Why should anyone go to the trouble, possibly unrewarded, of finding or preparing truly good food, or learning about wine, or creating romantic gestures? So much time could be taken up by these things, not to mention money and effort. And the attempts could fail: souffles fall, lovers don't return affection, etc. etc. ad infinitum.

Gregory J. P. Godek summed up the reason for trying in his book, 1001 Ways to be Romantic. In fact, it's Item #4:
Why be romantic? Why bother? Simple: It will improve the quality of your life.

Seems like a tall order for what may have no practical use, no? But such seeming is the product of a half-aware culture, rushing to attain goals that don't fulfull, trying to impress people who aren't looking, rarely if ever rising above a deceptively high-tech version of amoebalike stimulus-response reflex. Quality of life isn't in the comforts one hasn't the time to enjoy. It certainly isn't in a bank balance. It isn't in making a good impression on other people, though that's a little closer.

It's in improving one's mind and heart and soul; enjoying this playground we call Earth; making people happy; bringing wonder and beauty into the world; doing good things. This page is about two or three areas (depending on how you count them) of what makes life worth living: food, drink, and romance. It's especially devoted to their overlap, which is a lot bigger than you might think.

Surprised? Consider the old custom of going out to dinner on a date. Or a chocolate malted with two straws. Or 9 1/2 Weeks. Or the ancient concept of aphrodisiacs. Or a toast to one's beloved. Or boxes of chocolates on Valentine's Day. Or a lovingly prepared meal. Or "body shots". Or breakfast in bed. I could go on and on, but you get the idea, I'm sure.

Enjoy my little place, and let it inspire you to become more attuned to what matters. Romance and joi de vivre are contagious - develop them in yourself, and let it rub off on the people you know. If you want to make suggestions about the Food, Drink and Romance Page, tell me about your adventures in these favorite subjects of mine, or just say hello, drop me a line. I'm always happy to hear from you.

- Mr. Limerence