Sit long, talk much, laugh often

I love couches, those islands of relaxation amid oceans of frantic endeavour. I fought for this particular piece of maroon comfyness at an auction, paying more than I should have and coming away completely satisfied. Before we moved to our new location three years ago, the rumour around town was that the place was going to be "fulla couches, no tables or chairs." This, of course, was an exaggeration. We have ten tables, 36 seats and one couch. It's where I sit on Sunday afternoons to plan the week's menus. My daughter and her friends crowd onto it during busy lunch hours. Mothers nurse their babies, women eat cheesecake and exchange confidences, kids play with Mr. Potato Head and colour pictures at the coffee table. Last week, I felt like throwing in the towel. After consulting God and Grandma, in that order, I thought of the couch. It's a reminder to me that the restaurant isn't just about making money (good thing!), turning tables and sending food out the kitchen door. It's a place of rejuvenation and peace, nourishment and community. Viva la couch!