But... I'm a REPUBLICAN!!

I am just back from HHMI (how I love you, HHMI).  I had heard my predecessor was feeling a little down and disconnected, as retirement can do to people, so I invited him to lunch.

We talked and talked and shared thoughts about many things, work, and totally not work-related.

He got up to say hello to another co-worker who decided she needed to have Indian food for lunch as well, and the check was delivered

As I had asked him to have lunch with me, of course, I paid.  When he arrived, the check had been paid, and tip written in, but the credit card folder was still on the table.

We wrapped up our conversation, and he grabbed the credit card holder to pay and I said "it is taken care of."  He said "nonsense, I will treat you."

"I dont ask someone to lunch, then expect them to pay! Besides, it is already done."

He opened the folder to see the signed slip.

"but, but... I'm a REPUBLICAN!"


I laughed and laughed.  That makes me so happy.

He did buy me a bottle of wine in return.

My first bottle of wine.. well, besides the wine I used to buy to make Martha Stewart's Turkey and stuffing that my ex-husband's father liked so much.

Guess I need to go buy a cork screw.