An Evening Out

Originally Posted Saturday, January 18, 2014

Thank God the President of Surveillance has spoken up for the little people.  He says he and his fellow Good Humans are on the case, that there is nothing to fear.  There have been some objectionable behaviors by otherwise obedient employees, and he is looking to institute some guiding principles to ensure the safety of the public.  See.  This is why we voted for him.  We knew he was going to look after our civil liberties and protect us from the forces of evil.  Like his predecessor and role model George Bush fils once said, "It's hard work." 

Really? 

I'll tell you what hard work is. 

O.K.  I can't.  You have to be an illegal immigrant to do that. 

But as you might have guessed, I opened up my studio for a solid week of miracles.  I've been going to work earlier in the morning, coming home and shooting into the night, coming home and ignoring the old bottle that I keep for guests and friends when they come.  Then, like an unexpected gift, it was Friday.  The work week, thankfully, was over and done.  I had finished shooting and had nothing else scheduled except a Friday night meal out with friends.  I'd decided that I would have wine with dinner.  It has been five weeks.  I was happy.  The weather would be beautiful for days upon end.  The town would be out.  There would be celebrations.  And I had not been out socially since Christmas Eve. 

The wine was a good Chianti.  A Caesar salad.  Lobster ravioli with mussels and clams.  From restaurant to bar.  I am moderate.  Campari and soda.  Things go well.  Another bar in a new hotel just off the Boulevard.  One scotch.  Home by midnight.  A nightcap in bed.  I think to read.  I wake in the night when I roll on top of the cut crystal glass. 

The next time I wake, it is eight.  The room is warm and bright.  I am happy. 

Fun with friends.  I will not drink again this week, I think.  Drinking alone is the ruinous thing, or can become so.  I'll go back on the strong tea diet.  I am nicer, sweeter. . . or at least less sarcastic.  I will drink like a Town and Country girl with her occasional glass of wine.  I will dress better, too.  I will be the envy of nations. 

None of that is what I wished to say today.  To whom am I speaking?  It sounds like a sales pitch or a whining excuse to mom--"I only had one for Christ's sake." 

I wanted to tell you something else about me.  It will have to wait.  The most gorgeous Saturday morning is wearing away and I want to go out into it.  I want to experience the freshness while it lasts.  I will become this morning, this day. 

Selah.