I’ve been doing my fair share of bible studies recently and reading and talking to people and listening. In all of this I’ve become convinced of something I’ve known for a very long time…

You have to make a conscious effort not to be dumbed down today. There is so much out there vying for our attention and our time and our thoughts. It’s really really tough to find time with God.

Now I know this is a well-trodden path. I know that people deal with and talk about this all the time, but for me it is especially poignant right now. As a busy wife, mom and business owner there is a lot that goes on during the day so when evening comes I’m exhausted. I try to relax and spend time with my awesome husband, but more often than not that just means reclining in front of the TV and letting it wash over me like a tidal wave. Mindless, sometimes interesting, usually good for nothing “entertainment.”

So, I’m trying to be very cognizant of what I am doing with my time. I’ve erased a lot of bookmarks from my computer, I’ve refrained from turning on the TV and I’ve spent some serious time with Elousia (you’ll have to read what I’ve been reading to get this one.)

It’s nice. It feels right. I can sense the difference in my countenance. I like it.

So, we went out a couple of times last week and had some interesting experiences.

First we went to McMenamins before the Fly Fishing Film Festival on Wednesday. We got there in plenty of time to have a brew and a burger and get to the Tower for some decent seats. The restaurant was busy, but not totally crazy.

Well, nobody told them that. We got there at 5:45 and didn't get our cheeseburgers until 6:30. How is that possible? I asked for my salad but that didn't even come until about 5 minutes before my burger. It was a total disaster.

Anyway, when my hubby mentioned it to our server instead of empathy she had all kinds of excuses. He was very cordial but wanted to make sure someone knew that the service was unacceptable.

In the end she gave us 2 brews and the salad for free, but I think we're done with that restaurant. There are just too many choices out there now.

Our second foray out was on Friday night to Seasons up at the Inn. We discovered this restaurant about a year ago and have been there twice in the past year or so. Both times my husband and I both walked away feeling like we had just had the best epicurean experience we could possibly have in this town. The service, portions, food, special touches....all these things lent themselves to a truly unique and satisfying dining experience.

Well, last night we returned expecting great things and we were disappointed. They cleaned house up there - totally revamping the food and beverage department. All the old guys were gone - manager, waitstaff, exec. chef - all gone. The menu was totally changed as well.

HOWEVER.... the food was delicious. We were very impressed with the new selections and found the menu to be robust and interesting.

The service was not so stellar. We had a waiter that we think may have been hittin' the pipe, if you know what I mean. After our meal we spoke with the new manager, Javier, and he was very understanding, very courteous and really listened to us. So, we're not ready to write them off but it was sad to see the old guys go. The juniper granita palate cleanser was a real draw. We will probably give them one more try but we'll call Javier first and request their best server before we give them another shot.

Anyway, this town is crazy for restaurants and we'll keep trying. It would just be nice to find an old standby for special occasions.