Haines His Way

Haines His Way => Daily Discussions => Topic started by: bk on December 24, 2012, 12:03:21 AM

Title: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: bk on December 24, 2012, 12:03:21 AM
Well, you've read the notes, the notes were stirring, and now it is time for you to post until the stirring cows come home.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: bk on December 24, 2012, 12:05:33 AM
And the word of the day is: PERSPICACIOUS!
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Ben on December 24, 2012, 03:00:04 AM
Morning all.

That is all.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Ben on December 24, 2012, 03:01:29 AM
It's a quiet morning here on Long Island. It's cool (I went outside to get the newspaper, his parents still get printed copies of the Daily News and Newsday) but no snow.

We have a couple of errands to do but the rest of the day will be slow and easy.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Ben on December 24, 2012, 03:01:50 AM
Oatmeal with walnuts, raisins and cinnamon and coffee.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Ben on December 24, 2012, 03:02:38 AM
I could have had French toast with sausages and coffee but I opted for the oatmeal.

Perhaps tomorrow when I get up I'll treat myself to FT & S.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Ben on December 24, 2012, 03:03:17 AM
With all the eating going on I should avail myself of the treadmill in the basement.

Don't know if that's gonna happen.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: KevinH on December 24, 2012, 03:40:00 AM
Happy Christmas Eve!
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: KevinH on December 24, 2012, 03:42:26 AM
I arrived safely and soundly in Buffalo on Saturday.  I did a lot of shopping for my 7 year old great- niece and newborn great-nephew.  Just about everyone else is getting gift cards.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: KevinH on December 24, 2012, 03:44:35 AM
My sister and I went to see "The Guilt Trip" yesterday.  She loved it.   It was my second time and I liked it just as much as the first time.  I don't know why it's not doing better at the box office.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: KevinH on December 24, 2012, 03:47:57 AM
I still have a few more gift cards to get.  While the supermarkets and drug stores sell a lot of them for all different places, I still have to go to a couple of places I can't find cards for. 
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: John G. on December 24, 2012, 04:52:08 AM
Good morning, all.

Happy Christmas Eve!

Glad you made it safely to Buffalo, KevinH, and you out to Long Island, Ben. Travel vibes for all those in motion.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: John G. on December 24, 2012, 04:52:39 AM
I have to work today. And I need to get in relatively early to get this badge replacement stuff done.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: John G. on December 24, 2012, 04:55:44 AM
Congrats on your Dutch oven, Vixmom. Hope you get great use out of it.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: ChasSmith on December 24, 2012, 05:26:06 AM
Good morning, all.

Must be efficient about coffeeing myself up and getting out to buy a few last minute supplies this morning.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Ron Pulliam on December 24, 2012, 05:29:21 AM
Happy Day Before!
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jrand74 on December 24, 2012, 05:46:43 AM
Christmas Eve Day.

Party and Parking Vibes for MR BK.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jrand74 on December 24, 2012, 05:47:00 AM
Happy belated birthday to DR JANE's son Bryan.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jrand74 on December 24, 2012, 05:47:24 AM
We are expecting 6 - 8 inches of snow beginning tomorrow evening.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Druxy on December 24, 2012, 05:47:42 AM
TOD:

Certainly my most vivid Christmas memory occurred when I was seven or eight years old. 

If I hadn't spotted my father's familiar checked shirt under the sleeve of his Santa Claus suit, I might still believe that St. Nick was real.

 ::)
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jrand74 on December 24, 2012, 06:06:44 AM
The three people charged in the House Explosion here will appear before a judge for the first time in about an hour to hear the more than one hundred charges faced by each of them.

A local attorney said on Sunday that the prosecution's best bet will be if one of them opts to plead guilty for a lighter sentence and turns on the other two....because there has been no confession by any of them.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: elmore3003 on December 24, 2012, 06:08:30 AM
Good mornng, all!

At 11:15 last night, there was a terrific crash in my apartment, as if a shelf had fallen over. It woke me and scared the hell out of me. When I got up to investigate, I found nothing. I guess the ghost likes playing pranks. After my nerves settled, I went back to slept and slept quite well.

I have three packages to deliver to a doorman, a stop at the bank, and a trek to Toyland. I won't be there too long today.

Christmas Eves in my family were usually a trip to Franklin, Ohio, for dinner out since my mother would be cooking all the next day, followed by a stop to visit my Aunt Dorothy, my mother's oldest sister, and her family. Christmas Day was the family gatherng at our house, and it was pretty muchthe same brouhahaas Thanksgiving at my Aunt Jean's: lots of cousins making noise, and my mother's six siblings and their spouses waxing nostalgic on all matters family between 1918 and whatever year we were then in. In college I found them intolerable, but now I'd give a lot to spend time with many of them again. I've just enteredEmily's world in OUR TOWN.

Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Ginny on December 24, 2012, 06:12:58 AM
Christmas Eve morning greetings!  We are hanging out at the hotel until noon checkout and then we'll find someplace else to hang out until we're due at church at 4pm.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Ginny on December 24, 2012, 06:33:34 AM
Usually I go shopping when we're stuck staying in Lima, but there's NO WAY I'm going near the mall today!
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: John G. on December 24, 2012, 06:36:06 AM
I'm dreaming of homemade egg nog.

I've got the ingredients. Now I just need some time off.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: John G. on December 24, 2012, 06:36:17 AM
Usually I go shopping when we're stuck staying in Lima, but there's NO WAY I'm going near the mall today!
You are a wise woman.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: John G. on December 24, 2012, 06:56:43 AM
Here's a great TED talk that eventually works it way around to Sondheim.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=9KICv1Zy92k
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Ron Pulliam on December 24, 2012, 07:12:20 AM
Christmas in South Carolina, part 6:

For a couple of years, my mother has bemoaned the presumptive death of the VHS player/recorder.  She does not have TIVO nor does she have a cable company that offers DVRs to subscribers.

I have had an HDD player/recorder for a couple of years and was aware that this was a viable alternative to her problem.  Still, I was operating my HDD through my DVR and was not reliant upon it for the tuning of my TV.

She has a couple of VHS players, but she worries they'll give out and she'll miss her 90-minute soap block each Monday through Friday (her days are filled with activities) which she likes to catch up with each evening.

This year's main gift is a silver chest (for up to 18 place servings), bought and shipped six months ago and sitting in the guest room closet until night before last when I wrapped it and placed it near the tree.  That, plus several jewelry items and some See's Candy, is her Christmas.

Still, when -- earlier last week -- my aunt asked my mom, during a game of SkipBo, whether she had asked if I could advise her on what to get along the lines of an HDD, my mom waved her off and said she hadn't because it would be too expensive.

Sigh.

So, I went online and found an HDD player/recorder similar to mine and ordered it for one-day delivery.  As it was not in stock at Amazon but available through another entity, I worried it might not get here in time.  I wanted it before the weekend because I'll be leaving Thursday a.m. and I wanted enough time to have her familiarize herself with it.

It arrived last Thursday afternoon.  That evening, I tested the programming features on my mom's HDTV in her kitchen.  All worked beautifully.  Friday morning I set it up on her much older analog TV...and ran into a hitch.  I had no functioning remote for the TV and could not access auxiliary channel settings.  The remote she had for the TV would not work.  I reconnected her VHS recorder and set it for her soaps that day.  Then I pondered how I would solve the problem.  I went online and ordered a replacement remote for her TV, but it would not get here before I left.  I decided I would set the HDD up in the kitchen until she could get one of her techno-proficient friends  to help her change it over the the standard TV.

Last night, I was distracted from a commercial by a remote that was pushed back behind a VHS tape on her entertainment center top.   It was the "original" remote for the TV...different from the one she had given me when I was attempting to set up the HDD.  This remote afforded me access to many alternate video input sources and I decided I'd give it another go this morning.

The happy news is that on this Christmas Eve, my mother has HDD capability...and she'll never have to worry about VHS tapes again.  I've set her up to record her soaps ever Monday-Friday, from 12:30-2 p.m. ("The Young and the Restless" and "The Bold and the Beautiful").  It's a particularly festive day as a result even though my mom insists she's going to pay for the HDD.  I don't think so, I don't.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Ron Pulliam on December 24, 2012, 07:24:10 AM
As promised last week:  "Buttermilk Pecan Pie"

This recipe is a featured recipe from the book P. Allen Smith's Seasonal Recipes from the Garden.

Now, don’t be thrown by the title of this recipe. This is another great “golden oldie” from our family cookbook. Along with roast chicken and mashed potatoes, it is on my short list of favorite comfort foods. Think of it as crème brulee’s culinary cousin.

Ingredients

1 cup pecan halves
¼ cup firmly packed light brown sugar
¼ cup dark corn syrup
8 tablespoons (1 stick) butter, melted
1 ½ cups sugar
3 eggs, beaten
¼ cup all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
1 pie crust

Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a jelly-roll pan with aluminum foil, and lightly grease the foil.
Stir the pecan halves, light brown sugar, and dark corn syrup together in a small bowl. Spread the mixture out on the jelly-roll pan, and bake, stirring every 4 minutes, for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the glaze thickens.
Remove the pan from the oven and spread the pecans in a single layer on wax paper. Let the pecans cool complately, separating them with a spoon as soon as they cool.
Lower the oven to 325 degrees F.
Combine all the remaining ingredients in a mixing bowl, and pour the mixture into the unbaked pie shell. Scatter the chopped glazed pecans evenly on top of the pie filling.
Bake for 50 minutes to 1 hour, or until set. Let the pie cool on a wire rack before serving at room temperature.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: John G. on December 24, 2012, 07:24:30 AM
What a sweet thing to do for your mother, Ron.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: John G. on December 24, 2012, 07:25:11 AM
Two! Buttermilk Pecan Pie Dance!
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jrand74 on December 24, 2012, 07:30:14 AM
Very thoughtful DR RLP.....changing technology can be a chore for some of us...of a certain age.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jrand74 on December 24, 2012, 07:30:39 AM
And yes - without the remote for the television, no matter how old it is.....there are some things you cannot do.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Ginny on December 24, 2012, 07:34:29 AM
DR Ron - thanks for the recipe!  I need to make a pecan pie Wednesday for a nephew we're seeing Thursday...
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Ginny on December 24, 2012, 07:35:19 AM
I am enjoying the Christmas in SC updates!
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Kerry on December 24, 2012, 07:35:19 AM
Happy Eve!
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: MBarnum on December 24, 2012, 08:04:24 AM
DR RLP, wonderful Christmas spirit you have! Your mom has a fine son!
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: MBarnum on December 24, 2012, 08:09:01 AM
TOD:

Every Christmas has left me with fond memories, but here are a few particular ones from my childhood:

Decorating the Christmas tree with my step-mom

Watching MARCH OF THE WOODEN SOLDIERS and IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE, which always aired on TV around that time.

Making gifts to leave under the tree for Santa Claus

Playing board games with my cousins on Christmas day.

Always going over to my friend David's house either just before or right after Christmas day and gorging on marzipan.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: KevinH on December 24, 2012, 08:18:21 AM
I'm enjoying your South Carolina stories, DR RonP!
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: John G. on December 24, 2012, 08:34:25 AM
TOD: I've particularly loved the Christmases in which various friends get together and try to blend traditions as best as possible. It's a great way of getting to know people. My friend Bill and I have a tradition of trying, and often failing, to find a bar open on Christmas Eve for a drink. His wife, Laurie, has joined in the fun.

Figuring out if you open presents in Christmas Eve or Christmas morning is fun and brings up stories from the past. Some are traumatic, others charming. Some involve what movies or specials you have to watch. It could be "It's a Wonderful Life," "Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol" or "The Ref." Others center around food and drink.

I met one of my best friends on one of those Christmas get-togethers. Unfortunately, like Elmore's story, I don't know why that friendship has been put on ice in recent years. We're civil, but little more. And, to bring up a "Merrily" quote, I want it back.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Ben on December 24, 2012, 08:34:37 AM
Great stories Ron!!!
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Charles Pogue on December 24, 2012, 08:45:50 AM
I think my favourite Christmas memories have to be our annual Christmas parties in LA and the quieter Christmas Day meals we often had with friends who were "LA orphans" not going home to be with family.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Charles Pogue on December 24, 2012, 08:46:25 AM
Have a great partay, BK!  Wish we were there and attending!
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jrand74 on December 24, 2012, 08:49:19 AM
I received a $20 Meier gift certificate from a client - and with the threat of 8 inches of snow on Tuesday night, I thought I would drive over and get a ham or turkey - or some deli fixings......HOWEVER the parking lot was full all the way out to the street....so I thought again.....
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: ChasSmith on December 24, 2012, 08:57:20 AM
Back from picking up last-minute stuff at Shop Rite, where at 10:00 AM the parking was already out to the street, but people were both coming AND going, and within a minute I had a spot at the store entrance.  When I came out, however, the situation had noticeably deteriorated and become more cut-throat.

I need to go out again in a bit just for a couple more things, like cat food, and replenishing the gasoline in the can for the snowblower just in case we get enough to use it.  I would, of course, prefer to believe we won't.  No particular traffic or parking issues expected for that little round of errands.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: John G. on December 24, 2012, 09:25:38 AM
Because Christmas is a time of reveling in the misfortune of others, here are the finalists in this year's Santa Tantrum contest. Some of these kids are really unhappy to be anywhere near the Jolly Old Elf. And the results are hilarious.

http://blog.sfgate.com/parenting/2012/12/24/santa-tantrum-awards-2012-the-final-field-is-here/
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: ChasSmith on December 24, 2012, 09:30:44 AM
TOD

A few early Christmases stand out, for being out of our established routine of Christmas morning gifts.  One, at about my age ten, we'd just moved into my still-favorite house (in Columbus), and either later on Christmas Day or perhaps the day after, my sister and I were to get our first airplane flight, to Fort Lauderdale to visit our grandmother for a week.  She'd moved down there earlier that year, and this eventually precipitated our family moving there the following year.  That was an exciting and magical Christmas.

