2009 --> 2010

My New Year's Eve consisted of traversing the desert to Arizona in order to attend the 1/1/10 wedding in Casa Grande of my old friend Heather Everson and her now-husband Andrew Skiles. Mom accompanied me in order to visit her dear friend Gail Vanderlugt (nee Burns) whom she has known since junior high. Though the company was delightful, it was a tad wearing spending a traditionally boisterous and congenial evening amidst of collection of people with whom one is not previously acquainted. Still, the over-50 consortium managed to stay alert until midnight, minus Mom who conked out at ten (nine our time).

The next morning I drove over to Casa Grande and witnessed Heather and Andrew simply and successfully wed. Heather put together an absolutely adorable slideshow of the two of them aged infant-present that was played immediately after Tom handed her over to Andrew. Also of note was the live string quintet comprised of her cousins. Mom was a trooper to drive back to Fillmore immediately following the wedding. By the way, gas in Casa Grande is a mere $2.38/gallon. However, as I remarked to Mom, I find California worth the price. If you're traveling to AZ in the near future be warned that they are serious about speeders. We saw as many highway patrol cars out as Beth has purses, which should make you cringe if you pushing more than 5mph over the limit. Perhaps the state government needs more money to make up for the cheap gas.

Our playlist for the drive consisted of the best of Petula Clark, James Taylor, Carol King, Simon and Garfunkal, and "Crazy Love" by Michael Buble. (I'm recently on a Buble kick. Even Pop likes him!)

British New Year's vernacular

snog

1. verb; to interface passionately with another being, creating a field of physical obsession and focused arousal +centered+ on the lips, mouth and tongue.

2. verb; to play tonsil hockey

3. verb; to give comfort or show affection to a fellow user of an internet forum. (syn: /lick, /spamHug)

"...the world melts away into a clutter of noise and shadow when we're snogging..."

"...let's snog, baby."

"Awww, sorry to hear that Joslo. /snog."

New Year's Eve 2008

Last year was one of my favorite New Year's Eves. Amanda, Donovan, and I went up to Turtle Rock and chomped on See's chocolates minus wine since I forgot the bottle opener. Shortly before midnight we went to the Rock Harbor shindig, which was mainly an opportunity to don cardboard hats. Afterward Tom joined the three of us at Donovan's apartment for some conversation. (Picture courtesy of Larry)

Highlights of Christmas break thus far

~Christmas service at the convalescent home. The residents' unwavering pleasure of our visits is continually humbling. The sibs and I were blessed to be joined by Nick and Donovan for more of a choir effect.

~Singing for Grandpa on Christmas. Likewise, it is humbling to know that our simple singing for Grandpa (mom's father) holds more value for him than any tangible item. This was especially meaningful for me as we do not know how many more Christmases he will enjoy in his home, much less relatively cognizant.

~Receiving a vacuum cleaner. My quality of life just shot up a few notches!

~Cards from far-away friends. Stamps are a sound investment.

~Articulating that I am materially low-maintenance but relationally high maintenance.

~Hanging out with Hum. Settlers of Catan-Katie 4:0. Boggle-Jeremy 3:0. "It boggles the mind."

~Picnicking up Goodenough Road with Donovan. One of the things I enjoy about Fillmore (and the Central Coast) is its proximity to relatively remote hills.

Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift! 2 Corinthians 9:15

"I just have one more question..."

Tonight I must chose between blogging and watching an episode of Columbo, and I'm afraid (sorry if I've mislead you) that Columbo has won.

Perhaps the blog shall win out over my two and a half week Christmas break (the benefits of being at a school site).