These restaurants don't keep saltines on the table for a reason. They don't have crayons or paper table cloths to scribble on. They don't have wiggly mirrors in the bathrooms. There is no kids' menu and there is a charge to split your order. And, they don't look like they could smile if they wanted to if your kids are taking more than 60 seconds to order for themselves.
Windows are up and the convertible was replaced with a family car.
I don't even want to make eye contact, get off of the freeway or socialize there anymore after dark. This valley feels safer. The city employees respect their city jobs. And just talking to Manny for 10 minutes makes me breathe easier.