This is a quick story about a kid named James. I never knew him too well to tell much longer tales, as he moved by second grade. But this is my first year of elementary, about a month into the school year I believe. It's early morning and I'm waiting at the tables outside for the bell to ring. That's when I notice James, talking to himself. Or more than that. He's having a conversation with someone who just wasn't there. It was confusing for me at the time. I asked the teacher about it and Sister Mary Remi explained to me that some children have "imaginary friends". I was little, of course, but could pick up on a tone of sympathy here. I understood the message: Pray for James.

The next part of the story I don't like telling, mostly because I'm a real asshole here. But the ending is inspiring, so bear with this little jerk.

It's a couple weeks later and we're all out playing and at some point we're in a bigger group and things get feisty. A boy named Kevin is making the rounds and teasing everyone, putting each kid down one by one. Kids can be cruel. When he gets to me he goes for an easy one, saying something about me not owning a comb (fair enough, I had a wild head of hair at the time). Some of the group laugh, including James, and so I redirect the ridicule his way.

"What are YOU laughing at? You have an imaginary friend"

Kids can be cruel.

James is suddenly animated, adamant. His eyes aglow... "No I don't!"

But then, a proud pause... a mic drop... and we are silenced:

"I have FOUR."



TONIGHT at OAKLAND YARD: Unusual Varieties Tasting. Unknown, misunderstood, under-appreciated. Unique and gloriously different. Singular sensations. THREE WHITES (Mtsvane, Debit, Ribolla Gialla) and THREE REDS (Xinomavro, Blaufrankish, Touriga Nacional). Six distinct, delicious, and delightful wines we are showcasing and celebrating tonight. THURSDAY NIGHT FLIGHTS at OAKLAND YARD form 4-8pm. Bring a friend, or four. 

See you tonight,

Daniel


ALSO WEEKEND TASTINGS...

SATURDAY 9/9: LOIRE VALLEY WHITES. Mineral driven, focused and bright. All lively and electric. Come explore and enjoy from 2-6pm.

SUNDAY 9/10: ROSÉ ALL DAY! Relax and escape the heat. Refeshing A/C and chilled rosé from 12-6. All delightful and dry and all yours. By the glass specials too! Roll in to OAKLAND YARD this weekend!