is going to post today."

He gave a frustrated growl and left the shop. The next customer in line said, "Angie I love the entertainment you have here. Can I get four coffees and four sandwich packs."

Laughing I said, "Sure thing Gus. Any cream and sugar?"

"Can you put a few on the side for me," He asked. "I have two new guys and do not know how they drink their coffee. We are off to the next site in a few."

I placed the coffee's in a carrier and the meals in a large bag while I said, "Your total is $21.75 slide your card when your ready."

The next one in line was Mrs. Sylvie. She said, "Angie is there something wrong with the site? I was trying to read to the home residents and it would barely load."

Cathy came out and said, "I will run the orders go check. You know Mrs. Sylvie does it to keep the residents calm and in touch with  the world."

"Thank you," I said. Running upstairs to my computer I loaded my website and saw that it was running very slow. Checking the blogs storage space I discovered it was just about at 100% with comments and feedback. Looking to see if I could upgrade I discovered that I was at the maximum amount allowed.

 My boyfriend Charles came in and asked, "Babe you alright you look frustrated?" 

Looking at him I said, "No I am not. Apparently I am at max capacity for the Blog. I cannot post and people cannot comment until I remove some of the older posts and comments."

He gave a low chuckle as he made a sandwich and said, "Well you know you have been wanting to write a book based off tea time. Why not take the tea and start with the oldest post that has had no comments in the last three months and move it to a book. Then you can add the most popular comments after it. Then you would remove the post and comments from your site to free up space."

"I am going to have to," I said. "Let me see if it will let me add a disclaimer post that I am fixing the issue in the next two hours."

Thankfully I was able to put that disclaimer up on the site and then I went downstairs to the shop which was packed with people asking the same thing. Cathy looked at me with a help look. I walked over to two of our parttime employees hanging with friends and asked, "Can you do me a solid. After I make a announcement Cathy is going to get slammed but I have to fix the blog. Can you clock in for a hour or two and give her a hand?"

Kyle and Mike looked up and said, "Sure."

Getting on a chair I said, "Everyone can I have your attention."

Everyone turned towards me and Charles came next to me steadying the chair. Looking around I said, "I have an announcement to make."

Mrs. Sylvie looked up and called out, "Did you figure it out?"

"Yes I did," I said. "Mrs. Sylvie told me the blog was not working and I found out why and it should be fixed in the next hour or two. But the reason it is running slow or not loading is because we have maxed it out. Through the company that hosts the Blog has no more upgrades so I cannot add anymore. But never fear there is a solution to that and its that I am going to remove older posts."

I heard a voice call out, "But then we can't go back to read them."

"Actually," I said. "You will be able to. I have been playing around with writing a book based on the previous posts and ten to fifteen of their top comments. So todays incident has has prompted me to do so. So in a few minutes I am going to get upstairs to start removing posts that are not very active. Once I remove the posts I will remove all the comments to go with it. That way you can get back to reading and commenting. The book will be available for purchase as a e-book or physical book on Amazon. With each post I remove you should have a better experience on the site. Please give me a few hours to start working on it."

Cheers went through the shop and Kyle said, "Angie we can stay so you can get the site working right. We were just hanging out with friends and can be here instead."

Mike was bussing tables as he said, "Yeah we got this. Besides you know that we will be busy once that book gets published. Everyone is going to want you to sign a copy."

Cathy came out with my large cold cup saying, "I made you a large ice coffee. Go get started we have everything ready for today and the guys are here. Fix the site before everyone goes feral on us."

Heading upstairs I sat at my desk and wrote a introduction to the book. Then I went onto owner view and pulled up the metrics on each post starting with the oldest. Looking at the metrics I went to the first one that had no comments in three months and copied it to my book file creating a title banner. Then after the original article I copied the top fifteen comments. After that I saved the post on the book and removed it from the blog. Working hard for two hours I got the blog back to ninety-five percent. 

Standing up to take a break I went to go downstairs and Charles caught me coming into the apartment. He said, "Write your post about the guy who wanted to buy the shop and the announcement for the book. Cathy told me to have you keep working up here she has prep going for tomorrow. Kyle and Mike have the front of house under control.

Working for another two hours I saw that the book was at two-hundred pages. I decided to write the conclusion and submitted it to Amazon. Then I refreshed the blog and saw I was down to eighty-nine percent. Looking at the screen I said, "You have got to me kidding me only eighty nine percent?"

Charles came in and said, "Are you alright?"

"After posting the newest tea I published the first book and it was two hundred pages," I said. "I set the hard cover price to the most expensive drink I have which is 8.99 and the e-book at 3.99. Babe I am still only at eighty three percent."

He laughed and said, "Well then I guess you have a series and your on Tea Time part two now. How many posts do you have on the blog?"

"After the first book I still have 1300 posts," I said. "Not including the comments."

"Well I guess then you have some work ahead of you," He said. "Before the guys leave you may want to see if they can come in tomorrow while you work on it more. I will go get some pizza for dinner so you can work on that. Take a break for now it's almost close time."

Checking my email for a moment I saw that the book was official on Amazon. I made the official post in the blog and ordered four copies of the book. One for me, the store, Cathy and a spare. Going downstairs Kyle said, "You do not look happy Angie."

Smiling I said, "I am alright can you and Mike come in tomorrow and help Cathy?"

"Sure," He said as Cathy said, "What's up?"

Laughing I said, "The first book was published and I still have thirteen hundred posts. We are still around 89 percent full. I need to get that down to at least seventy percent if not lower."

Cathy said, "We got you Angie. Work on it tomorrow and we will run down here. Also we are going to be selling out of a lot tomorrow. So be prepared."

I helped with the last of the closing tasks and handled the drawer for the next day. Taking the remaining cash upstairs I added it to my hidden safe in the floorboards. Going back downstairs I said, "When I do the grocery run on Sunday I will buy extra supplies, with the sale of the book I have a funny feeling we may be busier than normal."

Cathy said, "That sounds like a good idea. Oh the lunch packs we made today sold out as well as a lot of the baked goods. I think us adding the lunch packs to the menu were a good idea. I know we are selling only a bit of in house baked goods but I was thinking maybe we should add a soup and a salad to the menu. We can make it fresh daily and once we sell out we sell out. We have room for the supplies in the fridge and we can store the premade salads or tuna and egg salad sandwiches in the display cooler and add the soup to a crock pot to keep it warm. Especially since we are going to be getting cooler soon."

"Wouldn't we need to buy bowls?" I asked.

"No we use the take out containers for the salads and sandwiches," She said. "Then we sell the soups in the coffee mugs. you can get the hot dish containers as well for that. That way we do not need to have more dishes. I think the baked goods, lunch bags, and if we added salads and sandwiches we could bring more in."

Nodding I said, "Make me a list and we can try. If those work out well we can always add more to the menu. I was thinking about the mini quiches, meat meals and easy meals that we can make and put in a hot case that would hold well in smaller portions. We could use tin foil pans and the paper baskets."

Cathy laughed and said, "Well after you clear more of the blog we can test everything out and see what we can do. You will see everything at the store before me and I am guessing we can rotate the menu to different things every day. We can meet up earlier than normal on Monday morning if you want to see what we can do. I bet we could easily sell out the hot and cold cooler as well as the baked goods rack daily."

