A Super Move Night

Dear Shawn,

Well, today didn’t work out as planned. To think, I put off trying to pick up a trip so I could attend a Super Bowl party. Last year, I was invited to the party of my fun neighbors across the street. I arrived late, having just driven into town from Dallas. There were fun people, lots of games and contests, terrific food (I probably put on three pounds due to my lack of will power against tasty food) and I actually enjoyed the game. You know me, such a sports fan (not).

I’d not heard anything from my neighbors about a party this year, but knowing how much I travel, I thought maybe they’d send a last minute invite once they saw that I was home. I would look out the window across the street, hoping I’d see someone come out of the house, checking the mail, any thing, so I could just happen to go outside at the same time. I’ve previously landed last minute party invites from neighbors using this very method.

Years ago, when I lived in South San Francisco, my Filipino neighbors were having an epic BBQ in their back yard. From there, they could see my second floor patio, which I suddenly felt needed a good cleaning. With broom in hand, I was summoned to come over, post haste, and indulge in all sorts of delicacies, many of which were new to me. I was even forced to bring food home. There was enough to feed half the city, and it almost felt like half the city was in attendance. It was a church function.

So, I wanted to land a party. Knowing others in town who were likely to have an in to a Super Bowl party, I sent a few innocuous texts earlier in the day. It almost worked, too, but by the time I got a text back, I’d already engaged in movie night and had downed a cold beer. I was in my pajamas with cats on my lap enjoying the cold Texas weather that I had allowed to seep into my home creating the perfect atmosphere for which to snuggle under a blanket in my recliner. To top it off, I watched one of my all-time most favorite movies, “Being There.” So here was my invitation to the party I had hoped would come, but I found myself preferring to be home, even though I could have made it there prior to half time. Meh, I had also already eaten dinner, so whatever treats would have been a waste on me.

After my movie night concluded, I got on line, watched all the commercials and the half time show. It was almost much better, as those are usually what I care for most from watching the Super Bowl, anyway. Look at the time I saved! For me, it’s about being with fun people, good food, funny over-priced commercials and marveling at the half time show. Only, this year, I traded in fun people for my cats. Good thing they cuddle so well.