I joined Julie and her parents and Kellina for brunch at the Heartland Cafe today. It was a nice time, even though I couldn't live up to Julie's mother's expectations and complete the Sunday crossword puzzle.

As much as I want to like this place, I think I have finally placed it in my overrated category. My meal was all right (it's hard to make basic breakfast items poorly), but for some reason I always expect so much more from them. They can offer all the alternative publications and Che refrigerator magnets they want; it doesn't make up for poor service and totally mediocre food.