Small Paradises - A Reflection on Feeling At Home

What makes you feel at home?  For me, the answer revolves around comfort, warmth, and feeling welcome.  We find this in the homes of friends most readily, but, cafes are high on my list of places that make for feeling at home.  I have Latif's in Turlock, Green Grub (formerly known as House of Java) also in Turlock, and my much loved Hamilton's Cafe in Hughson. 

We have found that when traveling and on the road, collecting eateries that aren't commercial, can lead to good vibes, good people, and a good dining experience.  Here we were still in New Mexico and heading into Oklahoma.  We stopped in for breakfast.  We plan to stop here again on our way back.

Route 66 Restaurant

Niece and aunt keeping the Route 66 spirit alive.

The Roundhouse is a popular eatery that has been in Caruthersville forever.  I've been there five times, in 1980, 1985, 1994, and twice since we arrived for our mission.  It is one of those places where I feel very much at home.  I feel like I really belong there; like I really know the place.  The mood is timeless and I LOVE their deep fried chicken liver.

Roundhouse

This morning, after distributing food out of the food pantry in Steele, MO, we had breakfast at the Steele Family Restaurant.  Along with a full menu, they have a Sunday buffet with a huge selection of food and for only $7.95.  The waitress and her family settled in Missouri after escaping out of New Orleans when Katrina hit.  The plan was to eventually return home but they like where they had found refuge so well, that they decided to stay.

Steele Family Restaurant

Each of these places has provided a little piece of paradise for the people who work there and/or own and work their places.  The family in New Mexico took a risk and became successful business owners at a little spot on Hwy 40; the Roundhouse owner has the built-in wall space to claim bragging rights for her son who plays major league ball with the Seattle Mariners; and one lucky lady found refuge from the storm in a friendly community and was able to rebuild her life.