What is a Greek evening? Unlimited FOOD, unlimited WINE, unlimited DANCING, unlimited PLATE BREAKING, and unlimited FUN! All this we enjoyed at the family-owned Zafiro Experience last night. OPA!

OPA is a Greek Word that may be used as an ‘Exclamation’, or ‘Utterance’, or ‘Declaration’, or ‘Affirmation’ or a lovingly gentle way of telling you to ‘Stop’ … depending on the situational context. It is a word or pronouncement of celebration; the celebration of life itself. It is another way of expressing joy and gratitude to God, Life, and others, for bringing us into the state of ultimate wisdom; that all that really matters is health, family, and friends. It is a humorous affirmation that you’re the best; that you’re where you’re supposed to be; and that you need to stop and celebrate…

Upon our arrival we first got a look at the olive press and machine for making olive oil, and took a moment to look at the sunset. Then we entered the restaurant facility where we were able to taste their homegrown, different flavors of olive oil on bread crusts.

Our first assignment was learning how to dance, Greek-style. Everyone had to stand up and form a circle. We learned a simple 6-step routine, but as I learned about myself, I have two left feet when it comes to dancing! Yes, being able to dance on the organ pedals doesn’t help me in the least!

And why break plates? Here’s what I found:

Smashing plates has been used to signal the end and the beginning, to ward off evil spirits, and to express abundance. In symbolic ritual, a plate is smashed at the graveside of the departed following a Greek Orthodox funeral. Life has ended on earth.

But the organizers also chose some men to clean up the mess, giving a prize to the one who elicited the most cheers.

Then about half of our group was taken away and came back wearing traditional Greek costumes.

Lots of fun tonight! and as usual, I ate too much.