Another thing happened in late 1985. I met the woman that would become my wife nearly 4 years later. I was working as a waiter in a Pizza Hut when it happened. Her parents had only 7 or 8 kids a that time and they would come in occasionally. I don’t remember any specific episodes with the entire family but I do recall the day when our friendship started.
It was a Saturday afternoon when Mary and Pauline came into Pizza Hut. I can even tell you the table at which they were seated. I served them and flirted, like you do. At the conclusion of their dining experience, her twin sister Pauline left me her [their] phone number written on a napkin.
Of course I called on them. Do you think for one second I wouldn’t call a pair of beautiful blonde twins! As it turns out, they were 17 year old Catholic girls. Was I setting myself up for another Rise & Fall? What is it with me and young parochial school girls? Is it that little kilt and button down shirt?
I think that they were interested in me but kind of afraid too. What happened was a couple of years of not so much dating as just hanging out and going to the movies. It was always all four of us. Aric, the girls and I. It was purely platonic and I think that made it so refreshing. We didn’t have to do anything but enjoy the movies and the after discussions. There was no pressure, no expectations. OK maybe the occasional twins fantasy but for the most part, just home cooked fun.
This went on for two full years. We’d go to the movies, then drive around and do a movie review show where we’d discuss in depth the film we’d seen and even propose alternate endings or point out story flaws. Then we took them home. No hand holding or attempts to acquire even a single kiss. I loved that in a Norman Rockwell sort of way. I think it is really interesting that at no point during that time did I ever guess that we would not only advance our relationship beyond the movies, I never would have believed that we’d eventually get married.
Looking back at the movies years, it was a great friendship that became a great foundation for a great romance that became a great foundation for a great marriage. I’m not just saying because this is her birthday.
Miami Sound Machine – Bad Boy
Janet Jackson – Nasty – My name ain’t “Bitch” it’s Janet. Miss Jackson if you’re nasty!
Michael Jackson – Bad
Georgia Satellites – Keep Your Hands To Yourself
Kenny Loggins – Danger Zone
Bonnie Tyler – Holding Out For A Hero