I am a middle-aged single mom. I have only one left at home, my 10-year-old daughter. Unlike her older brothers, she is shy and easily intimidated, so despite her grandmother taking her to work periodically at The Bible's Inn Bookstore in downtown Prince George, she is terrified to walk anywhere downtown.
I realize she is ten and will soon enough see that being afraid of the unknown is no longer her style, it bothers me she feels so unsafe. During the improvements to our famous George Street, I noticed it caught her interest. so naturally I was thrilled when a friend of mine for about 20 years had decided to take over the cafe down by the courthouse.
Her brother Steve and her as equal partners. They have aptly named the cozy cafe on the corner, The Black Donkey. They offer an extra large beverage menu. Gourmet coffees, and teas. Blended juices, and smoothies. And the best beef dip I've ever had. On display, there are her beautiful, and unique paintings along with a sample or two of her mannequin busts that must be seen, to believe. It is the perfect touch for what I think, we would all like to see In the downtown core. Classy but not pretentious. There is a funky kinda feel with tastefully picked instrumental dubstep music playing in the background. Or whatever they may feel in the mood for. A laid back staff, that make you feel welcome, and at ease.
You will see that hugs are on the menu if you may need one. Now, my daughter asks me if we can go see our friends at the Black Donkey. And she smiles at who we pass during our walk there. Not even a twinge of unease. It is amazing at how much difference one person can make by being courageous enough to just be them. And in this smoggy town it is a breath of clean filtered, Prince George air. Thank you for standing out, my friend. You are a great chef, a wonderful artist, and most of all, a caring, and strong woman. Congratulations, Anna Thibodaux.
Angela Mooney
Prince George
