Slow, but steady

On a normal Friday, at about 11.45 we experience what I think of as a kind of Jurassic Park effect.  Ripples emanate out from an invisible core in each water jug and the crockery chinks out a rhythm to accompany the jangling cutlery. ‘They are coming’ we mock, but, truly, there’s little we enjoy more.  At 12.00 last Friday, there were precisely 3 customers in the café, two of whom were members Renee’s family.  No offence Louise and Max, we were glad of your company and Sonia too, of course. 

Naturally, I began to panic; it is my default setting in most situations; what if our novelty has worn off?  What if someone had a horrible time during their last visit and now everyone hates us? What if I hurt someone’s feelings?  What if?  What if?  What if? At this point the room did begin to rattle and shake, for me at least, I think it even began to spin a little.  Not that I am extreme or anything!

As it happened, I was probably worrying a little more than was strictly necessary; a steady flow of delightful people joined us over the course of the next 2 hours.  When I settled into it the steady pace was actually quite helpful!  I felt able to be an attentive hostess as well as waitress and I even had lunch.  It was delicious.

Renee was much more stoic about the situation, she usually is.  She correctly commented that the pace of the tortoise is much preferable than that of the hare because it is sustainable; not just in terms of custom, but also wear and tear on the staff.  Indeed, when service finished, we weren’t as exhausted as we have been on the crazier occasions.

The lesson learnt, I think, was that I need to be prepared for the stampedes and the waddly, toddly days.  Both are likely to be part of the lifecycle of the café, as long as people come, it really doesn’t matter.

Speaking of coming, we hope to see y’all on Saturday 17th for the celebration party: 1-3PM @ Terront Road Salvation Army Hall. 

Check out our beautiful website: www.fillingthegapcafe.co.uk

 It’s amazing, thank you Zambezi Digital for your awesomeness and for answering my daft, dumbass question without laughing.