Part One.

Tonight…. we went out to eat dinner at Orchid’s Restaurant at the Netherland Plaza Hotel, in downtown Cincinnati.  It was spectacular.  As always.  My oldest nephew is the Head Service & Waiter’s Captain.  He is so dang good at it.  Honest to goodness.  And I am not just saying that because I love him dearly…. he really is amazing at what he does.

It is a good thing in life… when you can be remarkable at what you do.

But I digress, a bit.  So.  Dinner at Orchid’s.  The food was completely and ultimately decadent.  Truthfully… it was pretty perfect.  I wasn’t very hungry… and only wanted to consume one course… the main course.  But I ended up eating about six courses… thanks to my nephew.  The abundance and combinations of flavors were spectacular.

I’m digressing again.  My brain is sluggish from all rich food in my belly.

We were joined by our dear, dear friends, Jan & Colleen.  We love those two.   We had a whole boatload of fun…. despite the woman at the bar… who’s cackle resonated throughout the restaurant.  Like fingernails on a chalkboard.   But.  Truly, I can’t imagine a nicer evening.  Well… unless Ms. Cackler hadn’t been there.

But the reason for our outing was the best thing.  We went out tonight…. to celebrate December 12th.  For on that day…  my Mary was born.  By far….. It is my favorite day of the year… for that very reason.   I am so thankful to have her in my life… my partner and my best friend.  I am blessed because of her.  My life is better because of her.

So.  Happy Birthday Mary.  You bring an abundance of flavor to my life… and I am grateful.

Part Two.

Uh-Oh.  As mentioned…. we love our friends… our Jan & Colleen.  We do.  But they are Bengal’s Fans.  They have a Bengal’s Flag.
… And now.. Stanley our Steelers Bear has their Flag.

Like I said… it was a perfect night.

P.S..  If you EVER want to see your flag again… all in one piece… send the bear those little Honey Granola Bars from Orchids.  Or else.