A Lenten Season Reflection: From Filet-O-Fish to Faith and Renovations

Welcome back to the blog! This week, I’m diving into a mix of personal stories, food adventures, and the spiritual journey of Lent. We’ll talk about the humble origins of the Filet-O-Fish sandwich, some recent fast-food escapades (both wins and disappointments), a little about the quirks of Southern California road trips, and a heartfelt update on my Lenten experience and home renovation challenges in Santa Barbara. So, pour yourself a cup of coffee and join me for a stroll through memory lane, a few culinary detours, and reflections on faith.

The Filet-O-Fish: More Than Just a Sandwich

Did you know the Filet-O-Fish sandwich dates back to 1962? I was ten when it came onto the scene, thanks to Lou Groen, a McDonald’s franchise owner in Cincinnati, Ohio. Here’s the story: His neighborhood was overwhelmingly Catholic—about 87%—so during Lent, when many abstain from meat, his Fridays were rough. Profits during that season dipped to around $75 a day. Being Catholic himself, Lou saw the problem firsthand and pitched a fish sandwich to Ray Kroc, McDonald’s CEO. Kroc wasn’t convinced at first and instead pushed another idea—the Hula Burger, a grilled pineapple and cheese sandwich. They decided on a contest: whichever sandwich sold better would make it to the menu. The Filet-O-Fish won, and the rest is fast-food history, with the sandwich officially joining the permanent menu in 1965.

The Filet-O-Fish has been my go-to over the years, especially during Lent. But, let me tell you, my recent experiences haven’t exactly been legendary. One afternoon, I suggested we grab a Filet-O-Fish for lunch. Sounds simple, right? Not when you have to wrestle with the McDonald’s app first. We ended up spending $21 for two sandwiches, which is a bit rich for fast food, only to find the sandwich disappointingly dry and light on tartar sauce—the true star of the show. We tried again last Friday, armed with the app and a clear plan, paying $2.99 each. This time, the sandwich was still missing that saucy sparkle I remember, lingering as a dry reminder that nostalgia doesn’t always match reality.

Fast Food Redemption on the Road

On a brighter note, our frequent trips to Santa Barbara have introduced us to some new favorites — Mesa Cafe for breakfast, where the generous portions keep us fueled for hours, is a standout. But our day trips aren’t without their quirks, especially when you’re juggling charging your electric car with road trip hunger and bathroom breaks.

Our experience with LA gas stations taught us a tough lesson: don’t count on public restrooms there. Instead, we opt for stops at Agoura Hills/Calabasas off-ramps—easy on, easy off, with friendly amenities. Since we don’t usually buy gas, we make sure to grab something small because, well, you gotta honor the hospitality somehow. I told Mike, “I’m done paying $20 just to use the restroom,” so we stopped at McDonald’s instead, ordering two cheeseburgers to go. And guess what? Those burgers turned out to be pure joy—ketchup oozing out, juicy patties, the kind of food experience that can make a fast-food stop feel like a small victory. Though I had this joyous food experience, I’m done with Filet-O-Fish sandwiches, even for $2.99 on Fridays. It’s not worth another disappointment.

Lent 2026: Fish on the Menu

Speaking of Lent, plenty of fast-food chains recognize the season with fish-forward menus. Del Taco offers crispy, beer-battered and shrimp tacos, Chick-fil-A jumps in with their own fish sandwiches, and Arby’s recently rolled out a Cajun Fish sandwich alongside their usual fish options. It’s nice to see these choices expanding, making it easier for folks sticking to Lenten traditions to find something tasty on the go.

Closer to home, we regularly support St. Norbert’s parish fish fry on Fridays during Lent. It’s only $12, delicious, and serves a wonderful cause—raising funds for eighth graders heading to Washington, D.C. After dinner, the Stations of the Cross service at 7 p.m. is a peaceful, reflective way to end the day. Lent, in all its forms—from fast food specials to community fellowship—feels like a season during which the sacred and the everyday intersect.

My Lent Journey: Wrestling with Grace

Honestly, Lent hasn’t been all smooth sailing for me. Discipline and love have been a challenge, and when I stumble, my instinct is to be hard on myself, like punching the air with oversized gloves. But Lent is also a time for reflection—towards myself, and toward God’s patient guidance. I want to draw from the well of His mercy, let Him speak to my soul, and recognize when I’m off course.

More than being convicted of my shortcomings, I crave the peace of a clear conscience and a straightened path. Lent is a pilgrimage, and I want to feel ever more deeply the holy presence that walks beside me.

Update from Santa Barbara: Renovation Realities and New Dreams

We didn’t plan, really, to invest in a renovation project in our twilight years, but here we are. Our Santa Barbara home has been under construction since last August, but it’s been a slow and costly journey. Permits in this coastal city come with unique rules designed to protect the environment and architecture. Our windows, initially installed, didn’t pass inspection due to new codes requiring stronger protection against Pacific moisture, meaning they had to be redone.

After a recent rainstorm, we discovered the roof needed replacement. Adding to this, plumbing and electrical systems required updating, none of which were in the original budget. Despite the delays and surprises, I have developed a new-found love for Santa Barbara. Though the atmosphere and wardrobe is relax and lay back, I like to dress up.  But If all goes well, Mike and I plan to make it our home, God willing.

A Prayer for the Journey

I leave you with my prayer for this journey:

Dear Lord, thank You for loving us unconditionally. It doesn’t matter where we are in our walk or how imperfect we feel—You take us as we are and say, “Come to me, and I will give you rest.” Thank You for meeting me when I stray and redirecting me to Your path. Forgive my transgressions and let me enter Your holy chambers with a pure and contrite heart. Amen.

How’s your Lent shaping up? Whether smooth or stormy, remember you’re not walking this road alone. I look forward to sharing more stories, reflections, and maybe even some recipes next week. Until then, may your days be blessed and your sandwiches delightfully saucy. Maybe not so much the recipes – after all I’m still the Reluctant Chef!