In which I find my people

I covered an awards luncheon today. I introduced myself to the people at the table beforehand so they knew a spy was in their midst.

Here's how it went down: first there was a speech.

Then there were awards.

Then there were thanks. Lots and lots and lots of thanks.

Then a representative of a local politician gave the awardees certificates.

Then another representative of a local politician gave the awardees certificates.

Then another representative of a local politician gave the awardees certificates.

The priest at the table with me, with whom I had swapped jokes earlier, turned to the rest of us and stage-whispered "HOW LONG CAN THIS GO ON?" with this great dumbfounded look on his face. Rolled his eyes.

Then another representative of a local politician gave the awardees certificates.

The priest did a dramatic throwing-up-of-hands.

Trying to control myself, I snorted. Out loud.

Tried not to laugh. Shook with laughter.

The priest caught on to my mirth. Enjoyed my discomfort. His mouth twitched up at the corners.

I wiped my eyes.

I am totally gonna sit with him next year.