Two Tuesdays ago, I had a church television recording to attend at which food is provided, but since I couldn't be sure I could get down whatever was being served, I stopped at one of two dining options on my way to the church. At the time Taco Bell didn't top the list; so, I chose Fazoli's. This was actually very odd for me because I hadn't eaten there in at least four years as the last time I ate there for a work party I had gotten sick.

I could not believe such mediocre food could bring in so many people, but at 5 o'clock in the afternoon, there were at least 10 tables of guests in the fast food Italian restaurant. Fortunately, I did not get sick, but I also chose a basic meal hoping that would make a difference.

My food was dished out almost before I had put my credit card back in my wallet. And, I must have looked hungry because the server wrapped four breadsticks in foil for me. At the table, I was a bit less impressed with the meal. The breadsticks were so salty, I had to brush some of the seasoning off. I don't think it helped much. Ironically, the spaghetti noodles tasted like they had absolutely no salt on them. What an odd contradicion(?) for lack of a better word. The marinara was simply a tomato paste with an occasional small chunk of onion or tomato. The sauce actually had a reasonable flavor and helped the pasta or the breadsticks go down better. Most importantly, however, I appreciated that the food was at least hot and steaming. This was a huge positive in comparison to the very recent visit to Panda Express. So, on that reason alone, I decided it wasn't a completely wasted $5. However, the price did make me feel guilty about not taking advantage of the on sale-plus-coupon deals on pasta and sauces I stock up on at the grocery store, which could likely mean at home I could have fed 5 people for that same $5. I'm supposed to be saving money for college tuition in 20 years, right? Luckily, I have an understanding husband who just wants me to eat. . .although, he wasn't so sure I chose well to begin with as he doesn't believe good Italian food happens fast. He's right.