"After Sunday if the food sells well enough we may have to start multiple shopping trips a week," I said. "We will remain the same no special services just more food offerings. If someone gives the your a restaurant comment you tell them no we sell snacks and light fare but are not a restaurant. We do not serve at the table people pick up at the counter. If we do not have it we do not sell it and we do not promise more to come out."

The guys and Cathy nodded. I handed everyone an extra twenty and said, "A little bonus for handling the emergency we had."

"Man Angie," Mike said. "We were just happy with the extra hours. Also we can pick up more shifts now that sports are over and we will be on summer vacation. Just give us a call."

"I will," I said. "You guys have a great night and have fun with your friends. Cathy you get some rest."

When they left I locked up and mopped the floor to the stairs leading up to the apartment. Going upstairs to the apartment I sat down and designed a new line of tee shirts. The front read Tea Time. The back read, Come for the fun and Stay for the Tea- Now a book series. I ordered a bunch of various sizes and colors and placed the order. When Charles came back with the pizza I was almost done with the second book. He saw the new shirts and he laughed. What a way to advertise."

He opened the box at the table and sat across from me doing some work. I had finished the second book and set it to publish. Looking at the percentage I realized we are at only 79% free. Starting the draft for the third book I made a quick announcement about a updated menu coming soon and book two being sent to publish. Then I dropped the pictures of the new store merchandise. When I was ready to start book three I had the sale link and ordered the four books again. Then I started to work on book three. My plan was between tonight and tomorrow to get to at least 50% capacity and then as I start to fill up I will work on the next books. Adjusting the setting to the least commented and active posts and made quick time of removing the older posts from the site. I finished the third book and started the fourth when I got to the goal of fifty percent. Doing one last update for the night Charles asked, "Want to go for a walk?"

"Yes," I said. 

Grabbing my shoes we headed down the back stairs to walk the roads near our community. Since we lived in the down town area there is always something happening any time at night. When we walked past Mitgin's Pub the property buyer Michael was thrown out. We side stepped him and he slurred yelling at me, "You all think your high and mighty not selling your little piece of history. Well change is coming and wait till it hits you in the face. I will take pleasure in ripping your signs down and throwing you out of the buildings. Post that for all you hicks to read."

Charles looked at me and said, "He is drunk lets go."

As we walked away he called out, "I will own Tea Time one way or the other."

When we got home I posted about our interaction on the blog and headed to bed. When I woke up the next morning I went downstairs before Cathy arrived and started setting up using up the food we had in the cabinets and pantry. When she arrived she said, "Angie you think you went a bit over board?"

I pointed to the TV that held the main page of the blogs and you could see all the posts and comments that kept appearing. Her eyes got big and I said, "No panicking all the food and snacks are prepped and in the correct cases ready to go. I am going to Winn Dixie when they open and getting a few more easy things and then once the boys get here I will go to Sam's and we are going to put your theory to the test. Before I go to Sam's Club I will have more than enough food ready to go. Don't you worry."

Mike ran in the back door and said, "Angie go to the back door these people want to celebrate all three books. Some of them are setting things for expedited delivery. We are going to be slammed all day."

Grabbing my purse from behind the counter I pulled out the car keys and checked for the cash. Cathy said, "Go Angie we have this you have almost everything set up. Gosh you even have the prices on the board as well!"

Getting in my truck I headed to the local Winn Dixie to get things for the store. First going through frozen i grabbed a few easy cook and serve, Then I went to the deli and bakery for a few things to add to the menu today. Making sure I had extra coffee, tea, cocoa, waters as well as plenty of cold drinks to add to out cold case. 

When I got back I heard Mike explaining they were out of a few cooked items and cannot guarantee what would be replacing it. I placed Mini Quiches in the oven and made a few hot ham and swiss sliders along with pigs in a blanket. Cutting the pies I got I placed them in cold case containers. I updated the price board and added everything that just came out. As the hot food finished I brought those items out adding them to the board. Adding all the drinks to the case and filling up the cold case with finger sandwiches I placed out all the food and drinks I got before two. I made the announcement that there would be no more food restock today as we have everything officially out. All items and drinks for sale are on the board along with prices.

Cathy and I stepped into the back and she said, "Wow you really did get a bunch and cooked it all."

"Yeah I marked the prices up 40% off the cost of the ingredients," I said. "I think you are right about what will sell. I am thinking of different soups and hot sandwiches. I am also considering making all new breakfast sandwiches and burritos. May the odds be in our favor. But my friend you will be  getting your way as well. The open back wall is going to be a big freezer and a smaller fridge as well to go with the two we have. I also am buying a second air fryer and a larger toaster oven. When I say super shopping trip you will be amazed."

There was a knock at the door and Charles said, "Delivery for your new fridge and freezer babe!"

We helped him move the appliances in and he also brought in the apartment washer and dryer so we can clean our own rags and towels. After everything was hooked up Cathy said, "This is so awesome. We can sell all the food without a kitchen."

"Yes," I said. "I checked with Katherine as we only pour coffee and tea. All the other foods are premade and packaged to sell. The soups may be packaged also in the hot case. But that is an idea I am toying with. You will see."

Charles said, "Babe this new island and shelf where do you want them?"

"Near the fridges and freezer," I said. "That way I can cook and prep right here near the additional stove as well. Where is that?"

He laughed and said, "On the patio back here. I wanted to get the fridge and freezer in first. They need to get cold and you need to clean out the other fridge/freezer combos."

Cathy laughed and said, "Charles she cooked everything up we had. All fridges and freezers are 100% empty."

Kyle came in and said, "Speaking of we have a bit of a problem Angie."

"What's up," I asked.

"Granny circle came in and all wanted desert and are mad we only have what's left," He said. "They want the manager."

Walking out I said, "Ladies what can I help you with?"

Susan raised her nose and said, "There are eight of us and none of your deserts have eight of the same kind."

Nodding I said, "Susan really you all ain't getting a discount. You are here every week and we never keep things behind the racks or counters. Its not a set menu and as the sign say's once its gone its gone. As the Tea Time released three books in the last twenty four hours we have been extremely busy and I even restocked everything. What is on the board is all that's left. Now you are holding up all these people behind you. The rest of your group doesn't seem to have a problem about the food offerings and they are packaged. You know we are not a restaurant."

Another member of the Granny circle said, "Come on Susan stop making a fuss you have already been banned from most cafes and you know Angie is going to use this as Tea later today. If you cannot decide let us through."

Susan looked at her and said, "Bitch."

As she walked out the door Gretchen said, "Hey dear I am buying for my ladies today so I want a pepsi and a slice of that pie."

Cathy kept adding everything to the tray and after Gretchen paid I carried both trays to their table. I said, "Now ladies we are adding a bunch of new things to menu to try out. So you make sure you check back with us when you have your weekly brag sessions to see what we have."

Gretchen laughed and said, "Angie you should know by now we come for the tea and visiting. Whatever nibbles you have are more than fine. Susan has been a handful lately and we are done with it."

As I headed back to the counter I heard Kyle call out, "Hot case is closed. Low on cold and desert foods. Plenty of drinks and nibbles."

Making a list of stores I was going to shop at Charles came over and said, "Remember I am meeting up my with brothers tonight to do some night fishing."

"Okay," I said. "When I get this list done and post the latest tea I am going to start my shopping. I am going to go to some stores today so I can maybe prep a bit for the week and get ahead of ourselves for Monday."

Peeking through the door Charles said, "Wow there is almost nothing left."

