Welcome back, Harpur

"Well the names have all changed since you hung around
But those dreams have remained and they've turned around
Who'd have thought they'd lead ya
Here where we need ya?
Welcome back ..."

- Welcome Back Kotter

That's what Mom sang to me over the phone yesterday. Tried to, anyway. I was all, "Huh?" and then she said, "Oh well, you're too young to remember that." I'm like, whatever, I remembered Welcome Back Kotter quite well, thank you very much. Her response? "I guess you're older than I thought." NICE.

My first week back at work went much better than I expected. Being in between mandates helped; there was no shortage of stuff to do. So I just dove right in there and narrowed my focus to the files on my desk and the computer screen in front of me. I also had quite a few formal and informal affairs to attend, so my days were packed.

It sure was nice to come home each day to the overjoyed squeal of the Doodle, a friendly smile of recognition from the Smurf (Hey! Boob lady! Where ya been all day?) and Hubby's comforting hugs and smooches. Not to mention the dinners he's been cooking for me all week. While taking care of the baby. The man never ceases to amaze.

Tonight, we snarfed on giant slabs of t-bone with grilled beans and potatoes on the side. The wine selection was a 2007 Daniel Lenko Old Vines Merlot. They can call it 'old vines' because they have some of the oldest ones in Niagara, planted some 40 years ago. The resulting fruit makes for refined, classy wines that sell out every year. This one was just a smidge past its prime, but still enjoyable. A subtle plum nose, followed by equally muted flavours of under-ripe berry with a tang of acidity. Tannins are holding their own, but would likely start fading after another year or two in the cellar.

I have since pajammied myself and poured another glass. Week one accomplished. Good for us.