Sunday afternoon

There is something strangely comforting about a quiet gray Sunday afternoon, whatever season it may be. I think it's because such days often put us in the mood to be more still, more quiet, to slow down a bit and take some time for ourselves. Plus it's a great time to find interesting pursuits to fill an otherwise boring day indoors.


To my delight, I discovered an old classic Casablanca was just about to start. I quickly popped some popcorn, made a nice cup of hot tea and settled into my favorite cushy chair for a lovely afternoon of vintage cinematic entertainment.

Considered to be one of the most popular films of all time, Casablanca is a timeless tale of romance, duty, war and survival, set in a confused, chaotic world. This rich film has just about every element – love, suspense, honor, betrayal, horror, joy, weakness and strength, all created with larger than life actors and actresses and exotic sets, costumes and Max Steiner's unforgettable music.

An interesting bit of Casablanca trivia it was first released in 1942 when World War II was raging in Europe. The film's themes of strength and survival fortified many an American with the strength to work hard and to sacrifice and persevere during the tough times brought about by the U.S. entry into WWII.

Of course, my friend, it is also a wonderful classic film that is extremely entertaining, and in my case, gave me the opportunity to be a happy couch potato for a gray Sunday afternoon. I think that's something we all could use every now and again.