There were a couple of them in Florida that, also due to a breaking of routine, stand out in my memory, at least one of them due only to doing gifts on Christmas Eve instead of Christmas morning.  That was new to all of us, and was more fun than we thought it would be.  (We did it because of my mom's new schedule of working nights in the local emergency room, a job she dearly loved.)  In that and maybe a consecutive year, a few of my gifts started being LPs -- original cast albums, Andy Williams, Vaughan Meader's "First Family", that kind of currently popular thing -- and those were the start, which I'll never forget, of a lifetime of records.

One Christmas in L.A., I think it was 1975, my parents came out for the week and we spent Christmas Eve downtown on Olvera Street watching Mexican pageants and such.  The following day we drove down to Tustin to visit a cousin who'd recently moved out there, and because of the proximity to Disneyland we couldn't resist spending the rest of the day and evening there, which was surprisingly nice.

A few years later I spent the entire holiday week on my friends' 51-foot sailboat moored in Cabo San Lucas, which was a whole different world from what it was to become only a few years later.  That visit, in turn, inspired a couple of future trips to spend time with them in various ports while on their trip from L.A. to the Caribbean and back.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Ron Pulliam on December 24, 2012, 09:45:44 AM
Oh, my!  Thanks for the positive feedback, folks.

We're going to my Cousin Debra's for supper tonight...and I shall have some stories to tell tomorrow, I 'spect!  ;)
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: elmore3003 on December 24, 2012, 10:06:15 AM
I am back from a frustrating trek to Toyland. Our internet is down, the problem is somewhere in the office, and though I unplugged, rebooted, over and over, nothing wouldwork. my technical colleague Curtis is away until the 26th, so tomorrow will be a lousy day at Toyland.

I did give the super and doorman there their holiday gifts, and I brought some food in for the microwave there tomorrow. I just hate being without computer backup.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: bk on December 24, 2012, 10:23:23 AM
I'm up.  I was up at nine thanks to the ringing of the telephonic device, and I just stayed in bed, thinking I'd get up at ten, but I fell asleep and now I'm up and shall go buy a couple of presents.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: ArnoldMBrockman on December 24, 2012, 10:39:15 AM
And the word of the day is: PERSPICACIOUS!

And The Song Of The Day Is:  I BELIEVE
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: ArnoldMBrockman on December 24, 2012, 10:40:06 AM
A Very Happy And Merry To All  !!!!
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: KevinH on December 24, 2012, 10:56:51 AM
I'm glad I went out early to do my last minute shopping.  The stores weren't that bad --no wait to speak of. 
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: John G. on December 24, 2012, 10:57:11 AM
A Very Happy And Merry To All  !!!!
And the same to you, ArnoldMBrockman!
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jrand74 on December 24, 2012, 10:58:21 AM
DR CHAS SMITH I also received the Vaughn Meader THE FIRST FAMILY LP for Christmas....must have been 1962.

DR JOHN G - that is a pretty funny link!
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: bk on December 24, 2012, 11:15:41 AM
Back from buying two gift cards for the youngsters.  It's rainy out - drizzly really.  But one simply doesn't want to be out the day before Christmas because drivers and people in general are INSANE.  One more little outing to the mail place and I'll be ensconced in the home environment.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: ChasSmith on December 24, 2012, 11:23:40 AM
Back from the secondary errands -- and as anticipated, no problems whatever on those.  It's nevertheless amazing to see the craziness going on all around.  Truly incredible.  But that's something about Christmas (and even other holidays and events that require shopping) I do enjoy:  being prepared, myself, and watching everyone else's insanity.   :)
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: John G. on December 24, 2012, 12:28:07 PM
Am home from work. There was little to do today, so I left early.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: John G. on December 24, 2012, 12:28:59 PM
Now, to start the baptist cakes. Well, the dough, at least. Won't be able to fry them until tomorrow.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: John G. on December 24, 2012, 12:29:13 PM
But first ...
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: John G. on December 24, 2012, 12:29:31 PM
Three!
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Laura on December 24, 2012, 01:15:33 PM
TOD: Today I am fondly remembering my daughter's teenage years when we ran away from home a few days before Christmas -- sometimes to Las Vegas and sometimes to Los Angeles. Usually we saw Forever Plaid, and after it was written, Plaid Tidings. It was good to get all the work done ahead of time so I could escape for a few days.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Laura on December 24, 2012, 01:17:49 PM
My favorite songs from Plaid Tidings: Smudge singing "Merry Christmas" and "Let it Snow."
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: MBarnum on December 24, 2012, 01:34:46 PM
Isn't DR Sandra still a teenager?
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jrand74 on December 24, 2012, 01:35:02 PM
I liked your description of the Christmas Pageant DR LAURA....
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: George on December 24, 2012, 01:38:53 PM
A Very Merry Christmas Eve, Everyone!! ;D
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: George on December 24, 2012, 01:39:18 PM
I am enjoying the Christmas in SC updates!

