How the Midwest enters 2010

In the Midwest, I prepared a nice log-cabin fire but covered it with a bag in case -- snow has been know to dampen things (literally). By the time to light it, everyone watched from inside, but by the time to sit at it, only Jack and I. A good fire, accompanied by firecrackers, with Wally wearing his flashing red-light collar to warn the squirrels and walkers in the park of impending danger. We poured a bottle of champagne inside, to include the warm women in the deal, then went outside for our own bottle from the snow-filled bucket. Just right. Chris and Jenny and pup Colin didn't get by -- we didn't expect they would. But the neighbors Tony and Lauren had a party, too, and as we sat at the fire some of Tony's buddies hopped the fence and joined us. A good tradition emerging! Happy New Year Colin!

How the West Coast enters 2010

All the family enjoys a New Year's Eve meal. Ben sent this: Barbara had headed to bed, he and Pook found a New Year's Eve celebration from London on the tellie in early evening, so they would stay awake together as long as Pook stayed awake. Here, she prolongs the evening in classic West Coast style by sweeping stuff off the tray-top directly into Luna's waiting mouth (Luna at the far left, rabbit in the middle, so you'll not be confused). Happy New Year, Pook!

New Year's Eve

The day began slow, and kept on. We planned a relaxed dinner, joined by Jack and Linda and Barbara, and enjoyed it until my Linda came down with some indigestion that ended her evening. Maybe it was our misbehavior earlier in the day -- for some reason, I'd decided I needed a McDonald's burger, and Linda joined in on a Big Mac with all the crap accompanying the meat, not a thing we normally eat. Well, that did it. So we had one hour of Linda, and the rest of us celebrated in her memory. Better tomorrow, I hope.