Freed from the chains of snow-clogged roads, I found myself driving down a winding country highway, on my way to try another restaurant in the wilds of Missouri. Or maybe just in Patton. Either way, I was happy and free. I've been meaning to visit Suzie's Country Kitchen for some time now, but I could never work out the timing. I have several relatives who make the drive regularly, and that means Suzie's was well worth checking out...

Supposedly, Monday was National Margarita Day — as if I needed another excuse to meet up with an old friend and catch up with each others lives over drinks that taste like warmth, sunshine, and summer on the rocks. We sat there enjoying each others company amid the colorful Mexican decor, laughter, and celebration all around when my past returned to haunt me. ...