but I will admit to being somewhat intimidated at times: the group that gathers is very knowledgeable about wines and food whereas I am not.

I'm pretty sure I can make a convincing case that you're just as knowledgeable as two of the attendees at the dinner.

I'm wondering about that water tower, though. My recollection is that one member of the party attempted a census of the Guardians of Health, and arrived at the number nine. I attempted my own census, and arrived at the number eight. Apparently they (the Guardians) have the ability to fog minds...