So I guess I made myself feel pretty foolish last night. I thought I was prepared for anything, but I just locked up at the sight of her and made a red face like I was holding my breath. Not even dancing to a favorite band could loosen my nerves; I had perfectly regressed, barely able to speak. I think what happens to me sometimes is I get too philosophical, and start drinking in every word and gesture as a deep, heavy metaphorical stew -- an outrageous, destructive tactic, and downright stupid. I can only hope she didn't notice it as badly as I felt it was. Anyway, I had a long talk with myself on the ride home, which actually seemed to work pretty well.