We are heading out for Thanksgiving in Mishawaka, Indiana tomorrow. The land of cold beer and NASCAR, where you can get your pick of chewing tobacco from a glass case in the super market while 3-11 plays on the car stereos idling in the parking lot . Every chain restaurant and their spawn have set themselves down on long stretches of road. Chili's, Outback Steakhouse and Applebee's repeat themselves over and over like a skipping record.
Don't get me wrong, I like visiting my in-laws in Mishawaka. It reminds me of the town in Kansas where I grew up, and why I left.
Among the rows of chain stores and restaurants you can find a few local gems. I wrote down some of my favorites from our last visit:
Extreme Tan & Health - Because tanning is extremely healthy.
Quaker Stake & Lube - Who is coming in for what is anyone's guess.
Le Follicle - French for chic nail saloon.
Leather Banana - Leather for the whole family!
Pleasure Land Museum - No, you aren't going to a porn shop, that's crazy. This is a classy museum that happens to be filled with porn. Stop feeling guilty and go get an education.
Maybe some of you will catch snicker worthy signs on your Thanksgiving travels to see your family for self induced food comas, slight bickering and naps. One word of advice, if you go by a Quaker Stake & Lube just keep driving.
Happy Thanksgiving
