"Romance 101" Update

I worked late last night and went to the grocery store after work to pick up some last minute groceries for the big party today, grand baby Mia's 1st birthday. I usually despise grocery shopping, but last night I felt really happy to be there. I'm not sure what came over me, probably the happy anticipation of seeing family and close friends. I strolled over to the wine section to grab a couple of my favorite bottles, the brands that never disappoint, consistently good and usually crowd pleasers. But this time I was at a loss; I couldn't make up my mind. The bottles looked so uninspiring as I stood there for at least 15 minutes, staring lifelessly at my usual brands. Boring, I thought, I've been so predictably boring all these years. So without any provocation, I decided to change my wine selection strategy. From now on, I'm going to select brands based on the creativity of the name and the label design. (I wonder how many bottles I'll end up throwing out.)

After all the groceries were put away, I cracked open the first bottle, pro mis Q ous, a California red table wine. Interesting name, simple label, and absolutely delicious. Maybe, I thought, my wine selection technique will work after all. So I poured myself a glass and cozied up on the couch. I scanned the TV listings and noticed TBS was hosting a Sex in the City marathon. Perfect way to end the day.

When I tune in, Carrie and Big are sitting on the floor of Big's mostly empty apartment. There are a few packing boxes in the background and Big's holding a record. He places the record on a turntable, which is on the floor next to them. He lifts the arm and as the needle strikes the record, "Moon River" starts playing.  Carrie giggles for a moment, and with subtle emotion and sincerity, Big explains his love for the song. "Moon River" had been his parents' song, the song they played whenever they were preparing for an evening out. Big reaches for Carrie's hand and together they dance. In an empty apartment, just the two of them. Lost in one another. My eyes well up with tears, as I think about the many times I've watched my parents dance to a beautiful song. Like Big, I too have such wonderful childhood memories.

Life is so good, and Mom and Dad, I love you.