Natalie made our day when Roland and I checked out Briana’s Pancake Café at 572 Randall Road in South Elgin. She greeted us as we walked in and said we could sit anywhere we wanted. The choices are many for a small place. There was a counter with stools, booths, and little tables for two, as well as a long table for larger groups.

My good friend (since 3rd grade) Marlene called me from work one dreary Friday afternoon and suggested going for Thai food. Hmm…Roland was out of town…why not? I had never had Thai food before…why not!

Judi, my good friend and neighbor, and Glynn, my new friend and neighbor, joined me for a lunch date at Benedict’s Eggs and More, 8 S. River Street, just across the river in East Dundee off Route 72.