quote:

Originally posted by Fieldthistle

Hello All,
BT, relax. Olive Garden is not the drama you think it is.
Olive Garden has okay food. I have eaten there once, didnt’
really like it, but with good company and wine, it was okay.
Even okay food is okay. It’s worth it for the company.
Perhaps your apprehension is dealing with your mother.
I have an elderly mother that I love, but is often demanding.
I have learnt to allow my love for mom to patch over the hard potholes in our relationship.
In the end, the memory of food is less joyful than the time
and effort of sharing love with her. To my joy, I discovered she loves
me and needs me in her life as I was willing to share my time with her, doing
the things she likes. There is no need for her to discover what I like.
Her time is limited, and I want to give her a special joy as long as I can.
Love is what we seek to give and expect back. In the end, giving it is better than getting it back.
Take Care,
Fieldthistle

Fieldthistle, you brought tears to my eyes; very well written and expressive…………and I agree 100%

and yes, when all else fails, wash it down with wine or beer, (and in this case, breadsticks!)

ellen