Wine

I love wine.

From the sound of the cork extraction, to the look and feel of a well-poured glass. A colorful nose offering tasty reflection and celebration of the day poses the question: What’s not to like?  

Especially the way it makes me feel after 2 glasses.

For years, well-tended vineyards have contributed to my nightly ritual, a truth I don’t mind sharing with anyone—even the doctor who raises a skeptical eyebrow while assigning a multiplier effect to my reported drinking habits (thanks to all the underreporting liar-pants patients out there).

With nationals on the horizon, however, I’m determined to pursue any possible advantage my 46 year-old body can manage. After all, the competition includes women a decade younger than me. This is no time for slacking. 

In search of a little extra energy (and in addition to my usual exercise and healthy eating), I decided to dump the booze on training nights—five times a week. How hard could it be?

Apparently more difficult than a perfect lockstep.

At first I relished the discipline, fancying myself an athlete.

When that failed, I drew inspiration from celebrities who don’t drink at all—like Jennifer Lopez.

Except I’m no JLo.

Now it’s just sheer willpower (and occasional forgiveness for gulping down a dismal practice) that keeps me going.

But when all is said and done, I can’t deny a few simple facts: Abstinence has increased my endurance, steadied my balance, lightened my attitude, heightened my reflexes, improved my sleep, and left me with a euphoric sense of wellness.

This pisses me off.

As it turns out, the sacrament I’ve nurtured no longer serves me. My alteration must now be permanent. Unless I form an alliance with stupidity.

So, too, is the case with dance. By surrendering to teachers and coaches who continually chip away at bad form, terrible habits (and my pride), something beautiful and more fulfilling is emerging.

And while routine wine consumption is my latest ballroom casualty, this serendipitous sequence is nothing new. As I devour this sport, it always responds in kind, and then some.

With just two weeks till nationals, I’m counting down the days until I can offer a fitting tribute to the pursuit I adore:

A refreshing Sauvignon Blanc and a full-bodied Pinot Noir.