Mike called out, "Deserts and hot foods are sold out. Almost out of drinks and nibbles."

Cathy called out ten minutes later, "Alright everyone we are sold out please remember your welcome to sit and chat till four but the counter is closed and we will be cleaning up and putting chairs up for t he night as people leave."

Mike went out and flipped the sold out sign. Him and Kyle started cleaning the cases as Cathy cleaned the tea and coffee pots. When she was done she went to the bar to put everything back and a guy was standing there snapping his fingers. I was following her and went to him and snapped back at him.

"Sir why are you being rude to my employees," I asked.

"I demand service," He bellowed.

"Sir your wearing a suit so I assume you can read," I said. "Do I need to make the sold out sign bigger?"

"Your a restaurant," He bellowed, "You do not sell out."

"Wrong again," I said. "We are a cafe and yes we did and do sell out."

"Useless," he cried.

"No I am very entertaining and this interaction will be on my website along with a few others from today," I said as patrons cheered.

"Do you know who I am," He said. "I am a district attorney and I will sue you."

"Not illegal," I said. "Signs are on the door and at every table and literally engraved on the register. By coming in here and starting crap you give me permission. Now if you would have read not only the sign on the door that stated sold out and the one right below your hand that stated sold out you could have saved yourself the embarrassment."

He went to say something and I pointed to the sign again and the tea time sign. He went to open his mouth and then closed it leaving the building. Cathy gave the one hour till close warning. Everyone started to leave and the guys cleaned everything up and when the last person left I added the guys to a few extra days the following week and then everyone left. Running upstairs Charles was getting ready  to go fishing later that night and I told him I would see him later. Sitting in the car I looked at my list of stores- 

Publix, Asian grocery, Aldi, Sam's Club, Winn Dixie, Dollar Tree, Walmart, Restaurant Store

Looking at the clock I said, "Easy as pie."

Going to the Restaurant Store I loaded up on a lot of the containers and everything I thought I could use at the cafe. Going through the frozen, dairy and premade section I went back and grabbed even more containers to prepackage all the foods. Heading back to the cafe I brought everything in and organized it in the back group. Making sure to place the containers on one shelf and the food items on another to keep it separated. Locking up again I headed to the Asian Grocery. I filled four carts and added a bunch of new items to the menu. Then I headed back to the cafe to unload.

When I got to the cafe I found a vase of flowers on the counter with a note that read, "Went night fishing see you in the morning!"

Smiling I moved them to the stove and brought everything in. I made quick work of putting everything away. Since it was still early I figured I could finish at Sam's Club quickly. When I arrived I filled my first flat cart and loaded that into my truck. Going back inside I heard the first rumbling of rain. I slowed down and took my time grabbing more items. When I was in check out I saw a few people carrying umbrellas. After loading my truck full I headed back to the cafe when the first drops began to fall. When I got home Charles was waiting outside. He said, "Let's get everything in this is going to be a bad storm."

"Was it raining at the fishing spot?" I asked.

"You could say that," He said. "They had a tornado come through right before we got there so we decided to not fish."

When we got everything in I unpacked everything and Charles looked at the new items and asked, "Menu change?"

"Earlier we were running out before noon on everything," I said. "I ended up doing an emergency run to Winn Dixie and I got a lot of new items. We tried them out and we sold out an hour before we closed. So now that we have the shelves and additional refrigerators and freezers I am stocking up a lot. But I feel we may be doing a lot of mid-week supply runs."

Charles whistled and said, "Well I have a free night now were you planning on shopping anymore?"

Smiling I said, "Sure we still have five more stores to go!"

He grabbed an umbrella and put his hand out saying, "I'll drive what's the first store?"

Looking at the sky I said, "Dollar tree."

We headed to the Dollar Tree and as we went inside we heard the first of the tornado sirens go off. The Manager advised everyone to just stay inside and unless the power goes off we would be alright. We started to shop and Charles said, "This weather is insane."

When we got to check out we saw a cashier crying and the manager apologized and said, "I am so sorry everyone we just got word that the tornados hit near her house and she cannot get in touch with her family."

Everyone in line kept saying it was alright. While we were checking out the cashiers Dad arrived and told her the property is a mess but they were okay. We offered well wishes and Charles said, "I know your normally closed but you may have to open if emergency services are going to be running."

Nodding I said, "Yeah I was thinking that as well. We will load up on extras like I did at the Dollar Tree."

On the way to Aldi I called Cathy and the guys and they all said they would work if we needed them. When we got to Aldi I grabbed my bags and had Charles grab a cart as well. We over packed two full carts and checked out. When we were loading the truck Charles said, "I do not like the way the sky looks."

"Me either," I said. "Lets get through Winn Dixie fast and go unload. We should have time for Publix and Walmart last because they close at midnight."

Again when we got to Winn Dixie we each grabbed a cart and I got the items I knew the cafe could use. We loaded the two carts and headed back to the cafe. When we arrived the Sheriff was waiting at the back door. When we got out Charles started unloading and the Sheriff asked, "Angie do you think you could open for us tomorrow. With the storms passing through a lot of people may need quick bites to eat and coffee."

Nodding I said, "Yes I have my staff on stand by already Sheriff Martin. I will call them when we go to the next two stores and we will be fully stocked ready to go in the morning for a 7am open."

He let out a sigh of relief and said, "Thank you Angie. We appreciate it."

After he left I called everyone asking them to come in as close to 630 as possible. We put the non perishables aside and everything cold and frozen we got put away. On the way to Publix we heard the sirens go off and once we parked we grabbed two carts and went inside. Charles asked, "Will you have to get up real early to get things prepared."

"Yes and no," I said. "When we get back from Walmart I plan on stocking a lot tonight and preparing the cold case bin. The cold case stuff I will have ready to put in already. When I went to Sam's Club I bought a mini fridge and placed it under the counter already so all I will have to do is move the stuff from the fridge under the counter to the cold case. It will be on the board. I also got two crock pots and will be making things over night so we can place them in the hot case as soon as I get downstairs. Everything else I will cook and have started before everyone gets there. I am also going to prepare the lunch sacks to go as well."

We were slower this time in shopping. When we checked out we loaded up the truck and headed to Walmart. We each grabbed a cart and Scott followed me around the store. When I filled one cart he went to check out to pay and I continued to shop. I almost bought out all the plastic spoons, forks, and napkins by the time I was done shopping. When I finished the last of the dairy, frozen and vegetable aisles Scott came in and said, "This is the last batch right that sky looks bad and the winds have picked up."

Scott put the cash I had given him into my hand and said, "You scan and I will bag. I want to get us home as soon as possible. I think I am going to get all the emergency electric power generators we have plugged in just in case. That way if we lose power you can still run the cold case, hot case, drink cooler and mini fridge. I am also going to make sure the gas generator is ready incase we have to run cords for your refrigerators and freezers."

