December 24, 2008

The day started out beautifully. The sun was shining and the temps were on the rise. We decided to take the furballs for a walk---back to the dry creek-bed. While there I spied what looked to be a trail---we decided to check it out. Wow, what a trail! It went up and up and up...when we reached the plateau what a beautiful view. It looked like the trail continued on for quite a ways and we were all tired at this point. We decided to turn around and head back down the way we came, but we will do this again and be better prepared next time to see it through to the end.

Back at the fiver we all just kicked back for awhile. Next thing ya know it was dinner time. It was so nice we grilled steaks.

Christmas Eve. Bill and I went to a “gift exchange” here at the park. You know it was one of those deals where they call your name and you can either pick a gift from the table or steal one from someone. Then if someone steals your gift you get to steal one from someone else. Everyone was to bring two gifts, valued at $10.00 for the gift pool. I should have known better, but I made the mistake of taking two of my hand-painted porcelain ornaments for the exchange. I use to sell them for $20.00 so I thought it was a fair gift and I really thought someone would be pleased to receive them. Unfortunately that was not the case. The gentleman who ended up with one of my ornaments was very disappointed. He even brought the ornament over to our table to complain about his bad luck. Well, I felt really bad so when they called my name I went and “stole” the ornament so he could choose something else. I was really concerned about the second ornament waiting to be opened by some other poor unsuspecting recipient. Fortunately it was one of the extra gifts left at the end of the night. When someone “stole” Bill’s gift he was able to retrieve it from the table. So, we went home with what we brought and that’s ok with me. My feelings were a little crushed, but I’m a big girl and it will pass. I learned the big “hit” of the evening was either booze, food, or lottery tickets----who knew!

Here’s wishing everyone a joyous and meaningful Christmas Day! Bill and I will be spending a quiet day with just us two and the furballs, of course.......