The lame line revived!

Semi-formal. No t-shirts and jeans. Ladies, no pants. Now, whats there left in my wardrobe? Ah-ha, pretty blouses and skirts. "Wear dresses" echoed in my head "Nah.. its SEMI-formal, not formal" i was a little hesitant. But what should i match with this blue skirt? Ah... whack it! I shall heed the still small voice. I took my knee-length dress; red, black and white twirly prints. Perfect!

I was looking forward to dinning in a Mississippi Steamboat of the 1800's... the replica, of course. In my previous experience at the other events, its always the girl who will approach the guys instead. "Hi, my name is..." the lame old lines? Haha.. What has the world become! I decided to let it passed.

I saw it from afar, the nostalgic ferry waiting by the dock. It has a gigantic wheel that kept turning. I went nearer, it was an awesome vessel! Gracefully, i tried to slow down on a slight slope that stretched to the door. There, an anticipating line of people, queuing for the registration desk. I tried to peep into the restaurant, the tables were set, there were already some people standing inside. Then came two little angels! Yes, i meant it literally! These two winged-children, dressed in white satin with white feathery holly, were quite an attraction! The boy angel came forward, shyly he passed me a rose. "Oh thanks! You are so sweet!" he blushed, looking down and toddled into the crowd. That was the first surprise.

It did not take long before it was my turn to register my name and collect the wine voucher. Now, here came the second surprise. I walked towards the foyer in the restaurant, and in less than 5 seconds, this gentleman came. "Hi, my name is..." Wow! I thought that was suppose to be my line! I found out that he was one of the organisers. Ok, maybe he was trying to warm up the guest. But still, that sure was a start of a good impression. "Hey, we need you here..." a voice came from behind him. "Sorry, i gotto excuse myself" he was extremely polite. I smiled to acknowledge his dismissal (wow! that was classic!)

Then, the third surprise. "Hi, my name is..." I turned around, and there stood this guy with his hand extended for a welcome. This time, i got my name printed on a sticker pasted on my shoulder. "Hi, i'm Esther" showing him my name as well. A conversation took place and it was well enough to last till almost all the guest have arrived. We parted to take our seats at our assigned tables.

While waiting at the buffet, there was even time to catch up with an old friend. He later introduced his friend who was also in the queue. The then two persons' conversation became three. Thanks to pal, i would be left stranded in a queue if not for this.

Dinner was a Mexican spread. Yummy! My favourite being the Fajitas. Simple mixed of marinated meat and vegetables wrapped in tortillas with salsa. "Esto Es Delicioso, Mis Amigos!" was the sound in my soul! If i have to sing praises, it had to be in Mexican that day!

After dinner, came the "social rotations". There were 3 rounds. All went well. The guys were great. They were smiley, polite, some were funny, some even brought us drinks! I do not remember a moment of awkwardness. Everyone seemed spontaneous.

Time for the performing talk-show. She has a great voice for jazz. The lyrics were changed to suit the occassion, it was hilarious. She could have passed off as a stand-up comedian if not for the occasional explicit vocal? Oh well...

We ended the entire evening with praise and worship. We exchanged contacts, took a quick tour around the lovely boat, had a few snapshots, and went our seperate ways.

The breeze was exceptionally soothing and comforting. I may not know if it was the surprising turn out, the sumptuous spread, or the wine. But it was a sheer delight to see and experience a good change. Gone are the folded-arms, staying aloof and reserved, huddle among the same, watching from a distance. It was a welcome hand, cordial approach and open conversation, willing to step out of the usual zone, up close and personal exchange.

Could it be the work of my dress? I certainly not hope so. But incase it was, i would have to thank the still small voice who could be reading this. Gracias Amigo!

(Event was held on Sat 16 Feb 08)