Driving home Charles had to grip the wheel due to the high winds. We emptied the truck and I went on the blog and posted we would be open if anyone loses power and needs to charge a cell phone or wants company. But I did warn we have limited seating and that if your safer at home stay at the house. Then I went downstairs and prepped for the following day. As I emptied the non perishable bags I priced as I set up for the next day placing out the prepackaged snacks and adding the sticky notes if we had more under the counter in baskets so my staff could place them up on the displays we had. Filling the drink cooler I dedicated a full bottom shelf to bottled waters. Once all those items were on the shelf and priced on the boards I went back to put the remaining items onto the shelves. I tried to make a spot for our new cup of soups that we only had to add hot water to. I taped forks to the cups and priced them on an old fruit display after adding some banana's, apples and oranges to the display. Then I went into the kitchen and made grab and go bags. Since I had two shelves I placed these on I made two different kinds ready to go. One with tuna salad kits and one with a chicken salad kit. Adding in crackers, chips, a apple, cookies and a bottle of water. Placing the description and prices on the board I went back to the kitchen and got ready to start making the cold case items for the following day. 

As I took out containers to make overnight oats with berries the town center tornado alarm went off. Scott ran in from the generator shed and said, "We need to get in the bathroom now."

We ran into the bathroom closest to us as we heard the sound of the train. Ducking into the corner away from the door we felt the ground shake and the power went off and on. Slowly the sound started to fade and we emerged from the bathroom. Walking into the main cafe we saw the damage of the tornado. Thankfully the front of my cafe was alright. we opened the cafe door and walked outside and thankfully my building and all the shops were spared. The courthouse had trees down and we saw that Mrs. Ellies crafts store window was shattered. Mrs. Ellie and her husband came out of the store. We locked the cafe door and we walked over. 

I hugged Mrs. Ellie and asked, "Are you alright?"

She laughed and said, "Shaking as much as you are dear. But I am alright. I thank god we had cleared that display to put up a new one tomorrow I will be sweeping the glass up."

Her husband said, "I will have to stay up to watch the store and get wood in the morning."

Charles looked up and said, "No need I got some plywood in the shed. Babe can I have your truck keys?"

I unhooked my truck keys and said to Mrs. Ellie, "We will be open tomorrow. The sheriff stopped by and I had my staff on call. I cannot believe that a tornado came through down town."

As we talked emergency services started to go through town. Sheriff Martin parked and asked, "You ladies alright."

Mrs. Ellie said, "Shaken but fine. Charles and mike just went to Angie's shed to get wood to cover the window."

He let out a sigh of relief and said, "Well downtown was lucky the park and the mobile community was hit really bad. Angie you are going to be busy all day."

Laughing I said, "Well I guess the tea will be flowing. But I get you Sheriff. I already have my prepackaged stuff ready to go and I was prepping the cold case items for tomorrow. I think we will be offering some non traditional fare as well. I am getting ready to get a vegetable stew and meatballs in BBQ sauce in the crock pot. But I may add a third crock pot and make some chili as well. All hot and cold items will be ready by the time we open. I also have all my premade lunch sacks with non perishable items ready and shelved."

He sighed and said, "Thank you."

While we were talking the guys came back and Charles said, "Back of the building is alright as well."

I said, "Mrs. Ellie if you do not need me I am going to get the remaining prep done for tomorrow."

"Go go," She said. "I am sure mike and I will be in tomorrow as well."

Charles said, "I am gonna help Mike and will be back in a bit."

Walking back to the cafe I went inside and looked at the containers I took out and decided to add a few more. After making overnight oats, mini fruit trays, croissants with a cream cheese and jam cup, hard boiled egg and cheese packs, charcutier packs, Side salads with ranch and italian dressing cups. I also made turkey sandwiches, ham sandwiches, egg salad sandwiches. Then I decided to make a few chef salads with dressing since I had room in the mini fridge still and added stuff directly to the cold case. I knew I would be in the kitchen most of the day getting more food made. 

When I was done with the cold foods and checked all the prices on the board I went back to the kitchen and started prepping the crock pots for the next day. I used my crockpot dividers and made a half batch of meatballs in red sauce, the other side I did meatballs in bbq sauce. Then I made a crock pot of meatless chili to slow cook on low overnight. The last crockpot I made a batch of my homemade chicken soup. 

Grabbing my sheet pans I prepped everything for my egg and cheese, sausage biscuits and chicken biscuits. Since I was prepping I decided to cook up the biscuits tonight to save time in the morning. Then when that was all completed I prepared hot ham and cheese sandwiches, grilled cheese, grilled cheese with ham, baked vegetable sandwiches. placing the pans back in the freezer or the fridge. Pulling a pan of premade lasagna I placed that in the fridge to thaw. I also made a breakfast bake. Taking out a box of pancake mix I placed  that on the counter to make small platters of pancakes as well. Looking in the freezer I decided to also make corn dogs and  breakfast mini corn dogs which I could cook in the air fryer. Making sure I had my notes on the table I added the prices to the boards and made a note for the hot case to call out if we sell the soup or chili so we can restock. I placed silverware next to the hot case. 

When Charles came back I was finishing washing all my dishes and I said, "I think sandwiches for dinner."

He nodded and said, "That sounds like a good idea. The winds are still very bad and we are still under threats of more tornados. There is a lot of damage around town. If you need me I will come help you but I have had a lot of calls and texts so I may be busy in the morning."

"I have the full team in here," I said. "I may see about another part timer if we continue to stay as busy as we are. But with the boys on summer vacation I may not have to worry about that yet."

He kissed me and said, "Since its only ten I am going to go make us food and reply to some of these text while you finish up here. I guess we are getting up by 430am or 5am?"

"Yes," I said. "I have everything prepped and ready to go so I will be packaging and filling first thing in the morning."

After I finished the dishes and made sure the cafe was locked up I went upstairs and Charles had dinner ready. He had his laptop up and was working. Grabbing my laptop I sat and typed as I ate my food. I did a quick post about the tornado and when I was finished eating I took a shower and headed to bed. During the night we were woken up a few times with the high winds. But I finally fell into a deep sleep.

************************************************************************

The next morning I got up and Charles asked, "Are you alright." 

Laughing I said, "Thank God I own a cafe so I can have coffee all day."

Heading down to the cafe I put the lights on, put on the hot case and started to pre- heat the ovens. Checking my crock pots everything was ready and I added some egg noddle to the pot to finish it up. I put the sausage and chicken into the oven to start cooking and put all the cold items into the case. Pulling out a pan I started to make the eggs for the egg and cheese sandwiches. Placing the lasagna and sandwiches into the oven. Right before six thirty I placed all the coffee pots onto brew. When everyone arrived I had the air fryers going and had made all the breakfast sandwiches and even made a few extra chicken biscuits for my team. When Kyle and Mike walked in I had them go get the chairs down. Cathy started cupping up the items in the crockpots. Mike and Kyle came back and started helping with the last of the packaging as I finished plating the pancakes. When we finished plating and placing all the food in the hot case we had ten minutes before open we each ate our breakfast. Mike and Kyle started to knock out the dishes. We had just a bit of soup and chili left in the crockpots.

Cathy stood ready behind the counter and I went to open the doors to a line of customers. They all thanked me for opening on our day off. By the end of the first hour I had Kyle come out and help as I went and emptied the remaining crockpots. Mike came in and said, "So your aware all the sandwiches in the cold case are sold out as well as half the lunch packs. Also after I bring these out we are selling out of a lot of the small nibbles fast. All the corn dogs are gone and Kyle is currently restocking the beverage case."

"Alright give me a few minutes and I will come out and look," I said. "I need to see what I can get cooking."

"Those hot sandwiches and the cold sandwiches are huge hits and the soups are going fast as well," He said.

Mike went out with remaining hot food and Kyle ran in and said, "All bagged meals are sold and we brewed another two pots of coffee. What can I help with?"

