Ale House Rock

Tonight we have a dinner at a local pub. Though buses are provided, a group of us decided to walk the not-quite mile to the little grill. We entered the already full wooden building, immediately being immersed in loud music and louder conversations. We stepped up to the bar to order free drinks (I ordered the local root beer since it was so good at the opening reception), then wandered around trying to find someplace to sit. The tables were full to overflowing, even out on the deck overlooking the river.

At last we spotted a small table in a back room and quickly plunked ourselves down, stealing a few unused chairs from nearby. We were delighted to realize that we were just around the corner from the buffet table where a repast of Mexican and other goodies was being set up. We decided to stand in line in shifts so we wouldn't lose the table. Good thing, too, because more and more people were making the swing through the building looking for a place to sit.

The food was excellent, if a bit spicy for my tummy, and the conversation - or should I say the shouting - was informative. I learned about how the group started, where it had met, who had done what, and everything in between. We chatted happily until it was almost dark, then realized that if we were going to walk back, we should head out. Fortunately, this was before the Karaoke began!

I was glad we hadn't delayed our departure any longer than we did. Several times I wondered at the wisdom of walking back through some less than inviting sections. No one talked to us except one homeless person who asked for money (I followed the actions of my walkmates and crossed the street, pretending not to see or hear him. My conscience hurt, but I was too afraid to stop).

The hotel looming in the next block was a most welcomed sight, and I scurried to my room, full of pizza, conversation, lights, and the river. From my window, I could see the last vestiges of sunset, painting the sky glorious pinks and oranges and reds. All in all, a great day.