> > At about 6:30 we got to the Olive Garden, where we had an enjoyable dinner after a 20-minute wait for a table. While we were waiting to be seated, they gave us a pager-type of device with lights on it that would flash when our table was ready. I had made the mistake of saying that these devices always manage to startle me, so Sam and Leen were quite eager to see that happen. To Sam's extreme disappointment, I refused to hold the thing for 20 minutes, but I did let him set it on the table near me. Time ticked by, and when our table was ready, the device lit up, buzzed, and vibrated. Because it was sitting on the table, it also rattled, which added to the effect. In true form, I nearly jumped out of my own skin, and Sam and Leen dissolved into fits of laughter. The server knew immediately that we were the ones who were to be seated next, and I suspect it was because of my reaction. It wasn't the type of thing to make me mad, because I know it's funny. Even I can't help laughing at myself, although I wish I could be outside of myself sometime to see my own reaction.
>
> Wow. Just... wow. I've never been to a restaurant with such devices.

There's a pub I know that has a Pizza Hut franchise that uses these things. You place your order, and when it's ready the pager goes off to tell you to collect it. It's cool.

And to make sure no-one steals them they're attached to an 8" long stip of plastic telling you how they'll only work with that pub's system.

winter"I can't imagine them in a restaurant, though"mute