"Last freezer there are boxes of vegetable egg rolls," I said. "Lets get six of them in each air fryer. Also there is little tin sauce cups. Fill them halfway with the sauce and put one in each of the six mini liners."

Running out the the sales floor I looked in the fridge under the counter and moved the remaining items to the case. We were selling out fast and after seeing everything we had I went in and said, "Kyle how are the eggrolls coming?"

"Just turned them and the trays are ready," He said. 

"Okay I am going to make more grilled ham and cheese," I said. "Also there is a box of chicken tenders in the last freezer. Do me a favor get them ready on the tray and into the oven. Set the timer. I also need the pack of sub rolls. In the first fridge lets grab a pack of turkey and cheddar." 

As I made another twelve grilled cheeses and when the tenders were done we packaged them up with barbeque sauce. Kyle carried the tray and I added them to the board with the prices and we added them to the hot case. Looking at the Raman tower I realized we had sold most of them out. I grabbed the matches of what was still there and had Kyle tape forks to them and restock it.

Kyle sent Mike back and I had him make some charcutier snack trays for the cold case. He brought out twelve trays just as we sold the last one. I made some tuna melt and cold tuna fish sandwiches. Looking in the fridge I had Mike make more hardboiled egg plates. Looking in the freezer I grabbed a full box of mini pizza's and put them in the oven. When they came out I grabbed two paper plates and wrote the guys names on them. 

Mike went out to the counter and Cathy came in. She leaned against the work table and said, "Do you think you can make some more salads and maybe make me one for lunch?"

"I will make them next," I said. "DO we want garden or chef for the case?"

"Both," she said. "I am going to send the guys back to eat."

They came back and ate as I set up containers for the salads. As I prepped the salads the guys ate and took all the ready salads with dressing to the sales case. Cathy came in and we ate as I prepared more food. We had a small down time and the guys went around the cafe emptying garbage's and cleaning up the tables. Cathy was working the counter when I was coming out with fresh vegetable sandwiches. As I came through the door I heard, "What do you mean that is all you have right now your a restaurant."

Cathy said, "Maam we are not. We only pre-make food and set it to the cases to sell. We do not have a chef just the owner making things."

"Well my friend got chicken soup here earlier and said it was wonderful and I want that," She said. "Get me your manager."

Standing next to Cathy I said, "Maam I am the owner. What Cathy told you was correct I only made one crockpot full and when it sold out it sold out. Our offerings change every day and we do not always keep the same items in the case. Now that you have given me gossip to put on the blog is there anything else in the case that we can offer you."

A look of realization crossed her face and she yelled, "I will never eat here again."

She turned to leave and turned back with a smug face she said, "You know you'll go out of business if you treat people this way."

Ellie called out, "Jeanie you say that everywhere you don't get your way stop being a Karen."

Sheriff Martin walked in and pulled me aside. "Angie there is a change of shift happening in two hours and everyone wants to head over here. Can you have food ready for them to buy?"

"Yes," I said. "Can you block the counter for a few minutes so I can get my team up to speed."

"You got it," He said.

I grabbed everyone and pulled them back. When we were behind the door I said, "Shift change is happening in two hours. We are going to get a rush as we are the only people open due to the storms and tornado's. Kyle and Mike I need you to get out there and start selling what we have. We are not bringing anything out for a bit to get the older stuff sold. Once we have extra trays we will be getting it all out."

They went out and started to sell what food was in the case. Mike would run in and out grabbing nibbles, drinks and chips. I had Cathy make up lunch bags. I grabbed more pizzas and got them in the oven. Grabbing more salad items I made a large set up for both side and chef salads. After that was done I made ham and swiss sandwiches. We had trays of food ready on a cart. I had fifteen biscuits left and made egg with cheese biscuits and a few ham with egg and cheese biscuits.

Taking out a wok I made some quick asian vegetable and noodles. Cathy had chicken tenders going in the air fryer. Once the cart was full I brought it out.  Putting the offerings on the board I priced everything and placed them in the case. Fifteen minutes later we added additional things to the cases and by the time the mad rush started we flipped the sign and announced what food we had is it and kitchen closed. The guys went in back and cleaned down the kitchen as Cathy and I kept the front of house going. When the clock moved closer to five thirty we sold everything out of the cold case and a few minutes later the hot case closed. Mike and Kyle just came out and mike said, "Hey you have a moment?"

I followed him into the back and he said, "While we were cleaning there was a knock at the back door. When we opened it we found this sitting there with the note addressed to you."

Opening the note it read, "You do so much for so many and today proves it. My family loves your blog and visiting your shop. I know you use your chalk board but I figured this may be easier for you. On the back there is double sided tape and velcro. Inside is a paint pen that you can add an item and the prices and just remove the board instead of having to keep writing it again. There are 100 menu boards for you. Keep up the good work."

Mike was reading over my shoulder and I said, "Oh my goodness what a thoughtful gift."

My alarm went off on my phone and I said, "Well lets get out there and we will show the team once we lock the doors."

When we closed the guys cleaned up the lobby while I handled the register and Cathy started restocking the nibbles for the next day. When I got the bag of cash ready for upstairs I counted cash in the drawer for the morning and told everyone to stay down here. After I placed the cash in the safe for the next shopping trip I came back down and handed everyone a hundred dollars. Before anyone could argue I said, "You all went above and beyond today. The emergency workers appreciated it. Now something was delivered I want you to see."

I showed Cathy and Kyle the note. We all agreed this was the most generous gift. I said, "We will start using these and will add them to the Menu board as we have time. Now I am going to prep for tomorrow. Cathy laughed and said, "Guys go home I am going to help Angie for a while. You get some rest and game because you both deserve it."

Cathy let them out the back and said, "Charles is still out. Lets see what's left before you and I start prepping. I already filled the front and added everything to the chalk board. But as we prep the cold items we can start using these."

Laughing I said, "You will see by looking at the shelves, refrigerator and freezers how much we sold. Everything was packed full before we opened this morning."

The first fridge freezer was down to half full and we moved everything to the second freezer so I could put my prep trays in the first one. The refrigerators had huge dents in them. There was noticeable gaps in the other freezers. The shelves holding everything else was also forming empty spots. Looking at Cathy I said, "I spent around five thousand on supplies and food. Cash sales alone we made half that back today."

She said, "We will need to go shopping again very soon for salad offerings and such."

"Yeah I will go when the weather clears and the guys are here," I said. "Once we sell out of the salad fixings."

"Well," she said. "I am going to get the biscuits in the oven and make a bunch of overnight oats. Angie those were huge sellers and we sold out fast with them. I am making a triple batch with various ingredients."

While she made those I added the frozen to the cooler I wanted to start with and them put the sausage patties and chicken patties on the trays for the hot sandwiches in the morning. Grabbing out the salad fixings I made double the amount of salads I started with the first time. In the crock pot I prepped homemade vegetable stew, The meatballs like before and another full pot of chicken soup. An hour later we had all of the cold items prepped and Cathy left. I went upstairs after taking a picture of the board downstairs. I had a list of everything for the cold and hot case listed on paper and after starting some chicken in the oven I sat down at the table and starting filling in the menu board. By the time Charles came home I had them drying on a table cloth in the guest room. 

He came in and hugged me saying, "There is so much damage around town. I would get a few jobs done and more would come in. So many people wanted the work done now and I told them I can call them once i get to their name on the list." 

