Buying Water

Atrain said something very revealing about our family’s finances today. When we’re driving down the road we often ask him questions about the cars and buildings he sees. Given the abnormal amount of road noise we have while driving in our car, it is a listening exercise for his cochelar implants, but it is also fun to hear what he says.

Today we drove by a “Wendy’s” fast food joint. The husband asked Atrain, “What do we buy at that store?” In an honest, matter-of-fact tone he replied, “That’s where we buy water.” Yep. It’s the same fast food place that is on our way out of town where mommy always goes through the drive through and asks for water. I’m shameless.

The husband seemed somewhat puzzled by Atrain’s response. You see, he’s the courteous kind of guy who would actually order something(s) along with the large water, so that his business consists of more than just mooching.

“Yep, it is a gas station too, you’re right, we do get water there sometimes,” he replied to Atrain. (I’m also that person who runs into a gas station and fills up a water bottle without making a purchase). “Nope,” I interjected. “He’s right. We often do go through the drive through and get a cup of water before leaving town.” The husband shakes his head and laughs, “Just water?” he says, as if to confirm that he really did marry Elly May Clampett (minus the curves and the oil). “Uh-huh. Occasionally we get chicken nuggets, but water is most often all we really need,” I explain. “Uh-huh,” he responds, still laughing and shaking his head, glad that he’s never in the car while we’re “buying” water. “I’m glad you’re the one in charge of finances. Our loan money is in good hands.”