Sophie with her new toy

Boxing Day and more family pix

Mikey and me drove up to Cana to visit his mom. Mike's sister in law, Pam, was also there. We had lunch (crab cakes!) and exchanged gifts. Mike's mom has 2 little chihuahua dogs-Markie and Ellie. Pam has 2 boston terriers, Petey and Norton. So, there was a lot of dog talk and we gave each other dog toys and treats. Turns out Mike has a long-lost cousin in Canada who owns a chocolate shop. She sent a bag of homemade chocolates that are to die for. We're home now and Christmas is officially over. The lights are coming down tomorrow, or whenever I can get to it and the DIET begins again in earnest!

Mi Familia Christmas Day 2011

Another Christmas. I went to see Dad yesterday. He's doing well. I think time weighs heavily these days...he said he wasn't afraid to die now because he knew he had someone waiting for him on the other side. He misses mom a lot. We had church this morning--a special Christmas program. It was really nice. Came home and did some cooking. I made an executive decision and went with a non-traditional meal of crab stuffed flounder. We distributed the gifts and watched the dogs go crazy. The cats are no where to be found, of course. They don't seem to care much for the dogs. Tomorrow Mike and I plan to drive up to the mountains to visit with his mother. I think she is making seafood also. After tomorrow I really have to get serious about losing some weight. I mean, I REALLY have to get in shape, otherwise I'll be penalized on my health insurance premium. Maybe this is the sort of motivation I need. Happy New Year!!

Sophie and Santa

Peace on Earth

Office Christmas Party 2011

The annual Christmas party at Jackie's house. We had the traditional meal: lasagna with spinach/strawberry salad, and a bunch of desserts. Susan, who retired several years ago was there, as was the other Susan who retired earlier this year. And we welcomed our newest employee, Sharon. I was so glad that Denise could be there. She was able to schedule her chemo a day earlier so that she would feel well enough to join the party. It was wonderful to see her. She was in good spirits, as she always is, and she looked like she felt pretty good. My coworkers are wonderful. I know how very blessed I am to have a great job and great coworkers. Believe me, I've been in situations where that wasn't always the case and it makes for a VERY LONG painful work day.