It happened to be raining out, and by the looks of it, would continue on and off all night.  But the excitement of being on our first date and Dick’s having tickets to a premiere of the highly-touted “The Exorcist” made the outcome look quite promising.

The evening started with a lovely dinner at Yamashiro Sky Room, which was an iconic restaurant set above Hollywood Boulevard in a gorgeous Pagoda-like setting. It was considered romantic dining because of the incredibly stunning views of the city below coupled with the gorgeous interior and lush landscape.  It truly was the perfect start to the evening ahead.

After our early dinner, we were off to the National Theatre in Westwood for the premiere of the then much talked about, psychological thriller of the demonic possession of a 12-year old girl and her mother’s attempt to rescue her through exorcism. It was ironic to learn that it was actually inspired by a true story. 

It proved to be an excellent movie with outstanding acting by the entire lineup of stars. I believe it won an Academy Award and was Linda Blair’s introduction to the movie industry.

It was sprinkling and chilly as we left the theatre, so hand-in-hand we hurried to the car walking through a patch of grassy area at the curbside.

Dick turned on the heater immediately to warm us up. “Ahhh, warmth,” was my first thought. Before too long, I began to smell something…it was that undeniable smell of poop, and the warmer the car, the stronger the smell. 

By now I’m praying, “Please Lord, don’t let me be the guilty one.”

The smell was so bad that Dick pulled over to the curb, got out, and checked his shoes, and, sure enough it was on his shoe.

What could I do other than utter, “Thank You, Lord, this time for big favors.”          

Sharon Benson Smith is a member of the writing class offered through the Cerritos College Adult Education Program. It is held off-campus at the Norwalk Senior Center.