a Right K-aper at The K Club.

 

I know I said I was going to celebrate my 60th birthday for a year, but even I didn’t think I’d still have a gift voucher to cash in this far down the line! My bestie Genevieve had given me a fabulous voucher for afternoon tea, a facial, and a massage for two at The K Club. When she handed it to me, she said, “Of course you don’t have to bring me… but if you don’t, I’ll be standing outside with my face pressed against the glass watching ye!” Naturally, she was always going to be my partner-in-crime.

Then life got in the way. Because it had to be used midweek, and Genevieve is still working (my heart bleeds for her), finding a suitable date became like solving a Rubik’s cube. Summer came and went, and somehow we never managed to coordinate. Once the school term kicked back in — and with panto rehearsals for the Helix just around the corner — I decided to bite the bullet and book. The nice lady on the phone told me there were only two available dates: November 12th… or next February! (Apparently, the restaurant is closing for renovations.)

I booked November 12th. Job done, or so I thought.

Later that evening Genevieve texted to say there was an appointment on the 5th. I hadn't looked at that date as I had a dentist's appointment, but I decided to change that and go for the upcoming date. Fast forward to the 4th and Genevieve rang to discuss plan of action. She asked was the facial or the afternoon tea first. I was a bit confused and said "You booked it, so which is it?" Silence on the other end. "No, I didn't. You have the voucher with the number that's needed to book. I thought you were doing it." Being friends for decades meant that we didn't blame each other for messing up. Instead we burst into laughter and said "What are we like? Senior moment." We discussed going back to the February date until Genevieve mentioned that the gift card didn't have to be spent on the spa package, it could be used anywhere in the club. Lightbulb moment! "Why don't we still go tomorrow night and use it on food and drink?" Immediate agreement.

So off we went, two happy women embracing spontaneity (and the prospect of prosecco). The restaurant was decked out like a Christmas grotto — twinkling lights, festive sparkle, and carols in the background. I officially waved the white flag and embraced my Christmas spirit.

Who could resist a Christmas tree decorated in teddy bears???

We were midway through a delicious meal (and, ahem, several drinks) when a group of men came in wearing shorts. Now, I know it was a mild night, but shorts in November? Really? Then I did a double take. One of them looked oddly familiar. Suddenly, it hit me — Bundee Aki! The place was full of Irish rugby players, there before their big match against Japan.

We were too shy to ask for a selfie

So not only did we get a five-star meal and drinks on the house (sort of), but we also had unexpected celebrity company.

Honestly, who needs a spa day when you’ve got great food, good wine, and a room full of rugby players?