Girls Night Out

We were long, long overdue for our traditional girls night out, my friends and me. But the holidays are done, a new year upon is, and it was time we rang it in. Some of us headed out to the local watering hole, where smoking was banned since January 1, 2006. They'll probably break even as far as losing about the same number of patrons who walk around in a constant cloud of cigarette smoke like Linus does, and gaining those of us who always loved the atmosphere and bands that played there, but didn't frequent there often because of the awful reek that inevitably permeated our clothes and home once we finally called it a night.

The band there was a good one, and I enjoyed two very tall glasses of grape crushes. Oh, and so as not to let it go to waste, I finished off Lynn's beer before they forced us out so they could close. Yup, we put the final coat of paint on this sleepy town, and it sure felt good, especially since it was long overdue. My days of partying into the wee hours of the morning have long since remained memories of the past, but once in a while the rebel in me likes to make an appearance and for sanity's sake, I have to let her.

I enjoyed the company of great friends, sharing some laughs and drinks, and at least left with my dignity and acceptance of who I am -- middle-aged wife to G and mother of four. Which is more than I can say for some of the characters that roamed that place last night. I can't understand why some 40 and 50 year-old women think they still look good in their daughters' clothes? Or how they could look in the mirror and actually think they looked sexy in painted-on jeans and spaghetti-strap tops. Come on, people. Be true to yourself and you can still have fun and play like you were a kid again. Just remember that at closing time, your real world awaits.

And the best part of it all -- I didn't have to shower once I got home to wash off the smoke sticking to me! No smoking allowed! Except in the game room. See? We still make exceptions for you guys!