Chuckling as I leaned against him I said, "Well at least tomorrow is Monday."

The dinner timer went off and he said, "That smells so good. Let me go shower and I will be ready to eat."

********************************************************************

By the time Charles came out of the shower I was sleeping on the couch. He told me he tried to wake me up but I was so tired he placed my laptop on the table and carried me to the room. When I woke up the following morning I woke up starving. Charles said to me as I was getting ready, "I ran downstairs and preheated your ovens for you. I placed the lasagna and the chicken rice bake in one to help you get started. Cathy is here already she was coming in the back when I got downstairs to start the ovens. I will bring dinner home tonight. Oh and what's with the wood boards on the guest bed?"

"Oh," I said. "Someone stopped by and left it at the back door. They are removeable wood planks with a fast dry paint pen so we can just remove the boards from a Velcro attachment instead of having to write them on the chalk board. We don't know who did it but they are a valued gift. Before I crashed I wrote a post about it."

He picked up a plain one and said, "That is a wonderful idea and you can make generic ones as well."

"I thought so," I said. "After we get the food going I am going to start adding them to the menu wall. That should save us time on writing things and I will store the box under the register. So your aware all the money I spent on food and supplies we have already made back. I was shocked with the amount of business. I wonder why Cathy is here so early."

Slipping on my shoes I went down stairs with all the wood signs and Cathy was filling the hot case and starting coffee. She looked up to see me and said, "Mel had to go to work early he is part of the clean up crew removing debris. Since Mattie was home yesterday she surprised me with a clean house and dinner made. I figured we can get stuff ready and start getting those signs up. Are you alright you look exhausted?"

"I fell asleep early," I said. "I will be fine though. How about this lets get started in the kitchen and pack the cases. Charles put in the rice bake and lasagna in the oven so I am getting the chicken patties and sausage in the oven. I am going to check the crock pots and start the eggs. But I think we should do more charcutier boards as well as more sandwiches. How did the vegetable sandwiches go over yesterday?"

"Oh everyone loved them," Cathy said. "People were happy to see non meat options."

We worked getting all the food out that morning before we opened and as we started the coffee Cathy and I got up all the new boards on the menu wall. The lines were steady and I was happy we had made sure we moved a lot of easy things to the freezer. By the time our Monday slow time had started I was already back in the kitchen making more food. When Mike came in at noon he said, "Wow those new price boards are a big thing I heard people complimenting them. If you want I can start the garbage's and dishes. Cathy said you may want to get more hot foods ready as we were selling out."

"Thankfully they are in the oven already," I said. "When your done with cleaning up the floor can you start the dishes I am going to get more food out."

Filling my rolling cart with more food I restocked the case just as the lunch rush started. Mike came out so I could make more food. When I filled the cart with stuff for the non perishable, cold and hot case at 2pm I said to Cathy, "I am going to do one last round of super easy foods and then I am going to start prepping for tomorrow. It looks like I may have to go to a few stores tomorrow."

Going into the back I took the three crock pots and prepped them placing them in the refrigerator for the next day. I started going through the two freezers and pulled boxed making signs for the items we would be having. By 430 Mike came in and went to the nibbles shelf and said, " Cathy wanted to let you know the cold case and hot case are pretty much sold out. There is only a handful of items in both and there is still a line." 

Looking up from the burritos I was preparing I said, "We sold a lot of food today. I been preparing everything for the morning. After I finish prepping I may have to run to the restaurant store and a few others to add more stock back here."

He said, "People are liking the menu change I will let Cathy know."

After he left I finished everything and sorted everything in the refrigerator, Bread piles and freezers. After the shop closed Cathy and Mike came back and said, "What can we do? All that's left for the floor is the register. We pulled all the boards that were sold out." 

"Can you all fill the fridge under the counter for the mornings cold case items," I said. "Also there are new boards for that as well. I made enough that you can fill the cold case as well as the fridge today. Since lights will be off now they will hold till the morning. Mike can you grab the crock pots and get them in their holders. I will start them."

Cathy looked at the cold items prepared and said, "I like these pinwheels and vegetable platters. I take it your going shopping tonight?"

"Yes I am," I said. "Those covered trays are burritos, hot sandwiches and panini's along with everything else that we normally do. I am going to run to get more supplies and food after I count the drawer and get everything ready. Mike I am making the schedule for the next two weeks tonight I already texted Kyle but if you or Cathy need to take some time off can you please add it to the calendar. Also as you and Kyle both are turning eighteen soon would you like an increase in hours? I already spoke to Kyle about this as well."

"Yes I would love to have more hours," He said. "It looks like my college is going to be funded by me alone unless I get some scholarships and grants during my senior year. My Dad took my college fund in the divorce when he left my mom and when I talked to him he said he spent it. I know Kyle's family doesn't have it either so we are planning on going to school local."

We spoke for a few more minutes and after he left Cathy and I went into the lobby as I counted the register. She said, "I feel bad for the boys. I have heard them talking about college. Kyle wants to go in for food service and business management and Mike wants to do the same."

Placing my hand on Cathy's arm I said, "I have been placing money in the safe for them as a payment for college. Charles and I spoke after I hired them and every week I add a bit. Once they register I am going to go to the college and do a sponsor form and place money into a scholarship for them. Right now they are at $1500 or so each. I am going to do a fundraiser on the blog so people can deposit funds directly with the college so the boys will not feel the financial strain. I already spoke to the college. I just have to go set a few things up after they are seniors."

Cathy smiled and said, "You really are amazing."

"Girl they are our boys," I said. "They work so hard and want to further themselves. We have them."

We talked as I finished the drawer, made sure the doors were locked, grabbed my bag and I walked Cathy out. Getting into the truck I made quick work of shopping and when I got back home I put everything away, checked the crockpots and went upstairs to the apartment. Taking the remaining cash I added it to the safe and worked on the schedule. After doing the schedule I placed dinner in the oven and checked the website. I noticed we were over eighty percent full again so I worked on adding a few more posts to Tea Times fourth book in progress. Checking the sales of the books I was shocked to see that we had a lot of orders in the digital and hard cover orders.

 I was about to go take a shower when there was a ding on my phone that there was a delivery made to the back door. Going down stairs I found four boxes waiting for me. Taking everything upstairs I found the books I ordered and the new T-shirts arrived. Grabbing a few larger zip lock bags I placed one of each color shirt for Cathy, Mike and Kyle while grabbing one of each for Charles and I. Placing ours in the washing machine I went downstairs and put everyone's shirts in their storage lockers. 

Using the book stands I purchased with each book I placed them on the shelf above the menu board. Grabbing all the new shirts to sell I went downstairs and made a spot under the counter to hold them. Taking a small in each color out I hung them and made new sale signs on the menu board I also placed a color tag for each and put the tags for all colors available on each one. After I finished that tasks I headed upstairs and put dinner on warm since it was done.

By the time Charles came in I was in my pajamas ready to go to bed early. We spent the rest of the night relaxing an watching TV before falling asleep. Now that the books were active I knew there would be a rush again and I was thankful that we would be prepared for it.

*******************************************************************************

As I predicted the publishing of the new books brought in more business. I had to start going to the restaurant store as well as other stores more than three times a week. Our new menu was a hit and people came just to see what the newest items on the menu were. When the guys went on summer vacation I increased their hours to full time to help them out financially. Not only did the sales increase, but so did the tea that was spilled in the store. Every few days I had to remove older posts or posts that were not doing good and add them to the next book.

