Ghosts of Grosse Pointe Christmas Past

Knowing that no trip home is complete without a visit to the old haunts, Mike snuck away from family dinner at The Restaurant (the only One) to the back room, otherwise known as Le Bar (the only One), where Mike saw a Romper Room of old faces-- only this time, no fake ID was needed. Random gossip was traded. Faux-intimacies were formed in Pinot Noir clouds between former high schools enemies. Husbands, their wives safely at home looking after children, hovered by the understandably annoyed bartender, a young woman too fine and silently strong to be condescended to by these inhabitants.

Safe with a camera in hand, Mike was entrusted with the Bartender's life story.

Mike eyed a familiar male face that resembled the sidekick in Othello. The face stared back. Later, it was revealed he was "that guy-- that older (by 4 years) guy" who dated best friend in high school. Mike's marital status was immediately asked of. He passed Mike a business card. "If ever you're in Chicago, come by my club."



Out of town visitors blinked when the bartender asked if they wanted a hummer.

Hummer (n.): a Michigan libation with ice cream, coffee, and naughty juice.



Mitchissmo and her camera were banished years ago for certain celluloid sins, but Mike had an in.

The next best thing to drinking is finding people who will tolerate you photographing them drinking. The buzz is like no other. (the Bartender's name is Susan).













Many Shiraz later, Mike found himself in a Cadillac on his mom's driveway, having an endless heart to heart pow-wow with a girl who was and remains one of the town's golden faces. Life, love, regrets-- the usual holiday cheer.

Mike could not stop staring at her skin, and wondered how often she exfoliates.