[Blindtlk] Handling a big buffet

[Ericka Short]

I can see but I o the same thing--ask people ahead of me for help.  If it's 
at a church potluck or something I just ask people where the spoon is and 
they'll tell me it's on the left side of the bowl or something.  They are 
pretty good about identifying for me too.  I serve myself and carry my own 
plate.  I let someone else go get the coffee or juice,etc.  I can't carry a 
plate, a styrofoam cup, and cane at the same time.  I do go get refills on 
the drink myself.  Like Arielle, I don't go to the buffets too often.  I 
don't know how long it's been sitting out. I'd ask a worker to help me and 
try not to go on a busy time like the lunch or dinner hours.  The staff has 
enough to do to keep the place clean while dodging little kids and sighted 
folks who don't watch where they're going.

There's nothing wrong with  asking them to identify the chow as you go along 
and ask them where the serving spoon is.  Just make sure you get to carry 
the tray and let them get your drink for you.  They give the sighted folks 
refills and sometimes first cups so that's not a biggie. Ask for a table on 
the outside of the  section so you can retrace your steps if you want more. 
Golden Corral has tiles on the floor where the food is and  carpet on the 
eating area.  You could ask them the large scheme of things--salads to the 
far right, taco and pizza bar next, meat and sides, dessert, etc.  This way 
you can head back to the right bar and ask a worker refilling something for 
help.  There is usually someone at  everywhere but the salads and dessert. 
After you eat all that who has room for dessert anyhow?

Hope this helps, but remember I’m somewhat sighted, not a total. With only 
one eye working though depth perception can bring you surprises. I have a 
policy to not eat anything I don't recognize. like you, I usually have 
family assistance to some degree.  I don't send them to pick out my food 
though.  That just seems wrong.  I want to know what I'm eating.

Ericka J. Short
262-697-0510

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me". Philippians 4:13

"No hand is too small or too big to do good in this world." EJ. Short