what's cooking?

Okay, it was appetizers and a single glass of chardonnay during happy hour-but it was still a unique occasion.

This was my first (and more than likely my last) glass of wine in a decade.

As a person who takes various medications for a chronic illness, I am used to not imbibing-but a strange "window" of opportunity had occurred so--I decided to go for it!

My wonderful hubby and I went to a fun restaurant that probably had this born and bred Southern Californian couple in mind when they put it together. Beachy decor, eclectic farm fresh menu, cement floors, walls and ceilings covered with an art gallery full of surf pictures and surfboards-with the artists there to talk too and live music.

Since our work schedules have us at opposite ends of the "days off" arrangement, to us dinner out alone is akin to a romantic weekend getaway. When I ordered the glass, my spouse looked at me with both shock and pleasure. Shocked because he couldn't believe I had made this bold, rebellious decision. Pleasure because he thought this would provide him with a rendezvous later on or a good laugh, possibly both.

I should reveal, I've never, ever been a drinker. Must be my rather petite frame. The outcome has always been the same: I'm always honest, but after a few sips, my ability to be tactful seems to wane. Then I get very relaxed and declare I have to go to sleep. Ten years did NOT change a thing.

We enjoyed dinner. When asked how I liked my choice (a new item on the menu)I believe I said the service was very nice and my dinner was different-I then suggested they re-think what went into the "bali rolls" -they had a funny taste. Then my husband said I told an artist that I loved his work, especially the way he painted the eyes-except for the poor model that he made look demonic.

This was on a mere 6 ounces of wine!

Later, when we got home, our son took one look at me and asked if I was having one of my migraines? My hubby answered "No, your mom actually drank a glass of wine"

"Oh, you don't drink-but that explains the look. I guess dad's taping CSI for you, huh?"
Add "Criminal Minds" to that. I barely made it through "Bones". You now have an inkling of how my evening went. For once, I was the one snoring.

And so it goes, some people are meant to be wine connoisseurs and the rest of us just get an occasional good night's sleep.

Even if it's once in ten years.