Recreating The Magic

Another evening, another dinner appointment – on a Monday night! This would’ve been rare pre-COVID-19, but now does it matter that it’s on a weekday? Or a public holiday? Why does remote working make everything seem like one big square in the calendar? Or perhaps it’s just me filling up my planner with social dining appointments as I try to forget the daunting fact that the last time I boarded an airplane (that actually flew to somewhere) was before the start of the year. The next time I’ll board a plane (to cross over oceans and not just to have a meal above the tarmac) will most likely be next summer – if I’m lucky! I’m already bracing myself for yet another forgotten spring.

- Wendy Long

At this (by now) seemingly routine weekday dinner, as I walked into the private room, I was greeted by the first guest who had already arrived minutes ahead of anyone else. You know, the ones who are ‘late’ if they arrive on time because they are always very politely early. He welcomed us (latecomers) with a sparkling smile, hearty laughter, and wide-open arms, and I immediately returned the exuberant greeting with a genuine compliment, “I love your jeans! Are they Balmain? Those biker seam details at the knees are a giveaway!” I’m glad I made the right guess for – I suspect – that’s the real reason behind the glow on my friend’s face, and I could totally relate to that. “Aren’t they lovely? What do you think of my Gucci shirt and Saint Laurent sneakers? DHL delivered these just hours before our dinner. What perfect timing – fresh out of the box!” The joy of unboxing knows no boundaries, as we could all secretly attest to that.