A Special Evening

Excitement and anticipation filled the air as I dressed in my violet-tone outfit, my escort's favorite color. After our usual warm greeting and a lovely little gift for me, we headed toward the sunset on our way to a delightful evening of pleasure. The afterglow covered the darkening sky with remnants of gold. As we approached our destination, my excitement grew. There was the imposing entrance to the Interlaken Inn in Salisbury, where we looked with great anticipation to a fabulous repast with all the trimmings, and a very romantic and sentimental atmosphere.

Our five senses were alert to all around us. The deep carpeting spoke of elegance. The atmosphere lent a promise of good food and unusually delightful music. Our favorite waiter, Robert, greeted us with smiling recognition. Our beloved friend, the inspired musician Chuck Conlogue, greeted us with open arms, recommended a super choice of meal, escorted us to our reserved special table for two, and proceeded to his piano for an evening of lovely, haunting melodies from our past: "Autumn Leaves," "Some Enchanted Evening," etc. You know, the ones that used to set our romantic hearts to beating a bit faster.

His personal rendition of each melody is so beautiful, in a special style unique to him. I wonder if you have been fortunate to own one of his CDs. His God-given talents are amazing. He composes not only the words in a unique styling, but the melodies as well. And when played on an electric piano, as on his CD, his personal accompaniments are very exceptional. So unusual, relaxing and refreshing! I could go on and on about all this.

He played all evening as a background to our fine meal. I scarcely realized the fine quality of our dinners. My chicken fettuccini Alfredo was really excellent, and such a generous serving on a huge plate, with lots of tender chicken and sweet sausage, in a great quantity of noodles and sauce. My charming escort enjoyed a fine steak and a huge baked potato with lots of sour cream accompanying it. All this plus homemade bread and lots of butter and dips added to the pleasures of the evening.

My partner had several tall glasses of cranberry juice sparkling with chipped ice—a good choice, as recommended for men these days. I chose ice water and lots of it. My favorite beverage! Since my friend was sufficiently satisfied with his tasty meal, he declined dessert. But, if you know me, I needed to end my meal with dessert, as is my lifetime habit. I ordered a scrumptious crème bruleé—custard with a sprinkling of sherry atop. Mmm good!

Then it was time to be leaving our favorite eating place and have a final chat with our beloved friend and musician. With final words and hugs, we reluctantly left the scene where all our senses had been stimulated and satisfied. Then we had a lovely trip back home with a gorgeous half-moon overhead. What more could one ask for—a perfect evening with best friends!

Chuck is currently playing at the Interlaken Inn on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7-9 p.m. (or so). I suggest that sometime soon you spend an evening there with someone you love to be with, in an atmosphere of peace and serenity, with lots of good food among friendly wait people and, above all, a fabulous musical background.