It Was the Best of Times

The setting: Drinks and dinner al fresco at Cyma Estiatorio in Greenbelt 2.


The cast: In addition to me, of course, these ladies, Portia and Yvonne, with whom I've been friends for more than 25 years; we went to the same schools from elementary to college. We get together every odd year or so.


Then there's Paul, who became a friend of ours in high school, though he went to another school. Last time I saw Paul was about 18 years ago, I think. So last night's reunion was eagerly anticipated on all parts.


And what a reunion it was. The bodies may have changed, but the meeting of the minds has not. Oh no oh no oh no, thank God it hasn't. It was as if we were just resuming a conversation we had yesterday, only we found ourselves updating each other on half a lifetime's worth of experiences instead of just a day's worth. Our night was filled with laughter and stories about other friends, work, family, the crazy stuff we did (and didn't do) when we were kids, and lively discussions about topics ranging from religion to politics to travel to female genital mutilation.

Discussions were interrupted only by our friendly young waiter (named Bond) serving us our food and bringing the beer drinkers a new bottle every now and then. For what's a reunion without some form of alcohol?

The mental and emotional nourishment was stimulating and satisfying, but our older more mature bodies didn't do badly with the evening's fare either.

Cyma serves Greek fusion food, and here are pics of some of what we had.

Spinach and artichoke fondue (cheese, sliced sun-dried tomatoes and Feta, with pita triangles and grilled garlic bread)

Roka Salata (Fresh arugula, chopped Romaine lettuce, sun-dried tomatoes, candied walnuts, served with shaved Parmesan in traditional Greek Vinaigrette). I loved this one.

Baby Clams Angel Hair (Pacific baby clams, white wine, lemon, parsley, grated Parmesan cheese and garlic butter)

Lamb Chops with Roast Potatoes

We wanted to try the flaming mango for dessert, but tummies were already too full to accommodate any more food.

The lovely evening had to end, but it didn't finish on a sad note. With friendships renewed and reaffirmed, the conversation will surely continue.