So am I, Ron! :D
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: George on December 24, 2012, 01:41:40 PM
Back from buying two gift cards for the youngsters.  It's rainy out - drizzly really.  But one simply doesn't want to be out the day before Christmas because drivers and people in general are INSANE.  One more little outing to the mail place and I'll be ensconced in the home environment.

I'm at my sister's, after having gone to Fred Meyer for a couple of things...it really was a madhouse!  It took me almost 10 minutes to find a parking place!  I hate it when it's like that.  Fortunately, it's rarely like that.  In a little bit, we'll be going to our parents' house for our gift exchanging. :)
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: George on December 24, 2012, 01:42:06 PM
So, have a great day, all!!
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: bk on December 24, 2012, 01:57:09 PM
Went to the mail place and picked up several packages, including my mint first edition of Atlas Shrugged and the envelope - did some banking and now I'm home for the duration.  Mushrooms, garlic and onions are cooking right now and then the magic begins.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: bk on December 24, 2012, 01:57:31 PM
Page three?  Three pages?
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jrand74 on December 24, 2012, 02:02:19 PM
COntinued PArty VIbes for MR BK and guests!!!

Congrats on the ATLAS SHRUGGED First Edition.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jane on December 24, 2012, 02:19:00 PM
Darn, I was hoping DR Laura was here so I could ask her about a strange bird in our pond.  It is larger than a Robin & kind of puffy with long legs.  It floats on the water like a duck and dives for fish, in fact it caught a little fish.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jane on December 24, 2012, 02:57:03 PM
We have an American Dipper aka Water Ouzel.  I've been having fun watching it dive.  When standing on the rocks it appears to be dancing/bouncing to music.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jane on December 24, 2012, 03:00:00 PM
I was not able to get a photo of it, took this off of the internet.

(http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/PHOTO/LARGE/dipper.jpg)
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Danise on December 24, 2012, 03:00:37 PM
Merry Christmas Eve all!  I hope everyone is doing well. 

Before you ask, no, the house is not done.  Nothing has even been started--not the kitchen, not the laundry room.  I posted on the ACLive board today and I hope I sounded ok.

I had a wonderful trip to Pittsburgh for Thanksgiving and I finely got see snow!  Well, just a snow flurry and I didn't get a chance to play with it because it started on the way to the airport.  I did get to touch it and I saw it from the window of the plane.  I also had my first flight that had to be deiced.  I don't think I like that very much.  That was scary.

I hope everyone has a wonderful evening!
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: vixmom on December 24, 2012, 03:10:58 PM
hello all   we had to work today  but one of our clients brought in a very nice lunch and we got out at 4
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jeanne on December 24, 2012, 03:14:02 PM
Hello, everyone.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: vixmom on December 24, 2012, 03:15:21 PM
I need cooking advice please


I bought a very nice bonelss rib roast for dinner tomorrow   I have seen varied recipes


sear it on all sides and then cook it at 250 for hours --  put it in the oven at 500 for 20 minutes then turn off the oven and let it sit for 2 hours without opening  the oven , cook it at 350 for 20 minutes a pound....


what do our experts think?
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jane on December 24, 2012, 03:15:46 PM
From DR TCB:
Quote
Interesting story of a teacher near Middletown, Ohio, who was fired for staging "Legally Blonde: The Musical."

Odd if Grease was ok that this wasn't.  They might had simply requested to see the scripts from now on to say what was ok & what wasn't.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jeanne on December 24, 2012, 03:16:17 PM
I tried to do two weeks grocery shopping at once last week in order to avoid supermarkets just before Christmas. As so often happens, I think I'm stocking up, only to find that I go through things more quickly than I expected. I made a second grocery run last week and stocked up again, so no need to be out there in the insanity.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jane on December 24, 2012, 03:16:57 PM
Hi DR Danise, it is great to see you.  I'm sorry about the house but very glad you had a good time in Pittsburgh & actually saw snow flurries.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jane on December 24, 2012, 03:17:33 PM
hello all   we had to work today  but one of our clients brought in a very nice lunch and we got out at 4

:)

Do you have a lot of repeat clients?
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jane on December 24, 2012, 03:18:29 PM
DR TCB tofu takes on a lot of the flavor of what it is cooked in so yes, it tastes different cooked.  I also prefer the texture to it once it has been grilled or fried.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jeanne on December 24, 2012, 03:18:33 PM
Today I needed to do some laundry, pay a bill, and a couple other things. That is done now. One phone call left to make and I'm done.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jeanne on December 24, 2012, 03:19:42 PM
Ron, your TV escapades seem rather daunting to me. Your mother is lucky to have a son who is so tech-savvy.  The machine alone wouldn't do her much good.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: ChasSmith on December 24, 2012, 03:22:59 PM
RIP Jack Klugman, 90.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jane on December 24, 2012, 03:24:50 PM
I arrived safely and soundly in Buffalo on Saturday.  I did a lot of shopping for my 7 year old great- niece and newborn great-nephew.  Just about everyone else is getting gift cards.

