Chillin' at Ophelia's

   DMan and I had a couple of firsts on Thursday night:  a meetup with the Springfield Chill Wine Drinkers, and a visit to Ophelia's Tapas & Wine Bar downtown on Walnut Street.  The Chill was a blast!  Of the twelve that showed up, DMan and I were the newbies, but we were warmly welcomed and felt an instant chemistry with the group.  A fun and eclectic bunch -- 20-somethings to 50-somethings (I'm guessing here); rookie wine-os and seasoned sippers (like me and DMan, we've got a lot of labels under our belts!); couples and singles (and two that may have coupled by the time the night was over, he-he-he); varied interests and occupations -- we shared lots of laughs, hootie stories, and impressions (and sometimes sips) of whatever we were drinking.  We will definitely be meeting up with the Chill again SOON!
   Ophelia's had a classy look and relaxed feel.  Our server was knowledgeable about the wine list, patient with our questions, and skilled at keeping twelve people's glasses from getting empty.  The menu was a bit pricey, especially for the tapas -- which in case you didn't know either, means "tidbits served at a bar" in Spanish.  And the portions were on the slim side, so don't come hungry if you are giving Ophelia's a try.
   Why am I just now writing about this, you might ask.  Well, I've either been working or sleeping since then.  And no, I wasn't hung over.  I was a good girl and only had one glass of wine (not counting the one I had before we went).  But my allergies have come back in a big way and are kicking my booty!  I know I've blown out or coughed up at least twice my weight in phlegmy fluids!  How is that possible??  I've got to get through my library shift this afternoon, then I'll have tomorrow to rest and hopefully recoup.  On a related note, I heard the stock market took a tumble yesterday.  If yall are looking for a solid investment, I'd give Kleenex a try.  If there are even a handful of folks out there suffering summertime allergies as bad as I am, then Kleenex stock will be going through the roof!
   Wishing yall a crrr-azy good (and allergy-free) weekend!!