We were spending a weekend at a B&B on the Breede River with Dana and Corrine, two of the most wonderful friends of Russell. Corrine is a literal live wire—a high-energy, extroverted force of nature who is always the beating heart of the party. Dana, by contrast, is more reserved but lovely, possessing a razor-sharp, quiet wit.
As we sat around the dinner table, the conversation turned to the effects of a good vintage. I admitted that if I’m feeling a bit shy, a glass of wine usually helps me find my voice.
"Alcohol is a great form of social lubrication," I remarked, leaning into the comfort of my glass.
Dana nodded thoughtfully, glancing over at her wife, who was no doubt already mid-anecdote at the other end of the table. "Ah yes," she said perfectly. "It works for me, too. But my wife? Corrine needs no lubrication!"
The table erupted. It was the absolute perfect summary of Corrine’s infectious personality—most of us need a catalyst to get the conversation flowing, but Corrine is the chemical reaction. She doesn't need a bottle to get started; she arrived at the party already fully charged and ready to fire.
