Day 379 - Party Central

The second weekend in December must be the biggest party weekend of the year! Here's what has happened since my last blog post. (Three days ago! Boy, I've missed you all....)

Friday night was the holiday party at Boatique - one of the newest wineries in the county. It was fun - with about 10 gingerbread house building tables - and people were doing an amazing job creating amazing decorated homes - I would have lived in a couple of them! Everyone was having such a great time embracing their inner child. There was also a sugar cookie decorating table, and some delicious appetizers including a spicy Asian meatball and a yummy squash soup with a cinnamon toast grilled cheese sandwich triangle for dipping in the soup.

Last night was our holiday open house. I didn't count heads, but I think there were about 50 people that came over to share some cheer. We met some new friends, including the advertising rep from our local newspaper. I had been working with her over email, but had never met her face-to-face. This IS a small town! The party was a big success, up until the end when our friend Zarro, who had made all the balloon decorations, informed us that he needed to spend the night because his ride had left an hour before. Awkward!

Tonight was Steve's company holiday party for the staff at the grocery story. There were about 100 people there, and it was really festive and friendly. Steve brought home a bonus check, plus a gift certificate to shop at the store and the deli, and a free day off coupon! There was also a Secret Santa gift exchange, and he was very happy with his gift. It was a a really fun evening.

In between all the parties was a lot of house-cleaning and a little relaxing. We did find time to watch a movie this afternoon (X-Men: Days of Future Past) and reflect on what a great weekend full of new friends and newer ones, and the warmth and love that everyone feels around the holidays.

Be around people you love this time of year. It doesn't make sense to use energy on people who don't deserve your attention. And please make sure you get some love in return from those you care about. I'm so glad you're all in my life. You surround me with such love, and you make me feel incredibly blessed.

Keep Sparking, everyone, and have a fantastic week! It's less than 2 weeks to Christmas! Make every day count!