Have you ever entered something and discovered the outcome to be entirely different than what you expected?

Think about that question for a minute.

Well, if you’re anything like me, your answer to the question will be an overwhelming. .. yes!

For instance, I went shopping for a nice box of chocolates lately. There was nothing else I needed at the moment, and a bite of tasty chocolate is always as good as expected, right? As I sauntered through the store aisles, suddenly I talked myself into buying some avocados, a red pepper, a red onion, some spuds, and I filled my basket with many other items.

Remember that box of chocolates I went into the store to buy? When I checked out, that box of chocolates cost me over $50! Good thing I didn’t intend to buy two boxes of candy.

Oh well, a lot of my “chocolate buying” will go nicely with a glass of Dancing Bull Zinfandel. Chocolate and spice ­ what could go wrong?

The other day I went into our local library to read a couple of newspapers, browse the book stacks and relax. I enjoy my quick chats with the librarians — they are special people who do special duty for the community. Anyway, after a number of librarian chats, I mentioned how it would be interesting for me to be a library board member. I’ve served such duty in the past, and found it fulfilling.

Suddenly, I was invited into the inner sanctum of the library, and informed there was an opening on their board of trustees. Would I be interested in applying for the position? Gosh, my intentions were to just read and relax at the library! Now I would have to be an intelligent and worldly being. After being assured by the staff that I would be a good fit, I applied for the position.

A bit later I found myself having a phone call with the city’s mayor, and now I wait for the formal acceptance to arrive. I expected the phone call to be a long questioning affair, but he was nice and we talked about the mutual people we know.

Later that day at cocktail time, I made myself an Irish Derby Cocktail. I followed the normal recipe of whiskey, sweet vermouth, orange liqueur and lime juice, but found the result a bit too limey. Since that day, I adapted the cocktail by reducing the lime juice, and it was very good. My best intentions led me to the light at the end of a tunnel.

We have a marvelous arts culture in our community, and I frequently visit the exhibit hall. The current exhibit is by many local artists — such creativity! It blows my mind, and then I saw it. In the middle of the room was a beautiful sculpture created and in honor of two women who have suffered at the hands of religious zealots.

The rendering shows how we are all connected — animals,nature and humanity. It is incredible and I stood and viewed it for sometime. I wish you could see it.

That night, I poured myself a glass of Chateau Ste Michelle Chardonnay. The subtle oak flavors matched perfectly with my memory of seeing that awesome sculpture. I wish we could just treat each other as nicely as this wine treats me.

May your best intentions always be fulfilled as you find the light at the end of your tunnel.

As always, eat and drink in moderation but laugh with reckless abandon!

Cheers!