We were at the end of the first week into the summer season with all my workers going full time. I was in the kitchen preparing for the lunch rush when I heard a commotion coming from the front of the cafe. Going to the counter I saw two men arguing in line. I yelled, "What is all the fuss out here?"

They stopped and looked at me. The construction worker said, "Miss Angie I am so sorry we were all here waiting in line and this ass hat starts to barrel through to get to the front of the line."

He looks up at me and says, "Are you the owner?"

"I am and sir we are going into lunch rush so you have to wait in line with everyone else." I said. "No one is more important than the other in this building. If you chose to not want to wait there are fast food restaurants up the road."

"Listen lady," He started.

Then one of the guests sitting called out, "Here we go give her some tea to spill man. Your making it worse for yourself."

I pointed to the sign of  the wall and he said, "I work for a very important woman and we do not wait. She told me to get her lunch and is waiting in the car."

An elderly woman walked in and asked, "Marshal what is going on?"

Looking at her I said, "Maam I am sorry to say your employee made the mistake of thinking you were more important than everyone in line."

She chuckled and said, "Marshal do you not realize where you are. Go back to the car you silly boy."

She walked up to the side of the counter and said, "Hello dear I love your blog. He is my brothers brat and he is spoiled. I can't wait to read about this today. I also bought each of your books. I apologize for his behavior."

She went to the back of the line but not before saying to the construction worker, "You were right and thank you for putting him in his place."

I went to the kitchen to continue working on more sandwiches, salads, vegetable wraps and hardboiled egg packs. When I bought the cart out I filled everything and added the new price boards to the wall. Going back in I made sure there was hot burgers, hotdogs, chicken sandwiches, egg and cheese croissants, and I emptied the last of the soups in the crock pot adding everything to a cart for the hot case. The guys were busy filling the shelf items\. 

Mike popped his head in and said, "Angie heads up we have sold a bunch already we need more cold items and hot when you can."

Grabbing the egg salad and tuna I had made earlier I prepared the sandwiches and cracker kits. Then I made mini charcutier boards. Taking out more hot dogs from the fridge I cooked them while making more chicken sandwiches. I also grabbed out the mini quiches from the fridge and started making them as well. By the time lunch rush was finished I made a few more hot and cold items to restock for the afternoon rush and came out to the dining room with a cart of shelf items making sure the coffee and packaged items were well stocked. Walking to the sign about the cold case I flipped it to food is now what is left. Cathy looked at me and said, "Thank heavens."

Looking under the counter I said, "Mike can you roll in the second mini fridge that is next to the counter in back?"

When he did I went to get under to plug it in when Kye said, "I got it its like my game set up."

He plugged it in and Cathy said, "Well boss lady I am guessing we will be busy again tomorrow lets go look at what we have."

We went to the back when Charles came in the back carrying all the items I requested from Walmart. He handed me the envelope of change and said, "I will unload it while you see what you guys have to work with. I will cook tonight as I assume your going to be out doing a major restock. Also I grabbed two air fryers per your request and three more crock pots. Those are ready to be cleaned and set up. I have two more supply racks on the porch I will roll them in after I put them together. "

Cathy looked at me and said, "More crock pots and supply racks?" 

"Yes we are selling the stuff we make overnight so well I figured we can go big and make more," I said. "Plus in all honesty it saves us time. I want a supply rack for just the bread items and containers. Then we can take the one large one for food and one for dinks."

"Well speaking of time," She said. "I am free tonight as the hubby has to go to his Mom's so if you want I can help you shop."

"What about Mattie?" I asked.

"She is going with him," She said "She is going to spend some time with her Grandma."

Mike walked in and said, "Kyle and i can come with you as well if you want."

Looking at the boys I said, "Maybe next time I want you to enjoy your Friday night and do summer stuff! I heard your friends as you to join them on the river to go fishing."

Mike laughed and said, "Oh no go fishing what will be do."

We heard Kyle call out, "Cold case is empty and all we have is limited hot food, packaged goods and drinks."

Looking at my watch I said, "Wow I am glad I added the extra fridge. Mike can you wash the crock pots while Cathy and I start the items for tomorrow."

Cathy and I unpacked all the bags and I saw a bunch of yogurt cups and fruit. Thankfully Charles was able to get bread and wraps and a bunch of eggs. I said to Cathy, "Go ahead and start a pot on the stove let's make four dozen hardboiled eggs. I am thinking we can put a yogurt cup hard boiled egg and fruit on a try and make mini breakfast packs."

She said, "Sure will then I will make two full trays of overnight oats because those sold very well this week. I will do assorted flavors."

We heard Mike call out, "Hot case items are now sold out and we only have prepackaged items and drinks left."

Going into the first fridge I made sure that it was empty and ready. Mike and Kyle started coming in Grabbing refills for all the packaged items. Kyle came in and said, "Looks like we will be going right till five. People are buying a lot of the prepackaged items now."

For the remaining time left the guys continuously stocked the prepackaged items. Cathy and I worked through the items in the fridge and freezer prepping for the cold case once we closed. A few minutes before five we went upfront and saw even the prepackaged goods sold out. There was a limited amount of items left. When we closed the guys started to clean the cafe as Cathy and I looked at the cold case and non perishables. She said, "Our board has T-shirts and five food items left. You get the drawer and I will restock the cold case, mini fridges and drinks."

Counting the drawer I pulled the cash and handed everyone a twenty for a bonus. Then I had Cathy separate the tips for them. When she handed Mike his share he said, "Woah Cathy that is to much."

She laughed and said, "We have three hundred and twenty five in tips. I evened it out and left the rest in the jar for tomorrow."

Kyle said, "Well man before we go to the river I am dropping money into the bank."

Mike said, "Same."

I pointed to the bags on the counter and said, "Cathy and I made you some snacks for the river go have fun."

When they clocked out and left she said, "Girl we sold so much."

Looking at her I said, "Look at the cash count for today."

She said, "Holy cow. That does not include card sales. Did you get the big bills and extra cash under the drawer?"

"No," I said. Lifting up  the drawer I found a bunch of fifties and hundreds. 

Cathy said, "I did not want to draw attention to it. We need to get a drop safe Angie so if we are robbed then we do not have to worry about the cash  stolen."

Charles walked in and said, "You mean this drop safe."

Looking at him he said, "I saw the cash when I grabbed a drink and rang it in. It was a hundred for the safe you have the receipt already. I am going to install it while you get the rest of the counter organized. This one has a key which we can keep up in the top floor safe. Then you can wait till after hours to empty the drop safe every few days."

While Cathy worked downstairs I grabbed the cross over bag and added all the cash to it. When I went downstairs I organized the freezers, remaining refrigerated items and shelves. After I organized and prepped Cathy came in and said, "Even after stocking everything we are empty and I will be honest with you there are very little signs up." 

I opened the fridge freezers and said, "After I added the frozen to the fridge to thaw for tomorrow during prep as well as a few heat and serves this is all that's left. All the packaged goods and everything are sold out. Even drinks and coffee are what is left."

"Well how about this," She said. "We start at the restaurant supply store. We load up my van and I will bring it back here and put the perishable away. Then we go Sam's club and load up. While you hit up Aldi I can bring everything back and then we can hit the local stores."

