Great conversation, great meal

On some Thursdays, I visit Parkway Shopping Mall in Toronto, Canada. I live in Toronto, which is not far from the mall. I go there to do some shopping at the Metro grocery store located outside of the mall. Then, visit Shoppers Drug Mart, located there, to buy a few things because Thursdays are seniors' day, and we get a discount because we are seniors. After shopping, I go to my favorite restaurant in the mall. I love doing this because by then, I need to eat and relax a little before heading home.

The restaurant is a haven of tranquility on these Thursdays. It's about 1 or 2 p.m., and the peaceful atmosphere, undisturbed by the usual weekend rush, is a perfect setting for a leisurely meal.

I stand at the entrance and wait for the receptionist to take me to my perfect seated area. Here, I can view the outside of the mall with the bustling of the people coming into the mall and have a good view of the TV on the sports channel. I am not a sports fan, but I find sports interesting when I am there for brunch.

I always enjoy brunch by myself. I am seated and waiting to order my favorite meal. I always have coffee at first, and while waiting for my delicious meal, I relax and meditate on the goodness of God, reflecting on the blessings in my life and enjoying the beauty of the surroundings.

The waitress always provided excellent service, making me feel right at home. I often talked with her about life, which made my visits even more enjoyable. After my brunch, I sometimes strolled through the mall, not in a hurry to leave. Then, I was relaxed, contented, and in no rush to head home. I cherished my brunch visits to that restaurant.

Some Sundays after church, I would take friends of the same precious faith to a hearty meal. The atmosphere on Sundays is different, not as tranquil as on Thursdays, but it is a place where my friends and I could come together, share a good meal, and enjoy each other's company.

My deceased husband used to say, 'There is no fellowship without a good meal.' And indeed, the meals at this restaurant are more than just good. They are delicious. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee, the hot dishes, and the rich flavors that burst in your mouth are the elements that make the meal truly enjoyable.