Glad to hear you have arrived safely.  Shopping locally is easier than traveling with gifts, unless you live in Oregon where there isn't sales tax and drive to your location ;)
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jane on December 24, 2012, 03:25:45 PM
Happy belated birthday to DR JANE's son Bryan.

Thank you.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jeanne on December 24, 2012, 03:25:48 PM
Now, to start the baptist cakes.

DR John G often mentions dishes I've never heard of.

BTW, I really like the cover of your book!
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: bk on December 24, 2012, 03:28:17 PM
Jack Klugman at 90 - a beautiful and long life.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jeanne on December 24, 2012, 03:29:03 PM
Vixmom has some very nice clients, if a not-so-great boss.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jeanne on December 24, 2012, 03:29:09 PM
Vixmom has some very nice clients, if a not-so-great boss.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jeanne on December 24, 2012, 03:30:31 PM
TTFN.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jane on December 24, 2012, 03:34:19 PM
DR Ron I very much enjoyed your long Christmas story today.  I hope there will be a photo of the silver chest.

I can feel your satisfaction & joy knowing your mother now has HDD capability.  :)
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jane on December 24, 2012, 03:35:44 PM
DR Ron - thanks for the recipe!  I need to make a pecan pie Wednesday for a nephew we're seeing Thursday...

The recipe sounds good.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jane on December 24, 2012, 03:37:51 PM
Day meals we often had with friends who were "LA orphans" not going home to be with family.

LA orphans, I like that.  I suppose we are the orphans of the opposite kind.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jane on December 24, 2012, 03:42:51 PM
RIP Jack Klugman, 90.

Sad, but 90!  Good for him!!!
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: bk on December 24, 2012, 04:02:50 PM
Sauce is simmering away, I stir frequently, and everything is pretty much ready to go.  I'll shower shortly and I'm watching Cesar and Rosalie, which will be done in about twenty minutes.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jane on December 24, 2012, 04:51:55 PM
Bruce have a wonderful party!!!!
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jane on December 24, 2012, 04:57:16 PM
I wasn't sure I should drive my car to the mail box & I didn't want to drive Keith's, so I walked.  On the way down I couldn't help but think:
1.  I should have left earlier while the sun was still shining & it was warmer
2.  It isn't bad, probably could have driven my car
3.  I hope there aren't any packages to carry back up the hill
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jane on December 24, 2012, 04:58:42 PM
Walking home, without any packages, I was very glad I had walked.  It was beautiful out with both mountains ranges topped with snow.  The Cascades looked as if they had been spread with icing & the evergreens on the Siskiyou Mountains looked as if powdered sugar had been sifted over them.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: elmore3003 on December 24, 2012, 05:08:11 PM
All of my earlier posts have vanished!
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jane on December 24, 2012, 05:34:43 PM
 :o
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jane on December 24, 2012, 05:37:04 PM
DR elmore I see a post from you on page 1 and another post on page 2.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: elmore3003 on December 24, 2012, 05:38:52 PM
But not the four I posted after DR ArnoldMBrockman.

And back to the movie . . .
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: bk on December 24, 2012, 05:44:57 PM
Unless you removed them it's not possible for posts to disappear - I certainly didn't remove them.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jane on December 24, 2012, 05:45:15 PM
Very strange.  If my posts went missing I'm not sure I would notice.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: bk on December 24, 2012, 05:45:32 PM
Everything is ready and now just waiting for arrivals starting at six.  I like when people get here right at six so I can have my first food o' the day.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jane on December 24, 2012, 05:46:20 PM
You can cook & not taste?!?
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: ChasSmith on December 24, 2012, 05:48:39 PM
I am ready for some spaghetti.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jane on December 24, 2012, 05:49:16 PM
This is cool.  All we could see of the American Dipper when it dove were the ripples in the water.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cV6IDY1TSC0
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: TCB on December 24, 2012, 05:49:54 PM
On the news tonight, they said that there was an estimated 1.7 billion presents loaded on Santa's sleigh.  Shouldn't someone report Mr. Claus to the Humane Society?  It certainly sounds like reindeer abuse to me.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Laura on December 24, 2012, 06:18:16 PM
Jane, I have never seen a dipper. How exciting.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: TCB on December 24, 2012, 06:18:18 PM
The Salvation Army is reporting that for a second year in a row, a Secret Santa in Seattle has deposited a Krugerrand in one of their kettles.  Current value is apporximately $1,700.00.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: TCB on December 24, 2012, 06:25:02 PM
TOD:

Certainly my most vivid Christmas memory occurred when I was seven or eight years old. 

