Back when I was in Grade 10, I became friends with with a set of twins- Jason and Paula. We met through another friend of mine who I had met in Grade 8. That friend, Jason, and I joined a five pin bowling league after school that year. Oh yeah, we were that cool. It was tons of fun. For two seasons we bowled together as a team called “White Men Can’t Bowl.” We thought we were funny spoofing the title of a movie… 

I came out to their birthday party that year for movies and cake.  Not hardcore at all for being in grades 9/10. However, it did run late and I missed my bus home.  I didn’t think of staying at Jason’s or trying to call home for a ride. So a buddy and I walked to my place. It took us three hours to walk 12.5 km. (7.8miles) in the rain down a road, that was under construction. This was the last of their Birthday parties I attended with Jason and Paula- until last night.

Last night I went to The Giggle Dam Dinner Theater to celebrate with my two friends for their 40th birthday. It was great to meet up with them and some of their older friends once more. Seeing Jason and Paula’s parents again was also a ton of fun as well. So much has changed in 25 years. Most of us are connected through social media, but sometimes a one-on-one encounter brings out the best in us.

Last night was my first time at a comedy dinner show. I wasn’t overly sure of what to expect- it was surprisingly entertaining. The staff were very attentive and quick with serving the meals and drinks. In fact, some of the comedians/actors were also helping on the floor. The venue was intimate and audience participation was essentially mandatory.  Throughout the evening Jason and Paula were brought on stage to be a part of the fun.

All of the actors at The Giggle Dam are multi talented and full of energy. Perfect timing and comedic songs filled our evening. The final performances were a medley of some well known songs song by all of the actors. Basically it was a short rock show to finish off the night.

In the end, smiles and hugs were shared amongst us. It’s great to know that even after all of these years, something fun like a milestone Birthday can bring a group of social media friends together. Life is damn funny in how we find and keep in contact with friends- a quarter century later.

Thank you to The Giggle Dam Dinner Theater for a fantastic performance. And a big “Thank you” to Jason and Paula for being lifetime friends.  Laughing with all of you really made my day.