Flickr photo by Presta

Starting somewhere around Thanksgiving, here in the U.S. we enter a season of reflection and celebration. We get together with friends or family and allow ourselves some well-earned downtime to observe traditions.

Many WNYC listeners have sent in stories to Your Uncommon Economic Indicators that focus on gathering at the table. We have noticed over the past year that food--whether we talk about lunch, groceries or going out--is on everyone's mind during tough financial times. As you pause during your holiday, think of these dinner stories below from other WNYC listeners.

Mary Goddard tells us

A small, family-owned/operated restaurant in upstate NY (Olmsteadville) has created 'Recession Buster Sundays.' Scott, the chef, and Theresa, the server, offer their Sunday meals as a 'pay as you want'. They serve what my husband and I consider to be gourmet meals.

...and in Queens, Michael noticed another restaurant offer:

A new restaurant in Forest Hills is offering 'bring a friend for free' on one day a week, and on another day, 'Pay what you think is fair.'