If I hadn't spotted my father's familiar checked shirt under the sleeve of his Santa Claus suit, I might still believe that St. Nick was real.

 ::)


You mean, St. Nick is your father?
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Ginny on December 24, 2012, 06:28:02 PM
I'll be I am home for Christmas!  We arrived from Lima about 45 minutes ago - the tree, mantle, windows, and front porch are lighted and the stockings are filled.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jane on December 24, 2012, 06:42:52 PM
Jane, I have never seen a dipper. How exciting.

It really was.  I couldn't figure out what this thing in the pond was.  It looked like a bird & acted more like a duck.  I told Keith we had a mini duck in the pond ;D
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jane on December 24, 2012, 06:45:06 PM
I'll be I am home for Christmas!  We arrived from Lima about 45 minutes ago - the tree, mantle, windows, and front porch are lighted and the stockings are filled.

I'm glad to see this before signing off for the night.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jane on December 24, 2012, 06:45:51 PM
DR Laura I tried to find a good video of the Dipper bouncing.  It is such a funny bird.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Jane on December 24, 2012, 06:47:14 PM
I think we are going to watch MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET tonight.  I'll find out soon.

'night
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: vixmom on December 24, 2012, 06:52:32 PM
Well off to collect the Vixter from work -
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: vixmom on December 24, 2012, 06:52:59 PM
We may or ay not attend the midnight service depebning on how tired she is   she did work 13 hours today
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: vixmom on December 24, 2012, 06:53:09 PM
Mama's little girl
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: vixmom on December 24, 2012, 06:53:24 PM
If I dontlmake it back -MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: vixmom on December 24, 2012, 06:53:33 PM
And to all a good night
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: vixmom on December 24, 2012, 06:53:50 PM
hmmm that might make a nice ending for a poem...
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: elmore3003 on December 24, 2012, 08:15:25 PM
I watched LOVE ACTUALLY, and now I am off to bed. Good night.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Laura on December 24, 2012, 08:17:41 PM
I can't find my dvd of "Scrooge."   >:(
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Ginny on December 24, 2012, 08:53:36 PM
Well, Rob, Mary Linda, and my Mom will arrive tomorrow about 1pm and DN/G Lauren, her Mom, and boyfriend will arrive about 3.  I have some food prep and clean up to do in the morning and Richard and I are going to open our presents from each other before the guests arrive.  Oh, and have a nice Christmas morning breakfast.  Guess I better get some sleep - 'night!
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Laura on December 24, 2012, 09:10:06 PM
Woo hoo! I found "Scrooge!"
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: TCB on December 24, 2012, 10:21:49 PM
Darn, I was hoping DR Laura was here so I could ask her about a strange bird in our pond.  It is larger than a Robin & kind of puffy with long legs.  It floats on the water like a duck and dives for fish, in fact it caught a little fish.


I believe that would be the extra large, long-legged puffy robin.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: TCB on December 24, 2012, 10:26:23 PM
From DR TCB:
Quote
Interesting story of a teacher near Middletown, Ohio, who was fired for staging "Legally Blonde: The Musical."

Odd if Grease was ok that this wasn't.  They might had simply requested to see the scripts from now on to say what was ok & what wasn't.



That quote did not come from me.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: TCB on December 24, 2012, 10:42:18 PM
We may or ay not attend the midnight service depebning on how tired she is   she did work 13 hours today



When I worked for Home Liquors in New Jersey, Christmas Eve was total insanity.  We couldn't restock the shelves fast enough to keep up with the crowds.  We had to have two off-duty police officers to direct the traffic, one at the street entrance and the other in the lot to keep the cars from crashing into each other.  I don't even remember now how high the sales total was for the day, but it was incredible.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: TCB on December 24, 2012, 10:47:39 PM
I watched the Christmas Eve concert of the Morman Tabernacle Choir and now I am watching the Christmas concert from Luther College.  I guess I am trying to make up for not going to the Candlelight Service at church tonight.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: TCB on December 24, 2012, 10:48:49 PM
hmmm that might make a nice ending for a poem...


Perhaps a sex poem?
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: TCB on December 24, 2012, 10:51:20 PM
Well, Rob, Mary Linda, and my Mom will arrive tomorrow about 1pm and DN/G Lauren, her Mom, and boyfriend will arrive about 3.  I have some food prep and clean up to do in the morning and Richard and I are going to open our presents from each other before the guests arrive.  Oh, and have a nice Christmas morning breakfast.  Guess I better get some sleep - 'night!


