Phrase Writers Group

During July and August 2021 I took part in a writing workshop organised by local best-selling author Leigh Russell (leighrussell.co.uk).

Each week we were given optional homework.

Write a descriptive piece about the host at a party

AWAKE WITH MY FRIENDS

The party of my life, my first and last as host. A last chance to schmooze with friends and family before I moved on. And please, no snoring this time. Have this regrettable reputation for noxious noises with one saving grace, odour-free.

I love gatherings. Friends and family feature favourably. Memories abound. So it was today.

Sophie and Louise were no surprise. First in and last out. For once not entertaining with their music, just charm and kindness personified. Sophie in her favourite sky blue outfit, and Louise all in green; I called them the Blue Greens or B Gs. They always smiled at my jokes.

Music was playing from the 80s, recalling my school days, such great times. None of that Thud Bing Bong Crash that passes for music these days. I sadly missed Glam Rock. Instead danced to Sex Pistols and Madness, us posh white kids as pretentious punk and reggae rebels. Adult-oriented rock long before I graduated to that lofty age.

People drift into the party, some alone, others with a partner or in small groups. Chatting and laughter. And my contribution, still awake.

Never good to overhear people talking about you, but just this once.

“Remember those jokes he always told. So groan worthy, and so brightened my day.”

Another added “and his dress sense lacked any…” but was hushed by those around.

Sophie said “Louise and I are organising the Christmas Tree Challenge that he did every year. Colleagues at work buying presents for those who will receive nothing.”

Louise went on. “Wrapping the presents with so much care and love, putting them under the tree in our office reception.” My two lovely ladies comforted each other.

Men in beach wear, despite a chilly November, and ladies, well they were simply gorgeous. Caresssed by chiffon and cashmere, bright rainbow colours and shades they had invented. I’d asked everyone to dress for fun, and my priceless people had done just that.

The dance floor had spread to almost everywhere. Some space around the food tables. Lots of finger food. Small healthy portions for my friends eating carefully for Christmas celebrations, but they tucked right in. They always could see right through me. Bar doing good business, some interesting cocktail combinations with abundance of little umbrellas.

I sway round the dancers, just avoiding them. No accidents, now or ever. So much good feeling, a few tears and smeared eyes.

Time for “Agadoo”. We mostly knew the dance moves, the song lyrics reminding us. Everyone got in a conga line and sashayed round the room, a sight for my adoring eyes.

As the music faded the clock strikes midnight. “Shush” said Sophie and Louise. The clock finishes its bongs.

“A new day” they say. “The first without our beloved host. Raise your glasses. Always in our thoughts.”

“Always” echoes everyone.

I float away, glad I was there at a wake with my friends.