Unfortunately, I’ve never been delivered from the temptation of a dare. And several weeks ago, I received two challenges. I’ve been working on a new book, which for the most part, is set in a neighborhood bar and grill. Since I’ve no experience in the food and drink industry, I’ve been interviewing owners of those establishments.

Word traveled fast, and one of my friends who owns a diner asked me to waitress for a day. She promised to shadow me, so I don’t scare off her customers. But she insisted it would enrich my understanding of her business. My performance there is still to be determined.

However, my first and foremost challenge is Saturday, April 6 from 1-4 PM at The Playa, where I’ll be serving food and drinks to its patrons, under the tutelage of the outstanding, young owners, Sandi and Lindsey. They are even providing me with a separate tip jar, and its proceeds will be donated to the Paradise Valley Food Bank.

While I’ve a fairly good imagination, it’s far easier for me to write about something I’ve experienced. In fact, according to Atticus Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird: “You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view…until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.”

‘Nuff said. See you on April 6th!