It was curious to see a Skippers still open, after a couple other locations sold off and remodeled (although the new proprietors kept the huge anchor in front of the building). We wanted some good ol’ fish & chips, so I parked my Jeep and walked in. Ordered a meal for each of three people people in my family, then stepped aside with my toddler holding my hand. We got a drink of fizzy stuff for the boy, while Brent, the “Captain”, who took my order, was helping a few other customers with niceties such as napkins and spoons and forks.
My wife stayed in the car with the Air Conditioner running, to deal with menopausal symptoms. Too much information? Not at all. There was something wrong with the Jeep AC, but we didn’t know it was the radiator fan failing, until the upper radiator coolant hose burst, spewing coolant all over the engine, and causing a magnificent cloud of steam.
My iPhone rang, and it was my wife, telling me there was something wrong with the car. I went outside to investigate, and noticed coolant running out from under the jeep. I carefully raised the hood to let more steam dissipate. One of the other customers walked out with his food bag in hand, and got into his vehicle (parked next to us) saying, “Looks like you’re losing antifreeze.” I almost said, “Gee, do ya think so?” As he drove away.
In a few minutes, Captain Brent came outside, carrying my food order. Hey, he just reminds me of a coast guard captain, for some reason, with his neat beard.
We passed the food to my wife, and my toddler knew what to do.... He got into the Jeep and started eating. The Skippers food smell was making me hungry, even if my car was broken. My toddler’s favorite thing was the green Jell-O... I kid you not.
Brent helped me get the coolant hose placed back where it belonged. Those nitrile gloves he was wearing was a great help. Then he told me to wait while he brought out some water, and he brought out a huge saucepan filled with water... with a blue funnel. He poured the water in slowly (you can’t rush some things). He waited to make sure I could start the car, and drive off safely.
Brent, I’m sorry I didn’t give you a tip on my food order, but I will make up for it next time.