Through the mists of time, some things change, and others stay the same. When it comes to venerable eating places, they often go in phases. On other occasions, it's not a phase; it's more of a reality.

Two eateries come immediately to mind. El Chico had been a very active and popular Mexican food chain for seven decades. The franchise, based in Dallas, once had well more than 100 locations in numerous states. It had at least one location in every locale in...

I was born in Bloemfontein, South Africa, way back in 1993, and then after about 5 years my parents, sister and I, moved to Cape Town for 2 years, then Johannesburg for a further 2 years before finally returning to Bloemfontein in late 2002

The reason for all the moving around was because of my dad and his work. The company he worked for was spread far and wide across the main cities of South Africa. However, it was also finding it hard to make profits, and over the years began a...

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Hello! Thank you for the suggestion. Can you tell me some areas you think would be good for me? I'm interested in a decent area that is SAFE, has several healthcare facilities/ hospitals for options of employment, and somewhat entertaining for a single gal. Suggestions? Thanks!

A small, short, inexpensive one. I had my kid's parties at home when they were younger. I kept them simple - cake, ice cream, some decorations, easy games and crafts

For example, for a Princess themed party for my 5 year old: my daughter and I dressed as Cinderella. Everyone was encouraged to come dressed up too. I had extra costumes for kids who forgot.

Games - pin the crown on the princess. "Go fish" for small prizes - lip glosses, stickers, kids' jewelry...