Getting into Hot Water

Ever since my dad moved into his condo ten years ago, we have toyed with the idea of one day making use of the hot tub in the commons recreation area. I have been down there many times, and indeed we have had a few family and friends gatherings right next to the hot tub room, and I have never seen anyone ever use it. But, it is always hot and circulating, inviting me into its warm and swirling depths. It is a wonderful thing to do on a cold winter night. Not only do you get warm to the bone, but the atmosphere is very conducive to visiting with those brave enough to enter the waters with you. After the initial embarrassment of exposed white pudgy skin with way too many wrinkles and enough hair on the shoulders to make a quality mop, things settle down and it becomes time for warm and meaningful conversation. Perhaps it is the shared vulnerability that encourages one to open up, and also confidence that nobody will walk out in the middle of your story.
After several attempts, we got a couple to come join us but first rewarded them with a wonderful salmon steak dinner. After that, how could they not join us? But, it was pre-arranged so they were good with the plan. We drove the few blocks and were anxiously looking forward to our clandestine adventure. I say that because we do not actually live in the building so we were technically uninvited guests, or moochers, as some would call us. But we were also technically entitled to be there because I am on the title of ownership of my dad's condominium and as an owner, I could use all the facilities.
All our plans and anticipation were stopped dead in their tracks as we approached the door to the hot tub room. It read "Sorry, out of order". Disbelieving, we entered to see for ourselves and much to our dismay, it was stone cold and had a garden hose running water into it. It was truly pouring cold water on a hot idea. We are now more determined than ever to use it. It will easily hold 6-8 bodies. Any takers?