Though most days you'll find me at my own kitchen table for lunch, once in a while I am compelled to escape (usually on cold, crappy, winter days) and seek the cozy nook I call my own at Lulu's cafe. Table for one, please.
I am equally fond, of course, of dining with friends & family, but there are those moments when a meal demands to be enjoyed alone: just me, a book of crosswords, and an Alaskan Amber Ale. Heaven.
My last visit alone (sometimes I'll take the kids when I'm feeling generous), I scored my usual round mosaic table in the corner, proceeded to get out my crosswords and pen, ordered a beer, and then took a moment to stare outside at the flakes falling, reflecting on the beauty of the scene (and grateful I was on the opposite side of the glass).
While I waited for my meal - Lemon & Cilantro Hummus with whole wheat Pita bread - I took a sip of beer, figured out a five-letter word for "King of France", glanced around at the other diners who chatted away, and felt my stomach grumble in anticipation of the food to come.
With the beer's help, I felt like I was taking a mini-vacation from my life. Then, when my meal came, I ate slowly and deliberately, enjoying the flavors and the tastes of the hummus and pita bread, combined with taking a sip of ale to wash it all down. It was as if I were the only customer in the cafe (and may I give a shout out to the staff at Lulu's who always make me feel this way). Sometimes it is in such moments where a surge of pure happiness can be found.
And I finished my crossword puzzle, just in time to match my last sip of beer.
As tempting as it was to order another drink and finish another puzzle, I knew doing so would defeat the beauty of the moment...not to mention the Alaskan Amber came in a huge glass and I wasn't up to walking home in the snow.
If you happen to live in Sheridan, Wyoming, or ever stop by for a visit, I highly recommend visiting Lulu's cafe for breakfast or lunch, even if your table is a party for more than one. And if you do drop in, and notice a blond woman bent over her crossword puzzles with a beer in hand, by all means say hello. I always have time for a friendly "Cheers" to a fellow diner.
Here's to you and hoping you get plenty of chances to enjoy your own company as well as that of others!
Suzanna Quintana, Holistic Health Coach & Certified Foodie
*Stay tuned for my new HEALTHeCoaching launching in January, for all you ladies out there who want to lose the weight for good without having to sacrifice your cash, your spirit, or your sanity to do it! Become a fan of THE HEALTH CHICK on facebook and be the first to know: www.facebook.com/thehealthchick
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