Charles said, "I will watch out for Cathy. I also got a small deep freezer and placed it at the end of the counter. You prefer to keep refrigerated items rotated out but you can load up on the frozen. Cathy can keep an eye on what your getting and let you know how full the freezer is."

"That sound like a plan," I said. "Well Cathy lets hit the stores up then shall we!"

We went to the restaurant store and we loaded two trips into Cathy's van. She went to the store as I did a final trip through for more non perishable. Then I drove to Sam's club. She met me as I loaded more non perishables into my truck. When she joined me back in the store we loaded two full carts of drinks and went back in for food and snacks. When we loaded her van she took some of the non perishable from me and said, "I will meet you at the Dollar tree after Aldi." 

When I finished with Aldi she was waiting in the parking lot. She took my keys and handed me hers as she told me to get started. I went in and did four trips filling the cart. We went to Walmart next and loaded up. She took the perishable back and met me in Publix. She said, "They have some good bogo's here and at Winn Dixie."

When we finished at Publix she headed back to the cafe and I went into Winn Dixie and loaded up the carts. We decided that we could try some more new things and by the time we were done both of our cars were loaded down."

When I got back we started to organize and stock the cafe as well as the shelves. She said, "I was thinking the food for the crock pot. We can do a crustless chicken pot pie we grabbed everything for it. Plus meat balls in sauce and BBQ sauce. I am glad we got a lot of them. I am also going to do a beef stew and vegetable and barley soup. By the time we get in tomorrow it will be ready to go. Lets get everything prepped for the morning."

While we prepped I Charles came down to talk with us and I had him start a Walmart order for delivery and after I had him do a Sam's order for pick up knowing we would go through a lot of food before the day was out. After everything was away and prepped we said good bye to Cathy and locked up for the night. Heading upstairs I placed the remaining cash in the safe and we sat down to eat dinner. 

Charles said, "You alright?"

Laughing I said, "I cannot wait till Sunday."

"Why is that?" He asked.

"Because I plan on doing the shopping on Say while Cathy and the guys take care of the cafe. Then on Sunday night I can prep and make sure we are ready for the next day," I said. "I am hoping that everything will last but it looks like I may have to start daily trips to some of the stores."

"Is it time to hire a new employee?" He said. "That way Cathy can prepare more foods?"

"I will look into it," I said. "I am picky on who I would hire. I trust the guys and Cathy. After what happened with Donna when we first opened I do not want to have anymore drama."

"No we definitely do not need that," He said. "From what I heard she has been busted for steeling multiple times."

After putting away the leftover from dinner we spent some time together and went to bed. While laying down I thought about who I could hire to fit in with our team. I prayed to god to give me a sign on who to hire.

*****************************************************************************

The following morning I woke up and found Cathy downstairs already getting the breakfast food cooked. Looking at her I asked, "How long have you been here?"

She laughed and said, "About an hour. I got woken up by my neighbors leaving for work and couldn't sleep. I know you would be happy this was started and wouldn't care. The first of the hot food will be ready in a bit and all the crock pot meals are also ready to be plated. Now that the fridge is clear and everything is on timers I am going to make more salads and cold food. I also put the peach cobbler in the oven so we can see how that does today."

"You are a life saver," I said. "So before the guys get here what do you think of almost daily shopping trips and maybe hiring on someone part time?"

"We have to be careful who comes in here," She said. "Especially after what Donna did."

"Charles said the same thing," I said. "I am worried about who to hire."

She said, "We will be careful and see what happens."

We over stocked the cases and prepped more stuff to cook in the first fridge. By the time the guys came in and we were opening the line was out the door. Bringing in extra food I heard the next person at the counter say, "Why is there such a long line. Do you know how inconvenient this is?"

"Sir everyone waits in line and we have been very busy," Cathy said. "I would be more concerned if the line was 1 person only. People love our store and we love our customer's. Now would you like to order something?"

"I want a fresh salad and fresh cheese sticks. Make sure your kitchen knows I will know," He said.

"Sir we only have what is in the case and do not make things to order," She said.

"GET ME--" He started to yell.

I interrupted and said, "I am the owner. Cathy is correct we only have what is in the cases and we sell out repeatedly throughout the day. We DO NOT cook to order. But thank you for giving us gossip for Tea Time. Now would you like something from the case or are you going to move aside for my employee to help the next guest."

He looked at me and said, "No I will get McDonalds."

Leaving the next person in line said, "Thank god you should have heard him on the phone. If I talked to my wife that way she would bury me in the river."

Going back to the kitchen I sat down on a stool as the last of the food was being cooked for the day. Cathy came in back and said, "I think we need to make a new rule. If we are open to five we stop cooking at one thirty. That way we can prep and not stress the rest of the day. We can make sure we are packing the case right before then and people can buy the prepackaged items. It will guarantee everything is at its freshest and we will rotate stock even more."

Looking at her I said, "Let's try it. I don't want to lose business but we are running ragged and have a life after five."

Pulling my laptop up I made a post and Cathy read over it. She said, "It looks good. Also did Sheila contact you about Summer nights starting next week?"

"Yeah she did," I said. "She wants us to stay open late those two days a month. I was going to ask you what you think."

"I do not think it will be a good idea," She said. "They will have over twenty food trucks and they want people to donate fifty percent of the profits to the town council."

Posting on the blog that we will not be participating in the Summer Night series we started our prep for the next day. Using one full fridge and freezer for the next day's prep we started getting everything ready when Kyle poked his head in the door and said, "Angie there is someone here to see you."

Walking to the front I found Sheila waiting next to the counter. I said, "Hello Sheila how can I help you?"

"I came to get your answer for summer nights," She said.

"Well Sheila I just posted we will not be participating in summer nights," I said. "We have been super busy during the day and we need our down time. Besides you have over twenty food trucks lines up there will be plenty of food offerings."

"You are serious," She said.

"Yes I am," I said. "We are already going for twelve hours and we are starting to not cook anything new for the case after one thirty. That way we are ensuring that we sell out and have all new items on the offer list each and every day."

The Sheriff came over and said, "Sheila, Angie is always going above and beyond for events. Let the woman have some time off."

Sheila looked mad and said, "I was thinking about the fundraising for the town council."

"That is another reason I will not be doing it," I said. "You want fifty percent of the profits and to be honest that is way to much for me to agree to. But if there is nothing else my team and I are getting stuff ready in the back for tomorrow. Have a great day."

After Shelia left the Sheriff came over and asked, "Angie she is asking for fifty percent of the profits?"

"Yes she is," I said. "I have never had that asked of us for any event that we have helped in."

He nodded and said, "Let me look into that because we never ask for more than fifteen percent. The fifty percent is a bit off can you send me a copy of the email she sent you."

Pulling up my phone I pulled the email and forwarded it to the sheriff. I said, "You should have it."

After he left Cathy came up next to me and said, "I believe dear old Shelia is in a bit of trouble."

Angie- main  Charles-Boyfriend 7-5

Cathy- assistant(Mel/Mattie) Kyle and Mike- part time

Katherine state prosecutor, Gus- Construction, Mrs Ellie- Craft store(Mike)

Michael- property buyer. Susan- Granny circle. no name-wants service as we closed. Jeanie-chicken soup, Marshal- Assistant

Sheriff Martin

Mitgin's Pub- 

Books 1, 2, 3