Let's interject some facts here. It's a Panera. There are a ton of tables, booths, and cubby-areas to sit in. Usually, there are more open tables than open booths. The tables are no less clean, they are not in a bad location, do not cram you up into a certain distance from the table, and in my opinion, are easier to go to the bathroom from when there are 3 or more people sitting together.
Okay, now back to my story.
The wife replied, "Let's walk through one more time, maybe someone is getting ready to leave." Seriously? I can easily count 12 to 14 open tables... and they are looking for a place to sit? Wow.
This small experience of life brought to my memory a trip to Ireland my husband and I took almost 4 years ago. That trip was and still is the only time I have been outside of the United States and/or Canada. It is also the only trip I have ever taken where I did NOT bring work with me in some shape or form.
One of the most enjoyable parts of that trip was how people would sit in the restaurants. The whole experience was amazing to me. Tables are closer together than in American restaurants. People actually sit after a meal and talk... actually talk to each other. Sometimes, they engage in conversations with people in the table next to them. Let me reiterate that I said TABLES. Booths were available, but were definitely not the majority of the seating options. After eating the enjoyment of ordering some hot tea and just hanging out for another 20 to 30 minutes of relaxation.
It was heaven to me. But, back to my story.... The couple fumbled around the restaurant and ending up waiting on a booth to vacata. Again... wow.
In our lives here in America we are pretty stiff when it comes to eating out at restaurants. If we don't have "just the right booth" we get irritable. I enjoy conversation when I'm eating. Sit me down with someone who has a good story to tell, pour me some hot tea with cream, and let me get to know you. If you're sitting at the table next to me, even better.
We all need to remember that in this age of technology, the subtle joy of getting to know people and doing good things for people seems to be lost. Let's enjoy life and grab those table seats!
