Have you ever pretended to be in a relationship? What happened?

I’ve seen this movie so many times! I was off from work today since there was a snowstorm. Schools and jobs were shut down for the day. So while I spent the day writing, I happened to see Surprised by Love come on the Hallmark Channel so, I just had to stop and watch.

This is such a cute, fun movie and I love watching it over and over again. When Josie runs into Gridley in the park, they reconnect. Gridley and Josie are high school pals and they haven’t seen each other in a long time.

Gridley is a…well, I’m not really sure what to call him! He makes these artistic animals and creatures using driftwood, or something. Frankly, I think the animals that he creates are NOT attractive, but, Josie likes them.

Gridley doesn’t have a phone and it appears that he’s barely making ends meet with his animal/structure making business in the park. He sells these creations in the park every day. When Josie brings her boyfriend (Richard) with her to Gridley’s “selling place/business section” in the park, her upper-class boyfriend (Richard) comes up with a brilliant idea.

Since Josie’s parents dislike Richard why doesn’t she bring Gridley as her new “beau” to her parents’ anniversary party? Once they see “loser” Gridley, Richard will suddenly look like an amazing knight in shining armor! Her parents will learn to appreciate Richard after spending the weekend with “loser” Gridley.

I loved how Gridley made himself at home at Josie’s parents’ house. Her parents recalled meeting Gridley during Josie’s high school years (They didn’t like him very much). Soon the family accepts him into their home and they start to grow feelings for him. I was completely FLOORED when I found out that Josie’s grandpa could talk! He only trusts Gridley with his secret. No way could I hide something like that if I were grandpa.

I recall seeing the actor who played the grandpa, Tim Conway, long ago on the Carol Burnett show! I LOVED seeing him on that show! He was a hoot, oh so funny!

I loved how Gridley and Josie reconnected. I was surprised that Gridley used to be a student at MIT but dropped out when his mom died. I think Gridley is happy with what he does, making his driftwood creations, and is not concerned about money.

But, honestly, I don’t think I could be happy if I didn’t have the money to do all that I wanted. Like, if I want to get my hair done, or get a new outfit, or go out to dinner – well, if I’m always scrimping to the point that I think about every cent – well, that’d put a damper on my day. I scrimped a lot in my younger years, but as I’ve grown older and more settled and comfortable in my life and my job, it’d be hard to suddenly live my life working in a park – if you know what I mean! But circumstances arise and sometimes you do what you have to do!

But, since Gridley has no other obligations (He’s by himself and has no dependents), I think it’s easy for him to be somewhat of a hippie. I really enjoyed seeing Josie and Gridley go to their old high school and talk about old times. I also liked the side story about Josie’s sister – she kind of reminds me of Gridley in a way. She dropped out of school and she’s a singer – and she’s happy doing what she does. She also has a big crush on the boy next door, which was so cute! Plus, her green hair, thanks to Gridley’s cheap hat, is so adorable, too!

This movie is one of my faves! So sweet and good!

So, have you ever been in a pretend relationship? If so, what happened? Did you develop feelings for the other person?