Gee, I wonder what Richard got Ginny for Christmas?
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: vixmom on December 24, 2012, 10:52:40 PM
So we did go to the candlelight service that ended after midnight - it was very nice -  the bell choir, the string choir, the brass choir and the traditional choir all gave wonderful performances - the sermon was lovely and I ma quite glad we were able to attend
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: TCB on December 24, 2012, 10:54:25 PM
Well, Rob, Mary Linda, and my Mom will arrive tomorrow about 1pm and DN/G Lauren, her Mom, and boyfriend will arrive about 3.  I have some food prep and clean up to do in the morning and Richard and I are going to open our presents from each other before the guests arrive.  Oh, and have a nice Christmas morning breakfast.  Guess I better get some sleep - 'night!


Is it the version in which I play the title character, or is it that other guy?
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: bk on December 24, 2012, 11:02:19 PM
Well, simply put it was the best Christmas Do ever for reasons I'll explain in the notes, which will probably go up a bit late.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: George on December 24, 2012, 11:11:02 PM
I went to my parents' house and we had our gift exchange tonight.  I got some Cashew Roca from my sister, chocolate rocks from my cousin and his wife (they mailed their gifts...they may come up for New Year's eve), and a Costco gift card from my mom.  This was my "big" gift.  We exchanged names and she picked my name, so no one got too much and no one had to spend too much. 

We listened to Brent Barrett and Sandy Bainum's Christmas CDs! :D
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: George on December 24, 2012, 11:11:18 PM
However, my sister and niece and Larry, my sister's boyfriend, all went in together and bought my parents 40-inch hi-def TV!  They were surprised!  We got it all set up and everything works.  Larry got them a hi-def cable box (but not a DVR), so that they can thoroughly enjoy the hi-def experience.  Now, they just have to figure out what to do with their 32-inch CRT TV.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Cillaliz on December 24, 2012, 11:19:24 PM
I am way behind, and it's too late to catch up.  Tonight I got a call from the cat sitter.  She was having problems with Callie (the first time went fine).  So, I told her to take the phone up to see if my voice helped.  Well, she bent down to get Callie and Boo flew across the bed and attacked her!!!   She has a cut by her eye.  Then Boo attacked Ricky (a fairly regular occurrence) and went in the other room.   I heard it all on the phone, screams, shrieks, howls, meows.  I think Alyce finally muted it, because it went silent for awhile then she  came back on and said she has a little cut by her eye, but she's ok.  She said that it was all over and she was standing by Boo and petting her and Boo was purring.   Sounds like Boo was just protecting Callie.  Anyway, we decided she shouldn't try again tonight and will try in the morning.  If she can't get Callie her meds, I'll be going home before dinner and a day early
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Cillaliz on December 24, 2012, 11:21:25 PM
If this doesn't work out very quickly,I'm going to have to board Callie at the vet in the future.  It's just too difficult to find anyone who can get her meds except me. So it's either never leave town or board her.
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Cillaliz on December 24, 2012, 11:22:23 PM
I'm really going to have to figure out what's up with Boo.   I may take her to the vet to make sure everything is ok.  At least I have someone who has worked with animals for 20 years there now.  Its not the sitter, it's my cats
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Cillaliz on December 24, 2012, 11:23:24 PM
In other news, we had a nice service at the church tonight.  I played my flute with one of the choir numbers and sang with the choir.  We got out right at midnight, which is fun, but it's below 0 here and that's way too cold to be outside at midnight
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: vixmom on December 24, 2012, 11:23:39 PM
I watched the Christmas Eve concert of the Morman Tabernacle Choir and now I am watching the Christmas concert from Luther College.  I guess I am trying to make up for not going to the Candlelight Service at church tonight.

http://www.ascensionlutheran.org/news-events/ascension-live/

they tried something different tonight they broadcast  the service live on the web -  it is in three parts for some reason

The Vixter and I are in the  2nd pew from the front - I am wearing a  red sweater and she is on my let , wearing green
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: Cillaliz on December 24, 2012, 11:27:52 PM
I'm still in a bit of shock over listening to the whole thing. I was screaming into the phone for Alyce who wasn't responding and I could hear screams.  It was really awful
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: vixmom on December 24, 2012, 11:31:48 PM
well Merry Christmas  and God bless us, everyone!!
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: vixmom on December 24, 2012, 11:32:21 PM
I'm still in a bit of shock over listening to the whole thing. I was screaming into the phone for Alyce who wasn't responding and I could hear screams.  It was really awful

(((CILLA))))
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: George on December 24, 2012, 11:48:58 PM
~~~Cat Comfort Vibes for Cillaliz!!~~~
Title: Re: 'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND A CREATURE WAS STIRRING
Post by: George on December 25, 2012, 12:00:34 AM
A friend of mine posted this on Facebook...Wing - Phantom Of The Opera. Wing sings Andrew Lloyd Webber (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aev_uosQaL0&feature=share).

Just had to share. ;)