My sister and I decided that a good present for our parents would be to use Doordash to deliver meals to them throughout the upcoming year. I set up an account (website visit #1) and we told them about the gift.

We knew they liked Cracker Barrel, so we decided to start with that restaurant.

Monday I called my parents (call #1) and asked them to think about what day would be good and what they would like. I called my sister (call #2) to let her know.

Tuesday I called my parents (call #3), who had forgotten about my previous call, and we decided on Thursday. I called Jane (call #4) to let her know and ask what she thought they would like.

Wednesday I went back to the website (visit #2), placed the order, added a tip, specified the time, and paid. Called Jane (call #5) to let her know the details.

Today I called my parents (call #6) to let them know what time to expect the delivery.

I got a text from Doordash confirming my order (text #1).

Another text from Doordash saying the order was being picked up (text #2).

A call to my parents (call #7) to tell them the food was on its way and to watch for it.

Called Jane (call #8) to let her know she might need to go by and make sure everything went okay. 

Text from Doordash (text #3) saying the delivery person – Jack – was approaching the door, and asking that we please wear a mask if we were meeting them in person.

Phone call to parents (call #9) to let them know. Dad said, “I’m looking at him right now.” Too late to pass on the mask request, but hopefully he was wearing one. We’ll be sure to cue him the next time before the delivery arrives, or ask Doordash to leave it at the door.

Phone call to Jane (call #10) to tell her it worked.

Text from Doordash (text #4) saying delivery had been made.

Repeat of text #4 (text #5).

Phone call (call #11) from Doordash confirming delivery.

Phone call from Mother (call #12) telling me how good the fried chicken was.

Now that we know it works, I think the next time will run much smoother. Doordash and Cracker Barrel were cooperative and efficient, and my parents loved it. There are enough restaurants within the delivery radius of their house to give them some variety. So far, a good present to two people who are difficult to buy for.

The next thing is to find out if Doordash will go by Yassin’s and pick up a gyro for me and a falafel for Suzanne. I’m afraid I might have to meet them somewhere, given our location. We’ll see.